Does Rainfall Affect The Frequency of Blocked Drains

If there’s one thing you can count on in the UK, it’s that there’s bound to be rainfall at some point during the year. Autumn, in particular, can be both dry and wet. The result? A muddy garden and a waterlogged drainage system.

While rainfall can put significant pressure on your drainage system, the rain itself isn't always the culprit. Experiencing blocked drains after heavy rainfall can be due to a number of factors, including leaves and debris being washed into drains, causing substantial damage and unnecessary inconvenience. 

Here are a few ways rainfall can affect the frequency of blocked drains: 

Leaves and garden debris 

This may seem like an obvious one, but if you have trees around your property, you may find your drainage system getting blocked more often when rain comes. This is because water is forced to flow elsewhere, resulting in blockage or damage to parts of your drainage system. Regular maintenance, such as gutter cleaning is always recommended, especially when autumn rolls around. Opting for gutter guards or high-pressure water jetting are a few other great ways to minimise the impact of leaves and organic debris affecting your plumbing system.

Not addressing existing blockages 

Unlike peeling paint and a cracked ceiling, which are problems you can see, blockages can sometimes build up in your pipes for months without you knowing, eventually snowballing into something bigger and more expensive. Heavy rainfall sends a much larger volume of water into the drainage system in a short period, and that partially blocked drain may struggle to keep up. Water can drain more slowly, begin to pool or, in more serious cases, back up. 

If you notice your drainage system struggles to keep up when rain is introduced into the mix, then it’s best to call the professionals. CCTV surveys can be one way to get a closer look at your pipes and see what's causing the problem. 

Silt and sediment

While the rain is great for your garden, sometimes it can wash soil, sand, and gravel into your pipes. This eventually accumulates and can lead to blockages. Under the right conditions, sometimes this sediment can settle in your pipes instead of washing away. This can cause a sediment layer, which eventually thickens. Over time, compaction occurs and the sediment hardens, stopping water from flowing freely. This can contribute to slower drainage and make the system more susceptible to blockages, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall. If you suspect you have sediment build-up in your pipes, make sure to call the professionals! 

Heavy rainfall 

Your pipes are built to withstand the average rainfall in the UK. However, on the occasions that heavy rainfall makes an appearance, it can overpower your drainage system, leading to clogged pipes. To ensure your plumbing system can handle the pressure, it’s best to invest in routine plumbing maintenance. This can help make sure your system remains clear while having professional eyes determine the structural integrity of your pipes. 

Consequences of  blocked drain

A blocked drain may seem like a minor inconvenience, but if left untreated, it can lead to flooding, foundational damage, and mould growth — all of which can lead to costly repairs. The best recommendation is to invest in regular drainage maintenance as it can help prevent the frequency of blocked drains. This ensures: 

Improved water flow: Clearing built-up debris, silt and other materials allows water to move more freely through your plumbing system.

Reduced risk of blockages: Regular cleaning can prevent small build-ups from developing into more serious blockages.

Better preparation for heavy rainfall: A clean, well-maintained drainage system can handle increased volumes of water, preventing blockages from occurring. 

Early detection of problems: Maintenance can help identify issues such as damaged pipes, recurring blockages or other drainage problems before they snowball into bigger problems. 

Reduced risk of flooding: Keeping your drains clear can help minimise the risk of water backing up and pooling around your property during periods of heavy rain, which can save your garden and your property’s foundations. 

Whether you’re trying to protect your property from the UK’s rainfall or you’re simply looking to reduce the frequency of blocked drains in your home, Clearpath Drainage provides quality drain unblocking services across Southampton, Eastleigh, Winchester, Fareham & Fair Oaks. 

Get in touch with us today!