Blocked drains are a common problem for many homeowners and can be caused by various reasons, like grease buildup to foreign objects getting stuck in pipes. It can be a significant inconvenience and lead to costly repairs if left unresolved. To deal with blocked drains, pipe relining is a newer and more advanced solution. This technology involves relining the interior of the pipes rather than replacing them entirely, which can save time, money, and inconvenience for homeowners. Understanding the causes can help you take steps to prevent them from happening in the future, saving you time, money, and frustration. Following are a few of them.
- Fat, Oil, and Grease (FOG) buildup: One of the common causes of blocked drains is the buildup of fat, oil, and grease (FOG) in pipes. It often occurs in the kitchen, where people frequently pour oils and fats down the drain when washing dishes or preparing food. Over time, these substances can build up on the sides of pipes, creating a clog that will eventually block water from flowing through. To prevent FOG buildup, it’s important to avoid pouring fats and oils down the drain and instead dispose of them in the trash. If you have to wash dishes coated in grease or oil, try to wipe them off as much as possible before placing them in the dishwasher.
- Hair and soap scum buildup: Another common cause of blocked drains is the hair and soap scum buildup. It often occurs in bathroom sinks, shower stalls, and bathtub drains, where hair and soap can accumulate over time. The buildup can cause a clog that blocks water from flowing through the pipes, leading to slow draining or complete blockages. To prevent hair and soap buildup, it’s essential to use a drain strainer in your shower and bathtub and to periodically remove any hair or soap that has accumulated in the drain. You can also run hot water down the drain after each use to help flush out any hair and soap that may have accumulated in the pipes.
- Foreign objects stuck in pipes: Another common cause of blocked drains is foreign objects getting stuck in pipes. It often occurs when people flush items not meant to be flushed down the toilet, such as baby wipes, sanitary products, and cotton balls. These items can get caught in pipes, creating a clog that blocks water from flowing. To prevent foreign objects from getting stuck in pipes, it’s important to only flush the human waste down the toilet. If there is a baby in the house, keep baby wipes and other similar items away from the toilet to prevent them from being accidentally flushed.
- Tree roots growing into pipes: Tree roots can also be a significant cause of blocked drains. Over time, tree roots can grow into pipes, causing clogs and blockages. It is prevalent in older homes with pipes made of clay or cast iron, which are more susceptible to damage from tree roots. To prevent tree roots from growing into pipes, it’s essential to have your pipes regularly inspected to ensure they are in good condition. If you have tree roots growing into your pipes, you may need to remove or replace them to prevent further damage.
In conclusion, there are many reasons why drains may become blocked, from grease and oil buildup to foreign objects stuck in pipes, tree roots growing into pipes, etc. For Blocked Drains, Pipe Relining is an excellent solution. Regular maintenance and inspections and proper waste disposal practices can help keep your drains clear and flowing freely. If you are experiencing frequent blockages or slow-draining pipes, it’s essential to contact a professional plumber or pipe relining company for assistance in diagnosing and resolving the issue.
