With snow and freezing temperatures currently sweeping across the UK, drainage systems are under increased pressure.
Cold weather can expose hidden weaknesses in pipework and underground drainage. These problems often appear suddenly and worsen quickly.
Being vigilant now can prevent costly damage later.
Common Drainage Problems Caused by Freezing Weather
When temperatures drop, water inside pipes can freeze and expand. This can cause pipes to crack, fracture or burst entirely.
Blocked drains are another common winter issue. Leaves, fat and other debris harden in cold conditions, which restricts flow and increases the risk of internal flooding.
Frozen gullies and manholes can also prevent surface water from draining away. This often leaves to pooling water, ice hazards, and property damage.
Risks After Thawing
The risk of flooding increases massively when snow and ice melt rapidly, especially in drainage systems that aren’t regularly maintained. Large volumes of water can severely overwhelm already stressed pipework. If drains are blocked or damaged, the water has nowhere to go, resulting in flooded buildings, car parks and public areas.
Collapsed or weakened pips may also fail under sudden pressure.
These issues are often hidden until flooding occurs.
Boiling Water Isn’t the Answer for Frozen Pipes
When pipes freeze, it can be tempting to thaw them quickly using boiling water. This is extremely risky!
Sudden temperature changes cause pipes to expand too fast, leading to cracking or complete pipe failure. Older pipework is especially vulnerable. Plastic pipes can split, and metal pipes can rupture at weak points.
Boiling water can also freeze further along the system, creating new blockages deeper within the pipework.
In some cases, the damage isn’t immediately visible. Leaks may appear later once the pipe fully thaws.
If you suspect frozen pipework, professional advice is always the best option. DALROD engineers use controlled methods to resolve frozen drainage issues without causing further damage.
Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
- Slow draining sinks, toilets, or gullies are an early warning sign
- Unpleasant odours can indicate a blockage forming
- Gurgling noises point to trapped air in the system
- Standing water outside should never be ignored
Small issues can escalate fast in freezing conditions.
Why Pre-Planned Maintenance Matters
Winter highlights the importance of Pre Planned Maintenance (PPM). This is especially critical for businesses, schools, and public buildings.
Regular inspections help identify blockages, structural defects, and damaged pipework, meaning problems can be resolved before freezing temperatures make them worse.
PPM reduces emergency callouts and unexpected downtime and can be tailored to meet the needs and schedule of your business.
Preparing now makes future winters far less disruptive.
Call DALROD Before a Small Issue Becomes a Major Problem
If you’re experiencing drainage issues, don’t wait for conditions to worsen. DALROD provides expert drainage investigations, repairs, and emergency response.
Our teams are equipped to deal with winter related drainage problems quickly and safely and offer tailored PPM solutions to protect your drainage system year-round.
