When a sewer line backs up, it’s not just inconvenient — it’s a full-blown emergency.
I’m Justin Wilder, owner of Wild Water Plumbing and a proud U.S. Navy Veteran.
Here in Jacksonville, I’ve seen firsthand how quickly a sewer clog can turn a normal day into a nightmare.
From water rising in your tubs to sewage seeping into your floors, this isn’t something you can put off until tomorrow.
What Causes Sewer Line Backups?
Tree Roots Invading Your Pipes
In Jacksonville’s older neighborhoods, tree roots are a leading cause of sewer line clogs.
Roots search for water, push into small cracks, and eventually fill the pipe like a net.
Once that happens, everything you flush gets trapped.
Collapsed or Failing Orangeburg Pipes
Many homes built decades ago still have Orangeburg sewer pipes.
These old, fiber-based pipes weaken over time, collapsing under soil pressure.
A collapsed section means nothing passes through — your entire system comes to a halt.
Flushing the Wrong Things
Even in newer homes, I see backups caused by “flushable” wipes, feminine products, or paper towels.
They don’t break down like toilet paper, and once they lodge in your main sewer, you’ll see toilets, sinks, and tubs all backing up together.
Warning Signs of a Sewer Backup
Multiple Drains Acting Up
If more than one fixture is clogged at the same time for example, your toilet and shower both backing up it’s almost always the main sewer line.
Gurgling Sounds and Slow Drains
Hearing strange gurgles in your toilet or sink when another fixture is running water?
That’s a sign the line isn’t venting properly because of a blockage.
Sewage Coming Up in Tubs or Toilets
This is the big one. When wastewater comes back into your home, it’s not just messy it’s a serious health hazard.
Why You Shouldn’t Wait
Sewer line clogs won’t fix themselves.
Every flush or load of laundry contributes to the problem, adding more wastewater and increasing the risk of flooding and contamination.
The longer you wait, the higher the chance of:
- Water damage to floors and walls
- Exposure to harmful bacteria and mold
- Costly repairs to both plumbing and your home
How I Fix Sewer Backups in Jacksonville
At Wild Water Plumbing, I don’t guess, I diagnose.
I use specialized equipment to locate and safely clear clogs, whether they are caused by roots, debris, or a collapsed pipe.
Here’s what I bring to the job:
- Camera inspections to see exactly what’s happening underground
- Professional augers and hydro-jetting to clear tough blockages
- Repair and replacement options for damaged or collapsed sewer lines
My goal is to fix the problem at its source, not just give you a temporary band-aid.
Final Thoughts
A sewer line backup is one of the worst plumbing emergencies a homeowner can face.
It’s messy, it’s unhealthy, and it only gets worse with time.
If you’re in Jacksonville and notice multiple drains backing up, strange gurgling sounds, or sewage in your tubs, don’t wait.
Call me, Justin Wilder at Wild Water Plumbing, and I’ll be there to clear your sewer line, protect your home, and give you peace of mind.