Intense heavy rains can trigger a burst pipe due to increased pressure and movement underground.
Recent extreme weather events have wreaked havoc across the country. Many areas have experienced power interruptions, road closures, flooding, and evacuations. While there are always concerns about electrical wiring and roof damage, homeowners should also consider potential damage to their plumbing.
Given the importance of a home's plumbing system, understanding the potential challenges storms can induce is crucial. Here’s a deeper look into the strain that storms, especially those that include heavy rain, can place on residential plumbing:
Blocked drains
Pipes can be obstructed after heavy rainstorms due to the massive quantity of leaves, dirt, and particles that can accumulate and block drains. Obstructed drains are typical, as most are not created to handle sudden, significant volumes of water. If rain gutters have not been cleaned up, the rain might also flush leaves and sediment from rain gutters into the drain, creating a significant obstruction. Obstructed outdoor drains can trigger flooding and damage the home if action is not taken.
Damaged pipes
Intense heavy rains can trigger a burst pipe due to increased pressure and movement underground. When the ground is saturated with water, it softens enough that moving soil and rocks can strain or break buried pipes. If pipes are crushed or broken, dirt and particles can seep inside and clog the pipes, causing more damage. Homeowners most likely have broken underground pipes if they find staining, grit or particles in the water coming from the faucets after a storm. If this is the case, call a plumbing professional to complete a pipe repair or replacement immediately.
Basement or crawlspace flooding
A flooded basement or crawlspace can trigger more issues in a house. Whether the crawlspace or basement has handled water due to heavy rain, a drain backup, or broken and dripping pipes, the resulting standing water is a significant issue that must be resolved immediately. If left unattended, it could cause more damage to a home’s structure. Standing water and moisture can also be an appealing breeding place for mold and typical crawlspace critters like mice, rats, and termites.
Water accumulated in the basement or crawlspace should be eliminated quickly with a wet vac or sump pump. After eliminating the water, dry the basement or crawlspace thoroughly using a dehumidifier. This will minimize the growth of mold. It is recommended to hire a professional plumber in this scenario.
The most effective way to ensure the health of a home post-storm lies in enlisting professional plumbing services, ensuring both diagnosis and solutions are expertly handled.
If you need an honest, dependable plumber in the Phoenix, Mesa, Tempe or Chandler area, call Jimmy at 480-757-1273.
