Ever wondered what signs to look out for with your drainage systems? You’re in luck! Below we have listed 9 signs to look out for before you need to call a drainage expert.
We all want to be able to take care of drainage issues as they arise or turn a blind eye and hope they go away. But the reality is that if you leave drainage problems to ‘go away’ they will inevitably come back and become a much bigger issue. We’ve listed the 9 signs you need to call a drainage expert!
1. Bad odours
One of the first signs of a badly blocked drain is bad odours, it may start to smell like sewage water or rotten eggs. It could mean that the valve isn't working well and must be replaced or repaired.
2. Slow drainage
If you notice that your sinks and shower are taking longer than usual to drain, or even not at all, you may have a blockage. Something could be clogged up disrupting the usual flow of water.
3. Sinkhole in your garden
If you notice a patch of grass is unusually wet or the ground is starting to dip, this is likely to be a sign that you may have a collapsed drainpipe. There are many reasons a pipe might have failed, but the key is getting a professional to look at it promptly.
4. Poor water pressure
When turning your tap on and the water pressure seems low, even after turning it all the way, this is a sign that something could be inside the tap causing a blockage. Never attempt to unblock it yourself as you could cause more damage, potentially putting holes in the pipe, leading to a leak.
5. You’re buying a new house
Buying a new house is a big investment, you wouldn’t want to go in blind without knowing if you’re investment is worth it. We recommend having a drainage expert survey your drainage systemsto make sure they are in good, working order and don’t pose any immediate risks to your new property.
6. Gargling/running water noise
Hearing gurgling water could be caused by a blockage, meaning water is trapped or the drainage system is trying to get air. Hearing running water noises when your bathroom or kitchen isn’t in use can indicate that you have a leak somewhere.
7. No water
Having no running water could mean that you have a serious leak you didn’t know about, this will need to be inspected straight away. There of course could be a simple fix, but there is a chance this could be a severe problem. We recommend having this looked at as soon as you can.
8. Outside drains overflowing
Your outside drainage system links your property to public sewage lines. If the drains in your garden are overflowing, there could be a problem with your exterior pipework. Being an external problem, we’ll be able to tell you whether or not the cost of the repair is your responsibility.
9. Natural drain unblocker doesn’t work
Using a natural unblocker to clear and clean your drains can help remove clogged debris, however, when you try your usual method and it doesn’t work, it can be an indicator that the problem is worse than the simple drain blockage you are used to clearing yourself.
These are just some of the signs you need to talk to a drainage specialist. We are happy to offer advice and assist in any issues that you may be having with your drains. At Cotswold Drainage we have 25 years of experience servicing Evesham, Warwickshire, Worcestershire and the Cotswolds. Our extensive experience means we have a lot of knowledge and have dealt with a lot of drains, ranging from repairs, servicing, installations, lining and blockages. We know the common problems, and myths and have seen it all. Well, most things!
Drain relining is one of the ways we can repair damaged drainage pipes.It works by fixing a new pipe, called a lining, into an existing damaged pipe without needing to dig them all up and re-run across your entire drainage system. Bit by bit the lining slowly moves along the existing pipes until it covers the entire damaged area, once the liner is in place, an airbag within the liner is inflated, pushing the liner out to the diameter of the pipe.
It’s a beneficial way of fixing your damaged drains and ensures long-lasting structural reliability and prevents further deterioration of the drains, as the drain lining usually has a durability of over 50 years.
Benefits of drain lining
- There is no excavation or destruction to any surrounding area.
- It can be used for horizontal, vertical, and lateral pipes.
- It’s more cost-effective than pipe replacement by excavation.
- It stops cracks, erosion, and leaks, whilst preventing and combating root intrusion.
- It can line all pipes no matter how many bends there are.
- It increases the capacity of the pipe for flow.
- You only need to line the area that needs repair, and not necessarily the whole length of the piping.
- It’s more time-efficient, jobs that would normally take days can be done in hours.
When To Reline Drainpipes
- Unpleasant smells in the garden.
- Hearing the constant sound of running water, even when the taps are turned off.
