You step outside in the morning and see water standing in puddles, and your stormwater drain next to your driveway is clogged. A clogged drain can cause flooding, property damage, and aggravation when there's a heavy downpour. That’s why trustworthy stormwater pipe cleaning is essential for keeping things flowing correctly. But how do these drains get blocked up in the first place, and what can you do about it?

What causes stormwater drains to block?

Flood drains are designed to prevent rainwater from pooling — but can also get clogged. Common culprits include:

• Leaves and debris: Sudden storms can leave behind accumulated leaves, dirt and small branches that can block drains.

• Litter and waste: Plastic bags, bottles and other rubbish often wash into drains and cause blockages.

• Tree roots: Roots can invade underground pipes, limiting the flow of water and causing backups.

• Sediment build-up: Over time, sand, silt and dirt can settle in pipes, decreasing capacity.

Signs your stormwater drain might be blocked

A drainage problem is easy to ignore until it’s an issue. Keep an eye out for:

• Water pooling around your house, especially in places that usually dry out quickly.

• Slow-draining water, such as puddling water, takes a long time to drain after the rain.

• Gurgling sounds from your drains mean the air is trapped because of a blockage.

• Unpleasant gas odours are escaping from the drain, which may indicate stagnant water.

Preventing stormwater drain blockages

A bit of upkeep can help stave off expensive drainage issues. Here’s what you can do:

• Clean gutters and downpipes regularly to prevent debris from washing into drains.

• Drain guards are installed to intercept leaves and debris before they can enter the system.

• Do not use outdoor drains to wash away paint, oil, or chemicals; dispose of waste properly.

• Look for roots and schedule inspections by professionals if you have large trees close to your pipes. Tree roots are naturally drawn to moisture, and underground pipes can become an easy water source for them. 

Conclusion

Many obstructions cannot be solved with a simple clean-up. If you notice crash floods, foul odours, or overflowing water, it’s time to get a professional on the phone. Early repair of drainage problems avoids more severe drainage failure, so it becomes necessary to resolve the issue promptly. In addition, it's crucial to avoid toilet clog errors, which can add unnecessary strain to your plumbing system. Taking proactive steps ensures excellent stormwater system maintenance and protects you from future unpleasant problems in heavy rain conditions.