When leaves start to pile up and the air gets chilly, you should think about something people often forget: your home’s drainage check. Autumn is the perfect time to make sure everything is working well because ignoring it now could bring big problems once winter hits.

Follow these five straightforward steps for your drainage check and save yourself from expensive repairs or headaches during the colder months.

1.Keep Gutters and Downspouts Clear

Why Gutter Cleaning Matters

Gutters move rainwater away from houses keeping them safe from water damage. As fall continues, leaves and dirt often collect forming clogs. If this happens, water can spill over and harm roofs, walls, or even the foundation of the house.

Steps to Clean Gutters

• Stay Safe: Always choose a strong ladder. Place it on flat solid ground. Keep at least three points of contact with the ladder while working.
• Take Out Debris: Wear gloves and use your hands or a scoop to pull out leaves and other dirt from the gutters.
• Rinse with Water: After removing debris, use a hose to wash away any dirt from the gutters and downspouts to make sure water moves.

How Often to Clean or Do Drainage Check

You should clean out your gutters at least twice in the fall. Do it once after the leaves start to drop and again right before winter arrives. This helps avoid clogs and keeps your drainage system working .

2. Check for Tree Roots Getting In

Why It’s a Problem

Tree roots often grow toward water and can make their way into sewer lines leading to major clogs. If ignored, this could cause serious pipe damage and expensive repairs.

Warning Signs of Root Problems

• Slow Drains: Blockages from roots might cause sinks or toilets to drain more than usual.
• Gurgling Sounds: Odd noises in the plumbing often mean air is stuck because of a clog.
• Wet Spots in the Yard: Soggy areas over the sewer line can mean roots have caused a leak underground.

Getting a Professional Inspection

When you think roots might be causing problems, it’s smart to get an expert to inspect. Professionals often use tools like CCTV drain cameras to spot and fix root issues.

3. Check Your Sump Pump

Why Sump Pumps Matter

Houses with basements need sump pumps to stop flooding. Autumn brings more rain, so it is important to make sure your sump pump works .

Ways to Test Your Sump Pump

• Add Water: Put water into the sump pit to check if the pump turns on and removes the water well.
• Look at the Discharge Line: Make sure the discharge line is not blocked and that it moves water away from your house.
• Check for Damage: Look at the pump to spot rust or any other damage.

Routine Check-Ups

Plan to maintain your sump pump before heavy rains arrive. This helps to avoid breakdowns when you need the pump the most.

4. Spot and Fix Pipe Leaks

Why Stopping Leaks Matters

Colder weather makes even small leaks turn into big problems. They can lead to serious water damage and make utility costs go up. To avoid this, checking your pipes is an important autumn task.

Steps to Find Leaks

• Look for Signs: Search exposed pipes for rust, moisture, or signs of corrosion.
• Check Fixtures: Watch faucets and showerheads for dripping. Replace old washers or gaskets if needed.
• Close Gaps: Cover any visible cracks or open spaces in your pipes. Use insulation or sealant to do this.

Why Fixing Leaks Helps

Fixing leaks stops water damage in your house and helps your plumbing work better. This can cut down your costs over time.

5. Schedule a Professional Drainage Check

Why You Should Rely on Professionals

Debris, grease, and other gunk build up in drains over time causing clogs. Getting professional drain cleaning keeps your system in good shape and avoids problems down the line.

What Services to Expect

• High-Pressure Water Jetting: Strong water jets remove tough clogs and get things flowing again.

CCTV Drain Surveys: Experts use these inspections to spot hidden problems in drains, like cracks or roots growing into the pipes.

How Often Should Drains Be Cleaned?

You should clean your drains with professional help at least ahead of winter. Drainage check can prevent unexpected issues and keep your drainage system working well.

Wrapping Up Drainage Check

When autumn arrives, it helps to look over your drainage system to avoid problems in the winter. You can keep your home safe from winter issues by doing five important things: clean the gutters, check for tree roots, test the sump pump, seal any leaks, and book a professional cleaning. Taking care of these things now will spare you headaches later.

Don’t put it off until a problem shows up. Get your drainage check today so it can handle what winter might bring.

Book your drainage inspection today: Call 0203 633 3897 or send us a message.