Blocked Drain FAQ's in Sylvania
What typically causes blocked drains in Sylvania properties?
Blocked drains in Sylvania usually result from tree root intrusion in aging terracotta sewer lines (common in 1960s, 1980s construction), grease solidifying in kitchen waste pipes, or foreign objects like wet wipes flushed into the system. Roots enter through pipe joints or cracks, grease coats pipe walls and traps debris, and non-degradable items lodge in bends and cause immediate obstructions.
How do you clear a drain blockage without damaging the pipes?
We locate the blockage using CCTV cameras to confirm the obstruction type and pipe condition, then select the appropriate method, high-pressure water jetting for roots and grease (3,000, 5,000 PSI), or mechanical clearing for solid objects. After clearing, we run the camera through again to verify flow is restored and check for structural damage that might need separate attention.
What should I do if my toilet or shower is backing up?
Stop using all plumbing fixtures connected to the affected drain to prevent further backup, then book an inspection. If sewage is overflowing or flooding the property, that's an emergency, call immediately for dispatch. Don't attempt to clear it yourself with chemicals or plungers if the blockage is in the main sewer line, as you risk making it worse or causing pipe damage.
Do you provide a fixed quote before clearing the blockage?
Yes. After diagnosing the blockage location and type using camera inspection where needed, we explain what's required to clear it and provide a fixed-price quote before any work begins. That quote is the final price, with no hidden costs or hourly charges, you decide whether to proceed once you know exactly what it will cost.
How long does it take to clear a typical drain blockage in Sylvania?
For straightforward blockages in accessible lines, grease or minor root intrusion, clearing usually takes 1—2 hours including diagnosis, clearing, and verification. Deeper blockages in main sewer lines or those requiring drain relining after structural damage is found can take longer and are quoted once the scope is confirmed onsite. Timing depends on access to the affected pipe and whether excavation or cutting is needed.
Can tree roots be permanently removed from sewer pipes?
High-pressure jetting removes the root mass inside the pipe and scours the walls clean, but if the pipe itself has cracks or joint failures, roots will eventually re-enter. For permanent resolution, drain relining creates a seamless internal lining that seals the cracks and prevents future root intrusion. We explain both options after inspection and let you decide based on cost versus long-term reliability.
What's included in your drainage work warranty?
All drainage clearing and repairs is backed by our Lifetime Labour Warranty on workmanship, covering the repair itself for as long as you own the property. Manufacturer warranties apply to any parts or relining materials installed. If an issue arises with our workmanship, we return and rectify it at no additional cost, because standing by the work is how we maintain our 5-star reputation across 800+ reviews.
Do you charge a call-out fee for Sylvania drainage jobs?
Call-out fee arrangements vary by service area and job type. For many Sylvania jobs, there's no separate call-out fee, but it's worth confirming the call-out fee status when you book to avoid confusion. Once a quote is accepted and work proceeds, the call-out fee (if applicable) is typically included in the total job price, not charged separately.
How often should I have my drains inspected to prevent blockages?
For most Sylvania homes, an annual CCTV inspection is enough to catch early signs of root intrusion, pipe deterioration, or sediment buildup before they cause a full blockage. Properties with a history of recurring blockages, established trees near sewer lines, or original 1960s, 1970s terracotta pipes may benefit from more frequent inspections to manage the issue proactively and avoid emergency callouts.
What happens if the camera shows structural damage after clearing the blockage?
If camera inspection reveals cracks, collapses, or joint failures in the pipe after clearing the blockage, we explain the options, pipe relining to seal the damage without excavation, or traditional dig-and-replace if the pipe has fully collapsed. Both options are quoted separately and clearly, so you're never committed to additional work without knowing the cost and scope upfront.