Spring brings longer days, warmer weather, and a surge of activity in your home—from deep cleaning to outdoor projects and family gatherings. All that extra hustle can put added strain on your plumbing, leading to unexpected drain clogs at the worst possible time.
At Mainstream, we know how important it is to keep your home running smoothly, especially during the busy spring season. For over 20 years, we’ve helped Spokane and Inland Northwest homeowners tackle seasonal plumbing challenges before they turn into costly repairs.
Drain clogs tend to spike in spring due to tree roots invading pipes, shifting ground, and increased household use. The good news? A few proactive steps can keep your drains clear and prevent major disruptions. Learn more about common spring drain issues and how to stay ahead of them with our expert tips on drain clogs.
Understanding Springtime Drain Clogs
Spring brings unique challenges for your home’s plumbing. Rainfall increases, the ground thaws, and temperatures rise—all of which can impact pipes and drainage. On top of that, spring is often a busy time for cleaning, outdoor projects, and family gatherings, which naturally add more strain to drains.
For example, heavy rains can overwhelm drain systems, pushing debris and sediment into pipes. Meanwhile, thawing soil can shift pipes, creating weak spots that make blockages more likely. These seasonal factors combine to make spring a common time for drain clogs.
The Role of Tree Root Infiltration
How Tree Roots Affect Your Sewer Lines
Tree roots are a major cause of drain clogs, especially in areas like Spokane where mature trees are everywhere. Roots instinctively grow toward water sources, and sewer lines are an easy target. Even a tiny crack in a pipe can allow roots to sneak in, eventually leading to serious blockages. Once inside, roots trap debris like toilet paper and grease, causing slow drains, backups, or even a complete pipe collapse.
Why Spring Accelerates Root Growth
Spring is when trees and plants start growing rapidly again, thanks to warmer weather and extra moisture. This makes pipes more vulnerable to root infiltration during this season. Homes with older sewer lines, especially those made of clay or Orangeburg material, are at an even higher risk. Tackling root issues early can save you the hassle and expense of major repairs later on.
Increased Kitchen Sink Backups in Spring
Seasonal Cooking Habits Leading to More Grease and Food Waste
Spring often changes how we use the kitchen. With family gatherings and outdoor events, cooking tends to pick up, which means more grease, oil, and food scraps end up in the sink. Grease is particularly troublesome because it hardens when it cools, sticking to pipes and catching other debris. Over time, this buildup leads to stubborn clogs that might need professional removal.
Impact of Spring Cleaning on Drains
Spring cleaning doesn’t stop at closets—it often involves kitchens, bathrooms, and garages too. As you rinse out mop water, dirt, and other particles, drains can get overloaded. This extra debris can clog pipes, especially if your plumbing hasn’t been maintained regularly.
The Hidden Impact of Thawing Ground
Soil Movement and Its Effect on Pipes
When winter frost melts and the ground thaws, soil naturally shifts. This movement can stress underground pipes, causing cracks, misalignment, or even collapse in extreme cases. These issues make it easier for debris to pile up and create blockages. Thawing ground can also expose weak spots in your plumbing, which is why it’s smart to address clogs or leaks early in the season.
Increased Risk of Pipe Damage Leading to Clogs
Spring rains and thawing conditions can also wash sediment into pipes, increasing the risk of clogs. For older homes, this combination of ground movement and extra water flow can be especially damaging. If clogs keep coming back or water drainage seems slower, a professional sewer line inspection might be a good idea.
Signs Your Drains Are Affected This Spring
Slow Draining Water
One of the first signs of a springtime clog is water draining more slowly than usual. This can happen in sinks, tubs, or showers and usually points to a partial blockage somewhere in the plumbing.
Gurgling Sounds in Pipes
Unusual gurgling or bubbling sounds in pipes often mean trapped air, which is a sign of a clog. These noises are most noticeable after flushing a toilet or running water in a sink.
Unpleasant Odors from Drains
Bad smells coming from drains often signal a problem. Organic material or grease buildup in pipes usually causes these odors and can lead to bigger issues if left untreated.
Preventative Measures to Combat Spring Drain Clogs
Scheduling a Professional Sewer Line Inspection
A professional sewer inspection is one of the best ways to avoid springtime clogs. At Mainstream, our team uses advanced camera technology to check pipes for problems like tree roots or misalignment without any digging. Catching these issues early can save a lot of hassle down the line.
Regular Drain Cleaning Services
Regular maintenance is key to keeping drains clear. Our professional cleaning services clear out grease, debris, and other buildup that cause clogs. Scheduling these cleanings helps your pipes last longer and prevents unexpected plumbing emergencies.
Avoiding Harmful DIY Remedies
Chemical clog removers might seem like a quick fix, but they often damage pipes over time. These products usually contain harsh chemicals that corrode plumbing and harm the environment. Safer options include professional hydro jetting or enzyme-based cleaners, which effectively clear clogs without damaging your system.
We Are Drain Cleaning. We Are Mainstream.
At Mainstream, we’re more than just plumbers—we’re part of your community. For over 20 years, Spokane homeowners have relied on us for plumbing solutions that are both effective and affordable. From clearing stubborn clogs to replacing sewer lines, we have the tools and expertise to handle any challenge your drains throw our way.
As a local, family-owned business, we understand the unique plumbing needs of homes in Spokane and the Inland Northwest. That’s why we offer our Service Partner Plan, designed to keep your drains flowing freely year-round. With regular maintenance, priority service, and exclusive discounts, you’ll benefit from a proactive approach that prevents clogs before they start.
Don’t let springtime plumbing issues disrupt your home. Trust the professionals at Mainstream to deliver the fast, effective solutions you need. Contact us today to schedule your drain cleaning or learn more about our comprehensive plumbing services.
