What to Do if Your Septic Tank Overflows

Discovering your septic tank overflowing can be an alarming experience that no homeowner wishes to face. An overflowing septic tank can pose significant health risks and environmental hazards, in addition to the unpleasantness and inconvenience it brings to your doorstep. 

In the Vancouver WA climate, managing septic systems properly is crucial to maintaining both your property and the surrounding environment. But don’t worry, as daunting as it may seem, dealing with an overflow can be manageable, especially with the right guidance and professional help.

The aim is not just to remedy the situation but to restore peace and normalcy to your home as swiftly as possible. 

As local experts in disaster cleanup and restoration, BCC Restoration has seen our fair share of septic tank mishaps. We’re here to guide you through the immediate steps you should take, as well as provide a knowledgeable resource on why these issues happen and how you can prevent them in the future.

Steps to Take During a Septic Tank Overview

When you face a septic tank overflow, immediate action can mitigate the extent of the damage. Here are some crucial steps to follow:

1. Cease all water usage immediately. Minimize water use inside the house to prevent additional water from flowing into the septic system.
2. Evacuate your property if necessary. If the overflow is severe and poses immediate health risks, consider evacuating the premises until professionals deem it safe.
3. Document any damage. For insurance purposes, we recommend documenting the extent of the overflow and any property damage it might have caused.
4. Contact the professionals. This is not a DIY situation. Call a reputable disaster sewage cleanup and restoration contractor like BCC Restoration to assess and address the problem.

Why Would a Septic System Failure Occur?

Several factors can contribute to a septic system’s failure, each pointing to a different aspect of maintenance or environmental influence. Understanding these can help prevent future issues and extend the lifespan of your septic system. Common causes include: 

1. Neglected Maintenance: Failing to pump out the septic tank every three to five years, depending on size and usage, can lead to solids overflow.
2. Structural Damage: Tree roots, vehicular pressure, or inferior tank construction can damage the system.
3. Usage Overload: Excessive water use, beyond the system’s design, can flood and disrupt the tank and drain field’s functionality.
4. Improper Disposal Practices: Flushing non-biodegradable items or chemicals can clog and damage the system.

Reasons for Septic Tank Overflow in Yards

An overflowing septic tank and septic drain field problems often manifest in the yard before symptoms are noticed inside the home. Several factors can contribute to a septic tank overflow, particularly in Vancouver WA:

• Heavy Rainfall: Sudden increases in groundwater can overwhelm the drain field, leading to overflow.
• Compacted Soil: Over time, soil around the drain field can become compacted, reducing its ability to absorb effluent.
• Overgrown Vegetation: Deep plant roots can block or damage pipes leading to and from the tank.
• Inadequate Design or Installation: Systems not designed for their load or poorly installed can fail under normal conditions.
• Aging Systems: Older septic systems are more prone to failures due to degradation of components over time.

BCC Restoration Will Take Care of Your Septic Tank Failure ASAP

Don’t let a septic system failure disrupt your life any longer than necessary. When you’re facing a septic tank disaster, there’s no time to waste. 

BCC Restoration stands ready to provide rapid, effective, and comprehensive cleanup and restoration services. Our team of local experts is equipped with the knowledge and technology to address your septic tank failure efficiently, minimizing environmental impact and health risks. Trust us to restore your property and your peace of mind with our professional, friendly, and swift services.

Our team, comprised of local professionals with 17 years of experience in Vancouver WA, is on call 24/7 to respond to your emergency. We ensure a quick, efficient, and thorough cleanup process, using the highest standards of safety and environmental care.

Reach out to us today, and gain peace of mind knowing that your septic system is in capable hands.