Dealing with drainage problems in commercial buildings? Our professional solutions prevent blockages, leaks, and odours, safeguarding your business operations.
Blocked Drains
Blocked drains are one of the most common issues found in commercial buildings. They can be caused by a build-up of hair, soap, food, paper, or other waste materials. Over time, these items restrict the flow of water, leading to unpleasant smells and even flooding. In busy buildings such as offices, restaurants, or retail units, these blockages can appear more frequently due to high usage.
Blocked drains not only slow down daily operations but may also cause long-term damage to the plumbing system. Regular inspections and the use of drain covers can help prevent blockages. If a drain does become blocked, it’s important to act quickly and contact a professional to avoid more serious plumbing problems.
Pipe Damage or Cracks
Damaged or cracked pipes can lead to serious drainage problems in commercial buildings. These cracks may be caused by corrosion, age, shifting foundations, or freezing weather. When pipes are damaged, they may leak, resulting in water damage to floors, walls or ceilings.
This can also cause mould and health issues for staff and visitors. In some cases, tree roots can grow into underground pipes, breaking them apart and blocking the flow of water. Early signs include wet patches, water stains or a drop in water pressure. Regular pipe checks and maintenance are vital. If any damage is found, it should be repaired immediately to protect the building and avoid high repair costs.
In large buildings with older plumbing systems, pipe damage can also result from outdated materials like clay or lead, which are more likely to degrade over time.
In such cases, replacing old sections with modern, durable piping such as PVC or copper can help prevent future issues.
It’s also essential to keep an eye on seasonal changes, as colder temperatures increase the risk of pipes freezing and cracking.
When water freezes, it expands, putting pressure on the pipe walls until they break. Using insulation around vulnerable pipes is a simple but effective way to lower this risk.
Pipe damage might not always be visible, so regular monitoring using CCTV drainage inspections can help spot hidden problems early. Acting on warning signs quickly can save commercial property owners thousands in repairs and lost business time.
Build-Up of Fat, Oil and Grease (FOG)
Fat, oil and grease (known as FOG) are common in buildings with kitchens, such as restaurants and cafés. When poured down sinks, these substances cool and harden in the pipes, causing major blockages. Over time, this build-up can restrict water flow and even lead to pipe damage or foul smells.
Commercial kitchens are legally required to have proper FOG disposal systems, such as grease traps, to reduce this risk. Without these systems, large amounts of FOG can enter the drainage system and affect not only the building but also the wider area. Staff should be trained to properly dispose of cooking waste and avoid pouring grease or oil into the sink.
Bad Smells from Drains
Unpleasant smells coming from drains are often a sign of a deeper problem. These smells can be caused by food waste, grease, or stagnant water trapped in the pipes. In commercial buildings, where usage is high, this issue can quickly become worse.
A dried-out trap in a rarely used drain can also let foul-smelling gases escape. Bad smells not only affect comfort but can create a poor impression on staff and customers. Regular cleaning and flushing of drains, along with proper ventilation, can help reduce odours. If the smell continues, it may be necessary to check for blockages, leaks or build-ups in the system and seek help from a drainage expert.
In more severe cases, bad smells can be caused by problems with the building’s main sewer connection. If there is damage to the sewer line or if it becomes blocked, gases such as hydrogen sulphide can escape into the building.
These gases not only smell unpleasant but can also pose health risks in high concentrations. Poorly installed or ageing plumbing systems may also allow gases to enter through broken seals or faulty vents.
To prevent this, ensure that all traps are filled with water and are used regularly to block odours from rising.
A qualified plumber can perform smoke tests or camera inspections to trace the source of persistent smells. Tackling the root cause is key to keeping the indoor environment safe and pleasant for everyone.
Slow Drainage in Toilets and Sinks
Slow drainage in toilets and sinks is another common issue in commercial properties. It usually means there’s a partial blockage or build-up in the pipes. In high-use areas like public toilets, shared kitchens or washrooms, this can happen quickly.
Materials such as paper towels, food scraps, soap scum or even limescale can slow water flow. If not dealt with, this can lead to full blockages or even overflow.
Staff should be encouraged to report slow drains early on. Simple solutions like using drain guards and avoiding flushing unsuitable items can help. For persistent problems, professional cleaning or pipe jetting may be needed to fully clear the system.
Midlands Drainage Solutions LTD specialises in a variety of drain services across the Midlands, offering reliable and efficient services for residential and commercial properties. Our team ensures prompt identification of drainage issues, helping to maintain your property's drainage system in top condition.