How Do Heavy Rains Cause Sewer Backup?

6/13/2022 (Permalink)

Central Illinois is known for heavy rains. When there are heavy rains, an abundance of water and debris end up in municipal sanitary sewers, which can overload the sewer system. When there is more water than the sewer system can handle, excess water can flow backward into your home's sewer line and subsequently overflow into your basement. This is extremely common in our area. 

Growing tree roots may pose another danger to your sewer line after storms. Tree roots may grow quickly over the summer months due to the increase in rain. Tree roots can pierce the pipes as they search for nutrients found in sewage. Within the system, roots continue to grow and may cause broken or blocked pipes. 

Signs of a Clogged Sewer Pipe 

• Slow drainage in toilets, showers, or sinks
• Bubbling noise as you flush toilets or shower/sink drains 
• Another drain backs up when you flush toilets
• The smell of sewage (rotten eggs or sulfur)
• Lush, green spots in your yard above the septic tank or broken pipes

Sewer backups should be considered an emergency since the water may contain viruses, bacteria, and other microbes that can cause serious illness. SERVPRO of North Central Tazewell County | SERVPRO of Peoria | SERVPRO of Galesburg and Macomb has the specialized training and equipment to quickly and safely clean contaminants like sewage. We are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.