Is Your Septic System Failing? The Signs You Can’t Ignore

Something smells off—literally. Or maybe your sinks and toilets are draining slower than usual. Maybe you’ve noticed puddles forming in your yard, even when it hasn’t rained in days. If any of this sounds familiar, your septic system might be in trouble.

As a homeowner in Bolingbrook, IL, and the surrounding Will County area, dealing with septic issues isn’t just an inconvenience—it’s a ticking time bomb. The longer you ignore the warning signs, the bigger (and more expensive) the problem gets.

Here are some of the most common red flags:

• Slow-draining sinks, tubs, or toilets – A sluggish drain could be a minor clog, but if it’s happening all over your house, your septic system might be struggling.

• Gurgling noises from your pipes – If your plumbing sounds like it’s talking back to you, that’s a sign of trapped gas, often due to a blockage or failing drain field.

• Foul sewage odors inside or outside your home – Your septic system is supposed to keep wastewater underground. If you’re smelling sewage, it could mean a backup is on the way.

• Standing water or lush green patches in your yard – If parts of your lawn are extra green or feel swampy, your septic drain field might be oversaturated.

• Toilets that won’t flush properly – If plunging doesn’t help and the problem keeps happening, your septic system may not be handling waste properly.

Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Fix These Issues

Ignoring these symptoms won’t make them go away. In fact, they’ll get worse—and fast. A minor repair that could have cost a few hundred dollars can turn into a full system replacement costing $10,000 or more if left untreated.

The Real Cost of Septic Repairs in Bolingbrook, IL

Let’s talk numbers. One of the first questions homeowners ask is, "How much is this going to cost me?"

Common Septic Repairs and Their Costs

The price tag depends on what’s wrong, but here’s a general breakdown:

• Clogged pipes or baffles – $200 to $600

• Drain field rejuvenation – $2,000 to $5,000

• Septic tank pumping (if full but not damaged) – $300 to $600

• Cracked or leaking tank repair – $1,000 to $3,500

• Full septic system replacement – $8,000 to $20,000+

Hidden Costs Homeowners Don’t Think About

Septic repairs aren’t just about fixing the tank. You might also need:

• Permits and inspections (depending on your county regulations)

• Landscaping repairs (if excavation is required)

• Temporary housing (if the issue is severe enough to make your home unlivable)

Knowing what to expect upfront helps prevent nasty surprises when the final bill arrives.

Septic Repair vs. Replacement: What’s the Best Option?

Not every septic system needs to be replaced, but how do you know when a repair is enough?

When a Repair Makes Sense

• The damage is isolated (like a cracked pipe or small leak).

• Your system is less than 20 years old and has been properly maintained.

• Your drain field is still functioning, and wastewater is draining correctly.

When Replacement Is the Smarter Choice

• Your tank is older than 25 years and showing multiple issues.

• The drain field is failing, leading to constant backups or flooding.

• You’ve had multiple expensive repairs within the last few years.

A professional inspection can determine whether you need a quick fix or a full upgrade.

DIY Septic Fixes: What Works and What Can Make Things Worse

We get it—nobody likes spending money on home repairs. But trying to fix your septic system yourself can sometimes do more harm than good.

The Truth About Septic Additives

You’ve probably seen ads for septic tank additives claiming to break down waste and eliminate problems. While some of these products can help with minor buildup, they won’t fix serious issues like a broken drain field or leaking tank.

Temporary Fixes That Work (for Now)

If you need a short-term solution while waiting for a repair:

• Reduce water usage – Space out laundry loads, avoid long showers, and don’t flush unnecessary items.

• Pump the tank – This can buy time, but if there’s underlying damage, the problem will return.

• Clear minor blockages – If it’s just a clog in the pipe leading to the tank, a plumbing snake may help.

Repairs Best Left to Professionals

• Replacing baffles or pipes – Digging up your system without knowing exactly where the issue is can cause more damage.

• Drain field restoration – Requires specialized equipment and expertise.

• Fixing leaks in the tank – A small crack can become a major issue if not repaired correctly.

If in doubt, call a professional before making things worse.

How to Find the Best Septic Repair Company Near Bolingbrook

What to Look For

• Licensed and insured contractors – Ask for proof of licensing before hiring.

• Experience with your specific issue – Not all septic problems are the same.

• Honest, upfront pricing – Avoid companies that won’t give estimates.

• Strong local reviews – Word-of-mouth matters.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

• Pressure tactics – If a company is pushing you to sign on the spot, be wary.

• No references or reviews – A reputable company should have happy customers.

• Extremely low prices – If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

At Allied Waterproofing & Septic, we take a customized approach to every repair, ensuring you get exactly what you need—no more, no less.

What to Expect During a Septic Repair Service

Step-by-Step Process

1. Inspection & Diagnosis – A technician will locate the issue and assess damage.

2. Repair Plan & Cost Estimate – You’ll receive a breakdown of options.

3. Excavation (if needed) – For pipe or tank repairs, digging may be required.

4. Repair Work & Testing – Once repairs are completed, the system is tested.

5. Final Inspection & Cleanup – The technician ensures everything is working properly.

Most repairs take a few hours to a couple of days, depending on severity.

Preventative Maintenance: How to Avoid Future Repairs

The best way to avoid expensive septic repairs is preventative care.

• Pump your tank every 3-5 years to prevent buildup.

• Be mindful of what goes down the drain – No grease, wipes, or chemicals.

• Inspect your drain field regularly for standing water or slow drainage.

• Fix leaks in your home plumbing – Excess water can overload your system.

Taking care of your septic system now saves you thousands in the future.

Final Thoughts

Septic repairs aren’t fun, but knowing what to expect can save you time, money, and stress. If you’re dealing with backups, odors, or slow drains, don’t wait—the problem won’t fix itself.

At Allied Waterproofing & Septic, we believe in customized solutions, not one-size-fits-all fixes. We serve Bolingbrook and the surrounding counties with expert repairs tailored to your home’s needs.

If your septic system is acting up, give us a call before it turns into a bigger mess. We’re here to help.