A collapsed drain is one of the most extreme drainage issues that we deal with, often caused by years of poor drain maintenance or damages and cracks in your pipes.
How do I know if my Drains Collapsed?
If your drains collapsed, the first thing you would notice is the smell of sewage. You may also notice a persistent blockage in your drainage system. The smell of sewage is also a common sign of a blocked drain so you might find it disappears after you have your drains unblocked. However, the unpleasant smell will return in due course if you are dealing with a collapsed drain.
Maintain Drains recommends that you consult a drain expert when you notice the smell of sewage or have a persistent blockage in your drainage system. A drainage expert can assess the drainage, often with a CCTV drain survey, to find out if you have any major issues with your drains. Even if your drainage problem is a minor blockage, you will have peace of mind.
Other Signs of Collapsed Drains
Persistent blockages or the smell of sewage are often the first signs of collapsed drains that you may notice, but you should also look out for the following:
1. Damp or Mould Around the House
Rising damp or mould is another one of the more common signs of a collapsed drain. This usually appears around the house in floors and walls and is caused by waste water failing to fully leave the property.
2. Damage to the Building
One of the more extreme signs of a major collapsed drain or a compromised drain that has gone unnoticed is damage to the building itself. As well as causing a growth in mould or dampness, waste water failing to drain properly can cause cracks to your foundation or walls in extreme cases.
3. Infestations
Rats thrive in drains and sewer systems, and so a crack in your drain pipe might attract rodents. Collapsed drains can also give rats access to your home.
4. Sinking Ground in the Garden
This is one of the most obvious signs of a collapsed drain. Your grass or ground might start to sink as the water leaking from your pipe weakens the soil. If you notice wet patches of grass or soil, contact a drain expert as soon as possible.
If you spot any of these signs, it’s important to contact a drainage specialist immediately to receive advice. Whether it’s a new smell of sewage or a sinking patch in the garden, inspection from an expert as soon as possible can help to resolve the problem before it can get worse, saving you both time and money.
Have Your Drains Collapsed? Here’s What to do Next…
If you suspect that your drains have collapsed, contact Maintain Drains immediately and a member of the team will be with you as soon as possible. You can contact one of our experts online or give us a call on 01202 300040. Please remember, fixing collapsed drains requires professional expertise, often just finding the collapsed pipe is difficult enough for novices.
We will use the latest CCTV drain surveillance technology to find collapsed drains. Using a camera will help us to find the best remedial action, often pitch fibre repairs, drain relining or drain excavation. All our vans are fully equipped with technology and tools to repair drains, and our team can work with you to do so. We ensure you are kept informed and updated. Our team can advise the best solution to your drainage problems based on the issue, your timescale and budget.
One simple way to avoid any future collapse of your drains is to ensure they are regularly checked and maintained. Regular, scheduled maintenance can help to spot any potential problems before they develop further, saving you time and money.
This is ideal for businesses. Our commercial drainage solutions and scheduled maintenance will help to ensure your drains are healthy and working fully. Give us a call today on 01202 300040 to discuss your requirements for a free quotation.
FAQs
Q: What is a collapsed drain and what are the common causes?
A: A collapsed drain occurs when the drainage system experiences severe damage or cracks in the pipes, often due to poor maintenance over the years or external factors.
Q: How can I identify if my drains have collapsed?
A: The first noticeable sign is the smell of sewage, accompanied by persistent blockages in your drainage system. These signs are distinct from the odor of a blocked drain, indicating a potential collapse.
Q: What should I do if I suspect my drains have collapsed?
A: It’s advisable to contact a drainage expert for assessment, especially when you detect the smell of sewage or persistent blockages. They can perform a CCTV drain survey to determine the issue’s severity.
Q: What are some other signs that might indicate collapsed drains?
A: Besides sewage smell and blockages, signs include dampness or mold around the house, building damage like cracks, rodent infestations, and sinking ground in the garden due to water leakage.
Q: Why is it crucial to address collapsed drains promptly?
A: Prompt action is essential to prevent worsening problems. Quick response can save time and money, as collapsed drains can lead to further structural damage and health hazards.
Q: What steps can I take if I suspect my drains have collapsed?
A: If you suspect a collapsed drain, reach out to professionals like Maintain Drains immediately at 01202 300040. Trying to address collapsed drains without expertise can be challenging and ineffective.
Q: How do drainage experts identify collapsed drains?
A: Drainage experts use advanced techniques like CCTV drain surveys to visually inspect the condition of your drainage system. This helps them determine the best remedial actions, such as repairs, relining, or excavation.
Q: What preventive measures can I take to avoid future drain collapses?
A: Regular maintenance and scheduled checks of your drains can help identify potential issues before they escalate, saving you both time and money in the long run.
