Blocked drains can cause significant issues for homeowners in St Albans, from foul odours to potential health hazards if not promptly dealt with. They can result in the disruption of daily household activities and potentially cost a lot of money for repairs if left unattended. There are several common causes for blocked drains, and in this article, we will highlight the most typical among them.
1. Hair accumulation: One of the significant causes of blocked drains is the build-up of hair. During showers or baths, strands of hair tend to go down the drain. blocked drains st albans Over time, these strands bind together, resulting in blockages. While hair build-up is inevitable, one can reduce the frequency of blockages by installing hair catchers over the drain, which help trap loose hairs and prevent them from entering the drainage system.
2. Fat and grease build-up: In the kitchen, fat and grease are the main culprits. When these substances are washed down the sink, they solidify in the pipes and cause blockages. It is advised to avoid pouring fats, oils, and grease down the drain. Instead, they should be allowed to cool and solidify, then thrown away with regular household waste.
3. Sanitary products and wipes: Although some companies label their products as ‘flushable,’ many wipes and sanitary items are not suitable for disposal through the drainage system. They don’t easily break down and therefore result in blockages. Ideally, these items should be disposed of in a bin instead.
4. Tree roots: In some cases, particularly in older St Albans neighbourhoods with mature trees, roots can infiltrate the sewer lines, causing major blockages. Over time, small cracks or leaks in the pipes attract roots looking for water and nutrients. The roots, once inside, can expand rapidly and completely block the pipe.
5. Usual household waste: Items like leftover food, coffee grinds or tea bags may seem harmless, but they are one of the primary reasons for drain problems. It's important to dispose of these items correctly in the trash, not the sink.
6. Collapsed pipes: Over time, pipes, especially old ones, can collapse due to soil movement, changes in temperature, or corrosion. A collapsed pipe can block the entire drainage system, leading to significant problems. This issue often requires professional help for replacement or repair.
7. Accumulation of minerals: Very hard water contributes to mineral build-up inside pipes, causing a blocked drain over time. Hard water is common in St Albans due to its high lime content. Lime scale deposits could narrow the pipes over time, reducing the water flow and eventually causing a blockage.
8. Heavy rains and storms: Although less common, heavy rainfall and storms in St Albans can overwhelm the drainage system, causing blocked drains, especially in areas with poor drainage.
In conclusion, while some causes of blocked drains in St Albans are unavoidable, others can be prevented with responsible disposal habits and regular drain maintenance. Regular inspection of your drainage system can help identify potential issues before they become serious and would therefore go a long way in maintaining the longevity of your home's drainage system. If you do experience a stubborn or severely blocked drain, it's always a good idea to call in the professionals for expert advice and assistance.
1. Hair accumulation: One of the significant causes of blocked drains is the build-up of hair. During showers or baths, strands of hair tend to go down the drain. blocked drains st albans Over time, these strands bind together, resulting in blockages. While hair build-up is inevitable, one can reduce the frequency of blockages by installing hair catchers over the drain, which help trap loose hairs and prevent them from entering the drainage system.
2. Fat and grease build-up: In the kitchen, fat and grease are the main culprits. When these substances are washed down the sink, they solidify in the pipes and cause blockages. It is advised to avoid pouring fats, oils, and grease down the drain. Instead, they should be allowed to cool and solidify, then thrown away with regular household waste.
3. Sanitary products and wipes: Although some companies label their products as ‘flushable,’ many wipes and sanitary items are not suitable for disposal through the drainage system. They don’t easily break down and therefore result in blockages. Ideally, these items should be disposed of in a bin instead.
4. Tree roots: In some cases, particularly in older St Albans neighbourhoods with mature trees, roots can infiltrate the sewer lines, causing major blockages. Over time, small cracks or leaks in the pipes attract roots looking for water and nutrients. The roots, once inside, can expand rapidly and completely block the pipe.
5. Usual household waste: Items like leftover food, coffee grinds or tea bags may seem harmless, but they are one of the primary reasons for drain problems. It's important to dispose of these items correctly in the trash, not the sink.
6. Collapsed pipes: Over time, pipes, especially old ones, can collapse due to soil movement, changes in temperature, or corrosion. A collapsed pipe can block the entire drainage system, leading to significant problems. This issue often requires professional help for replacement or repair.
7. Accumulation of minerals: Very hard water contributes to mineral build-up inside pipes, causing a blocked drain over time. Hard water is common in St Albans due to its high lime content. Lime scale deposits could narrow the pipes over time, reducing the water flow and eventually causing a blockage.
8. Heavy rains and storms: Although less common, heavy rainfall and storms in St Albans can overwhelm the drainage system, causing blocked drains, especially in areas with poor drainage.
In conclusion, while some causes of blocked drains in St Albans are unavoidable, others can be prevented with responsible disposal habits and regular drain maintenance. Regular inspection of your drainage system can help identify potential issues before they become serious and would therefore go a long way in maintaining the longevity of your home's drainage system. If you do experience a stubborn or severely blocked drain, it's always a good idea to call in the professionals for expert advice and assistance.