Post By Admin
January 24, 2025A sewage overflow happening in the backyard can surely ruin your day, especially if it happens on the weekend when you’re supposed to relax and unwind! Unfortunately, this issue is something that should be dealt with right away.
So, if you’ve spotted suspicious puddles, foul odours, or soggy patches in your yard, it’s time to think of immediate resolutions.
Whether it’s a blocked drain service you need or a full-blown investigation into sewage overflow, this guide will help you tackle the issue step by step!
How to Deal with Sewage Overflow in Your Backyard
To minimise an even bigger mess, it’s vital to act quickly when sewage overflow strikes. Calling a professional is always a smart move, especially if you’re dealing with recurring issues or a serious sewage overflow pipe problem.
But in case you ponder on trying to solve the issue by yourself, here’s a step-by-step approach to get things under control.
1. Identify the Source
Could the problem be caused by a sewer overflow pipe? Maybe there’s an issue with your stormwater drain or the spot where the water is leaking from underground.
Find the source of the problem by using a torch to look for telltale signs, such as damp or odorous areas. You should also check any exposed drains and pipes for cracks, leaks or obstructions.
It is recommended to hire a professional to locate and fix the precise issue if you discover that the sewer line in your backyard is the source of the problem.
2. Block Off the Affected Area
Prevent children, pets, and even yourself from coming into contact with the contaminated area. Grab some gloves, rubber boots, and a mask first if you need to inspect further.
As an extra protection, set up barriers or signs to prevent accidental contact.
3. Remove Standing Water
When you see any standing water, it is a sure sign of a sewage issue. This also means that it’s a breeding ground for bacteria.
Try using a wet/dry vacuum to remove as much water as possible. If the affected area is too large to handle by yourself, our team can safely assist to do the job!
4. Clean and Disinfect
Once the area is clear of water, clean it thoroughly by using strong disinfectants to kill bacteria and reduce the risk of illness.
Ensure that you scrub all hard surfaces and replace or discard any contaminated soil or grass.
5. Call in the Pros
If you’re dealing with recurring issues or a serious sewage overflow pipe problem, it’s time to call a plumber.
Experts can help locate deeper issues like blockages in the sewer line or problems with your stormwater drain that require specialized tools to fix.
What Usually Causes Sewage Overflow?
While some causes are beyond your control, others can be mitigated with proper maintenance. Let’s break it down.
1. Tree Roots in Pipes
Did you know tree roots are one of the most common culprits behind sewage overflow? They naturally seek out moisture and can invade tiny cracks in your pipes, eventually causing blockages.
If left unchecked, this can lead to a sewage overflow pipe backing up into your yard. Watch for signs from slow drains to gurgling sounds, to wet patches near trees or shrubs.
2. Burst Water Pipes
A burst water pipe doesn’t just mean water flooding—it can also cause pressure imbalances that lead to sewage leaks.
This is particularly common during extreme weather changes when pipes expand and contract. Look for unusually high water bills, reduced water pressure, or obvious leaks in your yard.
3. Drain Overflow Due to Clogs
Grease, hair, food debris, and other materials can build up over time, causing blockages that lead to sewage backups.
If the clog is severe enough, it can result in overflow from drains or your stormwater system. The best preventative measure you can take is to avoid pouring grease down the drain and regularly clean your pipes to prevent clogs.
4. Old or Damaged Sewer Lines
Over time, sewer lines in your backyard can deteriorate due to age, corrosion, or external factors like soil movement. A damaged sewer line can result in frequent sewage overflows.
Hence, routine inspections and maintenance by professionals can catch problems before they escalate.
5. Poor Drainage Design
Sometimes, the issue isn’t with your pipes but with how your drainage system was designed. Poor grading, improper slope, or insufficient capacity in stormwater drains can lead to pooling water and sewage issues during heavy rain.
Talk to us today and we will assess and reconfigure your drainage system to improve efficiency!
Health Advices Regarding Sewage Issues
In addition to being an unsightly nuisance, sewage overflow poses a significant threat to your family’s health by exposing you to bacteria, viruses, and other infectious agents.
Serious health risks can be posed by parasites in sewage water, which is particularly true for the young, the old, and those with compromised immune systems.
Handling sewage issues with prudence and prioritising safety is vital given the risks involved. As mentioned and emphasised, calling experienced plumbers is usually the safest and most effective option, even if you might be tempted to jump in and solve the problem yourself.
In the meantime, take steps to minimise exposure. Block off the affected area to keep children and pets away, and if the overflow is close to your home, ventilate the space by opening windows to reduce lingering odours and airborne contaminants.
Conclusion
Although dealing with sewage overflow in your backyard can be rather unpleasant, it doesn’t have to become an ongoing nightmare if you take the correct approach and get professional help.
Your well-being and safety should be your utmost priority in any situation involving sewage overflow. You can rest easy knowing the problem is being handled correctly and thoroughly when you let skilled professionals handle it.
When you have a sewage problem, call us at Neighbourhood Plumbing right away. From immediate repairs to more permanent solutions, our team of skilled plumbers in Melbourne can handle it all!
About the Author
From unclogging the toughest drains to repairing leaking toilets, Ricky is a seasoned plumber who has brought his craftmanship to homes across Melbourne. He is passionate about sharing plumbing tips just as much as he is about fixing your plumbing issues. So, when your taps or pipes begin leaking, you know who to call.
