Why Does My Drain Keep Clogging? 6 Causes & Fixes

Quick Answer: Recurring drain clogs are usually caused by pipe damage, poor habits, tree roots, or grease buildup. A temporary fix with a plunger or snake won't solve the underlying problem—you need to address the root cause.

You just had your drain cleared last month. So why is it clogging again? Recurring clogs are frustrating and expensive. But they're also fixable—if you understand what's really causing them.

6 Reasons Your Drain Keeps Clogging

1. Damaged or Corroded Pipes

Old pipes develop cracks, thin spots, or collapse inside. These damaged sections trap hair, soap, and debris like a web. You can clear the clog temporarily, but the damaged pipe keeps catching new debris.

The Fix: Camera inspection reveals the damage. Pipe lining or relining is more cost-effective than full replacement.

2. Tree Roots in Your Sewer Line

Tree roots seek out moisture and can penetrate small cracks in your sewer line. Once inside, they grow, creating a net that catches debris and eventually blocks the line completely.

The Fix: Hydro jetting removes roots temporarily. For a permanent fix, remove the tree or relocate the sewer line.

3. Grease Buildup

Grease poured down the kitchen sink cools and solidifies inside pipes. Each time you drain grease, another layer accumulates. Eventually, the buildup is so thick that even small debris clogs the pipe.

The Fix: Stop pouring grease down the drain. Let it cool and throw it away. Hydro jetting clears buildup.

4. Flushing the Wrong Things

"Flushable" wipes, feminine products, paper towels, and diapers don't break down like toilet paper. They accumulate and catch other debris, creating recurring blockages.

The Fix: Only flush toilet paper. Everything else goes in the trash.

5. Hair Accumulation

Hair builds up gradually in shower and bathroom drains. You clear it once, but hair continues to accumulate. The drain clogs again in weeks.

The Fix: Install drain screens to catch hair and debris before it enters pipes. Clean screens regularly.

6. Improper Pipe Installation or Slope

Drain pipes need a slight downward slope so gravity moves waste along. If a pipe sags or has a low spot, waste pools there and clogs form.

The Fix: Camera inspection identifies problem areas. Pipe relining or resloping corrects the issue.

How to Stop Recurring Clogs

• Get a camera inspection to identify the root cause
• Use drain screens to catch hair and debris
• Never pour grease down the drain
• Only flush toilet paper
• Consider preventive maintenance with annual hydro jetting