Many residential drainage systems are fairly old and can have a range of issues. So, what are the key causes of damaged drains, and what are the main signs to look out for?
Key causes of damaged drains
1.Tree Root Ingress
This can be an issue in forested areas or for properties that have trees in their gardens. Because tree roots go looking for sources of water and nutrients, they can often make their way into drains and sewage pipes.
These roots can attack the joints of the pipes, or cause holes in the pipes. This can cause leaks.
Additionally, roots can grow within drains that have been damaged previously but not fixed, filling them with soil.
Tree root ingress may also lead to subsidence.
2. Vibrations
Vibrations from construction or heavy vehicles can cause damage to pipes.
3. Ground Movement
There are several types of ground movement that can potentially damage drains. These include heave (upward movement of ground under a building), landslip (downward movement of sloping ground), settlement (soil compression) and subsidence (sinking ground). These can all impact negatively on the structural integrity of drainage systems.
- Temperature FluctuationsExtremely cold or warm weather can cause damage to pipes and drains.
5. Poor Maintenance
Neglecting drainage maintenance can lead to collapsed or severely damaged drains. Regular cleaning, clearing and repairs are needed to prevent this.
CCTV drain surveys are an effective way of identifying collapsed or damaged drains. There are a number of firms who specialise in CCTV drain surveys Ascot and the surrounding areas, many of which have useful online resources such as the examples seen here https://www.drainpower.co.uk/drainage-services/cctv-drain-surveys/ascot.
Key Signs of Damaged Drains
There are a number of signs to be aware of that may indicate a fully or partially collapsed drain. These include:
– Unusual odours in the property or coming from drains.
– Slowly draining sinks, toilets, baths or showers.
– Water backup.
– Dampness and/or mould around the house.
– Structural damage.
– Rodent infestations.
– Sinking ground in the garden.
