subject: Plumbing Surrey: Simple Tips for Water Damage or Sewer Back up [print this page] Plumbing Surrey: Simple Tips for Water Damage or Sewer Back up
Oftentimes, you will feel helpless when you're faced with plumbing problems. It's really intimidating trying to manoeuvre around those pipes. Just imagine that agony they will bring you when something goes wrong. Critical plumbing problems are best solved by a professional plumber but there are some things you can do to help ease your situation.
Water Damage
Coping with water damage is an overwhelming ordeal. Water damage destroys the foundation of the structure as well as the furnishings. The helpless victims are usually the carpets, floorboards, furniture, or any object on the floor. The problem is equally alarming if water falls from the ceiling.
Swift action and presence of mind are required in an event of water damage. Don't put yourself at the risk of an electrical shock by vacuuming wet carpets and floors. This is best done by a professional. Electricity and water don't mix so don't attempt to enter the room if there's standing water and the electricity is active.
You can help blot out and dry water with the help of fans, air conditioning systems, or a heater (during winter). You can also blot out water with mops and towels to minimize bacterial growth. Invite as much air circulation as you can, unless the damage is due to sewer water or if there may be asbestos in the damaged materials, in which case, you do not want to circulate the toxic air.
Sewer Backup
A sewer backup is definitely a nasty problem, as it brings back waste products that absolutely smell bad. Of course, it's harmful to the health. Don't make contact with the waste as much as possible. Ideally you should hire a professional restoration company instead of doing the clean-up job yourself because there are quite stringent health guidelines that should be followed for proper clean up and safety.
Poor plumbing is the root of water damage and sewer backup so allow a plumber to maintain your system every now and then. It's important to keep pipes and drains clear to allow smooth water passage. De-clog your drainage systems every now and then. Lastly, drain your lines and shut off the water supply to outside taps during the winter.
