If you’re experiencing recurring drainage issues or slow-running drains at your Salisbury property, there’s a good chance a hidden Buchan Trap (Interceptor Trap) is to blame. These outdated fittings are a frequent cause of blocked drains Salisbury homeowners face, particularly in older properties.
At Salisbury Drains24, we specialise in identifying, repairing, and bypassing these troublesome traps using modern, non-invasive methods.
🚽 What Is a Buchan Trap?
A Buchan Trap — sometimes called an Interceptor Trap — is a U-bend-shaped section of pipe fitted within drainage systems, designed to hold standing water and prevent foul gases from the public sewer entering a property. These traps were commonly installed in homes between the late Victorian period and the 1940s, when public sewer systems lacked the advanced venting and odour control we rely on today.
In Salisbury, many homes in areas like Bemerton Heath, Harnham, and the city centre’s Victorian terraces still have these outdated fixtures buried under gardens or driveways.
⚠️ Why Are Buchan Traps a Problem?
While Buchan Traps served a purpose in their time, they’ve become one of the most common causes of blocked drains Salisbury homeowners encounter today.
The issues:
- Narrow design: The U-bend restricts flow, easily collecting fat, grease, wipes, and debris.
- Hidden access: Often located under concrete or patios, making access difficult.
- Prone to root intrusion: Roots exploit joints in older clay pipes, leading to further blockages.
- Not needed anymore: Modern sewer systems and internal traps make them obsolete.
If left unchecked, a blocked interceptor can cause wastewater to back up into your property, leading to unpleasant odours, slow drainage, and even flooding.
🔧 How Salisbury Drains24 Fixes Buchan Trap Problems
1️⃣ CCTV Drain Surveys
Our first step is always a thorough inspection using high-definition cameras. This allows us to confirm whether a Buchan Trap is present, its condition, and the best course of action.
2️⃣ Bypass & Removal
Where possible, we recommend bypassing the Buchan Trap entirely by removing it and replacing it with a straight pipe connection. This restores full-bore flow and future-proofs your drainage.
3️⃣ CIPP Relining (No-Dig Repair)
If full removal isn’t practical (due to access or cost concerns), we can install a Cured-in-Place Pipe (CIPP) lining through the trap. This effectively smooths over the internal restriction, seals cracks, and prevents roots from causing further issues — all without excavation.
Both solutions meet Building Regulations Part H and eliminate the risk of future blockages.
🛠️ Why Choose Salisbury Drains24?
- ✅ No call-out fees
- ✅ Experienced with older Salisbury drainage systems
- ✅ CCTV surveys & full reports
- ✅ Trenchless repair specialists
- ✅ 24/7 emergency response
We offer reliable, affordable drain services Salisbury homeowners and businesses trust.
📞 Get Expert Drain Help in Salisbury
If you suspect a Buchan Trap is causing slow drains or recurring blockages, don’t wait for the problem to escalate. Call Salisbury Drains24 today for expert inspection and modern repair solutions.