One of the major challenges faced by homeowners, landlords and businesses in Croydon is blocked drains. Blocked drains are an unwelcome inconvenience that can bring about serious disruptions to regular operations and cause costly damages if not promptly addressed. It’s worth noting that understanding the common causes of blocked drains can be a proactive step towards preventing them. In this article, we delve into the frequent causes of blocked drains in Croydon and how you can confront them.
Blocked drains are regularly caused by a collection of substances and materials that go down them that shouldn’t. Unwanted materials get stuck in drains and pipes causing them to clog and prevent the flow of water and waste. Let’s break down some of these culprits.
1. Hair
Hair is one of the most common drain blockage problems not only in Croydon but across the globe. Whether in the shower or while you’re brushing your hair over the sink, strands often find their way down your drains. Over time, hair clumps together leading to serious blockages if not regularly cleared.
2. Grease and fat
Another frequent cause of drain blockages in Croydon, especially in kitchen sinks, is grease, fat and oil. These materials are usually poured down drains in their liquid form. However, they solidify upon cooling forming a hard layer that restricts the normal flow of water and waste.
3. blocked drains croydon Soap
Despite being a cleaning agent, soap also contributes to blocked drains. Traditional soap bars are made with fat or grease which can react with minerals in water and leave behind soap scum. Over time, this scum accumulates and causes clogging.
4. Food waste
Many people think it’s convenient to wash away food remnants down the drains, but it’s one of the prime reasons for blocked drains in Croydon. Coffee grounds, tea leaves, and other foods that don’t break down easily are particularly problematic.
5. Tree roots
Blocked drains can also be a result of tree root invasion. Tree roots are naturally drawn to the moisture around pipes and can crack through these pipes in search of water, causing serious blockage.
6. Foreign items
Drains are typically designed to carry water, human waste and toilet paper, so any foreign items can easily cause a blockage. Toys, nappies, hygiene products, and wet wipes cause a significant number of blocked drains.
7. Broken pipes
Drains can also get blocked if the pipes are broken or damaged. The crack or breakage creates a barrier preventing waste and water from flowing normally. This can especially be a challenge in Croydon, considering the many older properties with old pipework that are likely to suffer from this.
Prevention is the best solution when it comes to blocked drains. By being vigilant about what you allow down your drains, and carrying out regular drain cleaning, you can prevent the occurrence of stubborn clogs. However, in case you are faced with a blocked drain, professional drain cleaning services are your best bet for a timely and efficient solution.
In conclusion, the frequent causes of blocked drains in Croydon range from human behaviour to unavoidable natural factors. The best way to prevent costly drain repairs and disruptions is to be conscious of what you allow into your drains, and carrying out regular maintenance. After all, a stitch in time saves nine.