When Hurricane Helene hit our coastal community, it didn’t just bring high winds—it brought powerful storm surges and unprecedented flooding that tested even the most robust residential and commercial plumbing systems. At Barlow Plumbing, our team witnessed firsthand how certain homes and businesses managed to stay relatively functional, while others experienced catastrophic failures in their plumbing infrastructure.
In the aftermath of Helene, we thoroughly analyzed what went right and what went wrong so we could provide homeowners with actionable steps to fortify their properties.
Please keep in mind: we know that in many cases, there was not a thing to do to retain plumbing integrity. When an entire structure is underwater, it is an entirely different scenario. What we’re discussing here is doing the best you can with the systems that are available, to handle future storms with the best possible flow.
In this blog post, we’ll dive into the critical topic of flood-resistant plumbing and share essential lessons learned from recent storms. We’ll also discuss storm-proof plumbing measures and hurricane preparation strategies you can implement well before the next major storm arrives. If you have any questions about how to apply these insights in your home, don’t hesitate to explore our services on the menu above or to contact us directly at Barlow Plumbing.
1. The Rising Need for Flood-Resistant Plumbing
The reality of living near coastlines—or in flood-prone areas—means acknowledging the increasing frequency of severe weather events. Tropical storms, hurricanes, and even heavy rainstorms can quickly inundate neighborhoods, overwhelm sewer systems, and damage crucial infrastructure. Hurricane Helene exemplified how quickly a storm can intensify and how fast floodwaters can rise.
Why Flooding Poses a Unique Threat
- Overloaded Sewer Systems: When excess water pours into municipal sewer lines, it can backflow into residential drains. This leads to sewage backups in showers, sinks, toilets, and basements, creating both a health hazard and extensive property damage.
- Structural Damage: Floodwater saturates soil surrounding your foundation, making it more likely that your home’s walls, floors, and foundation will shift or crack. This can directly affect embedded plumbing lines.
- Long-Term Contamination: Water from floods or storm surges may contain chemicals, sewage, and other contaminants that pose long-term health risks if they infiltrate home plumbing systems.
Why Flood-Resistant Plumbing is Important
- Public Health: Preventing contamination from floodwater is essential for maintaining a safe water supply and sanitary conditions.
- Property Value: Proactive installation of flood-resistant features can maintain or even increase a home’s market value, as future buyers often look favorably on properties with robust flood protection measures.
- Financial Savings: While the initial cost of installing specialized valves, sump pumps, or backflow preventers can be significant, the expense is negligible compared to the cost of flood damage.
Barlow Plumbing has been at the forefront of offering solutions designed to minimize these risks. Whether it’s installing sump pumps or carrying out backflow prevention services, we prioritize keeping your property’s plumbing system resilient against rising waters.
2. What Is Flood-Resistant Plumbing?
Flood-resistant plumbing involves designing and installing systems and components that either prevent floodwater from entering your home or mitigate the damage if water does get in. These upgrades might include:
- Backflow Prevention Devices
These valves automatically block reverse flows from municipal sewers or storm drains, stopping sewage from pouring into your home. Proper backflow prevention was one of the most significant factors distinguishing homes that remained safe during Hurricane Helene from those that suffered severe water damage. - Elevated Equipment
Placing critical equipment (like water heaters, furnaces, and major plumbing lines) above potential flood levels ensures that floodwaters won’t inundate mechanical or electrical components. This is often required by building codes in floodplain areas. - Sump Pumps and Drainage Systems
Sump pumps remove water from basements or lower levels, directing it away from your foundation. This significantly reduces the risk of basement flooding. A well-maintained sump pump system is often the first line of defense against rising groundwater. - Sealed Basements and Foundation Walls
Waterproofing the foundation walls and sealing cracks can keep floodwaters out or slow them enough to mitigate significant damage. - Durable Plumbing Materials
Opting for corrosion-resistant pipes (like PVC or PEX) and using watertight seals around penetrations in the home’s exterior walls can make a big difference if floodwaters linger.
When these elements work together, you have a more robust and resilient plumbing system capable of standing up to extreme weather events.
3. Key Lessons Learned from Hurricane Helene
Lesson 1: Sump Pumps Are Non-Negotiable
During Hurricane Helene, homes equipped with a properly installed and well-maintained sump pump generally avoided catastrophic basement flooding. In contrast, homes without sump pumps or with older, underpowered units faced severe water damage.
