Storm drains collect stormwater from yards, driveways and downspouts and redirect it to the drainage network in your area. Clogs in storm drains usually become evident during the rainy season. Unfortunately, they can cause various issues, such as damage to structural foundations and outdoor surfaces. Therefore, it's essential to spot the initial signs of storm drain blockage to ensure prompt maintenance and repairs. Below are the top signs of clogs to look out for.
Slow drainage of stormwater
There should be a smooth flow of stormwater through your drains, especially when there's light to moderate rains. During heavy rainfall, the volume of water on the surfaces may surpass the drains' capacity. Thus, you may notice slower drainage. However, if there's slow drainage during moderate rains, there's a problem with your drainage system.
You can conduct a visual check of your storm drains after the rains. Step outside and check to see if all the water has drained from your driveway and other surfaces. If not, go to the nearest drain grates and check how fast the water flows into the drainage. Slow movement indicates a clog in the system. Clean your storm drains regularly to keep debris out of the piping and prevent blockage.
Flooding in outdoor areas
Are you experiencing flooding when it rains? This is a sign of a severe blockage in your storm drains. Minor clogs slow down the drainage, but they may not disrupt the functioning of the system. If parts of your home's exterior flood once it rains, you need to check your storm drains. Below are the common causes of severe clogs in stormwater drainage systems:
- Invasive tree roots: Large tree roots can break your drain pipes and restrict the flow of stormwater to the drainage network.
- Damaged piping: Over time, PVC drain pipes may suffer damage due to ground movements. The broken section of the pipe allows soil and large pieces of debris into the drains, which causes severe blockage.
If you have large trees such as oak, palm and gum trees in your yard, watch out for root invasion into your storm drains. Also, regularly inspect old drain pipes for wear and damage to avert flooding in your outdoor areas.
Overflowing gutters
Gutters collect water from the roof and direct it into the downspouts. The downspouts drain the water into the stormwater drains. Clogs slow down the drainage of rainwater from the downspouts, which causes the gutters to overflow. Leaky gutters expose your home's basement and foundation to flooding. Thus, clean your storm drains to avert the disaster.
Blocked storm drains can cause unexpected damage to your property. Contact your plumber for help clearing your blocked drains.
