In a little over a week’s time, Halloween will be here! The spooky celebration of ghouls, ghosts and goblins is an exciting spot on the calendar for most people. That’s because they know the scary stuff is all in good fun. The truth is that there is something much scarier in your home. We’re talking about the impact of neglected drains. What seems like a slow trickle or a faint foul smell might actually be the opening act to a plumbing nightmare.
Water damage and structural decay.
Imagine water slowly creeping through your walls or under your floors. When drains are blocked, water has nowhere to go. It backs up and seeps into porous materials. This results in rotting wood, warped floors, stained drywall and even undermined foundations. What starts as a puddle under the sink might eventually lead to buckling floors or crumbling baseboards. The real horrors are the needed repairs that can cost thousands and take weeks to complete.
An invasion of drain-dwelling pests.
What’s a haunted house without creepy crawlies? A neglected drain is like an open invitation for pests. We’re talking about drain flies that breed in the gunk inside your pipes. As well, we’re also looking at cockroaches, rodents and other pests that may travel through plumbing lines looking for moisture and nutrients.
Once pests get a foothold, the infestation may spread beyond the pipes into your living spaces. These critters carry bacteria and parasites too. They just love to feast and your clogged drain is their buffet!
Mould and mildew.
Dampness + darkness = the perfect breeding ground for mould and mildew. Blocked drains create stagnant pockets of water. In those moist caverns, mould and bacteria thrive. Mould spores can waft into your air and trigger coughing, wheezing or allergic reactions. Pathogenic bacteria like E. coli may multiply in stagnant water and, if exposure is high enough, pose health risks.
Toxic gases and backflow nightmares.
Under normal conditions your plumbing “trap” system and venting keep sewer gases like methane, hydrogen sulphide and others safely outdoors. But with blocked drains, gases can back up into your home, causing foul odours and even health problems.
In extreme cases, backflow of sewage can occur, sending contaminated water back into your sinks, tubs or toilets. Mixing chemical drain cleaners in such a scenario is even riskier. Combining certain chemicals can release dangerous gases such as chlorine gas.
Burst pipes.
The pressure from a stubborn clog doesn’t just sit quietly. Over time it exerts force on your pipes. That stress can lead to cracks or even bursts. Some homeowners, in desperation, use strong chemical cleaners or “do-it-yourself” hacks. The problem is that harsh chemicals can corrode metal or plastic pipes over time.
If you mix incompatible cleaners, the reaction could be dangerous. A burst pipe in the ceiling or behind walls is a true house‑haunting. Hidden leaks can ruin insulation, drywall, flooring and your budget.
Are you in need of professional drain cleaning services?
For clean, clog-free drains, turn to the drain plumbers at 2 Bro’s Plumbing! Proudly serving Durham Region since 2015, we provide comprehensive drain cleaning services to remove buildup and ensure smooth water flow. Our family-owned business is known for its reliable, professional service and commitment to customer satisfaction. From kitchen sinks to shower drains, we tackle every job with precision and care.
Please don’t hesitate to give us a call at 905-556-0790, email us at admin@2brosplumbing.ca or fill out the form on our Contact page for a free quote today!