Drainage issues are an aspect of property management that rears its ugly head at the least opportune moments. Whether residential or commercial, blocked drains are an issue that people in St. Albans deal with fairly regularly. In an effort to minimize the number of drain blockages, it’s essential to delve into and understand the common causes of blocked drains in St. Albans.
1. Fat, Oil, blocked drains st albans and Grease
One of the most prevalent causes of blocked drains in St. Albans, as well as globally, is the improper disposal of cooking fat, oil, and grease into sinks. These substances, collectively known as FOG, thicken and solidify as they cool, clinging to pipe interiors and growing into substantial blockages over time. Discarding FOG in separate containers can go a long way in preventing this issue.
2. Hair and Soap Scum
The combination of hair and soap scum often results in grout-like clumps that are formidable enough to block drainage pipes. These blocks are especially common in bathroom drains as soap residue combines with fallen hair to slowly form clogs over time. Regular drain maintenance and the use of hair catchers can help counteract this problem.
3. Plant Roots
St. Albans, known for its natural beauty and lush greenery, has seen its share of blocked drains due to root intrusion. As plants and trees grow, their roots spread out, sometimes exploiting tiny cracks or loose joints in search of water and nutrients. They gradually grow into these spaces, leading to substantial blockages. Root intrusion is a severe issue that often necessitates professional intervention.
4. Misaligned or Crushed Pipes
Poor construction, ground movement, and even heavy vehicular traffic can lead to pipe misalignment or crushing–factors that greatly inhibit smooth drainage. Unfortunately, these issues aren’t always detectable until there’s a significant blockage or backup. In such a case, only a complete pipe repair or replacement done by a professional plumber would suffice.
5. Foreign Objects and Debris
Foreign objects flushed down toilets, or washed down sinks, often account for drainage blockages in St. Albans. Wet wipes, sanitary products, paper towels, children’s toys among other items, build up in the pipes over time leading to an obstruction. Encouraging proper waste disposal can greatly mitigate such scenarios.
6. Heavy Rain and Storms
St. Albans is exposed to Britain’s often unpredictable weather, which includes heavy rain and storms. These weather conditions particularly cause problems for external drains. The vast amount of extra water overflows into the drainage system, along with leaves, dirt, and other debris, causing blockages.
In conclusion, increased awareness and preventative measures can significantly reduce the common incidents of blocked drains. St. Albans’ residents need to understand that proper disposal of waste, regular drain maintenance and the expert involvement during serious cases can save them from unnecessary inconveniences and additional costs. Regardless of the cause, the quick identification of a potential blockage enables a faster solution, ultimately preventing the escalation of the issue into a major catastrophe. A well-maintained drainage system doesn’t only serve an individual property but benefits the community as a whole by preventing public health risks associated with sewage backup.
