At Linthicum Plumbing and Drain Cleaning, we have seen firsthand how summer storms can impact our homes. While we all love those warm summer days, the seasonal storms that often accompany them can cause a range of issues for our plumbing, sump pumps, roofing, gutters, and more. In this blog post, we’ll share some insights on how summer storms can affect various aspects of your home and provide tips on how to prevent and address these issues to keep your home safe and sound.
Plumbing
Heavy rainfall during summer storms can put a strain on your home's plumbing system. Excess water can seep into your pipes and drains, potentially causing blockages and increasing the risk of sewer backups. To prevent plumbing issues during storms, consider the following tips:
Regularly inspect your plumbing system for any signs of wear or damage and repair or replace any damaged components as necessary.
Install a backwater valve on your main sewer line to prevent sewage from backing up into your home during heavy rainfall.
Keep your drains clear of debris, such as leaves and dirt, to minimize the risk of blockages.
Sump Pumps
Sump pumps play a vital role in preventing basement flooding during summer storms by pumping excess water away from your home. However, they can sometimes become overwhelmed by the sheer volume of water during heavy rainfall. To ensure your sump pump is up to the task, consider the following tips:
Regularly inspect your sump pump for any signs of wear or damage and replace it if necessary.
Test your sump pump periodically to ensure it's working correctly. Simply pour a bucket of water into the sump pit and observe whether the pump activates and efficiently removes the water.
Consider installing a battery backup system for your sump pump, so it continues to operate even during power outages, which are common during summer storms.
Roofing
Summer storms can wreak havoc on your roof, with high winds, heavy rain, and even hail causing damage to shingles, flashing, and other roofing components. To protect your home from water damage and other storm-related issues, consider the following roofing tips:
Regularly inspect your roof for signs of damage, such as missing or damaged shingles, cracked or damaged flashing, or any areas that appear to be sagging or buckling.
Repair or replace any damaged roofing components promptly to prevent water infiltration and other issues.
Keep your roof clear of debris, such as leaves and branches, which can trap moisture and cause damage to your roofing materials.
Gutters
Your gutters play a crucial role in directing water away from your home during summer storms, helping to prevent foundation damage, basement flooding, and other issues. However, they can become clogged with debris or damaged by high winds, rendering them ineffective. To keep your gutters in good working order, consider the following tips:
Regularly clean your gutters, removing leaves, dirt, and other debris that can cause clogs and impede water flow.
Inspect your gutters for signs of damage, such as cracks, holes, or sagging, and repair or replace any damaged components as necessary.
Ensure your downspouts are properly connected and positioned to direct water away from your home's foundation.
Addition Issues
In addition to the concerns mentioned above, summer storms can also impact other aspects of your home, such as siding, windows, and landscaping. To minimize storm-related damage, consider the following tips:
Inspect your home's siding for signs of damage, such as cracks, holes, or loose panels. If necessary, seal any openings and replace damaged components.
Ensure your windows are properly sealed to prevent water from entering through cracks or gaps in the frames.
Trim tree branches and shrubs away from your home's foundation to reduce the chance of damage caused by strong winds or flying debris during storms.
Clear gutters and downspouts of any debris to ensure that water is properly diverted away from your home's foundation.
Install window guards, storm shutters, or awnings to protect windows and other exterior components during severe weather.
Install weather-resistant roofing materials, such as asphalt shingles or metal roofing, to provide an extra layer of protection against wind, hail, and other elements.
Inspect your home’s foundation for signs of damage, such as cracks or shifting walls. If necessary, contact a professional to make any repairs.
Use caulk and weatherstripping to seal any gaps around windows and doors, which can help keep out moisture and reduce the risk of water damage.
Consider installing motion-sensor lights or flood lights around your home's exterior to deter burglars or other intruders.
Make sure your smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and other safety devices are in working order. Test them regularly and replace the batteries as needed.
At Linthicum Plumbing, we are committed to helping you protect your home. We work with some of the best contractors in Maryland and are happy to refer you to them as needed. As a homeowner, you want to protect your home. Contact us today at (410) 768-5350.