Summer storms can bring more than just heavy rain and high winds—they can wreak havoc on your home’s plumbing and drainage systems. While stormproofing often brings to mind clearing gutters and sealing windows, the state of your plumbing is just as important in protecting your home from water damage and costly repairs.
To help you prepare, here’s a detailed guide from the experts at Master Flush Plumbers on how to storm-proof your house this summer.
Step 1: Inspect Your Drains and Gutters
Before the first storm of the season, give your gutters and external drains a thorough inspection. These systems are your home’s first line of defence against flooding.
- Clear debris: Remove leaves, twigs, and other debris from your gutters and downpipes. Blocked drains can lead to water pooling around your home’s foundation, causing structural damage.
- Check for damage: Look for cracks, sagging sections, or blockages in your gutters and downpipes. Repairing these issues early can prevent major headaches later.
If you’re unsure about the condition of your external drainage system, it’s a good idea to consult a professional plumber for an assessment.
Step 2: Ensure Stormwater Drains Are Functioning
Stormwater drains are designed to carry rainwater away from your property. If these drains aren’t functioning properly, heavy rainfall can lead to localised flooding.
- Test your drains: Pour water into the stormwater grates around your home and see if it flows freely.
- Remove obstructions: Clear any visible dirt or debris blocking the drains.
- Check for slow drainage: If water is pooling or draining slowly, it may indicate a blockage further down the system. A plumber can use specialised equipment to identify and resolve the issue.
Step 3: Secure Outdoor Plumbing Fixtures
Summer storms often bring strong winds and flying debris, which can damage outdoor plumbing fixtures.
- Protect exposed pipes: Wrap exposed pipes with weather-resistant insulation to prevent damage from fluctuating temperatures or impact during storms.
- Anchor garden taps and hoses: Secure garden taps and ensure hoses are disconnected and stored safely. This reduces the risk of pipes being pulled or damaged during a storm.
Step 4: Install Backflow Prevention Devices
Floodwaters can create a dangerous situation called backflow, where contaminated water flows back into your clean water supply. To prevent this, consider installing a backflow prevention device.
- Check existing devices: If you already have a backflow valve installed, have it inspected by a plumber to ensure it’s in good working order.
- Install new devices: If your property is prone to flooding, talk to your plumber about adding additional backflow prevention measures to protect your home and water supply.
Step 5: Sump Pumps and Subfloor Drainage
If your home has a basement or is located in a low-lying area, a sump pump is an invaluable tool for managing flood risk.
- Test your sump pump: Run a test to make sure the pump is functioning correctly. Check the power source and clean out any debris that may have collected in the sump pit.
- Add a backup system: Consider installing a battery backup system to ensure your sump pump can operate during power outages, which are common during summer storms.
Step 6: Know When to Call a Professional
Storm-proofing your home is a task you can tackle yourself, but some issues are best left to the experts. For problems like persistent drain blockages, damaged plumbing, or backflow concerns, professional assistance is essential.
Step 7: Plan for Emergency Repairs
No matter how well you prepare, emergencies can still happen. Make sure you’re ready with an emergency plumbing plan:
- Keep a plumber’s contact info handy: Save the number for your local plumber in your phone or somewhere accessible.
- Turn off water mains: Learn how to shut off your home’s main water supply in case of major leaks or flooding.
Final Thoughts
Preparing your home for summer storms involves more than just securing loose roof tiles or trimming back overhanging branches. Taking the time to inspect, repair, and upgrade your plumbing can save you from expensive repairs and stressful situations when storms roll in.
By following these steps, you’ll be better equipped to handle whatever Mother Nature throws your way this summer.
