Introduction

Plumbing issues can strike fear into the hearts of homeowners, and one of the most frequent challenges faced is blocked drains. A blocked drain causes inconveniences that range from unpleasant odours to potential flooding. It's crucial, therefore, for homeowners to understand the basics of drain unblocking and re-lining to solve this recurrent problem effectively. This article aims to demystify these processes using an easy-to-understand approach. By the end of your reading, you'll have a greater understanding of what's involved in managing and preventing blocked drains.

Understanding Blocked Drains

Drains become blocked for a variety of reasons. One of the most common culprits is tree roots that can infiltrate the pipes, causing obstructions. The accumulated waste, including fat, oil, hair, and food scraps, is another major cause of drain blockage. Faulty or inadequate plumbing also contributes to the problem. Typical signs of a blocked drain include slow water drainage, a recurring strange odour, and gurgling noises from your sinks, showers, or toilets. Recognising these signs early can save homeowners from significant inconvenience and costly repairs.

The Drain Clearing Process

More often than not, a plunger serves as the first line of defence against blocked drains. However, sometimes, more specialized tools such as hand augers and sewer snakes might be required. The process begins by identifying the location of the blockage, followed by the use of appropriate tools to unclog it. The timescale depends on the severity and location of the blockage. Some blockages can be resolved in a few minutes, while others might take hours. While many homeowners can handle minor blockages, larger, more entrenched obstructions may require professional help.

A Primer On Drain Relining

Post-blockage, drain relining might become necessary. Drain relining is a non-invasive method of repairing damaged or broken pipes without the need for digging and replacing them. Depending on the situation, various methods such as Cured-In-Place Pipe (CIPP) lining, pull-in-place lining, pipe bursting, or internal pipe coating can be employed. Each of these methods has specific uses and applicability.

The Process Of Drain Relining

The process of drain relining typically begins with a comprehensive drain inspection using a CCTV camera. This CCTV survey allows professionals to establish the cause and location of the problem accurately. Once this has been identified, they can then select the most suitable relining method. Post-installation, another CCTV survey is carried out to ensure the lining is in place and the pipe is functioning correctly.

When To Call In The Professionals

While it can be tempting to tackle drain unblocking and re-lining as a DIY project, it's important to recognise that these processes often call for professional knowledge and equipment. If the blockage is stubborn, located deep within the drain, or associated with other plumbing issues, it's time to call in the experts. Similarly, drain relining cannot be effectively and safely executed without special tools and expertise.

Cost Implications

The cost of clearing a blocked drain or relining a damaged drain can vary widely, depending on the complexity of the job and the professionals involved. On average, unblocking a drain might set homeowners back between $100 and $500, while drain relining costs usually start at around $1000 for smaller jobs. The size of the pipe, type of lining material, and the length and accessibility of the pipe can all influence the final cost.

Preventative Measures

Preventing blockages is far less costly and inconvenient than dealing with them once they occur. Some simple measures include not pouring fats or oils down the sink, avoiding flushing non-disposable items, and scheduling regular drain inspections. Shrub and tree planting close to drain lines should also be done with care to avoid root infiltration.

Conclusion

Understanding the process of drain clearing and re-lining empowers homeowners to tackle these issues effectively or know when to call in professionals. While some drain problems can be handled at home, it's critical to recognise the situations that require expert help. A preventative approach, including regular inspections and careful disposal of waste, can go a long way in keeping the drains running smoothly.