Why DIY Is Not Recommended When It Comes To Sewage Flood Cleanup

Sewage flooding is an important issue that must be addressed instantly. While there’re minor flooding events that homeowner can tackle by themselves, sewage flood clean-up is definitely not one of them. It possesses risks that’d not make it DIY friendly. Cleaning sewage flooding without having professional training and access to professional grade equipment may put your home, health, and wallet at risk. 

What are the health risks of DIY sewage flood clean-up?

Sewage comprises of grey water (from utilities such as tubs, sinks, dishwashers, and showers) or worse – black water. It is the water employed to flush toilets mixed with human waste that it flushes away. Homes can experience sewage backups from diverse causes. Those includes damaged sewer lines, clogs in the home’s drain pipes, and more. 

Likewise, sewage, particularly black water, boasts contaminants such as fungi, bacteria, parasite and viruses. Thus contact with sewage without wearing PPE & following appropriate procedures is a health risk. The risk of contracting diseases such as encephalitis and hepatitis A can’t be avoided. 

Mould growth is also another possible risk when trying DIY sewage damage cleanup in Glenview, IL. Exposure to mould can deteriorate allergy symptoms, particularly in kids and people whose immune system is not so strong. Flooding gives favourable states for mould to thrive as it only requires optimal temperature, organic material and moisture. What is worse – it can thrive inside just 24-48 hours of the occurrence. 

Nonetheless, the biggest risk isn’t the danger of catching disease, but the danger of electrocution. Entering the flood region and lighting matches is not the best of decision. The utility companies need to shut down the gas and electric service first. If homeowners sense a gas smell, they must instantly vacant the house and let the gas company know. 

Also, entering the house need to be avoided if the main power switch was not turned off prior to the flooding. Touching electrical wires, lines, fixtures and equipment during & after a flood, even with the power switched off, can be risky. 

Why sewage clean-up needs specialized restoration?

Since water damage is a progressive problem, the longer you wait to manage standing water, the greater the damage to the house. The walls, furniture, carpets and other items in your home will suffer significant damage without fast & right intervention. 

Moreover, sewage floor restorations prompt unique challenges and pretty genuine risks, as mentioned above. Pro restoration technicians employ the right equipment and follow safety practices and remediation techniques that homeowners usually wouldn’t have access to. 

In brief, a professional do the following to restore a property flooded with sewage:

  • Pump out polluted water & discard trash.
  • Recognize & address the source of the sewage backup
  • Remove & replace damaged floors and drywall if required
  • Make use of industrial dehumidifiers & air scrubbers in order to accelerate the drying process.
  • Use specialized cleaners & procedures to sanitize the area. This aids in eliminating bacteria & mould to prevent health risks and preserve the structure and possessions.
  • A professional restoration firm can also aid with the insurance claim process.

Considering the difficulty & health risks of sewage cleanup, it is wise to look for professional assistance. You can keep your trust on ServiceMaster Cleaning and Restoration Pro when it comes to professional Sewage Damage Cleanup in Glenview, IL. When we are at work you can rest assured knowing that your home will be back in order quickly & efficiently. Our IICRC-certified sewage damage restoration teams respond 24/7 for water damage repair services. Feel free to call us on 1-847-724-9800!