Dealing with collapsed drain pipes

What are the causes, signs of and solutions to collapsed drain pipes.

Drain pipes play an essential role in our homes and infrastructure, ensuring the smooth flow of wastewater and preventing water damage. However, over time, these underground pipelines can deteriorate, leading to issues like collapsed drain pipes. At JSL Drainage, we are one of the leading drainage contractors in Glasgow and we get asked about collapsed drains very frequently so we wanted to explore the causes, signs, and potential solutions for dealing with collapsed drain pipes.

Causes of Collapsed Drain Pipes

Age and Wear: As with any structure, drain pipes have a finite lifespan. Over the years, they can weaken due to the effects of aging and general wear and tear. In older properties, this is a common cause of pipe collapse. Especially if you have done work to the house such as adding an extension.  This (along with any ground work) can destabilise the ground and accelerate any damage.

Tree Root Intrusion: Tree roots are a notorious enemy of drain pipes. They can infiltrate pipes seeking water and nutrients, causing blockages and applying pressure that leads to pipe collapse.

Soil Erosion: Shifting soil can place undue pressure on drain pipes, leading to cracks and ultimately pipe collapse. This is particularly common after heavy rain fall and on slopes that can cause soil to move.

Poor Installation: Drain pipes that were improperly installed are more prone to damage and collapse. This can include issues like improper slope, insufficient support, or low-quality materials.

Signs of Collapsed Drain Pipes

Detecting a collapsed drain pipe early is crucial to prevent further damage and costly repairs. Here are some common signs to watch for:

Slow Draining: If your sinks, toilets, or showers are draining more slowly than usual, it could indicate a blockage or pipe collapse.

Gurgling Sounds: Unusual gurgling or bubbling sounds coming from drains are often a sign of an issue in the drain pipe system.

Foul Odours: The accumulation of stagnant water in a collapsed drain pipe can produce foul odours, which may be noticeable in or around your property.

Sinkholes or Depressions: Subsidence or sinkholes in your garden or driveway can be a visible sign of a collapsed drain pipe below the surface.

Recurring Clogs: Frequent and stubborn drain clogs in multiple areas of your home could point to a more extensive problem, possibly a collapsed drain pipe.

Solutions for Collapsed Drain Pipes

The best solution to dealing with a collapsed drain is to call in the drainage professionals.  We are experts in drain excavation and drain repairs.  And here is some of the options we can offer:

Inspection: If you suspect a collapsed drain pipe, the first step is to have a professional drainage contractor like ourselves inspect the system. We use specialised equipment, such as cameras, to identify the location and extent of the damage.

Repair or Replacement: The repair method will depend on the severity and location of the collapse. In some cases, a liner can be inserted to reinforce the existing pipe, while in other situations, a complete replacement may be necessary.

Preventive Maintenance: Regular maintenance and inspection of your drain pipe system can help identify issues before they escalate. This includes measures like cleaning the pipes, removing tree roots, and ensuring proper slope.

Drainpipe Support: To prevent future issues, ensure that drain pipes are adequately supported and properly installed during construction or repair.

Collapsed drain pipes can be a significant headache for homeowners and property managers, leading to damage, inconvenience, and costly repairs. However, with early detection, professional assistance, and the right solutions, these issues can be effectively addressed. Regular maintenance and inspections can go a long way in preventing collapsed drain pipes, ensuring the smooth and efficient flow of wastewater in your home or building. If you suspect a problem, don’t hesitate. Call us today. Founded in the outskirts of Bearsden in the North of Glasgow, we first started out as a simple plumbing and drainage business. But as our reputation grew so to did our client list as we kept building up referrals and recommendations from customers who had used our services and were impressed at the consistently good drainage work that we were doing. Over the years, we have expanded, invested and strengthened in all areas; bringing in new staff who are fully trained and qualified to cope with your drainage emergencies as well as investing in some of the most sophisticated drainage equipment available.  All done so that we can consistently excel in offering the best drain repair service in the city.

We have grown to become a complete drainage service provider that can match and exceed the service levels offered by some of our more well known rivals.  So when you suffer from a blocked drain in Glasgow and you need to call in the professionals – call JSL Drainage. As our list of testimonials and recommendations would back up – we get the job done!