Unless it is causing significant issues, it may be tempting to ignore a blocked drain. Unfortunately, even a minor drainage problem can soon grow into a major one if not dealt with promptly. This means accurate surveys and efficient repairs are extremely important.
Causes of a Blocked Drain
Blocked drains are a common issue that can be caused by grease and food waste in the kitchen or hair and soap residue in the bathroom. Attempts to flush non-toilet-paper items down the toilet can also cause issues. Outside, leaves and dirt are a frequent source. These are all things that are regularly encountered in daily life, so constant vigilance is required to prevent build-ups in your pipes.
Issues Caused by Blocked Drains
At first, a blockage may seem mild. Perhaps your water is flowing more slowly than normal. Over time, however, as the blockage is unlikely to remove itself, the problem becomes worse. Water that cannot drain properly may overflow and even flood. Bad smells can develop. Pressure builds up inside the pipes and potentially causes cracks and more serious structural damage. Accumulated waste creates a breeding ground for bacteria, fungi and other microorganisms as well as an attraction to rats and other pests that spread disease. Mould spores can be particularly damaging to those with allergies, respiratory conditions such as asthma or weakened immune systems.
How to Identify and Repair Blocked Drains
The first step to assessing the full scale and nature of a blocked drain is a CCTV drain survey Coventry such as those available at https://www.wilkinson-env.co.uk/drainage-services-cctv-surveys-midlands/cctv-drain-surveys/coventry/. Once you have identified the source of the blockage, you can decide the most appropriate way to clear the waste, repair any damage and restore your regular water flow. Regular cleaning and maintenance may avoid the need for costly repairs.
Even a mild blockage can cause significant problems with your drainage system and could lead to serious damage in the long term. To avoid these issues, and the possible expense of trying to repair them, it is important to try and resolve the blockage quickly.