Blocked pipes and clogged drains often start out as smaller, seemingly insignificant issues. However, minor issues can quickly morph into bigger and more expensive problems. Clogged drains in a home or business can result in water flowing slowly, flooding, cases of corrosion and, in some cases, the backup of sewage and the need for extremely expensive repairs. To prevent clogs, a person must first know what causes them. Keep reading to learn about some of the most common causes of clogged drains.

1. Hair

Hair is one of the main culprits when it comes to clogged drains. The fact is that hair may bind with grease or other, sticky substances to create a clog. The best way a person can deal with hair blockages is to keep them from occurring, to begin with. The best way to prevent this issue is by putting guards in place to catch the hair. Once the guards are in place, clean them out regularly.

2. Soap

There are some who may wonder how soap can result in a blockage in their home’s pipes. However, traditional bars of soap are made using fat or grease. The fat that is in the soap will combine with the minerals that are found in the water, which creates a hard residue (called soap scum) which will stain the bath fittings and clog the pipes. It’s a good idea to switch to soap-free washes and then have the pipes properly cleaned to get rid of any soap buildup that maybe there already. Area homeowners who are interested in this service can find more at maplewoodplumbing.com.

3. Dirt

There are some people who think that a home’s pipes and drains are there for washing everything away. However, when a person is trying to get excess dirt off their body and clothes, that dirt may begin to build up in the drains, which can cause a clog. Be sure to shake out or rinse any excess mud or dirt off clothes and the body outside before going inside to bathe or clean the clothes.

4. Food Waste

It’s important to make sure that food waste never winds up going down the drain even if there is a garbage disposal in the sink. A better option is to set up a composting pile to eliminate any food waste. This is especially important for waste such as coffee grounds and tea leaves that won’t break down. Some of the other foods a person needs to be careful with include oil and grease, as these are going to solidify in the pipes and cause a blockage. A better option is to absorb any oil using a paper towel and then put it in the compost pile.

5. Mineral Buildup

Minerals that are dissolved in hard water may begin to build up in drains and pipes, which can create insoluble masses that will eventually block the drains A solution for this is to install a water softener if hard water is a common issue in a particular area. If this is not an option, it’s a good idea to regularly descale and remove any sediment build-up that is present. Clogs caused by mineral buildup are often more challenging to remove once they are in place, which is why it is a good idea to contact a plumber if this issue is suspected.

6. Small Objects

Sometimes, smaller items may find their way into the plumbing system, which can cause serious issues. Nothing but human waste, toilet paper, and water needs to go down a toilet, sink, or drain. Any other item needs to be disposed of in the trash, recycling, or compost pile. If there is a foreign matter that has made its way into the plumbing system, it will probably require a professional to remove it and to help ensure that the plumbing function returns to normal.

7. The Buildup of Toilet Paper

Excessive toilet paper can clog drains and keep toilets from flushing properly. If water is still able to run through the toilet when it is flushed, a plunger may be able to move and get rid of some of the toilet paper that is causing the issue. However, if the toilet bowl is just filling up with water without draining, it is a good idea to contact a plumber to handle the blockage.

8. Tree Roots

Small leaks or cracks in the underground pipes can begin to bolster the growth of tree roots. After tree roots have made their way into the pipes, they are going to grow quickly, obstructing the flow of water and causing pipe damage. The process to clear away tree roots out of pipes is something that is quite complex, and it may require the use of rooter service, trenchless repair, pressure jet cleaning, or even the need for excavation. Be sure to take a look at the root structure of plants and trees and be sure to monitor the condition of drains to prevent the need for costly or extensive repairs.

When to Call the Pros

There are more than a few plumbing issues that can be handled by home or business owners. However, if the situation is more complicated or if a person is unable to figure out what to do or how to get rid of a clog, the best course of action is to hire a professional plumber. A plumber will be able to find the underlying cause of an issue and make sure it is fixed in a timely manner.

Remember, a clog may not seem like that big of a problem in the beginning, but the issue is going to continue to grow and get worse as time passes. Be sure to take action as soon as the problem is found to eliminate the possibility of a problem getting worse and costing more to repair. By taking action right away, a person will be able to prevent sewage backup and other serious problems that may otherwise occur.