When a disaster strikes, it’s a big deal. Watching the evening news, you’ll hear about all kinds of disasters. But what about the smaller, yet just as devastating, disasters that homeowners face? While a house fire may get the attention of the local news, a flooded house is actually a much more common occurrence. No, not the kind of home flooding that comes from torrential rains. We’re talking about those floods in your living room because of issues in your house.

You Can Prevent Home Flooding

While there is little we can do about natural disasters such as monsoons and levee failures, there are preventative measures we can take to protect our homes from the most common causes of home flooding. Preventative action now can save you thousands of dollars later.

You may not even realize you have issues at home, ready to transform your house from a peaceful residence to a water-filled disaster. There are, however, plenty of areas you can be reviewing to ensure your family’s safety.

Septic Tanks

Septic tank sewage levels need to be continuously monitored. If your septic tank overfills, the sewage will start to leak out of the drains in your home. That means sewage water coming out of your bathtubs, sinks, and even the washing machine.

Septic tank drainage pipes can also get backed up due to obstructions. That can result in flooding or even broken pipes.

Broken Pipes

Excessive heat plus water pipes can often equal disaster. Our pipes contract during the winter and then expand in the summer heat. Several years of contracting and expanding places a lot of stress on pipes.

Corrosion also plays a major factor in broken pipes, especially if your home is fitted with brass, copper, or steel pipes. Plan for an annual pipe inspection to help avoid this issue.

Dysfunctional Appliances

There are a few appliances in our homes that are connected to water sources, such as the refrigerator, washing machine, water heater, and water cooler. If they are not properly connected to the water line, there is a potential for some serious flooding. Visually inspect the connection between your appliances and the water line monthly to look for drips or leaks.

Blocked Gutters

Debris, such as sticks and leaves, will collect in your gutters throughout the year. No big deal, right? Wrong! This backup can cause major issues when it rains. Instead of the rainwater draining as it should, it will leak from the roof to the ground and into the foundation. If your house has a basement or crawlspace, the water will easily find its way in there.

Inspect and clean your gutters monthly, especially during and after monsoons.

High Water Pressure

There can be a big difference in the pressure coming off the main water line versus the pressure you need in your home. And high pressure can lead to all kinds of issues in your pipes. The biggest, of course, is a busted pipe.

Long-term high water pressure can corrode your pipelines, cause pings and other noises, and lead to leaks. If you’re hearing strange sounds from your walls, it might be time to call a plumber.

When a Flood Occurs, Be Ready

Even with the best prevention and precautions, you can still come home to a flooded home. When that occurs, be sure you have Doan Restoration programmed in your phone. We should be your first call, right before you call your insurance company.