Restoring Flow and Protecting Your Home

What is drain repair and why is it important?

Drain repair involves locating and fixing blockages, damage or failures in your home’s drain pipes so that wastewater can flow freely to the municipal sewer system or septic tank. Over time grease, proteins, fats, hair, dirt and other organic matter build up inside drainsthespruce.com. These deposits can create clogs that slow or stop the flow of water, leading to backups and potential water damage. Professional drain repair uses specialized tools—such as augers, video cameras and hydro‑jetting equipment—to remove obstructions, repair cracked or corroded pipes, and restore proper flow. Addressing drain problems promptly helps prevent sewage spills, structural damage and costly repairs down the line.

Signs You Need Professional Drain Repair in Allen, TX

Drains rarely fail without warning. Watch for these indicators that it’s time to call Thorough Plumbing:

• Slow drainage or gurgling noises. If sinks, tubs or showers empty more slowly than usual or produce gurgling sounds, material may be partially blocking the pipe.
  
  
• Recurring clogs. Frequent clogs in the same drain suggest that debris is building up deeper in the line rather than at the fixture trap.
  
  
• Foul odors. Persistent sewage smells can indicate waste trapped in the drain line or a broken vent pipe.
  
  
• Water backups or overflows. Water backing up into your bathtub, floor drain or yard is a serious sign of obstruction or pipe damage and requires immediate attention.
  
  
• Lush patches of grass or soggy ground. Saturated areas over your sewer line may mean a crack or break is leaking wastewater into the soil.
  
  
• Visible corrosion or leaks. Wet spots, rust marks or stains on exposed drain pipes indicate corrosion that can lead to failure.
  
  

Common Causes of Drain Problems

Everyday blockages

Daily life introduces all sorts of materials into drains. Food scraps, fats, oils and grease (FOG) from kitchen sinks can harden in pipes and create stubborn clogs. In bathrooms, hair and soap scum accumulate in traps and pipes. Over time these materials stick to pipe walls, narrowing the passageway until flow is severely restrictedthespruce.com. Foreign objects—such as wipes, sanitary products or small toys—can also lodge in a pipe and create an obstruction.

Structural issues

Blockages aren’t the only cause of drain trouble. Older homes in Allen often have cast‑iron or clay sewer lines that corrode, crack or collapse over decades of use. Tree roots seek out moisture and can infiltrate joints, causing leaks and blockages. Ground shifting due to soil movement, heavy construction or nearby traffic can misalign or break pipes. When the structure of the pipe is compromised, simple cleaning won’t solve the problem; professional repair or replacement is needed.

Our Drain Repair Process: How Thorough Plumbing Restores Flow

As a locally owned company, we take pride in offering comprehensive, transparent service. Here’s how we approach drain repair:

1. In‑depth diagnosis

A correct diagnosis ensures the problem is fixed right the first time. Our technicians start by listening to your observations, then inspect the affected fixtures and drain lines. For stubborn or recurring issues we insert a high‑definition video camera into the pipe. This allows us to locate the exact point of obstruction, identify cracks or root intrusion, and assess the pipe’s overall condition.

2. Drain cleaning and hydro‑jetting

Once the problem is located, we select the best cleaning method. For minor clogs near a fixture we often start with a professional‑grade plunger or manual auger. These tools create suction or physically break up the obstruction. For heavier build‑ups or long sewer lines we employ hydro‑jetting. Hydro‑jetting uses a hose with a special nozzle to deliver streams of water at pressures up to 4,000 psi that scour the pipe walls and flush debris away. This process removes grease, scale and roots without harsh chemicals, leaving the inside of the pipe virtually like new.

3. Pipe repair or replacement

If our inspection reveals cracked, collapsed or severely corroded pipes, cleaning alone won’t solve the problem. Depending on the severity and location we may recommend spot repairs, pipe relining or full replacement:

• Spot repair or section replacement. When only a small portion of pipe is damaged, we can dig or access the area to replace that section, restoring structural integrity.
  
  
• Trenchless pipe lining. For longer segments with minor cracks or pinholes, cured‑in‑place pipe (CIPP) lining inserts an epoxy‑soaked liner into the existing pipe. The liner hardens in place, creating a smooth new interior that seals leaks without extensive excavation.
  
  
• Full replacement. Severely deteriorated pipes, collapsed lines or those made from outdated materials may require complete replacement. Our team can install new PVC or HDPE sewer lines with minimal disruption using trenchless methods whenever feasible.
  
  

4. Post‑repair testing and prevention

After cleaning or repairs are completed we test the line to confirm proper flow. We’ll also discuss preventative measures—such as using strainers, avoiding grease disposal and scheduling regular drain cleaning—to prolong the life of your plumbing system.

How Do Professionals Unclog a Drain?

The tools and techniques used by professionals depend on the location and cause of the clog. Here are some common methods:

1. Plungers and air bladders. A plunger creates a vacuum seal and uses pressure to loosen and dislodge small clogs near the fixture. Air bladder devices attach to a hose and inflate in the pipe, blasting water through the blockage.
   
   
2. Drain snakes or augers. Manual and motorized drain snakes are flexible cables with cutting heads that break apart obstructions and clear hair or debris from pipes. They are effective for clogs deeper in the drain line where a plunger can’t reach.
   
   
3. Hydro‑jetting. For heavy build‑ups like grease or scale, hydro‑jetting uses high‑pressure water to scour pipe walls and remove deposits. It’s effective for long sewer lines and can cut through tree roots.
   
   
4. Chemical cleaners. In some cases chemical cleaners containing sodium hydroxide and sodium hypochlorite are used to dissolve organic material. These chemicals create heat and break down proteins and fatsthespruce.com. Because they are corrosive, professionals use them cautiously and may only recommend them for partial clogs where water still flowsthespruce.com.
   
