There are a number of possible causes for a flood, but one thing is for certain; they can cause a great deal of damage. When your home has been impacted by flooding, there could be plumbing damage that’s hidden, and you may not find it until a licensed plumber is called. They can carry out a thorough inspection of your home and here are some of the most common post flooding problems that they may find.
Damaged and Dirty Fixtures
Any of your plumbing fixtures could have suffered physical damage during the flood from sources, such as high winds, floating or flying debris and structural failure. These fixtures may need replacement, and those that have survived will need to be thoroughly cleaned with a diluted bleach solution. Any intact showerheads and faucets should be disassembled and soaked in bleach to kill bacteria and prevent any future mold growth.
Clogged Drain Systems
When floodwater arrives, it always contains some silt, dirt, and debris. When the water has finally receded this accompanying residue is left behind in your home. Any drains that were covered by the flood water can be clogged with this material. In some cases, simple DIY plumbing tools such as a plunger or an augur will be able to clear these drain clogs. But, if the clog is persistent or you’re worried about damage to plumbing pipes, it’s a better idea to have a licensed plumber look at them. After all, a plumbing inspection will be needed anyway, so why not get the drains looked at by a
professional at the same time? If your drains are clogged, avoid using them until you get the all clear from the plumber to avoid more localized flooding in your home.
Broken Underground Pipes
Water is heavy, all of that standing flood water and the soil it’s saturated can quickly create a crushing weight. There are underground water and waste lines that could easily be affected by this considerable load. If you notice any sinkholes on your property after the flood water recedes this is a possible sign that a line may have collapsed under your yard. A plumber will be needed to carry out a thorough inspection using a camera to confirm the condition of the underground pipes.
Broken Pipes Inside Your Home
The floating and flying debris present during bad weather and flooding can present a considerable threat to your indoor plumbing. As these materials move around in your home, they can cause damage to your fixtures and pipes. If a pipe is broken or cracked you may not be able to notice a problem until the flood water has fully receded. Once the home has been cleared and dried out, you may see that some new puddles have appeared. The water should be turned off at the main valve, and a plumber needs to carry out an inspection to identify the source and severity of the damage. Some leaks can be repaired easily, and other sections of pipe may require replacement.
By Giovanni Longo President Flood Brothers Plumbing
Giovanni Longo is a 3rd generation master plumber who has been practicing his craft and trade in the greater Los Angeles area for well over a decade and a half. A plumbing and hydraulics-engineering innovator, Giovanni’s particular world-class expertise focuses on dealing with challenging sewer system designs as well as resolving complex commercial and residential draining issues. As a certified Flood Mitigation expert, he is also well versed in a wide variety of water damage and remediation solution.
