Pipe Repair – Cleaning up the Mess

Sewage overflow is devastating to any homeowner. It can be equally devastating cleaning up sewage overflow. You may not be aware of the dangers associated with sewage cleanup, and hiring a professionally trained restoration service is recommended. Not only is there a risk of contracting harmful diseases, but there is also the danger of electrocution or explosion.  However, if the damage is not extensive, and you prefer to do the work yourself, here are some suggestions on cleaning and sanitizing as well as proper sewage disposal.

Cleaning and Sanitizing

·         Be sure to drain all floodwaters by natural draining or pumping.

·         Remove all soiled items and any dirt or debris from surfaces that came in contact with floodwaters.

·         Wash down all walls and floors that came in contact with sewage water with hot water and soap.

·         Sanitize the area by using a good cleaner such as Clorox, or PineSol/Lysol .

·         Let the entire area air dry by opening windows or using fans.

·         Avoid tracking any dirt/debris into clean areas by removing shoes and clothing before entering.

 

Sewage Disposal

As mentioned above, proper sewage disposal is imperative to make sure you don’t spread any risk of disease. Drain any floodwaters by natural draining or pumping. Clean any movable objects and allow to dry in the sunlight. Destroy any contaminated bottles or boxed foods; however, canned foods may be kept as long as they have been thoroughly cleaned. Seal off any contaminated clothing, bedding, carpets, or furniture until pick up or disposal is available, by placing them in tightly sealed bags or closed containers. Contact your local Health Department for other suggestions or any regulations they may have on proper sewage disposal or for cleaning up sewage overflow.

After completing the initial cleanup and before moving everything back into the affected area, have the area inspected to determine what caused the backup in the first place. This will likely require the assistance of a professional. They will help to determine whether a simple clog caused the overflow, or whether a pipe repair is in order. Depending on what type of sewage pipe your home has this could be rather expensive, time consuming, and inconvenient.  Asking your repair company about CIPP repair could save you time and money. CIPP repair generally tends to be a less expensive and less extensive repair process. 

In conclusion, no matter the cause, cleaning up sewage overflow is a dirty job. No one looks forward to doing it and it is probably best handled by a professional. However, if you are willing to take on the task, following the tips above will ensure that you manage the situation in the safest way possible. Remember to always contact your local Health Department for any questions or problems that may come your way. If by chance you are in need of a repair, ask your restoration professional about the benefits of CIPP repair.