Sewage Cleanup/Toilet Overflow

A sewage cleanup or a toilet overflow is one of the most unpleasantproblemsthat homeowners have to deal with. Besides the smell, there are serious health risks when cleaning up with raw sewage. In addition to human waste, raw sewage, or category 3 black water, can contain dangerous virus, bacteria, and chemicals, any of which can cause sickness or disease.

What Is aSewage Backup or Toilet Overflow?

Anytime water backs up from beyond a toilet trap or out of a home’s main drain line, it is considered a sewage backup. This water should be considered grossly unsanitary and a source of pathogenic (disease causing) agents.A sewage backup or toilet overflow can be caused by any of the following:

Damaged Sewer Line - A sewer line uses gravity to direct waste away from a toilet or main drain line. When this line is blocked, cracked or broken, or even becomes out of line (unwanted dips or bends), sewage cannot flow effectively.When this happens the sewage water reverses course and enters your home.

Clogging - Clogs are the most common cause for an overflowing toilet or backing up drain line. Never flush anything other than toilet paper through your drain lines. This would include sanitary products, diapers, paper towels, or facial tissues.

Tree Roots – tree roots can cause a couple of problems. As they seek water, they can grow into your main drain line and create a clog. Or they can grow around the drain line and slowly crush it. Even if the trees aren’t in your yard, trees from next door could be the problem.

Toilet or Sewage Overflows: Dangers and Damages

Sewage can be more than just a messy situation. The health risks can be extremely dangerous and great care needs to be considered before attempting to clean up any sewage overflow.Sewage water can contain bacteria, viruses, and chemicals that may cause serious illness. Gastric diseases as well as viral infections are common if you have come in contact with water containing raw sewage. And just because the water is clear doesn't mean that it is safe.

When porous materials are contacted by sewage water of any kind, they need to be removed and discarded. Examples of porous materials would include carpet, carpet cushion, and drywall. Smaller area rugs and clothing that can be machine-washed can be saved. If an expensive oriental rug is affected you should seek professional assistance in cleaning it.

When it comes to cleaning up after a sewage backup or toilet overflow, your best option is to call Water Mold Fire Restoration at 800-905-0277. There are just too many bad things that can happen to anyone who does not have the proper training and protective equipment. If you prefer, you can also email us at help@watermoldfire.net.