Few things are more frustrating than a blocked toilet, especially when it seems like plunging and using a drain snake are not enough to fix the problem. In severe blockage, considering more drastic measures, such as using a drain liner, may be necessary. This article will explore what a drain liner is, how it can help you unblock a badly blocked toilet, and provide tips for preventing future blockages.
What Is A Drain Liner?
A drain liner is a flexible, durable sleeve made of materials such as PVC or epoxy resin. It is designed to be inserted into a damaged or blocked drainpipe to repair or reinforce it. Drain liners are commonly used in plumbing applications, including repairing damaged pipes and preventing future blockages.
Drain liners come in various sizes and can be customized to fit the specific needs of your plumbing system. The most common drain liners are cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) and sectional point repair liners.
CIPP liners are seamless, tube-shaped liners inserted into the existing pipe and cured using heat or ultraviolet light. Once the liner is fixed, it forms a new, smooth inner surface inside the tube, which can help to prevent future blockages.
How Can A Drain Liner Help Unblock A Toilet?
When a toilet is badly blocked, it may be due to a blockage further down the drainpipe. Using a drain snake or plunger may not dislodge the backup in these cases. This is where a drain liner can come in handy.
To use a drain liner to unblock a toilet, a plumber will first need to inspect the drainpipe using a specialized camera to determine the location and nature of the blockage. Once the blockage has been identified, the plumber will insert the drain liner into the pipe and inflate it using air or water. This will create a new, smooth inner surface inside the tube, which will help to prevent future blockages and allow water and waste to flow freely.
Tips For Preventing Future Blockages
While a drain liner can be a highly effective solution for unblocking a badly blocked toilet, it is always best to take steps to prevent blockages from occurring in the first place. Here are some tips to help keep your toilet and drainpipes running smoothly:
- Only flush toilet paper and human waste down the toilet. Avoid flushing items such as wipes, sanitary products, and paper towels, which can cause blockages.
- Use a drain strainer in your sink and shower to catch hair and other debris before it can enter the drainpipe.
- Regularly clean your drainpipes with a natural, eco-friendly drain cleaner to help prevent the buildup of grease, hair, and other materials.
- Schedule regular plumbing maintenance inspections to identify and repair any potential issues before they become significant problems.
In conclusion, if you are struggling with how to unblock a badly blocked toilet, a drain liner may be a valuable tool to help you fix the problem. However, it is always best to take steps to prevent blockages from occurring in the first place to avoid the need for costly and time-consuming repairs.
