The recent storm that came through Houston caused severe damage with thousands of uprooted trees and damage to homes. Many times the roots of the trees damaged or destroyed sewer lines. Here is a quick article from Mercy Plumbing discussing what a homeowner should do.
Severe storms in Pearland and throughout Texas can wreak havoc on your property, and your plumbing system is no exception. Uprooted trees, flooding, and debris can lead to a range of plumbing issues, from damaged sewer lines to clogged drains. Mercy Plumbing is here to help you understand these risks and provide solutions to keep your plumbing flowing smoothly.
Understanding Storm-Related Sewer Line Damage
Tree Root Invasion: Uprooted or damaged trees can expose and disrupt underground sewer lines. Their roots, seeking water and nutrients, can infiltrate cracks and joints, leading to blockages, leaks, and even complete pipe collapse.
Ground Shifting: Heavy rainfall can saturate the soil around your sewer lines, causing it to shift and potentially dislodge or crack pipes.
Debris Blockages: Storms often carry debris into the sewer system, from leaves and branches to rocks and garbage. These blockages can cause sewage backups into your home or yard.
Signs of Sewer Line Damage:
- Gurgling sounds: If you hear gurgling noises coming from your drains or toilets, it could indicate a partial blockage in your sewer line.
- Slow drains: Multiple slow drains in your home can be a sign of a problem with the main sewer line.
- Foul odors: Sewer gas escaping from damaged pipes has a distinct, unpleasant smell that you’ll notice in your home or yard.
- Sewage backups: This is the most obvious sign of a serious sewer line problem. If you see sewage backing up into your sinks, toilets, or bathtub, call Mercy Plumbing immediately.
- Soggy or sunken areas in your yard: This could indicate a leak in your sewer line.
What to Do if You Suspect Sewer Line Damage:
- Stop using water: Minimize water usage to prevent further backups or damage.
- Call Mercy Plumbing: Our experienced plumbers will use specialized camera inspection equipment to assess the damage and determine the best course of action.
Solutions for Sewer Line Repair
Mercy Plumbing offers a variety of sewer line repair options, including:
- Trenchless Repair: This minimally invasive method repairs damaged pipes without extensive digging. It’s often faster, less disruptive, and more cost-effective than traditional methods.
- Traditional Excavation and Repair: In some cases, digging up the damaged pipe and replacing it is necessary. Mercy Plumbing will ensure this is done efficiently and with minimal disruption to your property.
Other Plumbing Issues After a Storm
Storms can cause more than just sewer line problems. Here are some other issues to watch out for:
- Clogged drains: Debris from the storm can easily clog gutters, downspouts, and other drains around your home.
- Flooded basements: Heavy rainfall can overwhelm your sump pump and lead to basement flooding.
- Water heater damage: Electrical surges during storms can damage your water heater’s control board or other components.
Preventive Measures for Your Plumbing
- Regular maintenance: Have your plumbing system inspected annually by a professional plumber to catch potential problems early.
- Protect outdoor pipes: Insulate exposed pipes to prevent freezing in winter storms.
- Install a backflow preventer: This device prevents sewage from backing up into your home during floods.
- Clear debris from gutters and drains: Regularly remove leaves, twigs, and other debris to prevent clogs.
Why Choose Mercy Plumbing?
- Local Expertise: We understand the unique plumbing challenges faced by Pearland homeowners.
- 24/7 Emergency Service: We’re available around the clock to respond to your plumbing emergencies.
- Experienced Professionals: Our licensed plumbers are equipped with the latest tools and technology to diagnose and repair your plumbing problems quickly and effectively.
- Transparent Pricing: We offer upfront pricing so you know exactly what to expect.
Don't Let Storm Damage Ruin Your Plumbing
If your plumbing system has been affected by a recent storm, don’t hesitate to contact Mercy Plumbing. We’ll restore your plumbing to optimal condition so you can get back to enjoying your home.
