Go Back

Beware of These Plumbing Issues to Avoid Some Serious Headaches!

Posted on April 23, 2021 by

Common Plumbing Issues Due to Spring Showers

Spring is just around the corner, which means it’s time to bring out the umbrellas and prepare for the showers. It also means homeowners must ready themselves for potential plumbing issues brought on by high volumes of rain. After all, the last thing homeowners probably want to be doing is dealing with leaks or broken pipes just as the weather is getting nice! 

Several common plumbing issues can become very problematic if not detected or addressed early enough. Homeowners should be on the lookout for telltale signs of issues that will require help from a plumbing professional. 

Flooded Soil

Spring showers can lead to pooled water and flooded soil. This can result in poor quality drinking water and malfunctioning septic systems.

Soil naturally filters pollutants out of the water but cannot do so effectively if it is flooded. This may result in contaminated groundwater due to harmful, unfiltered pathogens. Perhaps even more concerning is the possibility of further groundwater contamination and less-than-pleasant backups due to malfunctioning septic systems.

Septic systems involve the flow of household wastewater through a septic tank and into a drain field, filtering and treating the water along the way. However, flooded soil inhibits the proper drainage of wastewater. This results in nasty wastewater backups into in-home plumbing fixtures.

Most importantly, and perhaps most concerning in the long-term, saturated soil can expand and reform, resulting in gradual shifts of housing foundations over time.

Leaks Within the Slab Foundation

foundationA slab foundation is a concrete structure placed over soil upon which most modern homes are built. Homeowners need to beware of foundational damages, as these can significantly affect the entire structure of their homes.

Spring showers can cause leaks in the plumbing system underneath the slab foundation. As mentioned previously, reformation of previously saturated soil can shift housing foundations over time, which causes excessive pressure and, ultimately, foundational leaks.

Some common signs that there may be a leak in the slab foundation include:

  • Warm floors
  • Mold deposits
  • Puddles with unknown origin
  • Sounds of running water or overactive water meter (without explanation)
  • Visible fractures within the foundation, flooring, or walls

Depending on the extent of the damage, slab leak repair may be simple or highly complex. A plumbing expert will be able to identify the source of the leak and determine how to repair it and prevent future damage most efficiently.

Burst Underground Pipes

pipes

Broken pipes are one of the most severe potential consequences of spring showers. Similar to the leaks described above, burst pipes often result from shifts in the slab foundation and pressure buildup. Pipes in the exterior of the house may similarly burst due to the pressure of heavy, saturated soil around them.

Older, more brittle pipes are typically most susceptible to bursting, so homeowners in old houses should be on the lookout. The clearest sign of a pipe burst is discolored water or fluctuating water pressure in the faucets. Homeowners should seek plumbing help immediately if they suspect a burst pipe.

About First Choice Plumbing Solutions

First Choice Plumbing Solutions of Port St. Lucie, FL, is a local, family-owned plumbing company offering 24/7 support and convenient, one-hour service windows. Known as the place “where leaks don’t stand a chance,” their team of experts addresses plumbing needs with top-quality workmanship and excellent customer service. Give them a call for help today!

Distribution Links +