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Posted on April 22, 2019 by

Everything You Need To Know About Your Pipes After A Rainstorm

Rain is an inevitable part of life, no matter where you live. If you live in the Falls Church area, you know by now that we get more than average rainfall per year at a total of 41 inches.
While some may enjoy the frequent showers, all that water can definitely begin to wreak havoc on your plumbing system if proper precautions aren’t put in place. From broken pipes to backup, it is crucial to keep your outdoor plumbing system up to date to prevent damage.

Broken Pipes

brokenpipeOne of the primary results of excessive rain is broken pipes. Most outdoor plumbing systems, especially older ones, aren’t made to handle the heavy amounts of precipitation and the result can be dire.
Heavy pressure from all the water can cause leaks and cracks in your pipes since they aren’t used to holding all the weight. Additionally, the rain has an effect on the ground holding the pipes as well.
The rain generates mud which then causes the pipes to slide out of place, adding increased strain and sometimes even cracks. Newer pipes are usually built to withstand the pressure, however, no one can predict exactly how much rain is too much rain for your plumbing system up until it is already too late.

How Your Sewer System Plays a Part

sewersystemAnother negative impact to be on the lookout for is backup happening in your sewer system. Materials such as rocks, sticks, and other debris can enter your pipes through the cracks that were caused by the shifting mentioned above.
When this happens, your system can become overwhelmed and the result is the water having nowhere to go. In the worst case scenario, the water may seep into your basement or underground storage if it has no other place to go.
Additionally, the water can find its way outside around your home, opening you up to further excavation costs and repairs. To avoid this, regularly maintain your pipes and make sure there are no cracks or leaks present.

Schedule A Professional Plumbing Inspection

plumbinginspectionThe best way to handle all plumbing related issues is to consult with someone who is professionally trained in the matter.
A trained specialist will be able to check for all problem areas and let you know what to be on the lookout for regarding your plumbing system.
While some sewer line and drainage issues are harder to detect, with the right know-how and tools, an experienced plumber can make quick work of your home needs. Best of all, it’ll also help them get to the source of your issue, solving your problems once and for all!
Here at The Plumbing Dr, our team of experts is to assist you this rainy season with any questions or concerns you may have! Give us a call at (703) 525-9280 and schedule a plumbing inspection today! What are some tips you live by during the rainy season? Let us know in the comments!