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Causes and fixes of stoppage plumbing

stoppage plumbing is a common source of frustration for homeowners. 

Whether it’s a clogged sink, toilet or main line, a stoppage can quickly lead to water damage and unpleasant odors.

This is done throughout your home but what causes stoppages, and what can you do to fix them?

 In this article, we’ll explore the common causes and fixes for plumbing stoppages to help you keep your pipes flowing smoothly.

What is a stoppage plumbing?

A stoppage plumbing occurs when water and waste are unable to flow through a pipe due to a blockage or restricting water flow to plumbing fixtures such as:

  • sinks
  • toilets
  • showers
  • bathtubs.

Common causes of stoppage plumbing 

Common causes of stoppage plumbing include flushing inappropriate materials such as:

  • feminine hygiene products
  • excessively thick toilet paper
  • baby wipes down the toilet
  • putting grease and food scraps down the sink
  • foreign objects like hair or soap scum blocking shower or sink drains
  • tree roots infiltrating sewer systems
  • corrosion
  • a buildup of minerals
  • other materials inside pipes due to hard water.

How to prevent stoppage plumbing 

Preventing stoppage plumbing is relatively simple and can save you headaches in the long run.

Be mindful of what materials you flush down the toilet and don’t pour grease or food scraps down the sink.

You may want to invest in a drain filter to block larger materials from entering the plumbing system.

Consider having an annual plumbing inspection to catch and fix any potential problems before they become major issues.

Al Rooter Plumbing team offers plumbing inspection services

4 Signs of a mainline stoppage

A mainline stoppage is a major blockage in the main sewer line that connects your home’s plumbing system with the municipal sewer system.

The main sewer line is critical to your home’s plumbing system’s function.

It’s responsible for carrying waste and water away from your home and into the municipal sewer line.

4 Signs of a mainline stoppage are:

  1. issues with multiple plumbing fixtures like sinks, toilets, and showers.
  2. water backs up into your shower or bathtub when you flush the toilet.
  3. odors emanating from drain openings
  4. septic system issues in your yard.

How to fix a mainline stoppage

A mainline stoppage requires professional plumbing services. A licensed plumbing contractor will:

  • identify the cause and location of the stoppage.
  • access the drain cleanout to remove the blockage
  • replace the damaged portion of the plumbing system.

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Tools needed for fixing sink and toilet stoppages

You’ll need a few tools to fix a sink or toilet stoppage, including:

  • a plunger
  • plumber’s snake
  • a wrench.

Steps to fix a sink stoppage

If your sink is clogged, begin by removing the sink stopper and cleaning out any visible debris.

Next, use a plunger to clear the drain.

If this doesn’t work, use a plumber’s snake to break up the clog.

Steps to fix a toilet stoppage

A clogged toilet can be particularly frustrating. Begin by using a plunger to loosen the blockage.

If this doesn’t work, use a plumber’s snake or closet auger.

Be careful not to apply too much force; you don’t want to damage your toilet.

Causes of drain and sewer line stoppages

7 causes of drain line stoppages

Here are seven common causes of drain line stoppages:

    1. Accumulation of debris: Over time, debris such as hair, soap scum, food particles, and other waste materials can build up and cause a drain line stoppage.

    2. Tree root intrusion: Roots from trees in your yard have the potential to infiltrate a sewer line or drain line.

    3. Improper waste disposal: Flushing items other than toilet paper down the toilet or pouring substances that don’t disintegrate easily in water, such as grease or paper towels.

    4. Pipe material issues: Older homes may have plumbing pipes made of cast iron or another material that is less conducive to proper drainage.

    5. Frequent clogs: If you experience frequent clogs in your drains or plumbing fixtures, it could be a sign of an underlying issue in your plumbing system.

    6. Structural damage: Damage to the drain or sewer line, such as cracks, breaks, or misalignments, can cause an issue at first. 

    7. External factors: Occasionally, external factors can contribute to drain line stoppages. 

Additionally, if there is an indentation in your lawn or unusual incidents within your fixtures ,it may indicate a problem with the junction of your home’s drainage line and the municipal tap.

If you encounter drain clogs or sewer stoppages, it is advisable to call a professional plumbing contractor

He can help solve your problem and get your home’s plumbing back in working order.

How to identify the cause of a drain or sewer line stoppage

Identifying the cause of a stoppage in your home’s plumbing can be challenging.

A licensed plumber can determine the underlying cause and location of the blockage.

They use specialized cameras to inspect pipes and sewer systems.

This allows the plumber to tailor their approach to the specific type of stoppage and attempt to prevent it from happening again in the future.

When to call a plumber for a stoppage

If you’ve tried to fix a stoppage plumbing yourself and haven’t had any luck, it’s time to call a professional plumber.

A licensed plumbing contractor can help you identify the cause of the stoppage and recommend the best course of action.

Next, you can get your plumbing system back in working order.

Al Rooter Plumbing team can offer professional services

What to expect from plumbing services for stoppages

A plumbing contractor will typically begin by identifying the cause and location of the stoppage.

After doing so, they’ll access the section of the plumbing system that needs:

  • repair
  • remove the blockage
  • replace the damaged portion of the plumbing system.

Depending on the location and nature of the stoppage, this may require digging or otherwise accessing the plumbing system.

Kitchen Sink Stoppage plumbing

Kitchen sink stoppage plumbing refers to the process of clearing clogged drains in the kitchen sink.

It is a common plumbing issue that can be a hassle to deal with.

Kitchen sink stoppage plumbing involves various techniques and tools to remove the blockage and restore proper drainage.

Plumbers use a range of methods, such as snaking the drain or using chemicals to break down the clog.

The goal is to clear the debris and allow water to flow freely again.

It is important to address kitchen sink stoppage plumbing promptly to avoid further damage and prevent any unpleasant odors or backups.

Regular maintenance, such as avoiding pouring oil or grease down the sink, can help prevent future issues.

Tips for choosing the right plumbing stoppage services

When choosing a plumbing contractor, it’s crucial to choose a licensed and insured professional.

You may want to look for a contractor that specializes in the type of stoppage that you’re experiencing.

Additionally, choosing a contractor with a good reputation and customer service track record can help ensure that you’re getting the best possible service.

Stoppage plumbing can be frustrating and costly if left unaddressed.

However, by taking steps to prevent stoppages and calling professional plumbing services when necessary.

This can keep your plumbing system flowing smoothly.

Schedule an appointment with us today

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