Drainage is the problem we all love to ignore. Out of sight and out of mind, our home’s drainage systems tirelessly work in the background, ensuring we have water for our showers, dishwashers and baths. We only really start paying attention to our drainage systems when they stop working or become less effective. With our drainage system being used all the time, issues are not uncommon, with most homeowners having at least one story of a pesky blocked drain or a burst pipe. As our pipes are stuck underground, most of the time we just cross our fingers and hope they are ok. However, there are a few signs you can look out for which could indicate you have a problem with your drainage system. If something doesn’t seem quite right, a drainage problem ignored will only get worse and more expensive to fix over time.
Blockages
Blockages are one of the most common issues we have with our drainage systems. If you notice a decrease in water pressure or gurgling noise within your pipes, chances are you could have a blocked drain. A blocked drain can suddenly become an issue, taking shape in large pieces of debris obstructing water flow, or it can build over years, as dirt, scale and debris accumulate in a specific area. Most blockages are made from fat, hair and coffee grinds; three stubborn bits of matter that can take up permanent residence in your pipes. A blocked drain will most likely be accompanied by an unpleasant smell coming from your kitchen or bathroom, as the food debris begins decomposing as it is stuck in your pipes. As the blockage continues to grow, drainage will get slower and slower as the water struggles to push past or filter through the debris. Whilst minor blockages can be removed with over-the-counter blockage removal liquid, if you have noticed slower drainage and a foul smell in your home, chances are you need something a little stronger.
Displaced Or Damaged Joints
A slightly more severe yet equally as common drainage issue is the displacement of joints within your pipes. Ground movements, often caused by increased traffic or bad weather, can cause pipes to shift. As the pipes move into a new position, pressure is applied to new areas of the pipes, causing the fixings to move and come apart. Joints can also become displaced by simple wear and tear, as our pipes are used continually every day, it is not uncommon for washers and bolts to come loose over time. Once a joint has become displaced, wastewater will start to leak into the surrounding areas. A leaking pipe results in a loss of water pressure throughout the pipe system, resulting in a weaker flow of water. If you notice your toilet is not flushing like it used to and your water pressure is low, this strongly suggests you have a damaged pipe.
What To Do Next
If you have noticed any of the signs above, it’s time to consider getting professional help. Aspect’s large team of experienced drainage engineers have the expertise and tools to get to the bottom of your drainage problems. Using modern technology like CCTV cameras and drain mapping, experts can quickly find the cause of the problem and provide a remedy. New technology allows detailed drain mapping work to be carried out in the quickest and least invasive way possible. Digging up gardens and flower beds are now, thankfully, a thing of the past!