Flooding from a sewer backup can be a nightmare for homeowners. Not only does it create a mess, but it may also result in health risks and severe damage. With attention to detail and the right measures, you can keep this problem at under control. It is important to understand the best practices to prevent sewer flooding and how to effectively repair broken pipes.
Why is Your Sewer Flooding?
Before we get into precautionary measures, it’s crucial to understand the cause of your flooring issue. A few common causes are:
• Blocked Drains: Foreign objects, fats, oils, and grease can build up in pipes, leading to blockages.
• Tree Roots: They can invade and damage sewer pipes, causing blockages and potential flooding.
• Collapsed Pipes: Old or poorly maintained pipes can collapse, leading to sewer backups.
• Heavy Rainfall: Overloaded stormwater systems can back up into the sewer system.
How to Prevent a Sewer Flood
You may not be able to completely reduce the risk of a sewer flood however, you can reduce the odds of sewer flooding. Here are some preventive measures:
• Regular Inspections: Having your sewer system inspected annually can help identify potential issues before they become major problems.
• Proper Waste Disposal: Avoid flushing items like wipes, sanitary products, and cotton balls. Always avoid pouring fats, oils, and grease down the drain.
• Root Barriers: If trees are near your sewer lines, consider installing root barriers to prevent root intrusion.
• Install Backwater Valves: These valves allow wastewater to flow out of your home but prevent it from flowing back in.
Repairing Pipes
When pipes are damaged or broken, it is important to take a proactive measure and repair the pipes. Here’s a brief overview:
• Pipe Relining: This involves inserting a resin-coated tube into the damaged pipe. As the resin hardens, it forms a new pipe within the old one, sealing any breaks or gaps.
• Pipe Bursting: A new pipe is dragged through the old one, breaking the damaged pipe apart and replacing it simultaneously.
• Traditional Excavation: Sometimes, the only way to fix a pipe is to dig it up and replace it. This method is more invasive but may be necessary for severe damage.
• Spot Repair: For localized damage, a small section of the pipe can be excavated and replaced without the need to replace the entire line.
Ask the Professionals
It is possible for your handyman to resolve minor issues, sewer systems are complex. If you suspect a serious issue or experience constant flooding, it is important to speak with a licensed plumber. Your plumber can analyze the situation and provide you with a few make sense options for repair.
Getting ahead of the problem is always better than work after a problem has already occurred, especially when it comes to sewer flooding. It is suggested to really understand the cause, take preventive measures, and knowing how to repair pipes, you can protect your property from the mess and damage that comes with sewer flooding. Always remember that when in doubt, seeking professional guidance is the best approach.
