Drainage issues are a common household problem that many people encounter. Blocked drains not only create a huge inconvenience but can also lead to severe damage if not handled in time. Understanding the common causes of blocked drains will equip you with the knowledge to prevent them. Here are the top ten causes and how to prevent them.

1. Hair: Hair falling down the drain during showering or shaving is one of the primary reasons for blockages. Over time, hair can accumulate and get tangled, causing a barrier in the pipe. To prevent this, install drain guards that will catch the hair. Regularly clean these guards to ensure they’re efficiently catching the falling hair.

2. Soap: Traditional soap bars are made using fat or grease, which can combine with minerals in water to form soap scum. This hard residue can stick to the pipes, resulting in blockages. You can switch to liquid or gel soaps to minimize this risk. Regularly rinsing your pipes with hot water can also help break down the soap scum.

3. Food Waste: Disposing of kitchen leftovers down the sink may seem convenient, but it results in severe drain blockages. Coffee grounds, tea leaves, and any food waste should be composted or thrown in the garbage. To prevent blockages, never pour oil, grease, or fat down the sink.

4. Tree Roots: The roots of trees and shrubs are notorious for seeking moisture, penetrating pipe joints and cracks, and causing obstructions. If your drains are constantly blocking, have a professional inspect if tree roots are causing the problem. Regular pipe maintenance and inspections can prevent this problem.

5. Mineral build-up: Minerals dissolved in hard water can build up and cause sediment blockages. You can descale and remove sediment using specialist chemicals or by hiring a professional plumber. Consider installing a water softener for your home to guard against this.

6. Small Objects: Small objects can easily slip down the drain, leading to a blocked pipe. Ensure all small objects are securely stored, and if anything accidentally slips down the drain, avoid using that drain and immediately call a plumber to remove it.

7. Toilet Paper Build-up: Using too much toilet paper or flushing non-dissolvable items down the toilet can cause a blockage. A simple rule is anything that is not toilet paper or human waste should never be flushed.

8. Poor Water Flow: This is often caused by incorrectly installed blocked drain pipes, resulting in poor water flow and subsequent blockages. Always hire a reliable plumber to install or fix your pipes to ensure they are correctly installed.

9. Dirt and Debris: Dirt, leaves, or other debris can build up in your pipes and cause blockage. Regularly cleaning roof gutters and outdoor drains can prevent this problem.

10. Old, Damaged Pipes: With age, pipes can break, crack, or collapse, causing blockages. Regular inspections can identify these issues, and replacement of old pipes is a necessary preventive measure.

In conclusion, preventive strategies like regular maintenance, cautious waste disposal, and awareness about what goes down your drains can significantly reduce the chances of experiencing blocked drains. However, when the inevitable happens, it’s advisable to reach out to a professional to handle the situation effectively.