Water Backup Contractors

[Anuj Ansal]

Hi,

We recently had water backup come up from our floor drains in the basement. I would like to get a check valve installed in the sewer line to prevent this from happening again. Can anyone recommend a good plumber or contractor who can do this kind of work? I live in Rogers Park Chicago.

Many thanks,

Anuj

[Faraz Tariq]

@Anuj Ansal For sewer back-up through floor drains, you generally have two options.  There are others but they may not be as effective.  Either overhead sewers or an exterior check valve as you indicated.  

As you are vetting contractors, I'd recommending trying to understand what product they will be using.  Ideally you'd use 2-3 check valves in series as this helps if one of the valves is partially or fully open due to debris or waste.  When installed in series, you have the ability for the other valve to come into play and act as a fail safe.  

Additionally, some contractors will also install an ejector pump to pump waste from the property over and above the check valves back into the sewer line as once the check valve is activated, the waste from the property is unable to leave and go into the main sewer line until the blockage is resolved.

Although, I can't personally recommend one specific contractor, I've read good things about The Real Seal, although they may only work on another drainage options (i.e. drain tile).  You could also check out Permaseal.