Drain Repairs

1. Blocked Drains

Causes:

- Grease, fat, and food waste buildup

- Hair and soap scum accumulation

- Tree root intrusion

- Foreign objects (wipes, sanitary products, etc.)

Solutions:

- Drain snaking – Using a plumbing snake to clear minor clogs

- Hydro jetting – High-pressure water blasting to remove stubborn blockages

- Chemical drain cleaners (use with caution)

2. Leaking Pipes

Causes:

- Age and corrosion

- Ground movement or pressure from heavy loads above

- Freezing and thawing cycles

Solutions:

- Pipe relining – Inserting a resin-coated liner to create a new pipe within the old one

- Pipe patching – Applying a small patch for localized damage

- Pipe replacement – Necessary for severe cracks or collapsed drains

3. Collapsed or Damaged Drains

Causes:

- Ground movement (subsidence)

- Heavy traffic above the drain (driveways, roads)

- Old clay or metal pipes breaking down

Solutions:

- Excavation & replacement – Removing and replacing the damaged section

- Trenchless repair (pipe bursting) – A new pipe is pulled through the old one, breaking it apart

4. Tree Root Intrusion

Causes:

- Roots growing into cracks or joints in search of water

Solutions:

- Root cutting – Mechanically removing the roots

By understanding the common causes of blocked drains and implementing effective drain repair solutions, homeowners can maintain their plumbing systems and prevent issues like leaking pipes and tree root intrusion.