Drainage issues are not uncommon in Woking and are largely due to several key reasons. Blocked drains can occur without warning and have the potential to cause substantial disruption if not addressed promptly. This article explores the main reasons why drains in Woking become blocked.
One of the leading causes of blocked drains in Woking is the deposition of fats, oils, and grease, usually referred to as FOG. According to the Environmental Protection Department, over half of all blockages are due to FOG, which homeowners wrongly dispose of down the sink. This can solidify and stick to the inside of your pipes, causing blockages.
The second common reason is the flushing of inappropriate items down toilets or other drainage outlets, including baby wipes, sanitary towels, and cotton buds. These items do not break down easily. Consequently, they collect and cause obstructions within the drains. Furthermore, it’s not only homeowners who are guilty of this. Commercial facilities, such as restaurants and bars, also contribute to blocked drains by disposing of blocked drains woking food waste inappropriately.
Additionally, in Woking, like many other towns across the UK, older sewer systems can be a significant cause of blocked drains. Aging infrastructure can cause drains to become blocked due to the build-up of sediment and the degradation of the pipe itself. This situation can lead to more serious issues such as collapsed drains if not rectified quickly.
Another central factor is weather extremes and heavy rainfall. Woking can occasionally experience heavy downpours resulting in considerable amounts of water running into and overwhelming drains. These weather conditions tend to wash away a large amount of debris which can get lodged and subsequently block the drains.
Tree roots also pose a significant threat to drain health in Woking. They infiltrate cracks and joints in the pipes, causing them to become blocked. Over time, these roots grow and expand, leading to pipe breakages and obstructions.
Lastly, the behaviour of local wildlife can be problematic. Small animals such as rodents may use drains to burrow and nest. Additionally, as they shed hair and drop food, these materials add to other debris and block the pipes.
In conclusion, blocked drains in Woking can occur due to many reasons including incorrect disposal of waste, older sewer systems, weather extremes, the growth of tree roots, and local wildlife behaviour. To prevent and deal with these blockages, competent drainage services are needed. A regular maintenance schedule is recommended for both residential and commercial properties, helping to prevent potential future blockages and ensuring the effective functioning of all drainage systems. Regularly monitoring and ensuring appropriate waste disposal can also play a crucial role in avoiding blocked drains in Woking.