This article looks at how to check for drainage problems. Blockagegone provide blocked drains clearance throughout Ipswich, Felixstowe, Woodbridge, Saxmundham, Stowmarket and Suffolk. Find out more about drainage problems signs to look for including clogged and blocked drains, broken drain pipes and drain collapse.

How Do You Check For Drainage Problems?

Drains and the wider drainage systems that encompass them play a vital role in our daily lives. However, it's important not to overlook the potential problems that can arise within these systems.

Clogs, cracks, degradation over time, intrusions, and even total collapse can affect drains, requiring timely attention and proper remedies. In this guide, we will explore the most common drainage problems, their causes, and potential solutions.

What Are The Main Causes Of Blocked Drains?

 Clogged and Blocked Drains

One of the most prevalent drainage problems is a blockage, which is often noticeable to homeowners and business owners. When a drain becomes blocked, water is unable to flow smoothly through the system, leading to backup and inefficient water removal.

Blockages can occur due to the accumulation of debris over time or the continuous depositing of materials that are prone to causing clogs.

Hair, food particles, fat and grease, soap and shampoo residues, and other solid materials can contribute to a clogged drain. To prevent blockages, it's advisable to limit the introduction of these substances into the drain.

When dealing with a clogged drain, it's best to contact a professional blocked drain company for an accurate assessment and appropriate measures. While some minor clogs can be resolved with DIY methods such as cleaning the p-trap, recurring or stubborn blockages should be handled by professionals.

Clogged shower drains can be particularly challenging to fix due to their complex structure and limited accessibility.

In such cases, a drain auger (snake) may be necessary to unclog the drain effectively. It's essential not to ignore clogs in exterior drains, often caused by debris like leaves and mud, as these drains are equally critical to the overall drainage system.

 Broken Drain Pipes

Drainage systems comprise interconnected pipes that transport wastewater to the main sewage system. Over time, these pipes can deteriorate, break, or become loose due to ground instability and natural wear and tear. When a drainage pipe breaks or loosens, wastewater can collect in the surrounding area, leading to backups and potential damage.

Fixing a broken or loose drainage pipe is crucial to restore proper drainage and prevent further issues. Depending on the severity, relining the pipe may be a viable solution that avoids the need for extensive excavation.

However, in more severe cases, the damaged section of the pipe may need to be repaired or replaced to prevent complete drainage failure. It's important to note that repairing broken drain pipes typically requires professional expertise and should not be attempted as a DIY fix.

 Object Intrusions

Although it may seem unlikely, drain intrusions by tree roots and even deceased animals are reported causes of drainage problems. These intrusions can lead to blockages, backups, and pipe failure if left unaddressed.

Tree roots, constantly seeking moisture, can exert pressure on drainage pipes and eventually penetrate them. Weak joint systems are particularly susceptible to root intrusion. Over time, roots can expand and cause blockages and pipe damage.

To resolve drain intrusions, it is necessary to remove the offending object. This can be achieved through methods such as augering to break up the intrusion and then flushing it out with high-pressure equipment. Additionally, damaged pipes may need repairs to prevent future intrusion-related issues, such as pipe bursting.

 Drainage Collapse

The most severe drainage problem is a complete collapse, occurring when one or more pipes within the drainage system collapse, rendering the system ineffective in transporting wastewater. This results in wastewater pooling in the ground or even closer to buildings, potentially causing structural damage.

Drainage collapses demand immediate attention due to the risks they pose. Consultation with a drainage professional is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective solutions. CCTV exploration of the drainage system is commonly employed to identify collapsed drains. Remedies can range from relining the affected pipe section to excavating and replacing the damaged drainage system.

A collapsed drain is a challenging situation, and prompt repairs are essential. It's important to remember that such occurrences are not always preventable, and acting swiftly to address the problem will ensure the restoration of a functional and reliable drainage system.

Although drainage problems can present significant challenges, addressing them promptly and seeking professional assistance will ultimately bring peace of mind and ensure the optimal functioning of your drainage system.

How do I know if the blockage is in my home?

Determining the location of a blockage is crucial when dealing with a blocked drain in your home. Here are some indicators that the blockage is within your property:

If your neighbours are not experiencing any drainage problems, it suggests that the blockage is specific to your home. Additionally, if your property has its own separate drainage system, the blockage is more likely confined to your home.

Another sign is the absence of flooding or blockage in the surrounding area apart from your property. This indicates that the blockage is within your home's drainage system.

If upstairs facilities are affected while downstairs facilities work fine, it suggests an internal blockage within your home.

Inspecting the external drain by lifting the manhole cover can also provide valuable information. If the drain appears clear, it suggests an internal blockage.

Understanding the location of the blockage is crucial for taking appropriate action. If the blockage is within your home, it is typically your responsibility to address it. Seek professional assistance or employ suitable DIY methods to clear the blockage and ensure proper drainage within your home.

Who is responsible for a drain blockage?

If only one property is experiencing drain problems and there is no evidence of blockages in neighbouring properties, it is likely that the responsibility lies with the individual property owner.

When a property has its own separate drainage system that is not shared with others, the responsibility typically falls upon the property owner to address the blockage.

If there is no evidence of flooding or blockages in the local area except for the specific property, the responsibility for the drain blockage usually rests with the property owner.

In the case of public sewers, responsibility may vary depending on whether the problem occurs outside the property boundary or if multiple properties are affected. In such cases, it is advisable to contact the local water authority or utility company to report the issue and seek their assistance.

Determining responsibility for a drain blockage is essential in taking appropriate action. If unsure, it is recommended to seek advice from local authorities or drainage experts who can provide guidance based on the specific situation.

Should I call a plumber or drainage company?

A blocked toilet can usually be resolved by a plumber for local blockages. However, if the blockage is deeper within the drainage system, such as in the pipes leading wastewater away, a drainage engineer is better equipped to handle the issue.

Similarly, when faced with a blockage under the kitchen sink, a plumber may be expected to clear it using traditional methods. However, if the blockage is caused by a buildup of food and scum in the pipes beyond the property, a drainage engineer's specialised equipment is needed to access hard-to-reach areas without extensive dismantling.

In cases where blockages extend beyond a specific area and involve the broader drainage system, contacting a drainage company is often the optimal choice. Their expertise, equipment, and tools allow them to tackle complex drainage issues efficiently.