How To Clean Up After Your Sewer Backs Up

One of the largest, most unpleasant jobs you can face in your home is clean up
after a sewer back up.

Find The Problem

While it is important to begin clean up immediately to avoid further damage,
its equally important to locate the source of the problem. A sewer backup
or break can be caused by a variety of things: basement flooding, tree
root growth, or even breakage of pipes. Your local plumber is experienced
in finding and dealing with sewer problems, and can assist you in any
sewer issues. Make sure the source is located and fixed to avoid further damage.

Pump Out The Water

Before you can remove solid particles and begin a thorough cleanup, you
have to remove standing water. Use submersible pumps to remove water.
When the water reaches a reasonable level, you can begin using wet/dry
vacuums to remove the remaining moisture from the floors.

Remove Your Personal Belongings

While some of your belongings may be damaged beyond repair, it is important
to remove them from the area, and begin restoration as quickly as possible.

Clean up and Dehumidify

Open windows and doors if possible to begin circulating air through the
affected area. You may also with to use a dehumidifier to further remove
moisture from the room.

Prevention

Avoid sewer damage through prevention measures. Your local plumber has
many tools to easily see the condition of your drain and sewer lines.
With fiber optics, the plumber can view inside the lines, see small problems
before the become big, and offer recommendations before backups occur.
This is especially important in older homes where trees may be more of an issue.