- Unexplained wet floors in your house.
- Vermin, such as rats, being in the garden could be a sign of leaking drainage pipes.
- Sometimes a higher cost for your water can indicate damaged pipes.
- Having rust or debris in your water.
- Unexplained cracks in your walls.
- Presence of sludge in the bath or shower.
- Unusual growth in vegetation.
These are just some of the signs to look out for. If you suspect your drains could be damaged, check out our 9 signs you need to call a drain specialist or contact our drain repair specialists.
Cracked drainpipes can lead to foul odours, polluted soil and groundwater, serious property damage and even disease. As such, it’s important to keep checking your drains on a regular basis to keep potential issues at bay. You can either do this yourself or through a specialist company like Cotswold Drainage, with the help of our dedicated CCTV drain monitoring service.
This blog explains the most common causes of broken drainpipes, teaching you how to identify the signs so you know when to call in the experts.
If you’ve already started to notice unpleasant smells, wet patches or sinkholes in your garden, however, don’t delay. Call Cotswold Drainage to take advantage of our expert cracked drainpipe repair services.
The Most Common Causes of Cracked Drainpipes
Exposure to The Elements
British weather is notoriously fickle and unfortunately, these frequent changes in temperature can wreak havoc on our drainpipes – particularly in older homes with weaker metal pipes. The winter months prove particularly harsh, as plummeting temperatures cause water to freeze, block your pipes and produce fissures and cracks as a result of the additional pressure. Running water through your drains on a daily basis can help to prevent this, as can pouring boiling water with salt down your drain at the first sign of freezing. If DIY solutions don’t cut it, however, you should always call in the experts, as there may be a deeper underlying issue that needs to be fixed.
Contrary to popular belief, other types of weather can be equally as damaging. For instance, excess rain can cause your pipes to shift underground, which can lead to cracks. Similarly, in hot weather, the soil around your home expands, causing the ground to move. Once again, this can result in cracked or burst pipes, particularly if the soil is also dry. You might like to keep an eye on your hosepipe use, too. Using too much water can cause your water pressure to drop – another culprit when it comes to cracked pipes.
Corrosion
Nowadays, most modern homes are built with PVC drainpipes. However, older properties continue to have metal drainage systems that are vulnerable to rust and corrosion. The worst part about this is that it tends to affect the galvanised coating on the inside of your pipes, so you’re often unaware of the issue until it’s too late. This is where CCTV monitoring could make all the difference.
General Wear and Tear
Unfortunately, wear and tear is part of life. Even the most well-made PCV pipes are vulnerable to wearing out after years of use, developing small fissures as a result. Regular health checks are therefore recommended, no matter the age of your property.
Unstable Foundations
If your foundations aren’t stable, your drainage system won’t be either. The more the soil around your property moves, the greater the risk that your drainpipes will become cracked or broken.
Underground Movement
Any kind of movement in or around the foundations of your property can cause your drainpipes to crack. This ranges from man-made causes like digging to natural causes like the growth of tree roots. In fact, plants can make an existing problem even worse. Once cracks have developed, they are likely to grow in and around any gaps, since the pipes provide a good source of moisture. The more they grow, the more these cracks will widen.
How Can I Tell If My Drainpipes Are Cracked?
Worried you may already be a victim of cracked drainpipes? Don’t panic. Here’s a list of the main symptoms you may start to notice if things have gone awry:
- Foul smells
- Damp walls and floors
- Cracked walls and floors
- Wet patches inside and outside your house
- Sinkholes and subsidence in the driveway or garden
What to Do If You Think There’s a Problem
As soon as you suspect that you have a cracked drainpipe, it’s time to call in the experts. They’ll be able to identify the source of the issue and confirm if there’s a problem. At Cotswold Drainage, we’re experts in cracked drain repair. We use CCTV drain surveys to assess the state of your drainage systems before suggesting the best possible course of action.
