Spring can be a challenging time of year. Heavy rains, melting snow, and ice result in substantial water that can impact your property. Homeowners may also experience drainage issues, sump pump failures, and other problems.
For over a decade, Avid Plumbing has helped Wisconsin homeowners avoid and recover from flood damage. Let’s explore the warning signs and how we can help you through early leak detection and other plumbing services.
Why Spring Flooding Happens
Flooding during spring is a common occurrence in Wisconsin. Some properties can be more susceptible due to the lay of the land and local water table. Homes in this region are often vulnerable to slab leaks and sump pump malfunctions during spring. The many other factors that can contribute to spring flooding for homes include:
- Ice jams
- Heavy rainfall
- Poor drainage
- Saturated ground
- Rapid snowmelt
- Frost and soil conditions
7 Warning Signs Your Home Might Be at Risk
Although it can happen, it’s uncommon for flooding to occur out of the blue. Often, there are signs that indicate the risk of more serious flooding. It’s important to look out for these warning signs.
1. Poor Yard Drainage
Ponding water can damage your foundation, landscape, and hardscapes. It often indicates that you need additional drainage solutions, such as French drains. Soggy lawn patches may also indicate a slab leak or that you need a sump pump repair or replacement.
2. Cracks in the Foundation or Basement Walls
Excess water around your foundation can cause cracking through seepage and foundational pressure. It can lead to slab leaks that may be difficult to notice. The water could also make its way into your crawl space or basement. That can lead to efflorescence, a white powdery substance found on walls and floors. It might also cause high humidity and mold.
3. Malfunctioning or Absent Sump Pump
Proper sump pump installation and replacement are imperative for homes prone to flooding. You need primary and battery backup sump pumps that can handle a high enough volume of water. Schedule sump pump maintenance every year toward the end of winter. Replace your sump pump equipment proactively every seven to 10 years. Watch for problems such as excessive vibration, tripped circuit breakers, and frequent jamming.
4. Clogged or Damaged Gutters & Downspouts
You should clean your gutters at least once a year and more often if needed. Consider gutter guards if they clog easily. Make sure your downspouts are properly diverting the water. If the water affects your foundation or yard, you need downspout extensions.
5. Water Stains or Mold Growth in the Basement
Mold is present in a home long before you can smell or see it. If you can see mold, you already have significant growth. Mold presence indicates a hidden water issue, and you should schedule leak detection and repair as soon as possible.
6. Sewer Backups or Slow Drains
Snowmelt and heavy rain can overwhelm your sewer system. This is especially the case if your sump pump underperforms or malfunctions. Don’t ignore clogs, multiple slow drains, and toilets backing up.
7. Nearby Flood History or High Water Table
If your area is prone to flooding or has a high water table, water may leak into your home. The water table level will often dictate whether you need a sump pump and how much horsepower it should have. It’s also important to schedule regular plumbing assessments and take precautions.
What To Do if You Spot These Signs
The best way to avoid these problems and save considerable money is to schedule annual inspections. Customers who find water damage or standing water should call immediately for emergency plumbing services. Otherwise, you can schedule an appointment at your earliest convenience. Our team will perform a full inspection, including slab leak assessments and sump pump testing.
How Avid Plumbing Can Help
Avid Plumbing is the premier residential plumbing company in Madison, WI. Our company has fully stocked trucks ready to go, and we provide same-day services for urgent problems. We offer a wide range of services, which we back with a minimum one-year labor and material warranty:
- Leak detection & repair: Our team employs the latest technologies to pinpoint leaks and repair them reliably.
- Slab leak location & solutions: If your slab is leaking, we’ll find the leak and fix it.
- Sump pump repair & installation: Protect your home from water damage with personalized sump pump installation and proactive repairs.
Call Avid Plumbing or contact us online with any questions or to schedule an appointment.