A backed up floor drain can cause significant damage and grief, especially in a home with a finished basement. Flooding from a floor drain is usually the result of either a blockage in the main line leaving your home, or because of a backflow of water coming into the house from the sewer system. In the case of a blockage, it is often caused by roots having grown into the lines or because there is something lodged in the drain pipe. If you are experiencing frequent back-ups from floor drains, here are your options:
- Chemical drain cleaners or clog removers can help break down masses that restrict the flow of water. For roots, a professional plumber can clear lines using a snake equipped with motorized cutting blades. This service may need to be repeated as roots grow back.
- If drain flooding coincides with significant rainfall or during periods of rapid thaw, the likely problem is that the storm sewer system is getting overwhelmed and overflow is finding the path of least resistance – in this case, into your basement. This problem is a municipal issue; your best option is to install valves that can be used to prevent backflow. These can be installed on any plumbing in the basement including laundry basins, toilets, and floor drains.
- In some cases – especially those involving older homes – significant damage to drain pipes from roots, shifting or settling, or as a result of other construction work, may result in the need to replace the main sewer line for the home. Prior to doing so, request a plumbing professional to conduct a camera inspection. This helps acutely diagnose any problems.
If you are experiencing clogs in your floor drains, we can help. Contact us to schedule an appointment. Don’t regret putting off a clogged floor drain!
