Drain Repair for your Home or Business
There are a varied range of issues that may occur with the drainage system in your home or business, whether it involves the pipes, drains, or connections. When drains become damaged or clogged beyond what regular cleaning can fix, repair is necessary to restore proper function and avoid further problems, like water damage, unpleasant odors, or unsanitary conditions.
What causes drain issues and how to fix them
Clogs and Blockages
Cause: Accumulation of grease, food particles, soap scum, hair, tree roots, or foreign objects.
Repair Process: Sometimes, a simple drain cleaning using a snake or hydro-jetting can remove the blockage. In more severe cases, the pipe may need to be replaced or repaired if it’s cracked or misaligned from the pressure of the clog.
Pipe Damage or Cracks
Cause: Corrosion, physical damage (e.g., from digging, ground shifting), or tree root intrusion.
Repair Process: If a pipe is cracked or broken, a plumber will assess whether it can be repaired by replacing only the damaged section, or if the entire pipe needs to be replaced. In some cases, trenchless pipe repair techniques can be used to minimize disruption.
Tree Root Intrusion
Cause: Tree roots seeking moisture can grow into underground pipes, causing cracks and blockages.
Repair Process: After clearing the roots, the damaged pipe section is repaired or replaced. In some cases, a plumber may use root-resistant liners to prevent future intrusion.
Collapsed Pipes
Cause: Old or damaged pipes, often due to age, corrosion, or improper installation.
Repair Process: If a pipe has collapsed completely, it often requires replacing the affected section. Sometimes, trenchless methods can be used to avoid digging up the yard or floors.
Leaks
Cause: Small cracks or joints in the drainpipe can cause leaks, often going unnoticed until they result in water damage.
Repair Process: Depending on the size and location of the leak, it can be repaired by sealing it, replacing the pipe section, or using trenchless methods to reline the pipe.
Sewer Line Problems
Cause: Issues with the sewer line can lead to unpleasant backups, odors, or slow drainage.
Repair Process: Sewer lines can sometimes be repaired using methods like relining, or in severe cases, they may require full replacement of the line.
Improper Drainage Installation
Cause: Sometimes, drainage problems arise from improper installation of drains and pipes (e.g., incorrect slope, wrong materials).
Repair Process: The drain system may need to be reconfigured to ensure proper flow and avoid recurring issues.
Repair Methods
Traditional Dig-and-Replace: This involves digging up the yard or flooring to access and replace damaged pipes. It's often necessary when the damage is extensive.
Trenchless Repair: This method uses advanced technology, like pipe lining or pipe bursting, to fix the pipes without major excavation. It’s less disruptive and quicker but may not be suitable for all types of damage.
Pipe Relining: This involves inserting a resin-coated liner into the damaged pipe, which hardens and forms a new pipe within the old one.
Signs You May Need Drain Repair
- Slow-draining water
- Frequent clogs that can't be cleared with simple methods
- Foul odors emanating from drains
- Gurgling noises in the pipes
- Water backups or flooding in drains
- Wet patches or water damage around drain lines
Regular maintenance, including inspections and cleanings, can help prevent the need for major drain repairs. However, when issues do arise, timely repairs are crucial to avoid more significant damage and disruptions.
