Sewer Backup Problems
Sewer backups are a common problem faced by both home and business owners in the Chicago area. Learn about what causes them and some solutions.
What is Sewer Backup?
Perma-Seal can solve sewer backup problems for homeowners in Chicago and the surrounding areas. Sewer backup happens when wastewater or sewage flows back into a building through the plumbing system. This usually happens because the sewer system becomes overloaded or experiences a blockage, causing the wastewater to reverse its flow and enter your home rather than flow away from it.
Sewer backups can have severe consequences for properties and occupants. The wastewater that enters the building carries various contaminants, including bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens, posing health risks. These conditions can make the area uninhabitable until the backup is resolved, and the area is properly cleaned and disinfected.
In addition to the health hazards, sewer backups can cause significant property damage. The contaminated water can ruin flooring, furniture, and personal belongings. It can also damage walls, electrical systems, and other structural components, leading to costly repairs.
If a sewer backup occurs, it’s crucial to prioritize safety and contact the professionals at Perma-Seal for assistance. Our team of professionals can assess the situation, remove the wastewater, clean and disinfect the affected area, and repair any damage to restore the property to a safe and habitable condition. If you’ve got a sewer problem, call Perma-Seal.
What Causes Sewer Backups?
Sewer backup is not because of one issue. Knowing why your sewer may be backed up is important to make sure it doesn’t happen again. In a sewer backup, it is important to prioritize safety and seek professional assistance from Perma Seal to address the issue, clean and disinfect the affected area, and restore the property to a safe and sanitary condition. Sewer backups can occur due to various factors, including:
- Heavy Rainfall or Flooding
- Blockages in the Sewer Lines
- Structural Issues
- Combined Sewer System Overflows
- Sewer Line Misconnections
What Are the Signs of a Sewer Backup?
Recognizing the signs of a sewer backup early on can help you take action and prevent further damage. Here are some common signs that may indicate a sewer backup:
- Multiple Drain Clogs
- Gurgling Sounds
- Slow Drainage
- Foul Odors
- Water Backup in Fixtures
- Sewage in Basement or Lowest Plumbing Fixtures
If you notice any of these signs, addressing the issue quickly is crucial. Contact a professional at Perma-Seal to assess the situation, identify the cause of the backup, and take appropriate steps to resolve the problem and mitigate the damage. Avoid trying to fix the issue yourself. Fixing sewer backup requires specialized knowledge and equipment.
How Do You Fix Sewer Backups?
Fixing a sewer backup typically requires professional attention because of to the complexity and potential health hazards involved. Here are the general steps involved in addressing and resolving a sewer backup:
- Safety First: Prioritize safety by ensuring everyone on the property knows the issue and takes necessary precautions. Keep children and pets away from the area and avoid contact with sewage-contaminated water to prevent the spread of bacteria and other harmful pathogens.
- Call a Professional: Contact an expert from Perma-Seal who specializes in handling sewer backups. We have the expertise, equipment, and protective gear to address the issue safely and effectively.
- Assessment and Inspection: Our professional will assess the extent of the backup, inspect the sewer system, and determine the cause of the problem. This may involve using specialized sewer line cameras or tools to identify blockages, leaks, or structural issues within the sewer lines.
- Blockage Removal: If a blockage causes the backup, one of our plumbers will work to remove it. They may use techniques such as hydro jetting, where high-pressure water clears the obstruction and cleans the pipes. Mechanical tools or rooter machines may be used for severe blockages or tree roots infiltrating the pipes.
- Cleaning and Sanitization: The affected area will require thorough cleaning and disinfection once the blockage is cleared. One of our professionals will use disinfectants and cleaning agents to sanitize the area, ensuring it’s safe for habitation.
- Repairs and Restoration: If the backup has caused any damage to the plumbing system or property, our plumbers will assess and repair any leaks, cracks, or structural issues in the sewer lines.
- Preventative Measures: Perma-Seal also installs a custom designed sewer backup prevention system to stop sewer backups in their tracks. Ask our experts about having a sewer backup prevention system installed today.
It’s important to note that the specific steps and solutions for fixing a sewer backup can vary depending on each situation’s cause, severity, and unique circumstances. It’s crucial to consult with a qualified professional at Perma-Seal who can assess the specific issue and provide tailored solutions. There are steps you can take to prevent this from happening again. Preventing sewer backups involves taking proactive measures:
- Regular maintenance and inspection of the plumbing system to identify and address potential blockages or structural issues.
- Proper disposal of waste materials, avoiding flushing items like wipes, paper towels, or grease down the drains.
- Installing backwater valves or check valves to prevent sewage from flowing back into the property during a backup event.
- Ensuring proper landscaping practices to prevent tree roots from infiltrating sewer lines.
- Quickly addressing any plumbing issues or signs of a potential backup, such as slow drains or gurgling sounds.
Contact Us to Fix Your Sewer Problems In Chicago and NW Indiana
If you have any type of sewer problems, don’t hesitate to contact us and set up a meeting with one of our experts. Our team at Perma-Seal offers professional sewer services for your home or business. Contact our experts today by calling 800-421-7325 or click the button below to fill out our online contact form.