Spring is a beautiful time of year, but with it comes the risk of water damage and flooding in your home. As the snow melts and the rain begins to fall, it's important to take steps to protect your plumbing and prevent water damage. By preparing your plumbing system for Spring, you can avoid costly repairs and keep your home safe and dry. In this article, we will discuss some of the common springtime plumbing issues and offer tips on how to prevent them.

Basement Flooding

One of the most common springtime plumbing issues is basement flooding. This can happen as a result of heavy rain, melting snow, or even a burst pipe. Basement flooding can cause significant damage to your home, including damage to your flooring, walls, and personal belongings. It can also lead to the growth of mold and mildew, which can be harmful to your health.

To prevent basement flooding, start by inspecting your sump pump. If you don't have a sump pump, consider installing one. A sump pump is a device that sits in a pit in your basement and pumps out water that accumulates there. It can help keep your basement dry and prevent flooding. Make sure your sump pump is in good working order by checking that the float switch is functioning properly, cleaning out any debris in the pit, and testing it by pouring water into the pit.

Another way to prevent basement flooding is to check for cracks. Cracks in your foundation can allow water to seep in and cause damage. If you notice any cracks, seal them with epoxy or polyurethane injections to prevent water from entering your home.

Spring is also a good time to check your gutters. Clogged gutters can cause water to overflow and damage your home's foundation, siding, and roof. Clean out your gutters and downspouts to ensure that water can flow freely away from your home. You may also want to consider installing gutter guards to prevent leaves and debris from clogging your gutters in the future.

Outdoor Plumbing

As lovely as Spring might be, it can also bring issues with your outdoor plumbing. If you have outdoor faucets, make sure to turn off the water supply to them before the first freeze of the season. This can help prevent the pipes from bursting and causing water damage. However, if you forgot to do this before winter, turn off the water supply now and open the faucet to allow any remaining water to drain out. This can help prevent the pipes from bursting and causing water damage to your home.

Additionally, it's also important to inspect your outdoor hoses for leaks or damage. Over time, outdoor hoses can become brittle and crack, which can cause water to leak out and potentially damage your home. If you notice any leaks or damage, it's important to replace the hose as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

Sewage Backup

Another issue that can arise in the spring is sewer backups. Heavy rain can overwhelm your sewer system and cause sewage to back up into your home. To prevent this from happening, consider installing a backwater valve. A backwater valve is a device that prevents sewage from flowing back into your home by closing off the sewer line during a backup. You should also avoid pouring grease, oil, and other substances down your drains, as they can cause clogs and backups.

Our Service

Springtime plumbing preparations are essential for preventing water damage and flooding in your home. Don't let spring showers ruin your home – take the necessary steps to protect your plumbing and prevent water damage. Have your plumbing system inspected by a professional plumber from Fixlers today. A plumber can identify any potential issues before they become major problems and provide you with the necessary repairs and maintenance to keep your plumbing system in good working order. They can also offer advice on how to best prepare your plumbing system for each season. Find a local FixlersPro to help with any of your plumbing needs by visiting our website, downloading our FixlersApp or call 888-683-8483.