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Hurricane Ida was a rude awakening that Hurricane Season is ramping up, and we still have a couple of months to go. You are probably assessing your property for potential damage, and we hope that all of our friends, family, and clients see minimal issues. While you do your post-hurricane walk-through, we encourage you to be mindful of your plumbing. Missing storm damage now could make your plumbing that much more susceptible to the next storm or weather disturbance. The following are a few plumbing elements to check after a destructive storm or hurricane:
Did the Hurricane Cause Water Leaks?
It is customary for there to be at list minimal water leakage during a storm or hurricane. Make sure your property assessment includes determining whether the water comes from simple cracks in your ceiling or windows, or damage to your pipes. If you do find signs of water leakage, contact a professional immediately. It is likely that your pipes were under extreme stress during the storm and require a plumbing professional. Signs of a water leak include:
- Damp or Wet Floors
- Cracks in Your Wall
- Unpleasant or Musty Odors
- The Sound of Running Water
- An Unusually High Utility Bill
- Low Water Pressure
- Water Damage to Walls or Ceilings
Did the Hurricane Damage Your Gas Line?
Pluming damage can be more than inconvenient. It can also be dangerous. If you evacuated for Hurricane Ida, you might have chosen to shut up your natural gas at each appliance, so your pipeline had less of a likelihood of rupturing. Upon your return, examine your gas valves, as well as any outdoor appliances to make sure flying debris did not damage the outdoor plumbing.
Check for Gas Leaks. If you suspect you may have gas line damage, stay vigilant for the following indicators you may have a gas leak:
- Use a Gas Leak Detector
- Listen for a Hissing or Whistling Noise
- Check Your Gas Stove Flame – If the flame is red or orange, instead of blue, it may mean there is gas in the air that is taking away oxygen.
- Sniff for a Sulfuric or Rotten Egg Smell
- Dead or Dying Grass – Patches of dead grass may indicate a gas leak.
How Can Hurricanes Damage Your Sewer Line?
Evaluating your sewer line should be at the top of your post-hurricane evaluation checklist. Your sewer line is underground, so it can be disrupted by uprooted vegetation. In order to inspect for sewer line damage, walk around your house and inspect your yard for signs of disturbed or uprooted trees or plants. You will notice if you have a ruptured or damaged sewer line.
Important: Parish or city sewer lines are likely at less than full capacity due to power outages or equipment damage.
Signs You Have a Damaged Sewer Line. If you notice unpleasant smells, or see a sewage backup in your toilet or shower, it is likely the storm damaged your main sewer line. Contact a professional immediately to begin repairing the damage.
Call Al Bourgeois Plumbing to Fix Your Hurricane Plumbing Damage!
Did your house experience damage during Hurricane Ida, or any recent storm? Call Al Bourgeois Plumbing! Our team has seen every variety of storm damage and are experts at diagnosing and repairing any type of plumbing damage. Request your service today! Or email info@bourgeoisplumbing.com for more information!
