Common causes of drainage issues

Drainage issues can cause serious building problems that, if left untreated, could lead to serious issues such as water damage, flooding, soil erosion, health hazards, etc. Several common problems can lead to drainage issues. Factors such as location or weather can influence drainage issues. 

Here are some of the typical factors that can lead to drainage problems:

Blockages

One of the most prevalent causes of drainage issues is blockages in the pipes or drains. This can occur due to the accumulation of debris, such as food particles, grease, hair, or foreign objects that are flushed or washed down the drain. Blockages restrict water flow, leading to slow drainage or complete backups.

Tree root intrusion

Tree roots can sometimes infiltrate underground drainage systems and cause blockages or damage to the pipes. Roots are attracted to sources of moisture, and if there are cracks or gaps in the drainage pipes, they can grow into the pipes, causing obstructions and potentially leading to pipe breakage.

Structural damage

 Damage to the drainage system's structure, such as cracks, fractures, or a pipe collapsing, can impede water flow and cause drainage problems. Structural damage can occur due to aging pipes, ground movements, freezing and thawing cycles, or using corrosive materials in the drainage system.

Poor installation or design

Poor drain installation or design of drainage systems can cause drainage issues. If the slope or grading is not done correctly, the wrong size pipe was used, too few drains were installed, or drains were installed in the wrong places can all result in water pooling on the ground, or inadequate water flow, causing drainage issues.

Heavy rainfall or weather conditions

Extreme weather events, such as heavy rainfall or storms, can overwhelm drainage systems that are not designed to handle large volumes of water. Insufficient capacity or inadequate infrastructure can lead to flooding, water backups, or slow drainage during these periods. Flooding and heavy rainfall can also bring a lot of debris with them, which can cause blockages and buildup.

Grease buildup

 In commercial or residential kitchens, grease can accumulate in drains and pipes over time, leading to blockages. Grease solidifies as it cools, gradually restricting water flow and causing drainage problems. When disposing of grease, it is important NEVER to pour it down the drain; instead, pour it into a container and throw out the whole container once the grease has cooled and the container is full. 

Improper disposal of materials

Flushing inappropriate materials down toilets or pouring substances such as oils, chemicals, or non-biodegradable items down drains can cause clogs and hinder drainage. It is important to not dispose of substances down the drain as they can cause serious issues to the drainage system and the environment.

It's important to note that the specific causes of drainage issues can vary depending on the drainage system's location and nature. Paying attention to appropriate disposal practices and using drain strainers or filters to help catch substances that could cause buildup can help prevent drain issues. 

Consulting a professional plumber or drainage expert can help identify the exact cause of the problem and provide appropriate solutions.

When dealing with drainage issues, it is very important to consult professionals that can identify and solve the problem safely and correctly. Top Gun Drainage Experts offer residential and commercial drain tile services. Contact us to get a quote or learn more about how our experts can help you with installation or repair.