Your home’s and garden’s drainage system is one of the most important components in keeping your home running smoothly, day to day - but it’s also one of the most overlooked. A healthy drainage system equals a healthy home, and adding just three simple items to your maintenance armoury can make the world of difference in keeping your home’s drains and pipes flowing smoothly.

It’s worth noting that, in this blog, we’ll be looking in particular at cast iron LCC (London County Council) drainage and soil systems, which we believe to be the most effective, long-lasting and unobtrusive you can use. What, then, are these three drainage products guaranteed to improve your home and garden’s drainage?

Joint Sealant

If you’re using a traditional cast iron drainage system - or any for that matter - then you need to have a ready supply of joint sealant in your shed; when used in conjunction with caulking cord (which is the next item on this list) joint sealant can plug any leaks, and help repair any damage your pipes might have sustained. Usually, one bottle of sealant will contain enough adhesive to plug/seal around 4 joints. For a joint sealant aimed specifically at traditional cast-iron drainage pipework, click here.

Caulking Cord

Caulking cord, also known as rope caulk, is a highly pliable material that’s used to help block gaps, leaks, holes and other damaged areas. The cord is laid around or placed over the area in question that needs repairing, and then sealed into place using the joint sealant (mentioned previously). Caulking cord is typically sold per metre, and - as a rough estimate - a 4” joint would require approximately 4 metres to properly caulk. 

Wire Downpipe Balloon

Wire balloons for downpipes help regulate drainage, and ensure a fast flow rate is maintained. These deceptively simple contraptions comprise a hollow wire sphere/balloon shape, which is inserted into the top of a downpipe to prevent it from becoming clogged with leaves or other organic matter. Cheap, but incredibly effective, we’d say that these metal frames are a must-have for any drainage system.

Final Thoughts…

It’s important to keep your drainage system in shape, however you can. A well-made set of drainage pipes and joints will stand you in good stead, but they still need to be looked after from time to time. After all, a well-looked after car is going to last longer than a beaten-up, old banger…

If you’d like to find out more about any of our LCC Soil System products, then click here! With all of our cast-iron products provided by a reputable, established UK foundry, when you buy with Metal & Glass, you know your drainage products are going to last a long time! Give us a call on 01752 917497 or by filling out one of our online contact forms.