How To Fix an Overflowing Toilet

10/14/2020 (Permalink)

How To Fix an Overflowing Toilet

While no one wants to deal with an overflowing toilet, a clogged pipe can happen to anyone. Sewage cleaning requires professional help, so try to find the root cause of the problem first to avoid more damage.

Diagnosing the Problem
If your toilet overflows when you shower, something between the toilet and the shower is clogged, causing the backup. Small clogs can be taken care of with a bit of elbow grease, but bigger problems, like tree roots in your pipes or main line, require professional help. Keep the below in mind when you're working on the problem:

• Try clearing the toilet first with a plunger or a snake. If the shower is the culprit, run the shower after to make sure the clog cleared.
  
• Homeowners who are comfortable with more complicated repairs can try clearing their main drain but will likely need a pipe wrench to remove the cover. The process can be messy if there is sewage backup.
  
• A snake won't be able to handle the problem if there's a clog or tree roots in the line from your house to the main sewer line. If your DIY efforts have failed, don't attempt further work on your own at this point. A professional will need to repair or replace the line, depending on the scope of the damage.
  
• If you have a septic tank, make sure it's being regularly maintained. A full or damaged tank will cause toilet overflow.
  
• Look into professional sewage cleaning. Water from sewage backup can contain dangerous contaminants.
  
  

Cleaning Up Damage
Should your toilet overflow, any water damage should be taken seriously and addressed promptly. A professional water damage restoration company in Chicago, IL, can keep your home protected. Hiring the right help ensures any contaminated water is treated properly.
In a best-case scenario, clearing a small clog on your own will stop your toilet from overflowing. With more major issues, professional plumbers and sewage cleaning may be necessary to avoid further water damage to your home.