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April showers bring May flowers. But they also bring basement flooding, leaks, mold, and other plumbing hazards that can put a real damper on your water pipe performance. Luckily, a little preventative maintenance can go a long way during the rainy spring season! Follow these steps to help prevent water damage.
Before a Rainstorm
Invest in a Sump Pump: Does your home get hit with lots of rain? It’s time to consider a sump pump. These electric pumps divert water from your basement to the outside. If basement sits below the water table and is a constant flood risk or you just need backup support during rainstorms, a sump pump is a smart solution. Gallons of water can flood your basement until the sump pump is replaced or repaired.
Clear Debris: Clean storm gutters and drains routinely to ensure that plumbing stays free of debris and prevents blocked pipes.
After a Rainstorm
Watch for Mold: Mold is caused by basement water infiltration. Not only can it damage items, but it can severely compromise your health (and it can even impact the resale value of your home!). Mold can be identified by:
- Visible mold (generally, black texture)
- Musty smell
- Peeling drywall
- Respiratory issues
Mold isn’t just limited to basements. Check for dampness or odor in your floors and walls. Plumbing leaks and slow leaks can go unnoticed for long stretches of time, leading to dangerous mold growth. They can also cause serious damage to your home’s foundation.
Check the Tap: Run your sink and shower taps. If you notice a decrease in water pressure, it could indicate that you have a ruptured pipe or plumbing leak of some kind caused by heavy storms. Keep an eye out for grit, debris, or generally discolored water. This could signify damaged or corroded pipes.
Watch for Blockage: Pipes can become backed up after rainstorms due to debris deposited into storm drains and downpipes during storms. This type of clog is best left to the professionals — not caustic cleaners.
Contact a Professional: If you’re unsure how to detect or repair plumbing damage caused by storms, it’s best to call the pros. Benjamin Franklin Plumbing® of Nashville Plumbers have the skills and tools needed to replace sensitive plumbing components like sump pump sensors, pipes, and fittings.