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Talking about the dirty details of sewage flooding may seem gross but here at Anytime Flood Restoration in Denver, we see more of this kind of flooding than people realize. Storm flooding gets a lot of coverage but sewage flooding can also cause damage that is surprisingly extensive and difficult to repair. Additionally, it can create unsanitary conditions and can contribute to health hazards in both the short and long-term.

Homeowner’s Responsibility

It can be a surprise to a number of homeowners to learn that most general insurance policies do not cover the damage from sewage flooding. Often, additional insurance coverage is needed. Though the cost of adding sewer backup coverage can be minimal, a number of homeowners don’t have this type of coverage specifically because they don’t realize that they need it.

A number of homeowners are also surprised to learn that not only are they responsible for the pipes for their home, but also the lateral sewage pipes that connect their home or building to the public sewer main. These lateral pipes can become cracked or damaged over time, often due to maintenance neglect. This is frequently one of the reasons for sewage backup flooding and issues.

Ultimately, this means that to protect themselves and avoid sewage troubles, homeowners should consider checking the condition of their lateral pipes occasionally and consider purchasing the additional insurance for sewage flooding. Sewage backups and flooding happen more frequently than people think.

Tree Root Problems

Trees and shrubs are great additions to landscaping, but placing them carefully is important. A number of homeowners overlook the full-grown size that their landscape additions are capable of achieving. Tree roots can crack pipes and grow through joints, blocking the flow of sewage and causing backups. The reach of some root systems can be a huge and unpleasant surprise for homeowners.

Paying attention to the types of trees you have and learning more about their root systems can be a great way to avoid sewage trouble from your landscape choices. It can also be helpful to pay close attention to the placement of new trees and shrubs in comparison to your sewage pipes.

Sanitary Main

Sometimes the sewage main for your area develops a larger blockage that is not detected. This type of sewage backup develops slowly though, which usually allows time for a plumber to be contacted in advance of any damage or sewage flooding.

Proper Grease Disposal

A good number of people think nothing of pouring hot grease down their pipes. The issue is that the grease will cool and as it cools it hardens and thickens. This can contribute to constricting the pipes free space. Eventually, the grease can cause pipes to clog and lead to a sewage backup. Proper disposal of your kitchen grease and oils will help avoid such problems. Avoid pouring your grease down the drain.

Paper Product Disposal

Bathroom tissue is made to deteriorate quickly, particularly brands that are made for septic

systems. Flushing other paper products down your pipes can lead to trouble. Paper towels, diapers, and feminine hygiene products are frequent troublemakers if flushed into your sewer system. Even flushable wipes are not flush-friendly. These types of products should be thrown in the garbage instead of being flushed down the toilet to avoid sewage backups.

If you end up with sewage back up or flooding and need to have the area cleaned, sanitized, and properly repaired, contact us here at Anytime Flood Restoration in Denver. We can help solve your sewage trouble and get the cleanup accomplished quickly.

Replace Your Pipes

Replacing your home’s pipelines with plastic pipes is a great way to avoid sewage backup and flooding. Plastic pipes tend not to accumulate the buildup that steel and copper pipes do. Also, plastic pipes do not rust, something that all metal pipes succumb to eventually. Additionally, plastic piping is generally less expensive and often easier to install.

Check Your Pipe Connections

Sometimes additional connections to your sewage system can cause flooding problems. Some of these connections may even be illegal depending on where you live. Some problematic connections to your plumbing include French drains, sump pumps, and other home flood control systems. If you have some of these kinds of connections, you should consult with a professional plumber to determine whether they are a legal issue in your area and what potential solutions are available. 

Consider Installing a Backwater Prevention Valve

A backwater prevention valve is an excellent way to avoid sewage backup issues. A properly installed valve allows sewage to flow out but not back in. If you are concerned with preventing a sewage flood in your home, a backwater valve can be helpful.

First Steps When Sewage Flooding Occurs

In case of flooding, it is first important to take steps to halt the flow of sewage if possible. Shutting down the water at the source or the main to your home if possible is an important way to stop the flow of sewage. If the flooding has come in contact with any electrical, you may need to shut off the power to that area of your home if possible.

It is important to be sure that such safety precautions are followed first. If you are unsure that the flooded area is safe to enter, you will want to contact professionals, such as Anytime Flood Restoration of Denver.

Professional Help

Unfortunately, many sewage backups can create health issues and potential mold. To ensure that the flooded area is cleaned up properly and that your home will be mold free, using a professional is a wise step. Professionals will have the equipment to ensure that the sewage is cleaned up properly and safely. Additionally, they will be able to help with disinfecting and damage repair.

If you are dealing with the dirty details of sewage flooding, contact us here at Anytime Flood Restoration in Denver. We can get your sewage problem cleared away quickly and make sure that potential problems are properly mitigated.