The Reoccurring Drain
Understanding and Fixing Seasonal Sewer Blockages – The Aussie Way
Question:
“My sewer’s blocked up again — that’s the third time this year, and it always seems to happen around autumn. What gives? Is this just bad luck or is something causing it?”
Answer:
You’re not alone — this is a question we get all the time as the cooler months roll in. The short answer? Yes, there’s a clear reason this keeps happening — and unless it’s properly sorted, you’ll keep having to deal with it every year like clockwork.
So, What’s Going On?
The usual suspect? Tree roots. During dry spells, trees get desperate for moisture — and your underground pipes are like a free drink on tap. Even the tiniest crack in your sewer line can attract thirsty roots, which then creep their way in and start growing inside the pipe.
Now, add a few weeks of heavy autumn rain into the mix and boom — the roots take off like wildfire. Then, when you flush anything down the drain, it gets caught on those roots, leading to slow drains, smells, gurgling toilets, and full-on blockages.
Quick Fixes – Good for Now, Not Forever
You can often get your drain unblocked quickly with a good jet-blast or electric eel. And while that clears the immediate problem, it’s like trimming a weed — it’ll grow back.
If the underlying root problem isn’t addressed, it’ll be back next season, and probably worse.
Long-Term Solutions – What Actually Works
1. Chop Down the Tree
Sure, it’ll stop the roots at the source — but it’s a big decision. If the tree’s important to your garden or adds value to your home, this one might be off the table.
2. Dig It Up and Replace the Pipes
The traditional fix: dig up the old clay or terracotta pipes and replace them with modern PVC. PVC joints are watertight, so roots can’t sneak in. The downside? It’s expensive, messy, and means ripping up lawns, driveways, or even patios.
A Smarter Alternative: Pipe Relining
Want a fix without the mess? Enter pipe relining — a modern method that’s gaining traction with Aussie homeowners.
This no-dig solution involves threading a resin liner through the existing pipe. It hardens to form a smooth, solid new pipe inside the old one.
Why It’s a Game-Changer:
- ✅ No Excavation – Keeps your lawn, tiles, and landscaping intact
- ✅ Stops Roots for Good – Creates a sealed pipe that roots can’t get into
- ✅ Quick Turnaround – Most jobs are done in a day
- ✅ Long-Term Value – Less mess, fewer callouts, and less stress
Is Pipe Relining Right for You?
Pipe relining isn’t a one-size-fits-all fix. Sometimes the damage is too severe, or the pipe layout isn’t suitable. That’s why it’s best to get a qualified local plumber to do a CCTV drain inspection and talk you through the best options.
Final Thoughts
If your drain keeps backing up around the same time each year, don’t just live with it. Seasonal blockages are a sign of something deeper going on — and ignoring it can lead to bigger problems down the line (think flooding, damage, or costly emergency callouts).
Whether it’s tree roots, broken pipes, or just old infrastructure, there’s always a solution — and it doesn’t have to mean tearing up the yard.
Take action now and give your drains the long-term fix they deserve. Your future self will thank you come next autumn!
THE DOCTOR GETS IT DONE