As a homeowner in Washington state, you have probably experienced your fair share of heavy rains. During severe storms, the most common concerns are loss of power or structural damage to your property. But have you ever wondered about how a torrential downpour can affect your plumbing?
While it is common to experience plumbing issues, especially in an older house, it is uncommon for them to happen frequently. If you are having problems with your plumbing system a little too often, it is time to investigate the external cause.
You might be surprised to know that heavy rains can be the reason why your plumbing is acting up. Read on below to see how rain can affect plumbing in your home.
How Does Heavy Rain Damage Plumbing?
There is absolutely no doubt that heavy rainfall can cause issues with your plumbing. Excessive rain can put immense stress on the plumbing system and increase pressure in the pipes. Rainwater around your house can also seep into the soil above the pipes.
Due to the increased weight of the dirt, pipes can be pushed further down. This movement of the pipes due to softened, wet ground can cause them to bend or break, causing significant issues.
Can Flood from Rain Cause Plumbing Issues?
Flooding can wreak havoc on your plumbing system and cause severe damage. Flood water contains loose soil, sand, and sediments that can overburden the drains both inside and outside. Deposits and debris from the drain can clog the external drains, internal drains, or both. Oftentimes, you might first become aware of the issue when there is a sudden leak in the house.
If you have a clogged drain system, it is best to schedule a plumbing service as early as possible to fix the problem. Fortunately, no matter how stubborn the clog is, it can be resolved with the help of a trusted drain cleaning company in the area.
By hydro jetting your clogged drains, professional plumbers can ensure they flow smoothly without any obstructions.
As a measure of caution, it is always a good idea to inspect your external pipes and make sure they are not damaged after a flood. If you notice any crack or damage, it is best to get it repaired by a reputable plumbing service before the next storm makes it worse. You don’t want to get caught unprepared.
In the event of heavy flooding, water can pool outside your home for a longer time. There is a risk of damage to the plumbing underground, and the heavy soil and water can put a lot of pressure on the pipes causing them to break. To ensure that everything is fine, hire a plumber who can check for any damage before it escalates into a much bigger problem.
Is It True That Rain Can Break Down a Toilet?
Toilets can bring many plumbing issues, from clogging to overflowing and more. However, you would never expect a toilet to back up or overflow after heavy rains, which can happen for many reasons.
Oftentimes, the type of waste disposal that your home relies on can contribute to clogged toilets. City sewer lines can be under substantial stress due to a heavy volume of rainwater. The water from your home has nowhere to go, and instead, it starts flowing backward towards your property.
Another culprit that can cause clogged toilets could be the septic tank. If rainwater enters your septic tank, it can cause the water to overflow and back up into your toilet, washing machine, sink, or bathroom drain. If ignored, this can potentially flood your home or basement, leading to more damage and increased costs.
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, homeowners should have their septic tanks inspected at least once every three years to prevent unexpected backups.
Having an efficient sump pump system in your basement is essential to reduce the risk of water damage in your basement. If your sump pump is malfunctioning, schedule a sump pump repair promptly and avoid potential damage to your property in the event of flooding.
How Can I Prevent Clogs in the Drains Outside My Home?
Taking appropriate preventive measures and doing periodic inspections of your plumbing system and drainage can be very helpful in preventing clogs. Professional plumbers in Lynnwood, WA, are equipped with the tools and technologies to thoroughly check your drains, maintain them and address any issues to prevent damage.
The freeze-thaw cycle in Washington can contribute to blockage in the drains. Add a freezing rainstorm, and your drain grating could get completely blocked. There is a sudden rush of water when the ice thaws, resulting in flooding.
A certified professional plumber will be able to ensure that all of your drains and drain grates are clear so that water can flow freely.
Sometimes, the sump of an outside drain can accumulate debris and sediments that can cause blockage in the drain pipe. Regular maintenance can prevent damage to your plumbing and save you money.
Reliable Drain Cleaning and Plumbing Services
If you have problems with your drains or plumbing system, trust the certified and skilled plumbers at Steve’s Plumbing in Lynnwood, WA.
We know that it can be very stressful to have a problem with your plumbing or drainage system. For over 25 years, we have provided exceptional services to residents in the Lynnwood area. Our team will provide the most effective solutions at reasonable prices no matter your unique requirements.
We specialize in all aspects of plumbing, including inspections, maintenance, installations, and drain cleaning. We serve Lynnwood, Woodinville, Mill Creek, Everett, Bellevue, Edmonds, and surrounding areas.
A little bit of preventative maintenance can go a long way in protecting your home and plumbing system. Keeping your pipes, drains, sump pump, and sewer line in perfect condition will give you complete peace of mind through heavy rain, snow, or wind.
Contact Steve’s Plumbing today and book an appointment.