Looking to repair your cracked drainpipe? Speak to the experts today either by calling 01386 882324 or by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
We all rely on our drainage systems to operate seamlessly, but when pipes collapse or shift out of place, it can trigger a cascade of problems, transforming a comfortable home into a stressful environment. From the insidious slow drain to the catastrophic flooding, a damaged pipe can rapidly escalate into a significant financial burden if left unattended.
The silver lining? Proactive measures, including timely repairs, consistent maintenance, and meticulous surveys, can avert major disruptions and exorbitant repair costs, safeguarding your property and peace of mind.
Signs of a Collapsed or Misaligned Pipe
Recognising the subtle cues of a compromised drainage system is paramount. Here’s a more detailed breakdown of the warning signs to watch for:
- Slow Drains and Toilets:
- Beyond a simple blockage, persistently sluggish drainage indicates potential structural damage.
- Water lingering in sinks or toilets long after use suggests a narrowing or obstruction within the pipe.
- This restriction can be caused by a collapse or misalignment, hindering proper flow.
- Gurgling and Bubbling Noises:
- These unsettling sounds are often the result of trapped air pockets within the drainage system.
- When pipes are damaged, they can create uneven flow and airlocks, leading to these audible disturbances.
- These sounds can travel through the pipe network, and be heard in multiple drain locations.
- Pervasive Unpleasant Odours:
- A persistent, foul stench, even after cleaning, signals potential wastewater leakage.
- Cracks or breaks in pipes allow sewage to seep into the surrounding soil, generating noxious gases.
- This can create a health hazard as well as an unpleasant environment.
- Recurring and Stubborn Blockages:
- Frequent blockages, despite regular plunging or drain cleaning, point to an underlying structural issue.
- A misaligned or collapsed pipe can create a bottleneck, trapping debris and leading to repeated obstructions.
- This is a sign of a location where debris is becoming trapped, rather than a single event.
- Unexplained Water Pooling in the Garden or Yard:
- Sudden, unexplained soggy patches or puddles indicate a potential underground pipe leak.
- A broken pipe can release significant amounts of water into the surrounding soil, creating visible signs of damage.
- This can also lead to soil erosion, and damage to surrounding plants.
What Causes Pipes to Collapse or Shift?
Understanding the root causes of pipe failure empowers you to implement effective preventative measures. Here’s a more in-depth look:
- The Invasion of Tree Roots:
- Tree roots are naturally drawn to moisture, and sewer lines provide an ideal water source.
- These roots can infiltrate pipes through even the smallest cracks, expanding over time and causing significant blockages and collapses.
- Some tree species are more aggressive than others, and the proximity of trees to pipes is a large factor.
- The Unpredictable Nature of Ground Movement:
- Fluctuations in soil conditions, triggered by heavy rainfall, prolonged drought, or nearby construction activities, can displace pipes.
- These shifts can lead to misalignments, cracks, and breaks, compromising the integrity of the drainage system.
- Areas with high clay content in the soil are more likely to have ground movement issues.
- The Decline of Old or Damaged Pipes:
- Pipes, like any other material, deteriorate over time due to corrosion, wear and tear, and inadequate installation.
- Older pipes, particularly those made from clay or cast iron, are more susceptible to damage and collapse.
- The chemicals in modern cleaning products can also accelerate the deterioration of older pipes.
- The Weight of Heavy Traffic:
- Vehicular traffic or heavy equipment passing over underground pipes can exert significant pressure, leading to cracks and collapses.
- This is particularly common in areas with shallow pipe installations or heavy industrial activity.
- This is why correct pipe rating for the location is very important.
Preventing Costly Repairs with Regular Maintenance
Preventative maintenance is the cornerstone of a healthy drainage system. Here’s how to implement a robust maintenance strategy:
- Comprehensive CCTV Drain Surveys:
- CCTV drain surveys offer a detailed, real-time view of your underground pipes, enabling early detection of potential problems.
- These surveys can identify cracks, blockages, misalignments, and other issues that may not be apparent from the surface.
- These surveys should be carried out periodically, and after any major ground work.
- Rigorous Drain Clearing Practices:
- Avoid flushing non-biodegradable items, such as wet wipes, sanitary products, and excessive grease, which can accumulate and cause blockages.
