What Are the Different Types of Drainage Grates in the UK?
Drain Repair & Replacement
Struggling with selecting drainage grates for your UK property? Avoid costly repairs with expert guidance on materials, load ratings, and maintenance.
Gurgling plugs, slow draining water, and that awful sewage smell hanging around your bathroom… sound familiar? These are all common signs of a blocked drainage system, one of the most frustrating issues a homeowner can encounter.
Blocked drains are a common problem, but there's good news – by adopting some simple habits, you can make them less likely and save yourself time, money, and hassle down the road.
As Dorset, Wiltshire, and Hampshire's go-to drainage experts, we at Greenstar have seen it all when it comes to blockages. In this guide, we'll share our top tips for preventing blockages and keeping your drainage system flowing freely.
One of the main culprits behind blocked kitchen drains is cooking oil or grease. While oil might seem harmless when it goes down the sink in liquid form, it quickly hardens as it cools, sticking to your pipes and creating stubborn blockages. Over time, these blockages build up as food particles and debris cling to the grease – gross, and a recipe for slow or blocked drains.
A simple solution is to pour used oil and grease into a container, let it cool, and then throw it in the bin. You can also wipe greasy pans with kitchen paper before washing them to reduce the amount of grease going down the drain.
Food scraps, hair, and small objects are other common causes of drain blockages. Food particles like rice, pasta, and vegetable peels can easily clog pipes in kitchens, while hair and soap scum are the main offenders in bathrooms.
Using a sink strainer is a great way to catch these bits before they go down the drain. These simple, perforated metal covers sit over your kitchen and bathroom drains, catching larger particles from entering your pipes and preventing blockages. They only cost a few pounds and can be easily found online or at home improvement stores. Just remember to clean them regularly to keep them working as they should.
Toilets are another spot where blockages often happen, usually because items get flushed that shouldn't be. The only things safe to flush are toilet paper and human waste. Items like wet wipes, cotton pads, and sanitary products – even those labelled "flushable" – can clog your pipes and harm the environment. The fix for this is simple: keep a bin in the bathroom for anything non-flushable, so it has a proper place to go!
Following the tips above will make blockages less likely, but even with careful use, some buildup can still occur in your pipes over time. This makes it a good idea to give your drains a regular clean to keep things running smoothly.
Once a month, pour a mix of baking soda and vinegar or a commercial drain cleaner down the drain. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes, then rinse with hot water. This can help break down any buildup and keep your drains clear. If the blockage sticks around, it might be time to call in a professional for a more thorough clean.
Your home's exterior drainage system is just as important as the one indoors. Leaves, dirt, and other outdoor debris can build up in gutters and outdoor drains, leading to blockages that may cause flooding or water damage around your property. Tree roots can also work their way into pipes, blocking water flow and potentially damaging the pipes.
Make it a habit to check and clean outdoor drains regularly, especially after storms or in the autumn when leaves are falling. Adding a drain cover or grate can also keep debris out. If you're worried about tree roots, read our guide for easy preventive steps on keeping them out of your pipes.
Even with the best prevention, hidden issues can still pop up in your drainage system – like old pipes developing cracks that lead to blockages. The best way to stay ahead of this is by scheduling regular inspections with a professional drainage company. They can spot any potential problems early, preventing them from becoming bigger issues down the road. This is especially helpful if you live in an older home or have large trees near your drains.
Even with the best care, blockages can still happen. When they do, acting quickly is key to avoiding bigger issues like flooding or structural damage – and that's where Greenstar comes in.
Our accredited team specialise in drain clearing and jetting services across Dorset, Hampshire, and Wiltshire. Whether you're dealing with a stubborn blockage or need more extensive drain repairs, renewal, or relining, we're here to get your system back to top performance.
Don't let a blocked drain disrupt your home or business. Book a drainage cleaning online or give us a call on 01202 355 344, and keep everything flowing smoothly today!
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