What causes a blocked outside drain

A blocked drain can be a major inconvenience, causing water to pool and potentially damage your home or property. If not addressed promptly, it can also become a breeding ground for mosquitoes and other pests. But what causes a blocked outside drain and how can you prevent it from happening in the first place? In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the common causes of a blocked outside drain and what you can do to prevent it.

Leaves and Debris:

One of the most common causes of a blocked outside drain is leaves and debris. When leaves and other organic matter accumulate in the drain, they can create a blockage that prevents water from flowing freely. To prevent this, regularly clean your gutters and drains, especially after a heavy rainfall or windstorm.

Tree Roots:

Another common cause of a blocked outside drain is tree roots. Tree roots can penetrate and damage pipes, causing blockages that prevent water from flowing freely. If you have trees near your drains, it’s important to have them regularly inspected to prevent root damage.

Build-Up of Dirt and Sediment:

Over time, dirt and sediment can accumulate in your outside drains, causing a blockage. This is particularly common in areas with heavy rainfall, where water carries dirt and sediment into the drains. To prevent this, it’s important to clean your drains regularly and ensure that the surrounding area is properly graded to prevent water from flowing into the drains.

Foreign Objects:

Foreign objects such as toys, debris, and even animals can also cause blockages in your outside drains. To prevent this, it’s important to keep your drains clear of debris and properly maintain any grates or covers that protect your drains.

Poor Drain Design and Installation:

Poorly designed and installed drains can also contribute to blockages. Improper slope and sizing can cause water to back up and create a blockage, while poorly installed joints and connections can allow debris and foreign objects to enter the drain. To prevent this, it’s important to work with a professional plumber when installing or repairing your outside drains.

What Can You Do to Prevent a Blocked Outside Drain?

The best way to prevent a blocked outside drain is to take proactive measures to keep your drains clear and functioning properly. Here are a few steps you can take to prevent blockages:

• Regular Maintenance: Regular cleaning and maintenance of your outside drains can help to prevent blockages and keep water flowing freely.
• Proper Grading: Ensure that the area surrounding your drains is properly graded to prevent water from flowing into the drains and causing blockages.
• Use Drain Covers: Installing drain covers can help to prevent debris, leaves, and foreign objects from entering your drains and causing blockages.
• Avoid Flushing Foreign Objects: Don’t flush foreign objects such as toys, wipes, and sanitary products down the toilet, as they can contribute to blockages in your outside drains.
• Call a Professional: If you suspect that your outside drain is blocked, it’s important to call a professional plumber who can diagnose the problem and provide a permanent solution.

In conclusion, a blocked outside drain can cause major inconvenience and damage to your home or property. By understanding the common causes of a blocked outside drain and taking proactive measures to prevent it, you can keep your drains functioning properly and avoid costly repairs. If you suspect that your outside drain is blocked, don’t hesitate to call a professional plumber who can diagnose the problem and provide a permanent solution. The team at Pinnacle Plumbing are highly trained and experienced, and are equipped with the latest tools and technology to quickly and effectively resolve any drainage issues you may be facing.