Tip: If you live in an area prone to flooding, invest in a high-quality sump pump with a battery backup or water-powered backup system. Regularly test and maintain it, especially before the storm season.
Lesson 2: Backflow Prevention Is Crucial
Sewer backflow was one of the biggest culprits for damage during Hurricane Helene. As stormwater overwhelmed municipal systems, it forced sewage back into residential lines. Homes equipped with backflow preventers were far less likely to suffer from raw sewage backups.
Tip: Ensure your home has a backflow prevention device installed and maintained by a professional. At Barlow Plumbing, our technicians are trained to install and service backflow prevention devices to meet local code requirements.
Lesson 3: Elevation of Critical Systems Matters
A common oversight in many homes is the location of water heaters, electrical panels, and critical HVAC components in low-lying basements. Hurricane Helene’s floodwaters often damaged or destroyed these systems, rendering homes uninhabitable for weeks.
Tip: Whenever possible, elevate water heaters, furnaces, and electrical panels above historical flood levels. This might require some renovation, but the investment can save you enormous repair costs in the long term.
Lesson 4: Exterior Drainage Systems Need Regular Maintenance
We noticed that homes with clogged gutters, blocked downspouts, or poorly graded landscaping experienced heavier flooding. Managing water flow around your property is just as important as installing flood-resistant fixtures inside the home.
Tip: Keep gutters clean, ensure downspouts channel water at least several feet away from your foundation, and maintain proper yard grading to direct water away from the structure.
Lesson 5: Professional Inspections Can Save You Money
Many of the flood-related plumbing failures we addressed could have been prevented if the homeowners had identified and fixed small issues—like a rusted sump pump or a deteriorating valve—before the storm. Routine inspections and preventive maintenance go a long way.
Tip: Schedule an annual plumbing inspection with a reputable plumber. The cost is minimal compared to the massive expense and stress of dealing with flood damage.
4. Storm-Proof Plumbing: Proactive Steps to Safeguard Your Home
Once you understand the vulnerabilities exposed by Hurricane Helene, the next step is to storm-proof your plumbing. Below are some proactive measures you can take:
Install Flood Vents (If Applicable)
Flood vents are openings in walls or foundations that allow water to pass through instead of exerting pressure on your walls. While this isn’t directly part of the plumbing system, it alleviates pressure on your home’s structure and can reduce damage in high-water scenarios.
Use Check Valves in Your Plumbing System
A check valve is a simple yet effective device that ensures water flows in only one direction. Similar to backflow prevention devices, check valves can be placed in drain lines to further protect against flooding.
Reinforce Pipes and Connections
As part of storm-proofing, inspect your plumbing lines for any weak points. Pipes in exposed areas, such as crawl spaces, can be more susceptible to damage. Ensuring they are made from durable, corrosion-resistant materials can help them withstand floodwaters.
Backup Power for Sump Pumps
A sump pump is only as good as its power supply. When storms knock out electricity, a standard sump pump will stop working. A battery backup or water-powered backup ensures your pump continues to run even if the power goes out.
Seal and Waterproof
- Seal Gaps Around Pipes: Ensure all gaps where plumbing pipes enter or exit your home are fully sealed with waterproof caulk or foam insulation.
- Foundation Waterproofing: While this is more structural, it has a direct impact on how much water can enter and affect your plumbing system.
5. Essential Hurricane Preparation for Your Plumbing System
Even if your home has numerous flood-resistant features, there are pre-storm preparations that can significantly reduce potential damage:
- Know Your Shut-Off Valves
Familiarize yourself with the location of your main water shut-off valve, gas shut-off, and any localized valves (like for outdoor spigots). Label these valves so you or family members can act quickly in an emergency. - Turn Off Main Water Supply (If Evacuating)
If local authorities advise you to evacuate, turning off your main water supply can help minimize damage in case a pipe bursts or sewage backs up while you’re away. - Secure Outdoor Plumbing Features
Disconnect and store garden hoses, secure outdoor faucets, and ensure any exterior irrigation lines are drained and turned off. Securing outdoor plumbing can reduce the risk of debris or wind causing damage to those connections. - Stock Up on Emergency Supplies
Keep a supply of bottled water for drinking and cooking in case your municipal supply is compromised by the storm. - Inspect Your Sump Pump
Test your sump pump by pouring water into the sump pit to ensure it activates and pumps out water effectively. Check that the discharge pipe is clear of blockages. - Document Everything
Take photos or videos of your plumbing system, appliances, and water-related areas (basement, crawl space, etc.). This documentation helps with insurance claims if flooding does occur.
