Why does the floor drain back up with toilet paper?

 

Why the Floor Drain Backs Up with Toilet Paper

 

The floor drain backs up with toilet paper because the paper can clog the plumbing pipes when too much of it accumulates or if it sticks together with other debris. In simple terms, when toilet paper is flushed, it should dissolve and be carried down the pipes. However, if there is too much at once or if the paper does not break down well, it can get caught in the bends or narrow parts of the plumbing, causing a blockage that leads to water from the toilet or floor drain backing up into your space.

 

Understanding the Plumbing System

 

Your home’s plumbing is like a network of tubes that takes wastewater away, much like a system of pipes in a mountain climbing rope system that has to run smoothly without knots or tangles. When you flush toilet paper, it travels down these pipes. Modern toilet paper is designed to dissolve quickly, but if you flush too much at once, or if the plumbing is older or has narrow bends, the paper can stick together and block the flow. Other debris like hair, grease, or foreign objects can worsen the blockage.

 

How a Clog Develops

 

When multiple layers of toilet paper build up, it creates a thicker barrier in the pipe. Over time, this can merge with other deposits on the side of the pipe, like soap scum or grease, which then narrows the pipe even more. As water tries to move through this smaller space, the pressure can force the backed-up water to exit through the floor drain instead of continuing on its proper path to the sewer or septic system.

 

Key Factors Contributing to the Problem

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• Using too much toilet paper at one time, which makes it harder for the paper to break apart.
• Pipes that are older or have rough inner surfaces, causing paper and other materials to stick more easily.
• The combination of toilet paper with other household wastes, such as hair or cleaning residues, which can form a tougher clog.
• Low water pressure in the system, which may not carry away the dissolved paper fast enough.

 

Preventive Measures and Solutions

 

To avoid these clogs and stop toilet paper from backing up in your floor drain, consider these solutions:

• Use a modest amount of toilet paper during each use so that it can break down properly.
• Regularly flush your system with plenty of water to help move any small amounts of paper along before they accumulate.
• If you live in an older home, having your pipes inspected by a professional can identify potential problem areas or build-ups that need cleaning.
• Avoid disposing of other waste products in the toilet, as these can combine with the paper and form a blockage.

 

When to Seek Professional Help

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If you find that the problem persists even after using less toilet paper and being cautious, it might be time to call in a professional plumber. They use special tools, such as drain snakes or hydro-jetters, to clear out stubborn clogs and inspect the deeper parts of your home’s plumbing system for damage or blockages that aren’t easily seen.

 

Local Expertise Available

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For residents or businesses in St. Louis and Nashville, experienced full-service providers like Hoffman Brothers can quickly diagnose and resolve such issues. Their expertise covers both residential and commercial plumbing systems, ensuring that your drains remain clear and your plumbing functions smoothly even in challenging circumstances.