BLOG Smarter Storm Prep: Plumbing Adjustments to Protect Your Home During Heavy Rains Sep 07, 2025

Preparing your home for heavy rain involves more than just securing your outdoor furniture and checking your roof. Often overlooked, plumbing adjustments can significantly mitigate the risk of water damage. A. Doleno Sewers & Plumbing, experts in tackling plumbing challenges during storms, shares valuable insights on how to protect your home against the onslaught of heavy rains.

As heavy rains approach, it's crucial to ensure your plumbing system is in top shape. Begin by inspecting your roof gutters and downspouts. These systems are essential for directing rainwater away from your house. Check for any clogs or debris in the gutters that may hinder proper water flow. Clear leaves and twigs regularly to prevent overflow, which can lead to water seeping into your home’s foundation. Consider upgrading to seamless gutters, which reduce leaks by having fewer joints and are more effective during intense rainfall.

A. Doleno Sewers & Plumbing also advises homeowners to examine their sump pumps. Your sump pump acts as the last line of defense against basement flooding. Ensure it's operational and capable of handling the expected volume of water. Test your pump by pouring a bucket of water into the sump pit, watching to see if it activates properly. If your area is prone to power outages during storms, an investment in a battery backup for your sump pump could prove invaluable. This backup system ensures your pump remains functional even if the electricity fails.

Inspecting exterior drainage is another crucial step. The ground around your home should slope away from the foundation. This prevents water from pooling and increases the efficacy of natural drainage. If landscaping or patios have altered the grade, regrading might be necessary. French drains or yard drains are excellent solutions for areas where natural drainage is insufficient. Installed underground, these systems collect and redirect water, preventing surface flooding near your foundation.

In addition to maintaining existing systems, consider preventive measures like installing check valves in your sewer line. These valves allow wastewater to flow out but prevent it from coming back in during heavy rains, protecting your home from sewer backups. Backflow preventers are particularly useful in areas where the municipal sewer system is prone to becoming overwhelmed during storms.

Another essential action to consider is routine maintenance of all plumbing systems. Regular inspections by professionals, such as those at A. Doleno Sewers & Plumbing, can identify weak points that make your home vulnerable. Fixing leaks and replacing worn-out pipes before they fail not only keeps your home dry during a storm but is also more cost-effective in the long run.

After heavy rains, it is advisable to conduct a follow-up inspection. Check your home for signs of leaks or water damage and ensure all your drainage systems have effectively channeled water away from your structure. Early detection of issues allows for prompt repairs, preventing minor problems from escalating.

In conclusion, while you can't control the weather, you can prepare for it. With strategic plumbing adjustments and regular maintenance checks, you can protect your home from the damage caused by heavy rain. A proactive approach to storm preparation can save you from costly repairs in the future and provide peace of mind. Trust the expertise of A. Doleno Sewers & Plumbing to guide you in making smart, preventative plumbing decisions for your home.