DIY vs. Professional Drainage Rodding: Pros and Cons

What Is Drainage Rodding?

Drainage rodding is a method used to clear blockages in pipes and drains by using long, flexible rods to break up and dislodge debris. This technique is particularly effective for clearing localised blockages caused by leaves, grease or accumulated waste. Whether you're dealing with a slow-draining sink, a blocked sewer pipe, or a backed-up outdoor drain, rodding is often the first approach before resorting to more advanced methods like jetting or excavation.

If you’ve encountered a blocked drain, you might be wondering whether to tackle the issue yourself or call in a professional. While DIY rodding can seem like a cost-effective and straightforward solution, it comes with certain risks and limitations. On the other hand, hiring a professional ensures a thorough and safe resolution but comes at a higher cost. In this article, we’ll explore the advantages and disadvantages of both options to help you make an informed decision.

DIY Drainage Rodding

When DIY drainage rodding might be your best option

One of the main advantages of rodding your drains yourself is cost savings. Professional drainage services can be expensive, particularly for simple blockages that could be cleared with basic tools. Drain rods are widely available at hardware stores and can be reused multiple times, making them a worthwhile investment for homeowners who frequently deal with minor blockages.

Another benefit of DIY rodding is convenience. If you already have the equipment, you can attempt to clear the blockage immediately rather than waiting for an appointment with a drainage specialist. For minor issues, this can be a quick and effective solution that restores normal drainage within minutes.

In a perfect world, all drains should function perfectly. In real life, some drains seem to be particularly vulnerable to blockages; this might be caused by poor installation, additions or extensions to the original drainage system, ground movement, cracking or invasion of tree roots. If you are unfortunate enough to have such a drain, buying a set of drainage rods and rolling up your sleeves is a cheaper, short-term alternative to having your drain re-laid.

For those who enjoy hands-on problem-solving, tackling drainage issues yourself can also be a satisfying experience. It allows you to understand more about your drainage system and potentially prevent future issues by identifying problem areas early.

When DIY drainage rodding isn’t so great

Despite the potential cost savings, DIY rodding has its limitations. One of the biggest risks is that you could cause damage to your drainage system if you use drain rods incorrectly. Damage may include cracked pipes, dislodged joints, or a more severe blockage if the obstruction is pushed further into the system rather than broken up.

Another major drawback is safety. Drains can harbour harmful bacteria and unpleasant odours, making drainage rodding a messy and potentially hazardous task. Without proper protective equipment such as gloves and eye protection, you could expose yourself to harmful waste and bacteria.

Another point to consider is that DIY methods may not always be effective. Some blockages, particularly those caused by tree roots, scale build-up, or collapsed pipes, require specialised tools and expertise beyond what a homeowner can reasonably manage. If your blockage persists despite rodding attempts, you may end up needing professional assistance anyway, resulting in additional time and expense.

Professional Drainage Rodding

Why you should use a professional for drainage rodding

The main advantage of hiring a professional drainage service is expertise. Drainage specialists have years of experience dealing with all types of blockages, allowing them to diagnose and resolve issues quickly and effectively. They also have access to professional-grade equipment such as high-pressure jetting machines and CCTV drain inspection cameras, ensuring a thorough and long-lasting solution.

Another key benefit is safety. Professionals are trained to handle waste and bacteria safely, reducing health risks associated with exposure to sewage and contaminated water. They also follow industry best practices to avoid causing damage to your drainage system during the rodding process.

In many cases, hiring a professional can save time and effort. If you have a severe blockage or suspect an underlying issue, a drainage specialist can identify the problem and implement a solution without the trial-and-error approach often involved in DIY methods.

Bear in mind that drain cleaning professionals are (or should be) covered by insurance that will cover the cost of any damage incurred during the cleaning process and protect you and your property. They should also be insured against any injury or damage to members of the public and their property; this is important if the drainage rodding work is being carried out on or adjacent to a neighbouring property or public area such as a footpath or street, or if you are connected to a shared drain.

Why a drainage rodding professional might be a second choice

The primary drawback of professional drainage rodding is cost. Depending on the severity of the blockage and the location of the drain, professional services can range from relatively affordable to quite expensive, particularly if additional repairs are required or work needs to be done at short notice or outside of normal working hours.

Another potential downside is availability. While many drainage companies offer emergency callouts, scheduling an appointment may mean waiting hours or even days for assistance, depending on demand and location. In urgent situations, this delay can be frustrating and inconvenient.

Which Option Is Best for You?

Deciding between DIY and professional drainage rodding depends on several factors, including the severity of the blockage, your budget and your level of experience. If you’re dealing with a minor blockage and have the necessary tools, attempting to clear it yourself may be a viable option. However, if your drainage system is prone to frequent blockages, or if you suspect a more serious issue, investing in professional services could save you time, money and potential damage in the long run.

Ultimately, ensuring a clear and functional drainage system is crucial to preventing further complications such as flooding, structural damage and foul odours. If you’re unsure about tackling the problem yourself, seeking expert advice is always a good idea.

Drainfast – The Drainage Experts

This information is brought to you by Drainfast, one of the UK’s largest independent drainage products suppliers. If your drains persistently block and you decide to replace them, we carry large stocks of pipework, fittings and accessories for immediate despatch across the UK. If you decide to use a builder or groundworks contractor to do the work, ask them if they’re using Drainfast!