This is a collaborative post: Though plumbing issues at home can happen at any time, there is a high possibility of experiencing plumbing and drainage issues during spring.
Moving from summer to spring can be a relief from the freezing winter temperatures, but it also comes with some challenges. For example, the sudden change in weather can lead to serious drainage and plumbing problems, both outdoors and indoors.
Some of these problems may have been around, but they remained hidden under the ice. Below are some of the typical spring drainage issues and how to solve them.
Poor Outdoor Drainage
Due to the melting snow and the spring falls, water may start pooling around your home due to poor drainage. Poor drainage can also lead to sudden flooding if your home has a basement. A drainage survey can pinpoint the problem before it’s too late.
Therefore, in addition to cleaning your gutters, you should inspect your pipes and repair them if you find some puddles. If the drainage pipe repairs do not solve the drainage problems, you can hire a landscaper from a reputable drain company to improve your land’s topography.
Slow Fixture Drainage
Most homeowners experience spring plumbing issues like slower draining bathtubs, showers, sinks and floor draining. The slow draining can be a result of numerous reasons.
The sudden change in fixture drainage in spring is primarily due to obstruction. It could be a tree root that has entered the draining line, affecting the free flow of water. In such a case, you will experience slow drainage in most of your drains.
Another common cause of slow fixture drainage is buildup in your pipes. Activities like cooking holiday meals can lead to clogs that may not seem to be a big issue until spring. In such a case, the slower draining will only appear in one fixture, like the kitchen or bathroom sink.
Since most obstructions occur in unseen and out of reach parts of your drainage, it is important to seek professional help. A local plumber can remove the clog in your pipes using their tools, like a power rodding machine with a drain cable.
Main and Sewer Line Obstruction
Spring is the time for trees to grow again, and their roots may spread further to areas they hadn’t reached before. Since your sewer lines have plenty of water and nutrients, the roots may get through the pipes, causing an obstruction. Such obstructions may lead to slow drainage in one or several fixtures in your home.
Gutter Obstruction
With each plant in your backyard growing new branches in the spring, there is a high possibility of your gutters becoming obstructed with leaves, twigs and other organic debris. Such blockages can spread to the downspout, leading to serious drainage issues.
Also, the obstruction in the gutters can force the water to flow over to the roof or down to the side walls. If the issue is not addressed, the overflow can damage your ceiling and walls. The dirty water can also stain the exterior walls. In extreme cases, gutter blockages can cause water to pool around your home, leading to pest infestations and mould development.