Dealing with a Drain Blocked by Gravel

Causes, Solutions, and Prevention

Blocked drains are an inconvenience no one wants to deal with. Whether it’s a slow-draining sink, a backed-up toilet, or water pooling in your yard, a blocked drain can disrupt your daily life. One common cause of such blockages is gravel. When gravel finds its way into your drainage system, it can wreak havoc.

What Causes Gravel Blockages?

Construction and Landscaping: Construction work or landscaping projects near your property can lead to gravel ending up in your drains. Heavy machinery, digging, or even strong rain can dislodge gravel and transport it into your drainage system.

Poor Drainage Design: In some cases, inadequate drainage design may allow gravel to enter your drainage system. This is especially true if there are gaps or openings that gravel can easily pass through.

Signs of a Gravel-Blocked Drain

Recognising the signs of a blocked drain early can save you from more extensive and costly repairs. Look out for:

• Slow drainage in sinks, showers, or tubs.
• Gurgling noises coming from drains.
• Unpleasant odours emanating from your plumbing fixtures.
• Water pooling in your garden or around your property.

Effective Solutions for Gravel Blockages

Manual Removal: In some cases, you may be able to access the blockage and manually remove the gravel. However, this is not always possible, especially if the gravel has travelled deep into the drainage system.

Use of Drain Snakes or Augers: Drain snakes or augers are effective tools for dislodging gravel blockages. These tools can reach deep into your pipes and break up the gravel, allowing it to wash away.

Hydro-Jetting: Hydro-jetting involves using high-pressure water to blast away blockages. This method is effective for clearing stubborn gravel blockages and cleaning the entire drainage system.

Professional Plumbing Services: If you are unable to clear the blockage on your own, it’s best to consult our Drainage team.  We can unblock all sorts of blocked drains in Glasgow and have the expertise and equipment to address even the most challenging blockages effectively.

Preventive Measures

Preventing gravel from entering your drainage system is the best way to avoid blockages. Here are some preventive measures:

Gravel Barriers: If you’re undergoing construction or landscaping projects, use gravel barriers to contain the gravel and prevent it from entering your drainage system.

Regular Maintenance: Schedule regular inspections and maintenance of your drainage system. This can help identify potential blockages before they become major problems.

Proper Landscaping: Be mindful of your landscaping design. Ensure that gravel is not placed near drainage openings or sloping areas where it can easily wash into the drains.

Install Drain Filters: Consider installing drain filters or screens to catch debris before it enters your drainage system.

A drain blocked with gravel can be a frustrating and messy issue to deal with. By understanding the causes, recognising the signs, and taking preventive measures, you can reduce the likelihood of gravel blockages.