   
5. Camera inspection and combination methods. Plumbers often combine camera inspection with these tools to ensure the clog is fully cleared and the pipe is undamaged.
   
   

Our experts select the safest and most effective method based on the pipe material, clog type and severity. We never use one‑size‑fits‑all approaches because each home’s plumbing system is unique.

Who Do I Ring for a Blocked Drain?

When faced with a stubborn clog or a complete blockage, it’s tempting to reach for chemical drain cleaners or attempt a DIY fix. While minor clogs may be cleared with a plunger, persistent or recurring issues are best handled by a licensed plumber. Choosing Thorough Plumbing ensures that:

• The underlying cause is properly diagnosed. Blockages can be symptoms of larger issues such as root intrusion, pipe corrosion or misaligned joints. Without professional inspection, you may only treat the symptom and miss the root cause.
  
  
• Your pipes aren’t damaged. Aggressive chemicals and improper snake use can damage older pipes. Our team knows when to use manual tools, hydro‑jetting or trenchless repair to preserve your system.
  
  
• Safety is prioritized. Handling caustic cleaners or high‑pressure equipment requires training. We protect your home and our technicians through proper procedures and personal protective equipment.
  
  

If you’re in Allen or the surrounding areas, call us at 844‑933‑5874 or reach out through our contact page. We offer same‑day and emergency service for blocked drains and will arrive promptly to resolve the issue.

Is It Better to Snake or Use Drain Cleaner?

Homeowners often debate whether to use a drain snake or a chemical cleaner when water stops flowing. Each option has pros and cons:

• Drain snakes physically remove clogs. Manual or motorized snakes insert a flexible cable into the pipe to cut or pull out debris. They are effective for hair, paper and small objects, and they won’t leave harsh chemicals behind. However, improper use can scratch porcelain fixtures or damage fragile pipes. That’s why it’s best to let a professional handle deep snaking.
  
  
• Chemical cleaners dissolve organic material. Products containing sodium hydroxide and sodium hypochlorite work by breaking down proteins, hair and fatsthespruce.com. A thick gel formulation allows the product to stay in contact with the clog and generate heatthespruce.com. These cleaners can work within 15–30 minutesthespruce.com, but they must be used carefully. Overuse can corrode metal pipes or damage rubber seals. The chemicals are also hazardous if they splash on skin or eyes.
  
  

Given these considerations, we generally recommend starting with mechanical methods such as plunging or snaking. Professional snaking or hydro‑jetting removes the blockage completely without leaving chemicals in the line. Chemical cleaners should be a last resort and never used in completely blocked drains—doing so can trap caustic liquid in the pipe and create a safety hazard. If you’re unsure, it’s best to contact a professional plumber who can evaluate the situation and use the safest method.

How Long Does It Take a Plumber to Fix a Drain?

The time required to restore proper drainage varies based on the nature of the problem:

• Minor clogs near fixtures can often be cleared within 30 minutes using a professional plunger or small hand snake. Sometimes a hydro‑jetting session may be needed but still completed in an hour or two.
  
  
• Multiple or stubborn blockages deeper in the drain line may require camera inspection and motorized equipment. Cleaning a main sewer line can take 2–4 hours depending on the length of pipe and amount of debris.
  
  
• Structural repairs such as replacing a section of damaged pipe or relining a sewer will take longer. Spot repairs can often be completed within a day, whereas trenchless pipe lining or full replacement may span one to three days depending on permitting, excavation and curing time.
  
  

Our team will provide a time estimate after inspecting your system. We understand that plumbing disruptions are inconvenient, so we work efficiently while maintaining high quality standards.

Why Choose Thorough Plumbing for Drain Repair in Allen, TX?

Local expertise and fast response

We’re based right here in Allen, which means we understand the unique plumbing challenges of North Texas homes—such as expansive clay soils, hard water and mature tree roots. Our proximity allows us to provide same‑day service and rapid emergency response.

Experienced, licensed technicians

Every member of our team is licensed, bonded and insured. Continuous training ensures we stay up‑to‑date on the latest drain repair technologies, from hydro‑jetting and pipe lining to smart camera inspections. You can trust our experience to deliver a long‑term fix rather than a temporary patch.

Transparent pricing

Before starting any work we provide a detailed estimate outlining recommended solutions and costs. We explain your options clearly so you can make informed decisions. There are no hidden fees or surprise charges—just honest service.

Advanced equipment

We invest in state‑of‑the‑art plumbing tools, including high‑resolution cameras, high‑pressure jetters and trenchless repair equipment. Using the right tool for the job speeds repairs and reduces disruption to your property.

Respect for your home

Plumbing work can be messy, but we respect your property. Our technicians wear shoe covers, protect work areas and clean up after themselves. We treat your home like our own.

Preventative Tips to Keep Your Drains Flowing

Simple habits can extend the life of your plumbing and reduce the need for repairs:

• Don’t pour grease down the drain. Instead, collect cooking oils and fats in a sealed container and dispose of them in the trash.
  
  
• Use hair catchers and screens. Install strainers in shower and sink drains to trap hair, soap scum and other debris before it enters the pipe.
  
  
• Flush drains with hot water. Periodically pour a kettle of hot (not boiling) water down kitchen and bathroom drains to help melt and move grease and soap buildup.
  
  
• Run cold water when using the garbage disposal. Cold water solidifies grease so the disposal can grind it, allowing it to travel through pipes more easily.
  
  
• Be careful what you flush. Only toilet paper should be flushed. Wipes, feminine products and other materials do not break down and can cause blockages.