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The aftermath of a severe weather storm is stressful for residents and homeowners as there are many hazards and damages to look for around the home after it passes. No matter how prepared you are, it’s the aftermath that can result in significant damage to your home’s utility systems. Severe storms produce flooding and heavy winds that can cause your water, gas, sewage, and plumbing systems to become damaged or hazardous.
Often, residents and homeowners are so focused on physical damages that they overlook the plumbing repairs that are needed until it’s too late. So what are common plumbing problems that directly result from severe storms?
Below are common plumbing repairs to look out for after a storm:
Severe storms deliver heavy rainfall that can cause water to pool, runoff, or flood. As this water flows through your property it carries dirt, silt, and other objects into your drainage system resulting in blockage and clogs. These clogs can make it difficult for the water to recede or flow into the drains which eventually causes flooding. If not addressed immediately, the particles and objects creating the blockage can also damage your pipes. If you suspect your drains have become clogged after a recent storm, we recommend having a plumber inspect and repair it.
Your property’s plumbing system is made up of pipes that run throughout the house within the walls and underneath the ground. Heavy rain can result in flooding in areas where the pipes are located causing the pipes to crack or burst because of the weight and pressure of the water building up around them. If a storm has caused flooding in your home, broken pipes can often be spotted once the water has completely receded. Puddles, wet spots, and sinkholes are often indicators of areas with damaged pipes. If you suspect a storm has damaged your pipes despite not having any visible signs, a plumbing professional can conduct a camera inspection to confirm.
Every home sits on a foundation that has been set above the ground. Foundation types can vary from basements, to crawl spaces and concrete slabs. Heavy rainfall and flooding can cause water to run off and disrupt the soil located underneath the foundation making it unsteady. This can result in movement around the foundation causing it to crack from the weight above it and the instability underneath it. This movement can also damage the home’s utility systems as many pipes run straight through the foundation. If you suspect your home’s foundation has been damaged you should contact a plumbing specialist right away.
Most plumbing fixtures are located within the home which makes them less likely to be damaged as a direct result of a storm. However, storms can cause flooding within the home which in turn can directly affect your plumbing fixtures. Floodwater can contain sewage and other contaminants and depending on the extent of the flooding, these hazards can severely damage your fixtures. Most plumbing fixtures can be disinfected externally, but others will need to be disassembled for more extensive cleaning or even replacement.
Dealing with the aftermath of a storm can overshadow the relief you feel when the weather has passed as the consequences of the damages set in. But preparation is key and knowing what repairs to look for in your utility system can help you avoid further damage that can lead to disaster and costly repairs.
If you’ve recently dealt with a storm and require plumbing assistance, don’t hesitate to contact the experts at Core Plumbing (858) 293-4065. Our team of knowledgeable professionals is readily available to restore the plumbing in your home.