Avoid Piping Disasters From Heavy Rain

Hurricanes and heavy rainfall can be devastating for an unprepared residential plumbing system. It can be easy to prepare and keep your pipes safe if you know what to do. We have highlighted ways to protect your home for torrential rainfall.

Don't Let Broken Pipes Go Unfixed

Powerful storms can bring large amounts of water in a short amount of time. Excess water can follow the pre-built canals of a building’s pipes and other plumbing systems, and high pressure due to the extra water from the rainfall can sometimes be too much for the tubes, causing them to crack.

Additionally, after excessive rain, the ground often becomes very soft as it soaks up the extra water into the soil which can cause the pipes to shift. Shifting pipes from excessive rainfall can result in warping or cracking of the metal.

If a pipe cracks or breaks, it allows for solid material, such as leaves, rocks, and, dirt to get inside the pipes causing a clog.

After a severe storm, it is essential to make sure that all of the drains aren't damaged by checking your water for any dirt or debris, or an unusual color.

Also, check the toilet and bathtub for unusual gurgling noises when flushing.

Odd smells could be an indicator there is a block in your pipes as well.

If you suspect that a tube in your plumbing system has cracked, contact a professional as soon as possible.

Check Basement Flooding

It's common to have old family scrapbooks or children’s drawing stored in low lying basements, or dens, to become damaged by heavy rain and flooding.

It's even more common to have a basement flood due to poor drainage or a sewer backup.

If your basement has poor drainage, it might be worth considering having a sump pump installed - before a heavy rain.

If you live in a flood zone, a "Sump Pump" is an investment that could help with basement flooding from storms, or old pipes, by allowing you to quickly pump the water from your cellar outside away from your home.

If you do experience a flooded basement, be careful! Appliances and live outlets can turn the water into an electrical hazard.

If your basement floods during a storm, make sure to call for a professional’s assistance immediately.

Don't Overlook Septic Tank Maintenance

Houses that have septic tanks should have a professional check for unwanted damage or potential looming disasters.

When a septic tank becomes full, it can only take a small amount of excess to overflow or cause other unwanted problems. During a strong storm, if not properly taken care of, the septic tank can flood into lower drain-bearing fixtures in your house.

Having a professional check your system before, or after, a severe storm can save you a lot of long-term pain.

Clean Drains to Prevent Sewage Overflow

If a home does not rely on a septic tank, they are typically attached to a municipal sewer system; however, rainfall can still cause issues for your home.

When a blockage occurs in the sewer line, it can result in backup and overflow into your home because of the obstructions from debris in the drains. A small piece of solid material here or there won’t usually cause a problem until heavy rainfall causes extra strain on the system.

It is crucial to clean and clear your drains annually to prevent pipes clogs and sewage overflow into your home.