Why Are My Drains Blocked? Causes, Fixes & Prevention Tips for Bournemouth Homes

If your sink, toilet, or outside drain is slow to empty, you’re not alone — blocked drains are one of the most common home issues in Bournemouth and the South Coast. But understanding why they happen can help prevent expensive call-outs in the future.

In this guide, we’ll explain the main causes of drain blockages, how to fix them safely, and when it’s time to call a professional.

🥘 1. Grease, Fat & Food Waste

One of the biggest causes of domestic drain blockages is cooking grease and fat. When poured down the sink, they cool, solidify, and cling to pipe walls.Over time, this creates a sticky trap for food debris — eventually blocking the flow completely.

💡 Tip: Always let grease solidify and bin it instead of washing it away.

🚽 2. Non-Flushable Items

Wet wipes, cotton buds, and sanitary products are often marketed as “flushable,” but they don’t break down like toilet paper.In Bournemouth, these are the main cause of blockages in household toilets and shared drains.

💡 Tip: Only flush the “three Ps”: paper, pee, and poo.

🌳 3. Tree Root Ingress

If you live in greener areas such as Wimborne, Highcliffe, or Canford Cliffs, tree roots could be invading your pipes.Roots naturally seek moisture and can enter through tiny cracks, eventually causing major blockages or even pipe collapse.

💡 Fix: A CCTV drain survey identifies root ingress and helps engineers clear and re-line affected sections.

🧱 4. Collapsed or Damaged Pipes

Older properties in Christchurch, Wallisdown, or Branksome often still have clay or pitch-fibre pipes that deteriorate with age.If you notice repeated blockages or foul smells, there could be a structural issue underground.

💡 Solution: Modern drain re-lining repairs damaged pipes internally — without digging up your garden or driveway.

💨 5. Poor Drain Installation

Sometimes, new builds or DIY drain work have incorrect pipe gradients, meaning water and waste don’t flow properly.This leads to frequent backups even when pipes look clear.

💡 Tip: Always use qualified drainage specialists to install or inspect pipework.

✅ Final Word

Blocked drains can be more than just an inconvenience — they’re often a sign of deeper issues underground.A professional CCTV survey and regular drain maintenance can save you hundreds of pounds in the long run and keep your system flowing freely.

If you’re in Bournemouth, Poole, or Christchurch, the 24 Hour Drain Unblocking team is available around the clock for quick, reliable service when you need it most.