After A Sewer Backup, Proper Cleaning and Disinfecting Is Critical

6/3/2022 (Permalink)

There are times when we have to deal with unpleasant messes. We accept them. We deal with them. A flood inside your home involving sewer cleanup is not one of those normal things. Sewage flooding can take place for a number of reasons, but a flooded toilet or sewer backup are the two most likely culprits, and they must be taken seriously.

Special Handling

Sewer cleanup differs in a couple of ways from a washing machine leak or broken pipe. The water is what is called “black water” and contains raw sewage, which is an immediate hazard, meaning the following must happen.

• Cleanup must begin immediately to prevent worsening.
• You must disinfect and sterilize the area thoroughly.
• You will need to replace carpets and other flooring and possibly some furnishings.

The three stages of floodwater include clean water, where a pipe has broken or rain floods in, for example. The water is not contaminated and drying things out is the first priority. Then there is gray water, which may contain viruses or bacteria and comes from things like the dishwasher or washing machine flooding. The last and most serious is black water, which can contain sewage, microbes or harsh chemicals. This last one is the reason why cleanup should begin without delay.

There really is no choice for doing it yourself in the case of sewer cleanup, as the risk for further contamination is high, the source needs to be determined and stopped, and disinfecting will require some strong chemicals and potential replacement of floors and other structural materials.

Luckily you can call a plumber as well as, SERVPRO of Marshfield/Rockland and our emergency restoration services can help deal with your problem immediately. We can make sure that all traces of residual contamination are eliminated and will be able to work with your homeowners’ or renters’ insurance to ensure that the job is done right.