- Regular professional drain cleaning can remove stubborn debris and prevent the buildup of obstructions.
- Using enzyme based cleaners can help break down organic material within the pipes.
- Addressing Minor Issues Promptly:
- Don’t dismiss seemingly minor issues, such as slow drains or gurgling noises.
- Addressing these problems early can prevent them from escalating into major repairs.
- Early intervention and timely drain repairs can save large amounts of money.
What to Do If You Suspect a Collapsed or Misaligned Pipe
When faced with a damaged drainage system, a professional drainage specialist can recommend the most appropriate solution:
- The Innovation of Pipe Relining:
- Pipe relining offers a trenchless solution, minimising disruption to your property.
- A durable liner is inserted into the existing pipe, creating a new, seamless inner layer that seals cracks and restores flow.
- This is a cost effective solution, and can add years of life to a drainage system.
- The Necessity of Drain Excavation:
- In cases of severe pipe damage or collapse, excavation may be necessary to replace broken sections.
- This method involves digging trenches to access and repair the affected pipes.
- Modern excavation techniques can minimise disruption.
- The Force of High-Pressure Jetting:
Final Thoughts
Your drainage system plays a crucial role in keeping your home running smoothly. By staying alert to warning signs, booking regular surveys, and dealing with minor issues promptly, you can avoid major disruptions and expensive repairs.
If you’re dealing with a potential drainage issue, don’t wait for it to get worse—act now and protect your home from costly damage.
In recent years, trenchless pipe repair technologies have gained popularity due to their efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and minimal disruption to the surrounding environment. Among the various trenchless methods, two common techniques used for rehabilitating pipes are blue light lining and ambient cure lining. In this blog, we will explore the benefits of using blue light lining over ambient cure lining methods.
What is Blue Light Lining?
Blue light lining, also known as UV-cured lining or UV trenchless technology, is a drain pipe relining method that uses ultraviolet (UV) light to cure a resin-impregnated liner inside a damaged or deteriorated pipe. The liner is made of a flexible material, typically a polyester or fibreglass fabric, which is saturated with a liquid resin. Once the liner is inserted into the pipe, UV light is applied from the inside, causing the resin to cure and harden, forming a new, structurally sound pipe within the existing pipe.
Advantages of Blue Light Lining:
1. Rapid Curing: One of the main advantages of blue light lining is its fast curing time. The UV light used in the process allows for quick and controlled curing of the resin, typically within minutes. This means that the rehabilitated pipe can be put back into service sooner, reducing downtime and minimizing disruption to the surrounding area.
2. High Quality and Durable Results: Blue light lining produces a high-quality, seamless, and durable pipe lining. The cured resin forms a tight, jointless seal that is resistant to corrosion, cracks, and root intrusion. The liner is also designed to be flexible, allowing it to withstand ground movement and provide long-lasting performance.
3. Versatility: Blue light lining can be used to rehabilitate a wide range of pipe materials, including concrete, clay, PVC, and cast iron. It can also be used for various pipe sizes and shapes, making it a versatile solution for different pipe rehabilitation needs.
4. Minimal Disruption: Blue light lining is a trenchless technology, which means it requires little to no excavation. This minimizes disruption to the surrounding area, such as roads, landscapes, and structures, compared to traditional open-cut methods. It also reduces the need for costly and time-consuming restoration work after the pipe repair is completed.
5. Environmentally Friendly: Blue light lining is an environmentally friendly option for pipe rehabilitation. The resin used in the process is typically non-toxic and does not release harmful fumes or pollutants. The reduced excavation also minimizes disturbance to natural habitats and reduces the carbon footprint associated with restoration work.
6. Cost-Effective: While the upfront cost of blue light lining may be higher compared to some traditional pipe repair methods, the long-term cost-effectiveness can outweigh the initial investment. The rapid curing time, minimal disruption, and durable results can lead to cost savings in terms of reduced downtime, lower restoration costs, and a longer lifespan of the rehabilitated pipe.
