blocked drains Reading are a common household problem that can range from minor inconveniences to major disruptions. In Reading, as in many other towns, blocked drains can result from a variety of causes, and it’s important to address them early to avoid bigger issues down the line. In this blog, we’ll explore the main causes of blocked drains, solutions for resolving the issue, and tips to prevent it from happening again.

Common Causes of Blocked Drains in Reading

1. Hair and Soap Scum
   Hair falling into bathroom drains can easily get tangled and trapped, causing blockages. Soap scum can exacerbate the problem by creating a sticky residue that further traps debris, leading to slow drainage or a complete clog.
2. Food Waste and Grease
   In kitchen sinks, food particles, oils, and fats are major culprits. Grease and oil might seem harmless when poured down the sink, but over time they solidify and build up along the walls of pipes, causing significant blockages.
3. Foreign Objects
   Accidental disposal of non-biodegradable items such as sanitary products, wipes, and children’s toys can lead to blocked drains. These objects often cause severe blockages since they don’t break down like organic waste.
4. Tree Roots
   In Reading, where many properties have well-established trees, root intrusion is a common cause of blocked drains. Tree roots can penetrate underground pipes, searching for water, and cause blockages or even break the pipes.
5. Aging Pipes
   Many homes in Reading have older plumbing systems that may not be as resilient as modern ones. Over time, pipes can deteriorate, crack, or collapse, causing drainage issues.

Solutions for Blocked Drains

1. Plungers
   A plunger is the first line of defense against minor drain blockages. It can be used to create pressure and dislodge small clogs.
2. Drain Cleaning Solutions
   Chemical or enzymatic drain cleaners can break down organic material such as hair, soap, and grease. While effective, these should be used sparingly as frequent use can damage pipes.
3. Drain Snakes or Augers
   A drain snake or auger is a more advanced tool for clearing tougher blockages. It involves inserting a flexible cable into the drain to manually break up and remove the blockage.
4. Professional Drain Unblocking Services
   For persistent or severe blockages, it’s advisable to call in professional drain unblocking services. Many drainage companies in Reading use high-tech equipment such as CCTV cameras to inspect the drains and high-pressure water jets to clear them effectively.

How to Prevent Blocked Drains

1. Use Drain Covers
   Installing drain covers in sinks, showers, and bathtubs can help trap hair, food particles, and debris before they have a chance to enter the pipes.
2. Dispose of Waste Properly
   Avoid pouring grease or oil down the kitchen sink. Instead, let it cool and dispose of it in the bin. Similarly, avoid flushing sanitary products, wipes, or any non-biodegradable items.
3. Regular Maintenance
   Regularly cleaning drains using hot water, baking soda, and vinegar can help break down grease and flush out minor clogs. For homes with older pipes, scheduling annual professional drain inspections can help detect potential issues before they become serious.
4. Tree Root Management
   If tree roots are a concern, consult a professional to assess the situation and consider root barriers or other techniques to prevent roots from entering your drainage system.

When to Call a Professional in Reading

If you’ve tried DIY methods but the blockage persists, it’s time to call a professional. Signs of a more serious problem include foul odors, water backing up into sinks or bathtubs, slow drainage, or multiple drains in your home being blocked simultaneously. Local Reading drainage experts can assess the situation and provide tailored solutions to resolve the issue quickly and effectively.