Late-Summer Drain Clogs: What’s Causing Them and How to Clear Them for Good
If your drains are suddenly slow or backing up in August, you’re not alone. At Budd’s Plumbing, late summer is one of the busiest times for drain calls—especially in shore homes and rentals.
The reason is simple: months of heavy use combined with coastal conditions create the perfect storm for clogs. Whether it’s your kitchen sink, bathroom drain, or outdoor shower, late-summer backups are often a sign your system is overdue for attention.
Here are the most common causes of late-summer drain clogs—and what Budd’s can do to help fix and prevent them.

Problem: Sand and Debris Buildup
From beach showers to rinsing off feet in the laundry room, sand ends up in places it doesn’t belong. Over time, it settles in drain traps, pipes, and outdoor plumbing systems.
Budd’s Solution:
We provide drain snaking and jetting services to clear out sand, sediment, and buildup in indoor and outdoor systems. For repeat issues, we’ll assess whether your drain setup needs a design upgrade to prevent future problems.

Problem: Hair and Product Accumulation
After weeks of guests or renters using your bathrooms, hair, soap, and shaving product residue can lead to serious buildup—especially in older homes with narrow or aging pipes.
Budd’s Solution:
We use professional-grade tools to remove blockages without damaging your plumbing. We can also recommend and install updated stoppers and filters to keep hair and soap scum from collecting in the first place.
Problem: Kitchen Sink Slowdowns
Grease from grilling, oil from cooking, and food waste from gatherings all contribute to clogged kitchen drains in August. Many renters and guests don’t know what should (or shouldn’t) go down the disposal.
Budd’s Solution:
We’ll clear blockages in your disposal and drain line and advise on best practices for keeping your kitchen plumbing running smoothly. We also install upgraded disposals for homes that see high use.

Problem: Shower and Tub Backups
Drainage slows down gradually until one day the tub just won’t empty. Often this is caused by a combination of sand, hair, sunscreen residue, and hard water minerals.
Budd’s Solution:
We provide full drain cleanouts and offer enzyme-based treatments that safely maintain clear flow without damaging your system. For properties with recurring problems, we can inspect deeper into the line using video tools.
Problem: Outdoor Shower or Utility Drain Flooding
By late summer, outdoor drains are often full of leaves, mulch, and sand. These clogs can lead to standing water, mold, or even foundation damage if ignored.
Budd’s Solution:
We clear and flush utility drains and provide recommendations for storm-safe upgrades, like sloped drainage channels, protective grates, and seasonal maintenance plans.

Don’t Wait for the Water to Stop
A slow drain now can become a full blockage overnight—especially in busy homes and rental properties. Budd’s Plumbing offers fast response times and reliable drain services across Cape May and Atlantic Counties.
Whether you need a one-time cleanout or want to schedule regular drain care, we’ll help keep everything moving through the end of the season and beyond.
Call 609-465-3759 or request service at buddsplumbing.com