IRON BACTERIA (IRON OCHRE) 

A COMMON CHALLENGE FOR CRAWLSPACES AND BASEMENTS

It is common that we at John’s Waterproofing have customers who have found a rust colored gelatinous sludge in their basement or crawlspace. This same substance also regularly shows up around sink faucets, toilet water tanks, and other plumbing or drainage fixtures. This iron ochre and is secreted by iron bacteria. It creates a sticky, slimy gel that is normally red but can be yellow, brown or gray as well. It is the byproduct of iron oxidizing. It can be very thick and it can result in clogging and narrowing of drainage lines and sump pump systems. It presents a special challenge to waterproofing.

Blocked drains, pipes, and plumbing breakdowns are a common side effect if left untreated.

As this ochre builds and grows, it will attach to the sides of pipes and surfaces leaving a thick slimy cake of sludge. It will begin to corrode pipes and build up can quickly clog pipes and cause backups to drainage lines of all types. Once a thick enough layer develops these clogs can occur very quickly (In a matter of a few months).

Preventing Clogs in your Drainage Systems

If you have noticed these rust rings or a slime build up, have no fear, we have solutions. Our WaterGuard IOS® system is designed specifically with larger holes to prevent the drain from clogging with this thick water. Our sump pumps, when serviced properly can pump out these solids and chunks up to ½” thick without clogging the lines.

How Iron Ochre Affects Your Home

• Smell: This iron waste has a terrible smell that most homeowners describe as musty, rotten produce or even having the smell of sewage.
• Health Issues: So far, no connection has been made between iron ochre and health concerns, the addition of organic material could promote the growth of other harmful bacteria. Flooded sewage pipes or backed up pipes could create some health issues if the Iron Ochre is not treated.
• Staining and Unsightly Appearance: This Ochre will stain most anything it encounters, including concrete, tubs, sinks and any clothing it might happen to get on. These stains are often difficult to clean and can leave an oil-like sheen on things.
• Taste: Iron in the water can give it an unpleasant taste.

Testing for Iron Bacteria

Testing for Iron Ochre is simple. In the morning or after pipes have been unused and settled for a while, fill a glass of water and let it sit on the counter for a day.  Check for sediment or such in the glass. If you have sediment but it looks like flour or light color you likely don’t have iron bacteria. If it has a more 3-d look or fluffy chunks or strings it is possible you have iron bacteria in your water. You can also look for visual proof such as slimy red build up around pipes or down concrete walls or floors.

We have the Solution

If you are struggling, or concerned, with iron ochre or build up we have the answer. Call John’s Waterproofing today for our free, no pressure waterproofing quote. We will come out and inspect your home so we can find a solution that is perfect for your home and situation.