How To Flood-Proof Your Plumbing

Flooded Basement With Water Damage

Flooding is common in Central and Eastern Massachusetts. This is especially true during the rainy seasons.

Flood waters can damage your property and belongings inside costing you thousands of dollars. Landry Mechanical is here to help with tips on how to flood-proof your plumbing system.

Flooded Basement With Water Damage
Flood Damage Costs Thousands to Remediate!

 

Your home’s sump pump removes flood water from your basement or other crawl spaces. Sump pumps work by collecting flood water in a put and pumping it away. This protects your homes foundation from water damage.

To test your sump pump, fill the sump pit with water so that the float is able to rise. If the pump activates your pump is ready for flooding.

If the sump pump doesn’t turn on, it’s time to“Just Call Landry”. Our Drain & Sewer experts at Landry Mechanical can repair and replace broken sump pumps. We’ll make sure your sump pump is ready for floods.

Sump Pump Pit with water inside
Sump Pumps Like These Remove water from your home and away from your foundation!

Install A Backflow Prevention Valve

 

Backflow occurs when the normal flow of water reverses, potentially contaminating your home’s water supply. Backflow prevention valves stop reverse flow keeping your water supply clean during flooding.

Don’t have a backflow prevention system? “Just Call Landry”. Our plumbing experts offer a range of backflow prevention services to keep your water clean and safe.

Backflow Prevention Valve On Home
Backflow Prevention Valves Like This Keep Sewage Out of Your Home’s Water Supply!

 

 

 

Deep Clean Your Drains

 

Clogged drains are a huge problem, especially during rainstorms. If your home cannot drain properly it can increase flood water in the home. Check gutters and downspouts for clogs and remove any you find. Also, ensure interior drains function properly to prevent blockages.

Sewer Camera Inspection

Run into any clogs? “Just Call Landry” Our plumbing experts can perform camera inspections and drain cleaning services.

 

Locate Your Main Water Shut Off Valve

 

During flooding, the last thing you need is more water in your home. When flood waters enter your home locate the shut off valve and turn it off. Make sure you know where it is beforehand because it is difficult to navigate a flooded basement.

Main Water Valve
During flooding, always turn off your main line valve!

Don’t know where your shut off valve is? “Just Call Landry” our plumbing experts can help. Landry Mechanical offers whole home plumbing inspections. We can help you locate your home’s shut off valve in case of emergencies.

 

Protect Exterior Plumbing Fixtures

Flooding doesn’t just damage the interior of your home. It can also damage exterior fixtures like spigots for hoses. Landry recommends covering exposed fixtures with water proof covers to minimize damage. You can also wrap the spigot in old rags or towels and secure it with tape.

Spigot Cover to Prevent Freeze ups and flooding damage
Spigot Covers Like This Prevent Freezing Pipes & Flood Damage!

Replace Rusty or Damaged Pipes

The 2nd largest cause of flooding in homes is leaking pipes. Most old pipes are made out of copper and iron which rust over time.

This rust leads to leaks that can flood your home if not replaced ahead of time.

If your home has lead pipes it’s best to replace them anyways as lead is a known neurotoxin.

In need of pipe repair or replacement? “Just Call Landry” our plumbing experts offer pipe repair and replacement as part of our services.

Rusty Metal Pipe
Rusty metal pipes like these can leak leading to flooding in your home!

 

Conclusion

Flooding can cause expensive and widespread damage to your home and belongings. Therefore, it’s best to be prepared beforehand to mitigate the damage. If you are worried about your home’s plumbing system call the experts. “Just Call Landry”

 

We Take COMFORT in YOUR COMFORT!

How Summer Heat Affects Your Plumbing System

Leaking Pipe Due To Heat Expansion

“How Summer Heat Affects Your Plumbing System”

 

As summer temperatures rise, so does the strain that is put on your plumbing system that may lead to costly repairs if left unchecked. While winter plumbing issues like frozen pipes get a lot of attention, the intense heat, humidity, and increased water usage during summer can be just as problematic. Here’s how summer heat affects your plumbing—and tips to keep things running smoothly.

Pipe Expansion and Increased Leak Risk

Heat causes pipes to expand, and when temperatures fluctuate, this expansion and contraction can weaken joints and create small leaks. This is especially common in older plumbing systems or pipes made from materials that aren’t highly heat-resistant.

Leaking Pipe Due To Heat Expansion
Hot Summer Weather Causes Pipes to Expand causing increased leak risk!

Solution:

  • “Just Call Landry” and we’ll inspectyour pipes for signs of leaks or cracks.
  • If your home has metal pipes, consider upgrading to PEX piping, which is more flexible and heat-resistant.

Water Pressure Fluctuations

During summer, high demand for water—whether for sprinklers, pools, or increased household use—can cause fluctuations in pressure. If your home’s plumbing is already old, sudden pressure changes can weaken pipes or even cause bursts.

Low Water Pressure Faucet
Low Water Pressure Could Indicate Plumbing Problems!

Solution:

  • If you notice sudden drops in water pressure, check for hidden leaks or clogged pipes.
  • Do you need to upgrade your pipes? “Just Call Landry” 

 

Sewer Line Strain and Backups

Warmer temperatures lead to increased bacterial growth, which can lead to clogs in your sewer system. Additionally, summer storms can oversaturate the ground, putting pressure on underground sewer pipes and leading to slow drains or backups.

One Of Landry's Plumbers Clearing Out a Clogged Drain

Solution:

  • Avoid flushing grease, wipes, or excess food scraps, which can worsen blockages.
  • “Just Call Landry” to schedule your inspection before the peak summer months

Outdoor Hose and Sprinkler Wear

If you rely on hoses, sprinklers, and outdoor faucets, constant exposure to UV rays and high temperatures can degrade rubber materials, leading to leaks or cracks.

Old Spigot Washer in Need of Replacement
Does Your Spigot Washer Look Like This? Time For A Replacement!

Solution:

  • Store hoses in the shade or invest in UV-resistant hoses.
  • Regularly check sprinkler connections and replace worn-out washers.

Water Heater Overload

Believe it or not, summer can stress your water heater—especially if you’re hosting guests or frequently using hot water for outdoor showers. Increased demand may reduce efficiency, leading to lukewarm water or even breakdowns.

Solution:

Stay Ahead of Summer Plumbing Issues

The best way to avoid summer plumbing headaches is through proactive maintenance. By keeping an eye on leaks, pressure changes, and outdoor fixtures, you can prevent costly repairs and ensure your system stays in top shape all season long.

Drain Cleaning to Get Rid of Clogs: What You Need to Know

drain-cleaning-cutaway

Few plumbing problems are more persistent, common, and aggravating than a clogged or slow drain. Everyone has dealt with this hassle at one time or another. When you’ve got a clogged drain, you’ll want it solved as fast as you can, and that might lead you to make some major mistakes.

Drain cleaning is an plumbing service in Marlborough, MA that we offer, and we want to provide you with some important information about it when it comes to getting rid of clogged drains. The next time you’ve got an obstinate clogged drain slowing down your day, you’ll have a better idea of what to do thanks to this info.

Continue reading