Dealing with a backed up sewage basement can be one of the most unpleasant and stressful experiences any homeowner can face. Not only is it messy and unsanitary, but it can also cause serious health hazards if not dealt with promptly and properly.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything you need to know about backed up sewage basements, how to prevent them from occurring in the first place, and what steps you need to take if you find yourself dealing with this unfortunate situation. So buckle up and let’s get started!
What Causes Backed Up Sewage Basements?
There are several reasons why your basement may become backed up with sewage. Some of the most common causes include:
Clogged or Blocked Pipes
One of the primary reasons for backed up sewage is clogged or blocked pipes that carry wastewater away from your home. This can happen due to a variety of reasons, such as flushing down inappropriate materials like oil, grease, food scraps or hair down the drain which can accumulate over time and eventually block the pipe entirely.
Other factors that can lead to clogs include tree roots growing into pipes, debris buildup in pipes leading out of your home or even freezing conditions causing water in pipes to expand which results in blockages.
Poor Drainage System
If your home has a poor drainage system, especially during heavy rainfall periods, this may cause water from outside to flow back into your basement. This is especially true if you live in areas prone to flooding.
Damaged or Broken Pipes
Sometimes damaged or broken pipes can be the culprit behind backed-up sewage basements. Ageing pipes that rust or otherwise develop cracks over time may rupture at any moment and spill raw sewerage into your home.
Signs That You Have A Backed-Up Sewage Basement
It’s important to identify any signs that you might have a backed-up sewage basement as early detection will help you to mitigate the potential damage and health hazards. Here are some common signs that you may have a sewage backup in your basement:
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Strange, unpleasant odours: Foul smells emanating from your sink or other plumbing fixtures in the basement could indicate a sewer backup.
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Slow-draining sinks and toilets: If your sinks or toilets are draining slowly, it could mean there is an obstruction in the pipes that needs clearing.
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Gurgling sounds: If you hear gurgling sounds coming from your drains, this might be another indicator of a blocked pipe.
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Water pooling around floor drains – water pooling around basement floor and drain areas can indicate backflow of wastewater from a blocked pipeline
How To Prevent Backed-Up Sewage Basements
The best way to avoid experiencing backed up sewage basements is through proactive measures to prevent such issues from happening. Some of these include:
Proper Disposal Of Waste Materials
One significant cause of blockages leading to backed-up sewages is inappropriate disposal of waste materials in homes. Homeowners should ensure they dispose of garbage appropriate for trash bins and avoid flushing down items like baby wipes, tissues, sanitary pads or cooking oils which can accumulate inside pipes leading out of the house and increase chances for clogging.
Regular Inspection And Maintenance Of Plumbing System
Home plumbing systems should be regularly inspected by professionals to identify any potential weaknesses or potential clogs that could lead to sewer backups. Regular maintenance checks provide an opportunity for routine cleaning exercises so any building up material with the pipes can be cleared before it causes complete blockage thus preventing sewage backups.
Installing A Backwater Valve
A backwater valve is another efficient option at keeping wastewater away from flooding into homes during heavy rains. This valve acts as a gate between sewage lines flowing towards homes and prevents backflow during sudden heavy rainfalls.
What To Do If You Have A Backed-Up Sewage Basement
If you find yourself facing a backed-up sewage basement situation, the following steps can be taken to mitigate the risks and ensure the right remediation is done:
Ensure Proper Ventilation
Before starting any clean up exercises, make sure you have access to enough ventilation. Open all windows and doors leading outside to let out toxic gases from a sewage backup. Wearing Personal Protective Equipment like rubber gloves, boots, face masks, and goggles will reduce exposure risks.
Turn Off Electrical Power Supply
Shut off power supply for all electrical items or devices within the affected area of your home as these items may come in contact with water which can cause electric shock and increase risk of fires.
Contact A Plumbing Professional
When faced with a backed-up sewage basement issue, call in professionals experienced in handling sewer backups for proper assessment of the damage alongside guidance on how best to deal with the problem while keeping costs low.
Never Attempt DIY Remediation
Sewage backup is not only unpleasant but also dangerous to handle without proper training or equipment. Always allow trained professionals equipped with relevant tools, experience and protective gear to handle sewer backups.
Conclusion
Backed-up sewage basements are one of those things that nobody wants to think about but unfortunately it’s something that can happen at any time. Thankfully by taking preventative measures such as proper waste material disposal, regular plumbing system inspection and installation of backwater valves- these issues can be prevented from happening. In case of emergencies however it is important to turn off power supply, avoid DIY remedies and call in professional plumbers who offer safe remedial services for a swift resolution.
FAQs
How do I know if my basement is backed up with sewage?
Common signs of a backed-up sewage basement include foul odors, slow or gurgling drains, and water pools on the floor.
Is it safe to enter a backed-up sewage basement?
No, it is not safe to enter a backed-up sewage basement without proper protective gear and ventilation. Sewage contains harmful bacteria and pathogens that can pose serious health risks.
What should I do if my basement is backed up with sewage?
The first step is to turn off the power to your basement and call a professional plumber or restoration company right away. Avoid touching any contaminated items or standing water until experts arrive.
Can I clean up a backed-up sewage basement myself?
It is not recommended to clean up a backed-up sewage basement yourself unless you have proper training, equipment, and protective gear. DIY cleanup attempts can lead to further contamination and health hazards.
How long does it take to clean up a backed-up sewage basement?
The duration of cleanup depends on the extent of damage and contamination in your basement. Typically, it takes 2-5 days for professionals to fully clean and restore a backed-up sewage basement.
What are some common causes of a backed-up sewage basement?
Clogs, tree roots invading sewer lines, sewer line damage or backups due to heavy rainfall or flooding are common causes of a backed-up sewage basement.
Can my homeowners insurance policy cover the cost of cleaning up a backed-up sewer line?
It depends on the cause of the backup and your specific policy coverage. Some policies exclude sewer line backups while others have limited coverage options. Review your policy with your insurance agent for clarification.
How do professionals clean up a backed-up sewage basement?
Professionals use specialized equipment such as pumps, wet vacs, and air movers to extract standing water, sewage, and debris. They then sanitize the area with industrial-grade cleaning solutions and disinfectants to eliminate bacteria and odors.
How can I prevent a backed-up sewage basement in the future?
Regular maintenance of your sewer lines, avoiding flushing non-degradable or excessive amounts of items down the drain, and installing a backwater prevention valve can help prevent future backups.
How much does it cost to clean up a backed-up sewage basement?
The cost varies depending on factors such as the severity of damage, amount of sewage that needs to be extracted, and extent of restoration required. On average, professional cleanup costs range from $3,000 – $7,000 or more.