4 Steps To Cleaning Sewer Damage

11/6/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial building drying in Geneva, IL

Four Steps To Do When Cleaning Contaminated Water

As a business owner in Geneva, IL, you may be wondering what is involved in sewer cleanup. Whether the water source is from a toilet overflow, burst pipe, or backup, sewage is considered some of the dirtiest water there is. Since sewage can harbor bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants, it is important to clean the area properly. Here are four steps that must be completed when cleaning contaminated water.

1. Assess the Damage
Determine how large of an area has been impacted. Water from a flooded toilet can seep into baseboards or crawlspaces. If you have a room underneath the flooded area, check the room to make sure water is not leaking from the ceiling. Keep in mind that water can break down molecules, so the longer the water is left to sit, the more damage can occur.

2. Remove the Water
Follow safety measures when dealing with sewer cleanup. Wear protective gear and do not let the dirty water make contact with your skin or clothing. If you do accidentally touch the water, wash yourself thoroughly with soap and clean water. Professionals often use water extraction machines to quickly and safely remove excess water from your building.

3. Dry the Moisture
When water is left to sit, mold can begin forming in as little as 24-48 hours. Experts use moisture sensing technology to find hidden problem areas. Professionals use industrialized blowing machines and dehumidifiers to dry the area faster than regular fans do, without spreading contaminants through the air.

4. Clean and Sanitize
All surfaces that come into contact with water from a sewer backup must be properly cleaned and disinfected before it is considered safe to reenter the area. Restoration companies have a variety of methods for sanitation including antimicrobial treatments and biocides.
Sewer cleanup can be a nuisance for business owners. However, by working with a professional water remediation company that is Faster to Any Size Disaster, you can have your business back to normal as quickly as possible.