6. Barlow Plumbing’s Approach to Flood and Storm Preparedness
At Barlow Plumbing, we believe that prevention is the best strategy for mitigating flood damage. Our approach encompasses:
1. Comprehensive Inspections
We begin with a thorough assessment of your plumbing system, identifying weak points, outdated or corroded pipes, and other potential vulnerabilities. Our Plumbing Inspections can be scheduled year-round to help homeowners prepare for storm season.
2. Tailored Solutions
No two homes are the same, which is why we create customized solutions. This might include installing a specific type of sump pump for your basement or suggesting an elevated platform for your water heater if you’re in a high-risk flood zone.
3. High-Quality Products and Installation
We use top-of-the-line products to ensure longevity and reliability. From backflow prevention valves to sump pumps, our materials and workmanship are guaranteed to meet or exceed local code requirements.
4. Maintenance Plans
Our maintenance plans offer routine check-ups. This helps catch potential problems—like a weakening valve or rusting pipe—before they fail in the middle of a storm.
Read more about Plumbing Issues After Flooding in our blog post on the subject.
Here is another article we wrote about Post-Hurricane Plumbing Inspection.
7. Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How often should I test my sump pump?
A: We recommend testing it every three months and performing a comprehensive inspection at least once a year, especially before hurricane season. Simply pour a bucket of water into the sump pit and ensure the pump activates and drains properly.
Q2: Will my homeowner’s insurance cover flood damage to my plumbing?
A: Flood damage is generally not included in standard homeowner’s insurance policies. You may need a separate flood insurance policy for coverage. Always check with your insurance provider to understand your policy’s specifics and additional coverage options.
Q3: What’s the difference between a backflow preventer and a check valve?
A: While both devices prevent reverse flow, a backflow preventer is specifically designed and rated to stop contaminated water from entering the potable water supply. A check valve is a more general device that allows fluid to flow in one direction but doesn’t necessarily meet the same strict standards as a backflow preventer.
Q4: Can flood-proofing my plumbing qualify me for insurance discounts?
A: In some cases, yes. Certain upgrades—like the installation of backflow prevention devices or sump pumps—can help lower insurance premiums. Consult with your insurance agent to learn about potential discounts.
Q5: How long does it take to retrofit a home with flood-resistant plumbing?
A: The timeframe varies based on your home’s size, condition, and the complexity of the upgrades. Minor installations like backflow valves or sump pumps may take a day or two. More extensive renovations, like elevating water heaters or reinforcing basement walls, could take a week or more.
8. Taking the Next Step with Barlow Plumbing
The aftermath of Hurricane Helene taught us valuable lessons about the importance of flood-resistant plumbing and storm-proof preparations. Whether you’re in a floodplain, near a coastline, or simply want the peace of mind that comes from being prepared, now is the time to consider implementing these measures.
Why Choose Barlow Plumbing?
- Local Expertise: We know the unique challenges our community faces and tailor solutions to fit your needs.
- Quality Guaranteed: Our installations and repairs come with warranties you can trust.
- Customer-Centric Service: From the first consultation to project completion, we prioritize clear communication and client satisfaction.
How to Get Started
- Schedule an Inspection: Book a plumbing inspection to identify your home’s vulnerabilities.
- Receive a Customized Plan: We’ll recommend solutions—like backflow preventers, sump pump installations, or elevating appliances—to bolster your flood defense.
- Stay Informed: Keep an eye on our Blog for ongoing tips, success stories, and the latest industry developments.
Final Thoughts
Flood-resistant plumbing isn’t just about reacting to disaster; it’s about preparing proactively to protect your family, home, and financial well-being. By implementing backflow prevention devices, installing sump pumps with backup power, and properly sealing and elevating your plumbing infrastructure, you can minimize flood-related losses and accelerate your path to recovery when the next big storm hits.
Remember: Preparedness is a continuous process. Regular inspections, maintenance, and upgrades are essential to keep your home resilient as storms continue to arise. If you have any questions or need professional assistance, the Barlow Plumbing team is here to help you every step of the way. Reach out to us online or call us at 828-251-9812 and let us support you in getting and maintaining your home flood-ready.
Stay safe, stay prepared, and trust in a professional team to protect what matters most.