In the city of Oxford, like many parts of the UK, drained and wet weather conditions play havoc on drainage systems. Blocked drains are a common problem in many households, causing significant inconvenience and potential damage to property. Understanding the common causes of blocked drains in Oxford not only helps homeowners prevent them, but also ensures early detection and repair.
Old, blocked drains oxford Decaying Pipes
Pipes that are damaged or decaying can cause blockages. The city of Oxford, with its historic and aged buildings, is particularly prone to this issue. Older pipes can crack or collapse over time due to soil pressure or corrosion, leading to obstruction of water flow. Root ingress from trees and shrubbery into the pipe’s cracks also exacerbates this problem, causing further blockage.
Fat, Oil, and Grease (FOG)
One of the most common causes worldwide for blocked drains is the accumulation of fat, oil, and grease (FOG) in the pipes. This happens when FOG substances, which are by-products of cooking, are washed down the sink. These substances congeal in the pipes as they cool down, sticking to their walls and creating buildup that can block the pipes. In Oxford, many people are unaware of this and continue to dispose their cooking waste improperly, leading to common drain blockages.
Foreign Objects and Materials
Blocked drains in Oxford also occur as a result of foreign materials or objects being flushed down toilets or washed down sinks. This includes things like baby wipes, nappies, sanitary products, paper towels, and even food waste. These items do not break down or disintegrate like toilet paper does, hence they accumulate in the pipes, causing blockages.
Tree Roots
In Oxford, the extensive green spaces and the prevalence of trees add to the charm of the city. However, the root systems of these wonderful flora prove to be problematic to Oxford’s drainage system with time. Tree roots can invade the pipes, especially those that are already cracked or weakened, seeking the water, nutrients, and oxygen contained within. This, in turn, leads to blockages as roots grow and expand within the pipe.
Leaves and Twigs
In autumn, fallen leaves and twigs have the potential of causing blockages in Oxford’s drains. During the fall season, the abundance of leaves that come off trees often find their way into the gutters and drains, causing congestion and subsequently blockages if not cleaned regularly.
Climate Factors
Climate factors like heavy rainfall and thunderstorms that often occur in Oxford can put significant pressure on the city’s drainage system. The excess water can cause the soil to shift and the pipes to crack, leading to blockages.
In conclusion, there are several causes of blocked drains in Oxford, many of which can be prevented with regular maintenance and careful disposal of waste. If you do find yourself with a blocked drain, it is advisable to call a professional. Trying to clear a blocked drain yourself can potentially lead to more damage. With a good understanding of the common causes and how to avoid them, you can prevent blocked drains and ensure a smooth functioning drainage system.