6 Common Causes of Blocked Stormwater Drains

Ever wonder how cities avoid floods after heavy rain? It’s all thanks to stormwater drains! These hidden channels act like an underground river network, directing rainwater and runoff away from buildings and roads. Thus, stormwater drains protect our cities from flooding and protect your valuable property.

But even the most out-performing storm drains need timely maintenance. Ignoring regular maintenance may eventually result in blocked stormwater drains, causing significant issues like flooded streets and damaged buildings. Knowing what clogs them up is key to keeping them running smoothly. By understanding the culprits, you can prevent these blockages and ensure your stormwater system stays reliable for years to come.

Let’s uncover each common issue and learn to tackle them.

1. Debris and Organic Matter Build-Up

Leaves, twigs, and other outdoor debris are swept into stormwater drains by wind and rain. This accumulation restricts water flow and can lead to blockages. As this organic matter decomposes, it creates a dense, compact mass within the drains, further impeding water flow and causing obstructions. These blockages can have severe consequences, including urban flooding and extensive property damage. Therefore, effective stormwater drain maintenance is crucial to prevent these costly and hazardous outcomes.

2. Soil and Sediment Accumulation

Soil and sediment enter stormwater drains through various means, including wind and rain erosion, washing away loose particles, runoff carrying debris, and nearby construction activities disturbing the ground. This buildup can significantly reduce drainage efficiency, leading to water backups and flooding. Furthermore, excessive sediment can damage the drainage system itself, resulting in costly repairs and maintenance. Therefore, it’s crucial to implement measures to minimise soil and sediment entering stormwater drains.

3. Tree Roots Intrusion

Tree roots, which are naturally drawn to water and nutrients, can infiltrate stormwater drains through tiny cracks or pipe joints. This root intrusion can cause significant damage, including cracked pipes and blockages that hinder water flow and drainage. Fortunately, with regular inspections for root presence, the use of root barriers to prevent future infiltration, and pipe relining techniques for damaged sections, we can effectively detect and prevent these problems before they cause costly headaches.

4. Foreign Objects and Waste

Everyday items like plastic bags, trash, and even household waste get flushed into stormwater drains in Perth due to careless disposal. This can cause major blockages as these materials obstruct water flow, leading to flooding. By educating yourselves on proper waste disposal, you can prevent these blockages and ensure our stormwater drainage systems function efficiently.

5. Poor Drainage System Design

Faulty stormwater drainage design, like flat slopes, undersized pipes, and poorly placed junctions, can cause blockages and hinder water flow. Improper slopes lead to stagnant water, while inadequate pipe size struggles with runoff volume. To avoid these issues and ensure efficient drainage, professional design, and regular inspections are crucial for a system’s long-term health.

6. Climate and Weather Conditions

Heavy rainfall, storms, and flash floods can overwhelm Perth’s stormwater system, carrying debris and sediment that block drains. Seasonal changes also play a role: autumn leaves clog drains. To prevent these issues, especially during extreme weather, regular drain maintenance, debris traps, and upgrading drainage infrastructure are crucial for efficient water flow.

Prevention and Maintenance Tips

• Regular Inspections & Cleaning: Schedule checkups to find and clear clogs early. Use proper drain cleaners for built-up waste.
• Debris Removal & Sediment Control: Regularly remove leaves, trash, and other debris. Implement sediment traps to prevent buildup.
• Professional Maintenance: Hire professionals for thorough inspections, cleaning, and preventing future blockages.

Culprits like grease, leaves, and tree roots can cause stormwater drain blockages. Regardless of the cause, always be proactive. Schedule regular cleanings and inspections to avoid headaches down the road. Practicing habits, like properly disposing of waste, goes a long way too. For both homeowners and property managers, investing in blocked drain services is an investment in your property’s safety, value, and lifespan.

Call The Drain Surgeon Plumbing and Gas at 0437 000 257 for swift, reliable solutions. Our expert team is ready to tackle any problem, ensuring your peace of mind.