Blocked drains are a common issue for many homeowners and businesses in Southampton. From minor inconveniences to major disruptions, these blockages can lead to costly repairs if not handled promptly. At GSB Drainage, we’ve seen it all. Understanding the root causes of blocked drains can help you take preventative measures, saving you time, money, and stress.
1. Grease and Fat Build-Up
One of the most common causes of blocked drains in Southampton is the accumulation of grease, fats, and oils. When poured down the sink, these substances may seem harmless, but as they cool, they solidify and cling to the inside of your pipes. Over time, this leads to stubborn blockages.
How to Avoid This:
Never pour cooking grease or oil down your drains. Instead, collect it in a container and dispose of it in the bin.
Use a sink strainer to catch food particles and prevent them from entering your drainage system.
2. Foreign Objects
Whether it’s children’s toys, wet wipes, or sanitary products, foreign objects can easily cause blockages. These materials don’t break down like toilet paper, creating significant obstructions in your pipes.
How to Avoid This:
Educate your family on what should and shouldn’t be flushed down the toilet or sink. Wet wipes, even those labeled “flushable,” can block your drains.
Install drain covers or strainers in sinks, showers, and baths to catch hair, soap, and other debris.
3. Tree Root Intrusion
Southampton’s green areas are beautiful, but the trees can cause havoc on your drainage system. Tree roots naturally seek out moisture, and if your pipes have small cracks or leaks, the roots will infiltrate them, leading to severe blockages or even pipe damage.
How to Avoid This:
If you notice slow drainage or suspect tree root intrusion, it’s crucial to contact a professional drainage service like GSB Drainage for a CCTV drain survey.
Regular maintenance can help spot potential issues before they become serious problems.
4. Hair
Hair buildup is a major cause of blocked bathroom drains. As hair enters the drains, it can tangle with soap scum and other debris, creating a net that catches additional particles, forming a solid blockage over time.
How to Avoid This:
Use a hair catcher or drain cover in your shower or bathtub.
Regularly clean out the hair from these covers to prevent it from entering your drainage system.
5. Leaves and Outdoor Debris
In areas with heavy rainfall, like Southampton, leaves, dirt, and debris can easily wash into outside drains, especially during the autumn and winter months. This can cause blockages that lead to water pooling or flooding in your garden or driveway.
How to Avoid This:
Regularly clean outdoor drains, especially during the autumn months when leaves are more likely to collect.
Install drain guards to catch leaves and prevent them from clogging your drainage system.
6. Broken or Collapsed Pipes
Over time, pipes can become damaged or collapse due to shifting soil, temperature changes, or external pressure. A broken or collapsed pipe can restrict water flow, causing backups and blockages.
How to Avoid This:
Schedule regular drain inspections with GSB Drainage to catch any early signs of damage.
If you suspect a broken pipe, it’s essential to have a professional inspect it immediately before the issue worsens.
How GSB Drainage Can Help
At GSB Drainage, we specialize in diagnosing and clearing blocked drains in Southampton and the surrounding areas. Our expert team use advanced equipment, including CCTV drain surveys, to quickly identify the cause of the blockage and resolve the issue efficiently. Whether it’s a simple blockage or a more complex problem like tree root intrusion or collapsed pipes, we’re here to help.
Our Drain Services in Southampton Include:
Drain unblocking
CCTV drain surveys
Drain relining and repairs
High-pressure drain jetting
Preventing Blocked Drains
Preventative maintenance is the key to avoiding costly drain repairs. By being mindful of what goes down your drains and scheduling regular inspections, you can keep your drainage system in optimal condition.
For expert drain unblocking in Southampton, contact GSB Drainage today. Call us on 07738181472 or visit our website at www.gsb-drainage.co.uk to schedule an appointment.
Kommentare