A sewage flood is a catastrophic event. It can destroy furniture, wreck appliances, and force you out of your residence. After facing such a disaster, your first thought might be to perform a cleanup yourself. After all, you want to reinstate your Utah home to its former glory and get back your life as fast as you can.
But DIY sewage cleanup comes with a set of risks that warrant calling an expert for help. Although wearing safety clothing can help offset some of the risks, there are other dangers that can jeopardize your well-being and property.
Below are four reasons to get in touch with a Utah flood cleanup specialist:
Health risks
Did you know that sewage comprises up to a million microorganisms per millimeter of waste? These include contaminants like viruses, fungi, parasites, and bacteria. Therefore, attempting sewage flood cleanup without following proper procedures puts you at risk of contracting various diseases, such as gastroenteritis, hepatitis A, tetanus, and typhoid fever.
DIY sewage flood cleanup can also lead to physical injuries, particularly if you are not adequately prepared. Sharp objects like glass or debris can be hidden in sewage waste, leading to cuts and puncture wounds.
Plus, the health risks associated with sewage flood cleanup are not limited to the immediate aftermath of the flooding. Prolonged exposure to contaminated areas can lead to long-term health problems, including cancer and other chronic illnesses.
Sewage smell
If your DIY solution ends up being ineffective for sewage flood cleanup, you will have a case of bad odor that doesn’t go away. This usually happens when homeowners use techniques that are not useful for removing all the traces of sewage water. The water may seep into the surrounding structures and materials, posing health and structural risks.
In addition, an ineffective DIY sewage cleanup solution can lead to mold growth, which could also be the source of the odor. Mold thrives in moist environments, and if any sewage water is left behind, it can create the perfect conditions for mold to grow. The odor of mold can be strong and persistent, and it can also pose significant health risks, particularly to people with allergies or respiratory issues.
Ignoring the odor could lead to long-term health problems, as the lingering presence of harmful microorganisms and mold can compromise indoor air quality and lead to respiratory issues, chronic illnesses, and even cancer. Additionally, it could cause damage to the property, making it harder and more expensive to remediate in the future.
To avoid these risks, it’s essential to seek professional help when dealing with sewage flood cleanup. Professional remediation companies have the necessary expertise, equipment, and protective gear to handle the task safely and effectively, removing all traces of sewage water and mold growth and ensuring the affected area is safe for you and your family.
Chances of electrocution
Electrocution is a significant concern when it comes to sewage flood cleanup. The flood can damage electrical systems, increasing the risk of electrical hazards. If you attempt to handle the cleanup yourself, you must take precautions to avoid such hazards. This includes turning off all electrical systems in the affected area to prevent electrocution, which can cause severe injuries or even be fatal.
Without proper knowledge and precautions, handling electrical fixtures and lines in contaminated water can lead to electrocution. This risk can increase if the electrical system is not turned off before the flooding. It is important to note that electrocution is not the only electrical hazard associated with sewage flood cleanup. The presence of gas leaks can also pose a risk of explosions.
Higher cleanup expenses
Although you may believe that cleaning sewage backup yourself is the most cost-effective option, there are several hidden expenses to consider. In fact, DIY sewage cleanup can be more costly than you may imagine. When you account for the necessary equipment, disinfectant, and cleaning supplies required to complete the job thoroughly, the cost of DIY sewage cleanup can skyrocket.
Furthermore, it’s essential to recognize that most sewage backups are due to underlying plumbing issues. If you choose to handle the backup on your own, you may not be able to correctly identify and address the root cause, which could result in more backups in the future. These repeat overflows will inevitably require additional cleanups, making DIY sewage cleanup more expensive than hiring a professional service.
Therefore, it is crucial to consider the long-term costs of DIY sewage cleanup before attempting to handle it yourself. By hiring a professional Utah flood restoration service, you can avoid the need for repeat cleanups and address any underlying plumbing issues. This will not only save you money in the long run, but it will also ensure that the job is completed safely and effectively.
At the end of the day, relying on cleanup professionals is crucial for the effective and efficient restoration of your home after a sewage flood. With their necessary equipment and technical expertise, they can quickly and efficiently accomplish the job, allowing you to return to your normal life as soon as possible.
Additionally, professional flood cleanup services are competitively priced and offer a time-saving solution. On the other hand, a DIY water damage cleanup project can drain both time and money. By leaving it to the professionals, you can save yourself from financial loss and assure the safety of everyone involved.
So take the time to find a trustworthy and experienced flood water cleanup service provider who offers quality services at competitive rates. With the right professional help, you can restore your home to its pre-flood condition quickly and efficiently and with minimal stress.
