5 Signs You Need to Retrofit an Older Home with New Drainage

Your home has stood strong and served you well for years. Unfortunately, nothing can last forever, and your drainage system is no exception.

When your drainage isn't working like it used to, water has a harder time flowing through, making clogs and backups more common. In the worst cases, your drains can burst and cause serious damage to your home.

While some plumbing issues can be patched up, there's only so much you can do with an ageing system. So, how do you know when it's time to replace it with a modern, more efficient one?

Let the plumbing experts at Greenstar help. Here are 5 clear signs that your older home might need a drainage system retrofit, and the steps you can take next!

1. Frequent Clogs and Slow Drains

Does it seem like your drains are clogging every other day, no matter how much you try to fix them? That's a big sign that your drainage system could be reaching the end of its life.

Older systems are more prone to blockages for a few reasons:

• Over time, materials used in older pipes break down. Clay pipes can become porous and crack, while cast iron pipes are prone to corrosion. These deteriorations create spaces where debris, minerals, and other materials build up, restricting water flow and leading to frequent backups.
• Tree roots naturally seek out water, and older drainage systems are especially vulnerable. Roots can grow into and penetrate the pipes, causing blockages and even structural damage.
• Older drainage systems were often built to less rigorous standards than today. This means they may have undersized pipes or improper slopes, making them more likely to experience blockages.

If you're dealing with constant clogs, it's a clear sign your drainage system is struggling and may need a more permanent solution.

2. Water Stains or Damp

Cracked or corroded pipes don't just raise the risk of blockages – they can also let water seep into your home's structure, often without you even realising it. Over time, this hidden water can cause mould, wood rot, and structural damage, which can become expensive to repair.

If you notice water stains on your walls, ceilings, or floors, or if certain areas feel constantly damp, it could be a sign that your drainage system is leaking and may need to be replaced.

3. Unpleasant Smells

A well-functioning drainage system should remove waste and water from your home without any noticeable odours. If you start noticing unpleasant smells coming from your drains or around your garden, it could mean there's a blockage, leak, or poor venting. These odours often indicate that wastewater isn't flowing as it should, which is a clear sign that your drainage system might need an upgrade.

4. Foundation or Garden Drainage Issues

Older drainage systems weren't always built to handle heavy rainfall or groundwater as effectively as modern ones. If your garden frequently floods or you see water pooling around your home's foundation, it could mean the system isn't efficiently directing water away from your property. Prolonged exposure to standing water can weaken your foundation and cause cracks, making a drainage upgrade essential to protecting your home.

5. Rusty or Corroded Pipes

Many older drainage systems use metal pipes that can rust over time. Take a look at any exposed pipes in your home, particularly in the basement or under sinks – if you spot rust, corrosion, or leaks, it's a clear sign that your pipes are deteriorating. Upgrading to modern materials like PVC or PEX can improve your drainage system's efficiency and help prevent future damage.

Keep Water Flowing Freely With a Drainage System Retrofit From Greenstar!

Noticed one or more of these warning signs? It might be time to think about retrofitting your older home's drainage system. Modern drainage solutions are more efficient, durable, and built to handle today's demands, offering better protection for your home against future damage.

Greenstar's accredited team can give your system a much-needed upgrade. We take care of the whole process, from removing your old drainage to installing a brand-new, top-of-the-line system that will keep your home safe for years to come.

Don't wait until a small problem becomes a major headache. If now's the time for an upgrade, get a quote online or call us on 01202 355 344 today!