When the skies open up and the rain pours down, you likely assume your home’s gutters and plumbing system will be able to take care of the excess water. However, rain impacts Coral Springs plumbing systems in unforeseen ways, especially when there is a torrential downpour. Here is a quick look at how rain affects home plumbing systems.
1) Shifted and Ruptured Subterranean Pipes
The soil around subterranean pipes begins to soften after rain exposure. The combination of water and soil creates particularly heavy mud that has the potential to pressure the pipes. This pressure can move the pipes from their current position. Such shifting has the potential to lead to pipes bending into positions that lead to ruptures that send water flowing in unpredictable directions.
2) Excessive Sump Pump Operation
The level of saturation in the ground below and around your home ultimately dictates where the excess water goes. The permeable ground that is primarily dry will allow the water to drain away. Ground that is less permeable and ground that is already wet from prior rain will end up with water accumulating around the foundation. Even the topography of the property plays a role in the amount of water that accumulates around the home. As gravity does its thing, water moves down the slope where there is an incline. Alternatively, the comparably flat property will not provide water with anywhere to go. The water will gradually build up to the point that its pressure can send it gushing down into crawl spaces, the basement, etc.
The lack of a sump pump allows water to collect and cause a flood. Homes equipped with sump pumps ensure the majority of the water is drawn toward the sump pit. This water movement triggers the sump pump to remove the water. However, if rain is abundant, the sump pump will have to work that much harder. If you have not taken a look at the sump pump since buying your home, do so now. The sump pump must be properly sized for your unique home. Furthermore, the sump pump must be fully functional in case of a torrential downpour.
3) Heightened Pipe Pressure
The average plumbing system is quite durable yet it is challenging to predict what harsh weather can do to Coral Springs’s plumbing systems. A considerable amount of rain has the potential to saturate the ground, causing the sand/dirt near the pipes to turn into mud. Mud is water-laden so it is that much heavier than dirt or sand. This water-laden dirt will pressure your home’s pipes that much more, dramatically increasing the chances of a break or another issue.
4) Flooding in the Crawl Space or Basement
A blocked pipe, malfunctioning sump pumps, sewer backup, or another problem can lead to flooding in the basement or crawl space. The last thing you need is for this water to delve even deeper into your property and compromise your home’s foundation. Furthermore, puddling water or even an excess of moisture creates the perfect set of circumstances for the creation of mold and the arrival of other pests ranging from rats to mice, termites, etc. If you notice any water in your basement or crawl space, it should be eliminated as quickly as possible with a sump pump or wet vac. However, moving the water is not enough in and of itself. Our Coral Springs plumbers are here to address the root cause of this problem. We also have Coral Springs mold remediation specialists available to restore your living space to a safe condition.
5) Blocked Pipes
Heavy rain can cause pipes to leak. Ruptured pipes open the door for debris to move into the pipes. Such debris can lead to a blockage that sends water into the basement or to the foundation of your home. Particularly heavy rain can even fuel tree root growth that eventually grows through your home’s subterranean pipes, creating a slew of additional Coral Springs plumbing problems.
Erica's Plumbing, Air Conditioning & Restoration Is Here to Help
Rain is an inevitability. However, broken pipes, puddles of water in the basement, and mold-laden living space are all problems you can avoid. Erica's Plumbing, Air Conditioning & Restoration is at your service regardless of whether the rain has already caused extensive damage or if you would like to take preventative action. You can reach our local Coral Springs plumbers by dialing (561) 782-2779.
