Heavy rainfall is often seen as a relief during hot summers, heralding a drop in temperatures and nurturing the environment. However, what’s beneficial to nature can sometimes pose challenges to our home infrastructure, especially the plumbing system. Since weather patterns can bring significant rainfall in the area, it’s crucial to understand how these conditions might impact your residential plumbing. 

In this post, we discuss how heavy rain can affect your plumbing system and what you can do to mitigate potential issues.

Blocked Drains

One of the immediate effects of heavy rain is the increased risk of blockages in your drains. As rainwater rushes through your property’s external drainage system, it often carries along debris such as leaves, sticks, and trash. These things can accumulate fast, leading to clogged pipes and slow water flow. Such blockages can cause extensive damage to your plumbing system if not addressed promptly.

Pressure and Pipe Damage

Heavy rainfall doesn’t only increase the volume of water your plumbing system has to manage; it also adds significant pressure on your pipes, particularly those laid underground. The soil surrounding these pipes becomes saturated, making it heavier and causing it to exert more force on the pipes. This added pressure can cause pipes to shift, bend, or break, resulting in leaks or severe burst pipes, which are costly and problematic to repair.

Increased Ground Saturation and Plumbing Disruption

The ground saturation from prolonged rainfalls doesn’t only pressure the pipes. It can also lead to a softer substrate that shifts more easily, potentially misaligning your plumbing infrastructure. This issue is compounded in residences with older plumbing systems, which may not be fully equipped to handle such stress. Older homes may experience more frequent and severe damage during heavy rainfall.

Flooding

Proper drainage is critical in ensuring that excessive rainwater is channeled away from your home efficiently. Blocked storm drains and gutters can lead to flooding, which poses a risk not only to your plumbing but to the structure of your home as well. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning gutters and ensuring downspouts are directing water away from your foundation, is essential. Additionally, consider installing a sump pump if you have a basement as it is an effective measure against flooding.

Recognizing the Warning Signs

It’s important to know how to recognize early warning signs of plumbing stress caused by heavy rainfall. Slow drainage might be your first hint that a blockage is forming. Similarly, any changes in water pressure or discoloration of water can indicate a fractured pipe or a more severe issue within your system. Addressing these signs early can prevent most emergencies.

Plumbing Doctor is experienced and equipped to handle plumbing issues caused or exacerbated by heavy rainfall. Count on our team to keep your home safe and dry, no matter the weather. Call us at (908) 873-6686 or complete our online form to schedule an appointment.