Conclusion
Blue light lining offers several advantages over ambient cure lining methods for pipe rehabilitation. Its rapid curing time, high-quality results, versatility, minimal disruption, environmentally friendly nature, and cost-effectiveness make it a compelling choice for many pipe repair projects. Consulting with a qualified trenchless technology professional can help determine if blue light lining is the right solution for your specific pipe rehabilitation needs. Embracing innovative technologies like blue light lining can provide efficient and sustainable solutions for maintaining and rehabilitating our ageing underground infrastructure.
How landlords can limit emergency drain callouts
Owning rental properties comes with its own set of unique challenges, including maintaining the drainage system. Close proximity to water sources like rivers, older Victorian homes, or even an abundance of trees on the property can sometimes lead to specific drainage issues that need regular attention. As a landlord, staying on top of potential problems can save you from emergency callouts. Here are some simple checks you can make to ensure your drains stay in good condition:
1. Regular visual inspections of drainage areas
Inspect the drains around your property regularly. Look for visible cracks in the pipes, water stains, or damp patches in areas like basements, kitchens, and bathrooms. Properties near streams and rivers may be more susceptible to ground shifts or water infiltration, so keeping an eye out for any unusual moisture can help catch early signs of a potential drainage problem.
2. Monitor water flow and drainage speed
Check the flow of water in sinks, bathtubs, and showers. If water drains slowly or backs up in toilets or sinks, it could indicate a blockage forming in your drainage system. This might not be from an internal blockage in the property, but an external blockage caused by debris or damage to outside drains.
3. Be alert to unpleasant odors
A bad smell from drains is often one of the first signs of a blockage or buildup in the system. If you detect foul odors coming from your kitchen, bathroom, or outdoor drains, it’s important to address the issue early. Odors can often indicate that debris or organic material is obstructing the flow, which can lead to bigger problems if not handled.
4. Inspect for cracks or leaks in exposed pipes
Inspect exposed pipes, particularly in older homes, which may be more susceptible to wear and corrosion. Check for cracks, rust, or leaks, which can lead to water damage and larger repair down the line. Early detection of damage and quick repairs can prevent more severe issues such as collapsed drains or flooding.
5. Check for tree root intrusion
Homes with large gardens or mature trees may face issues with tree roots infiltrating the drainage system. Roots can cause blockages or damage to pipes over time. Regularly inspect the ground near pipes and drains for signs of root intrusion, especially around older properties, which may have aging plumbing systems that are more vulnerable
6. Maintain gutters and downspouts
Clogged gutters and downspouts can lead to water runoff that overwhelms the drainage system, causing blockages or flooding. Regularly clean out leaves, twigs, and other debris, particularly in properties surrounded by trees or foliage. This will help maintain proper water flow and prevent unnecessary strain on the drains.
7. Check for blockages in toilets and sinks
Toilets and sinks are frequent culprits of blockages. Encourage tenants to avoid flushing inappropriate items such as wet wipes or sanitary products, which can cause blockages. You should also check toilets for any signs of slow flushing or persistent blockages, as these can be a sign of a more significant drain issue.
8. Keep an eye on standing water in the yard
Standing water in the yard could indicate a blockage or problem with the drainage or sewer line. Properties near water sources may experience soil shifts or flooding during heavy rainfall, so it’s important to keep an eye out for water buildup. Addressing this issue early can help prevent serious drainage problems that can lead to water damage or expensive repairs.
9. Be aware of unusual noises
Listen for any unusual noises like gurgling or bubbling from drains, which are often early signs of a blockage. If you notice gurgling sounds, it’s time to check the system before it becomes an emergency.
Bonus tip: Schedule regular professional inspections
Scheduling annual inspections such as CCTV surveys from a professional drainage service can help spot issues that are not immediately obvious. Professional inspections can identify root causes of blockages, wear and tear on pipes, and early signs of system failures, preventing major problems down the road.
By staying proactive and performing regular checks, landlords can avoid costly emergency drain repairs and keep their rental properties in good condition. With a little care and attention, you can ensure your tenants are happy and your property stays in top shape.
