Why Do Clogged Drains Happen More Often in Older Homes?

Why Do Older Pipes Get Clogged Easily?

Owning an older home has charm and appeal, but unfortunately, it comes with its fair share of challenges. One common issue homeowners of vintage properties face more often is clogged drains –and this problem isn't solely due to a lack of regular drain care!

We've seen this issue countless times here at Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Yavapai, Coconino and Maricopa Counties throughout Prescott, Camp Verde, and other nearby areas, so we're here to help. Keep reading to find some helpful information on why clogged drains are more common in older homes and the steps you can take to help prevent them from happening.

Common Sources of Clogs in Older Plumbing

As you settle into an older home, you may find that the plumbing system is likely not the newest thing on the property. While this isn't necessarily a deal-breaker, it does require extra care and diligence to keep them in good working order.

In particular, older homes are prone to specific plumbing problems leading to blocked drains. Here's a list of the most common causes of clogs in old pipes and drains:

Outdated or damaged pipes – The use of galvanized pipes in residential plumbing declined during the 1970s and 1980s due to corrosion and rust issues. By the 1990s, they were mostly replaced by copper or plastic piping. However, many older homes still have these pipes, which can corrode, rust, and become blocked. They are also more vulnerable to tree root damage, leading to cracks and debris entry, as well as creating unsafe drinking water for your home.
Settling foundations – As buildings age, foundations can settle, leading to shifts in the plumbing system. These shifts can cause misaligned pipes, making it easier for debris to accumulate and create clogs.
Wear and tear – General wear and tear on older plumbing systems can lead to weakened or damaged pipes, allowing debris to build up and cause blockages.
Lack of maintenance – Whether a home has been sitting unused for a while or things have been neglected, older homes may not have received the necessary maintenance to keep their plumbing systems in optimal condition.

While a creaky floorboard or a drafty window can be easily fixed, outdated plumbing systems aren't usually that simple. If you've noticed any signs of plumbing problems, it's important to contact a professional plumber who can help you identify the underlying cause and find a solution for your home!

Preventing Clogs in Older Homes

While there is no way to completely prevent clogs from forming in an older home, you can take some simple steps to reduce your risk.

Here's a list of things to keep your home's older pipes from clogging:

Regular drain cleaning – Regularly clean your drains using safe methods, such as using a plunger or a drain snake. Avoid using harsh chemical drain cleaners, as they can damage your pipes.
Know what to keep out of your drains – Be mindful of what goes down your drains. Avoid disposing of grease, oil, and large amounts of food scraps in your kitchen sink, even if you have a garbage disposal. Use a hair catcher in the bathroom to prevent hair and soap scum from clogging your drains.
Take early signs of trouble seriously – Regularly check your plumbing system for wear and tear, such as leaks, slow-draining water, or strange noises. Addressing small issues early on can help prevent larger clogs from forming.
Upgrade your plumbing system – If you have outdated or damaged pipes, consider replacing them with modern materials like PVC or copper. These materials are more corrosion-resistant and can help prevent future plumbing issues.

While some of the care your plumbing system needs can be done on your own, like skipping sending certain items down your drain and responding quickly to early signs of a blockage in your system, your system's drain cleaning, plumbing repairs, and pipe replacements should be done by a licensed plumber to ensure quality results.

Why Mr. Rooter Plumbing is the Best Choice for Older Homes in Prescott, Arizona, and Surrounding Areas

When it comes to maintaining the plumbing system in your older home, trust the experts at Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Yavapai, Coconino, and Maricopa Counties. Our team of experienced plumbers understands the unique challenges that older homes present and can provide tailored solutions to keep your plumbing system running smoothly.

Here are some of the services we provide to help you take better care of your older home's plumbing:

Pipe Replacement – We can replace old and outdated pipes with modern materials to help keep debris from collecting and clogging your drains. Our methods are non-invasive and trenchless, ensuring minimal disruption to your home.
Drain Cleaning – Our team can safely and effectively clean clogged drains using professional-grade tools and equipment, ensuring that the job is done right the first time. From traditional plumbing snaking to our HydroScrub – Jetting, our solutions blast through clogs and leave your drains looking like new.
Video Camera Inspection – Hidden clogs are a thing of the past when you have us on your side. We use advanced camera technology to inspect and diagnose issues in your plumbing system quickly and accurately, helping take the guesswork out of plumbing.

Contact Our Plumbers Today for Clogged Drain Services

If you're in Prescott, Arizona, or a surrounding area in Yavapai, Coconino, or Maricopa County and are dealing with clogged drains in an older home, don't hesitate to contact Mr. Rooter today. Our team is here to provide the best possible solutions for your unique needs. Explore our residential plumbing services to learn more, and reach out today for help!

Need help with a clogged drain today? Contact Mr. Rooter Yavapai, Coconino and Maricopa Counties for the help you need!