Stars and Bars RestorationA sewage backup is one of the most dangerous types of water damage. Unlike a clean water leak from a burst pipe, sewage contains bacteria, viruses, parasites, and other pathogens that pose serious health risks. Professional cleanup isn't optional — it's essential.
Stars and Bars Restoration provides IICRC-certified sewage cleanup and biohazard restoration across Pueblo and all of Southern Colorado. We respond 24/7 because sewage emergencies can't wait.
Why Sewage Cleanup Requires Professionals
The restoration industry classifies water damage into three categories:
- Category 1 (Clean Water) — From a broken supply line or faucet. Minimal health risk.
- Category 2 (Gray Water) — From washing machines, dishwashers, or toilet overflow (urine only). Moderate health risk.
- Category 3 (Black Water) — From sewage, flooding, or any water that has contacted the ground. Severe health risk.
Sewage is always Category 3 — the most dangerous classification. It may contain:
- E. coli and Salmonella — Can cause severe gastrointestinal illness
- Hepatitis A — A serious liver infection
- Giardia and Cryptosporidium — Parasites that cause severe digestive problems
- Tetanus — Present in sewage-contaminated soil
- Various viruses — Including norovirus and rotavirus
Never attempt to clean up sewage yourself. The health risks are too great without proper protective equipment and training.
Common Causes of Sewage Backups in Southern Colorado
- Aging sewer lines — Many homes in Pueblo and Trinidad have decades-old clay or cast iron sewer lines that crack, collapse, or become blocked by tree roots
- Heavy rainfall — Summer monsoons can overwhelm municipal sewer systems, causing backups into homes
- Septic system failures — Rural properties in Colorado City, Rye, Beulah, and other areas rely on septic systems that can fail
- Main line blockages — Grease, debris, or tree root intrusion in the main sewer line
Our Sewage Cleanup Process
Stars and Bars follows IICRC S500 and S540 standards for sewage cleanup:
- Safety Assessment — We evaluate the situation and identify hazards before entering
- Personal Protection — Our team wears full PPE including Tyvek suits, respirators, gloves, and boot covers
- Sewage Extraction — We remove all standing sewage and contaminated water using specialized equipment
- Contaminated Material Removal — Porous materials that contacted sewage (carpet, padding, drywall below the flood line) must be removed and disposed of
- Disinfection & Sanitization — We apply EPA-registered antimicrobial solutions to all affected surfaces
- Structural Drying — Commercial dehumidifiers and air movers ensure complete drying
- Air Quality Treatment — HEPA air scrubbers remove airborne contaminants and odors
- Restoration — We repair and replace removed materials to restore your home
Insurance Coverage for Sewage Damage
Most homeowner's insurance policies cover sewage backup damage, especially if you have a sewer backup endorsement (also called "water backup coverage"). This is an add-on to standard policies and typically costs $40-$100/year.
We work directly with insurance companies to document sewage damage claims thoroughly:
- Photographic documentation of all damage
- Moisture readings and contamination assessments
- Detailed scope of work and cost estimates
- Direct communication with your adjuster
Tip: If you don't have sewer backup coverage, ask your insurance agent about adding it. It's one of the most affordable and valuable endorsements available.
Areas We Serve for Sewage Cleanup
- Pueblo & Pueblo West
- Colorado Springs & Fountain
- Colorado City, Rye & Beulah
- Cañon City & Florence
- Trinidad & Walsenburg
- Alamosa & the San Luis Valley
Emergency Sewage Cleanup — Call Now
If you have a sewage backup, don't wait. Call Stars and Bars Restoration at (719) 676-2456 for immediate 24/7 emergency response. We'll arrive quickly, equipped to handle the situation safely and professionally.
Stars and Bars Restoration | IICRC Certified | Veteran-Owned | (719) 676-2456 | services@sb-resto.com