Extreme weather can wreak havoc on our homes in many ways. Sure, there’s the large hail during a hail storm, but you could say that’s the tip of the iceberg. It’s not just cosmetic damage that you have to worry about when it comes to constant bad weather (especially when it gets extreme), but you also need to think about other impacts.
Actually, one of the most damaging and often overlooked impacts is on our plumbing systems. Oh yes, one of the common mistakes homeowners make is not considering how the weather can impact even their basic plumbing. Whether it’s the frigid temperatures of a Kentucky winter or the torrential rains of a summer storm, our pipes and plumbing infrastructure can suffer significant damage.
Understanding how this happens and what you can do to prevent it is essential for maintaining a safe and comfortable home. Sure, this is probably a massive surprise, but yes, even the awful weather(no matter where you live), can cause damage to your plumbing, even if everything is underground, there’s still plenty of risks. So, with that said, here’s exactly how these weather conditions can wreak havoc on your plumbing and what you can do to keep things running smoothly.
Freezing Temperatures
In places like Kentucky, winter temperatures can drop well below freezing, and that’s where the trouble starts. Oh yes, the winters here are known for getting really brutal. When it gets this cold, the water inside your pipes can freeze. Now, we all know that water expands when it turns to ice. This expansion puts a lot of pressure on your pipes, which can lead to cracks or even cause the pipes to burst wide open. The result? Leaks, floods, and some very unhappy homeowners who then have to stress over pipe repair and replacement (and that’s super expensive during the winter months).
If you live in a modular home, you might find yourself even more vulnerable to these issues. But why? Well, modular homes often have less insulation around their plumbing compared to traditional houses, plus the plumbing is usually not within the ground itself.
So, this lack of insulation means that when the temperatures plummet, your pipes are at a higher risk of freezing. Usually, you can let the water drip, and it can help a little bit, but it’s not a foolproof way of preventing any of this. So this is something that you just really need to keep in mind.
The Rainy Season
April showers may bring May flowers, but they also cause plenty of plumbing issues. While winter brings the threat of freezing pipes, the warmer months come with their own set of plumbing challenges. Oh yes, those days of heavy rain and storms can lead to flooding, which can put a lot of stress on your home’s plumbing system. Generally speaking, excessive water can overwhelm your pipes and drains, leading to backups and potential damage.
But is that all? Absolutely not, it gets worse! If your home’s foundation shifts due to flooding, it can cause your pipes to move as well. This movement can create cracks and leaks, leading to more water damage. Plus, if you have older pipes, they may not be able to handle the extra stress, making them more likely to fail during extreme weather. It’s just one bad thing after another, so you have to take this all into account.
Fall is Filled with Clogs
Fall might not seem like a season that would affect your plumbing, but think again. Leaves, dirt, and debris can easily find their way into your gutters and downspouts. If they end up in your pipes, they can cause serious clogs. When pipes are clogged, water flow is restricted, which can lead to backups and even burst pipes in severe cases.
Plus, this can damage the siding of your house, too. As long as you’re cleaning your gutters regularly, you shouldn’t have a problem with this. So, out of all the seasonal and weather issues, this is one that is at least the most controllable.
How Can You Protect Your Plumbing in All Weather and Seasons?
For starters, you really need to make sure your pipes are well-insulated, as pipe replacement can be really expensive! Even if you’re away, keep your home’s heat on during cold spells to prevent pipes from freezing- sure, it’s not exactly the most eco-friendly, but at the same time, you’ll still be saving money on your plumbing. Just be sure to check for and seal any leaks or drafts in your home that could let cold air in and freeze your pipes. Finally, you should also look into a sump pump for your yard because your foundation will need this!
Meg is an author at Cinnamon Hollow. She writes on a variety of topics sharing tips and ideas for daily life.
