Winter brings more than frosty mornings — it brings challenges for your drainage system too. In Salisbury’s mix of older homes and rural properties, frozen or blocked pipes can quickly become an emergency. Proper winter drain maintenance keeps water moving and prevents burst pipes or flooding.
🧊 Why Drains Need Extra Care in Winter
As temperatures drop, standing water inside outdoor or exposed pipes can freeze. Expansion causes cracks and joint failures — especially in aged pitch fibre or clay pipes. Regular drain cleaning before cold snaps clears debris that slows water flow and leads to freezing.
Pro tip 👉 Schedule a CCTV survey before December to spot any weak points or blockages.
🌧 Common Winter Drain Issues in Salisbury
• Frozen pipes causing backups and cracks
• Grease build-up from holiday cooking
• Blocked soakaways from autumn leaves
• Tree root intrusions seeking warm moisture
🔧 Steps for Cold-Weather Drain Care
1️⃣ Insulate exposed pipes — Use foam lagging in garages and outbuildings.
2️⃣ Flush with hot water weekly to dissolve grease and soap scum.
3️⃣ Check external gullies — Clear leaves and silt before rain.
4️⃣ Book drain jetting to remove blockages before freezing sets in.
5️⃣ Monitor slow drains — A sign of underlying issues needing repair.
🧰 Professional Help for Peace of Mind
The team at Salisbury Drains24 uses thermal imaging and CCTV technology to detect cold spots and frozen sections. Our engineers provide rapid drain repairs and emergency drain unblocking when temperatures plummet.
🪣 Keep Soakaways and Manholes Clear
Soakaways are vital for managing stormwater. Before winter rains arrive, remove sludge and roots that restrict percolation. A clean soakaway prevents surface flooding around driveways and gardens in Salisbury’s rural zones.
🌡 When to Call an Expert
If you notice gurgling sounds, slow flow, or frost forming around drain covers — call a specialist. Ignoring early signs can lead to burst pipes and flooding. 24/7 emergency support is available from Salisbury Drains24 throughout the cold season.
✅ Key Takeaways
- Winter freeze can cause pipe cracks and flooding
- Book CCTV and jetting services before December
- Insulate vulnerable pipework and clear gullies
- Maintain soakaways for rain management
- Call Salisbury Drains24 for fast local help
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
1. How can I stop my drains from freezing?
Insulate exposed pipework, flush with hot water weekly, and keep outdoor gullies clear of debris. Simple maintenance prevents freezing and cracks.
2. How often should I clean my drains in winter?
Ideally once before the cold season begins — professional jetting and CCTV inspection ensure blockages don’t form during freezing weather.
3. Do soakaways freeze in cold weather?
Yes, if they’re clogged with leaves, roots, or silt. Cleaning your soakaway before winter maintains proper drainage and avoids overflow.
4. Can Salisbury Drains24 help with frozen pipes?
Absolutely — our engineers provide 24/7 emergency drain unblocking and repairs throughout the winter months across Salisbury and nearby areas.