Drain Cleaning
Slow, gurgling or backed-up drains in kitchens, bathrooms and basements.
Serving Chicagoland Since 1993
Sewage Backup Service in Elgin, IL
Dirty water coming up through the floor drain or a basement toilet needs fast help. Our line is open 24/7. We clear the blockage, show you what caused it and help you keep it from happening again. From our office on North McLean Boulevard.
What to Do if Sewage Is Backing Up
Before we arrive:
1. Stop Running Water
No flushing, showers, dishwasher or laundry. Every gallon adds to the backup.
2. Keep Everyone Out of the Water
Sewage carries bacteria. Keep kids and pets away from the basement.
3. Mind the Electrical
Don't touch outlets, cords or appliances near the water.
4. Call Us
Tell us where it's coming up and whether it's raining.
Why Sewage Backs Up in Elgin Homes
The usual suspects:
Roots in Clay Pipe
Common in older neighborhoods, especially with big trees nearby.
Heavy Rain
Storms fill the sewers fast, and water looks for the lowest opening, often your floor drain.
A Broken or Sagging Line
A collapse or low spot stops the flow and collects debris.
Grease and Wipes
Even newer lines clog when these build up together.
Sewer Backups in Elgin Basements
In July 2017, more than 7 inches of rain fell just south of Elgin over two days, and basements flooded across the area.
Old Homes, Low Drains
Many homes built before 1940 have gravity floor drains below street level. When the sewer fills, that's where water shows up.
Newer Homes Aren't Immune
Roots, sags and grease cause backups in 1990s and 2000s homes too, especially once a basement is finished and has a bathroom.
Ways to Prevent It
A clean line, a backflow valve and an overhead sewer system each solve part of the problem. We'll tell you which your home needs.
The J. Blanton Difference773-724-9272
What Happens When You Call J. Blanton
We clear it, then explain it.
1. Clear the Line
We get your drains working again.
2. Show You the Cause
Roots, a break or an overloaded sewer. The camera tells us.
3. Price Before Repairs
A flat-rate price for anything beyond the clearing.
Customer Stories
Sewer Backup Reviews
4.8 stars from 349 Google reviews for our Elgin office.
★★★★★
"We had an emergency situation on a weekend when our sewer main broke in the basement, and this company was an absolute lifesaver! They responded quickly, offered very reasonable rates, and immediately sent someone out to diagnose the problem. Within no time, they had a crew on-site to tackle the issue."
★★★★★
"Updating to also call out Emanuel and Gio, who worked on lining our 110 year old sewer for the past two days. They were flexible, friendly, and professional. No one wants to deal with plumbing issues so we’re thanking for the people who do! 5 stars for Shane Waychoff! He rescued us from a small sewage issue in our basement. [...]"
★★★★★
"Zachary did a great job clearing out our sewer line after a clog. He was very professional, friendly, and knowledgeable. I would highly recommend him and J. Blanton Plumbing."
Got Questions?
Sewer Backup Questions From Elgin Homeowners
Your line or the public sewer can't carry the storm water.
Either your line is partly blocked and overflows when flow increases, or the public sewer is overloaded and pushing back. A camera inspection tells you which.
Often only with a specific rider. Check your policy.
Many homeowner policies only cover sewer backups with a specific rider or endorsement. Check with your insurance agent, ideally before you need it.
Small, contained spills, carefully. Large ones need a cleanup company.
A small spill on bare concrete can be cleaned with gloves and disinfectant. Anything that reaches carpet, drywall or furniture should be handled by a professional cleanup company.
Keep the line clear and add protection if storms are the trigger.
Start with a clear, inspected line and regular sewer maintenance. If storms cause it, a backflow valve or overhead sewer system is the long-term fix.
The public sewer was probably overloaded.
When several homes back up in the same storm, the public sewer was probably overloaded. Your own line may still have a problem, so a camera check helps you plan the right protection.
It depends on the cause. You get a flat price first.
It depends on what caused the backup and how we reach the line. We give you a flat-rate price before any work begins.
Annual Protection Plan
Join the No Drip Club for Year-Round Sewer Protection
Prevent catastrophes before they disrupt your life. The No Drip Club ensures your waste and sewer lines are monitored and serviced regularly by J. Blanton’s absolute best.
- Two Free Professional Maintenance Visits per Year
- 10% Discount on All General Plumbing & Sewer Services
- 5-Year Parts and Labor Warranty on Approved Projects
- VIP Priority Scheduling Status (Skip the Queue)
What We Fix
Plumbing Services in Elgin
Learn More
Water Heaters
Repair and replacement for tank and tankless water heaters that leak, make noise or run out of hot water too fast.
Sewer Repair
Tree roots, cracked clay pipe and repeat backups in the line from your house to the street.
Garbage Disposals
Repair and replacement for garbage disposals that jam, leak or just hum.
Sump Pumps
Sump pump repair, replacement and battery backups to keep your basement dry through heavy rain.
Leak Repair
Hidden leaks behind walls and ceilings, drips under the sink and leaking water lines.
Emergency Plumbing
Burst pipes, sewer backups and no hot water, any time of day or night.
Local Office, 24/7 Phone
Sewage in the Basement? Call Us Now.
Our Elgin office is at 964 N McLean Blvd, and our phone line is open 24/7.
We also serve South Elgin, Bartlett, Gilberts, Hoffman Estates, Pingree Grove, Hampshire and more.
Need a Plumber?Call our Elgin Office
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