Storm Drain Backup: Your #1 Guide to Effective Prevention

6/24/2024 (Permalink)

The professionals at SERVPRO understand water damage, so you don't have to!

Expert insights and practical steps to safeguard your property from water-related damage.

Storm drain backups can cause significant disruption and damage in residential and commercial properties. Effective management is crucial to minimizing damage and ensuring a swift return to normalcy. 

This blog post will explore the common causes of storm drain backups, offer practical prevention tips, and showcase how SERVPRO® expertise can be invaluable in restoring properties affected by this common issue.

What are the common causes of storm drain backups?

Storm drain backups can result from a variety of sources. Understanding these causes can help in preventing and managing backup situations effectively:

• Heavy Rainfall: Intense and prolonged rainfall can overwhelm storm drain systems, leading to backups and flooding.
• Debris and Blockages: Leaves, trash, and other debris can clog storm drains, preventing water from flowing freely and causing backups.
• Tree Roots: Roots from nearby trees can infiltrate and block storm drain pipes, leading to backups and reduced drainage capacity.
• Structural Damage: Cracks or breaks in storm drain pipes can cause blockages and backups.
• Improper Slope and Drainage: Poorly designed or maintained drainage systems can fail to direct water away from the property, leading to backups.

How can storm drain backups lead to property damage?

The impact of storm drain backups can be severe and rapid. Common issues include:

• Flooding: Backed-up storm drains can cause flooding in basements, yards, and streets, leading to water damage.
• Structural Damage: Prolonged exposure to water can weaken the foundation, walls, and floors of buildings.
• Damage to Landscaping: Flooding can erode soil, damage plants, and disrupt landscaping features.
• Electrical Hazards: Water intrusion can cause short circuits and other electrical hazards, posing a safety risk.
• Mold Growth: Prolonged moisture can lead to mold growth, further damaging property and requiring extensive remediation.

Tips to prevent storm drain backups

Preventing storm drain backups is achievable with the proper measures. Here’s a list of practical steps to safeguard your property:

Regularly Clean Gutters and Drains

Ensure that gutters, downspouts, and storm drains are clear of debris such as leaves, trash, and dirt. Regular cleaning helps maintain proper water flow and reduces the risk of blockages.

Inspect and Maintain Drainage Systems

Regularly inspect your property’s drainage systems for signs of damage or blockages. Repair any cracks or breaks in storm drain pipes promptly to prevent backups.

Install Drainage Solutions

Consider installing drainage solutions such as French drains, catch basins, and sump pumps to manage excess water and prevent backups. These solutions help direct water away from the property.

Monitor Tree Roots

Monitor the growth of trees near storm drains and sewer lines. Tree roots can infiltrate and block pipes, causing backups. If necessary, remove or trim trees to prevent root intrusion.

Use Permeable Landscaping

Incorporate permeable landscaping materials like gravel or pavers to allow water to seep into the ground rather than runoff into storm drains. This reduces the risk of overwhelming drainage systems.

Avoid Pouring Grease and Debris Down Drains

Avoid pouring grease, oil, and debris down sinks and storm drains. These materials can harden and cause blockages, leading to backups.

Install Backflow Prevention Devices

Consider installing backflow prevention devices in your plumbing system. These devices prevent water from flowing backward into your property during heavy rainfall or drainage system overloads.

Create Proper Slope and Grading

Ensure that the land around your property is appropriately graded to direct water away from the building. This helps prevent water from pooling near the foundation and reduces the risk of backups.

Plan for Heavy Rainfall

Stay informed about weather conditions and take proactive measures during heavy rainfall or storm warnings. Clear debris from gutters and drains before a storm to ensure proper water flow.

A recent storm drain backup scenario in Blue Ridge, Georgia

Last month, SERVPRO was called to handle a significant water damage situation caused by a storm drain backup in Blue Ridge, Georgia. A commercial property experienced extensive water damage when a severe storm overwhelmed the local drainage system. This led to a backup that flooded the basement and lower levels. This scenario highlights the importance of prompt and professional intervention in managing storm drain backups.

Upon receiving the distress call, our SERVPRO team quickly mobilized to assess the situation. The action plan included:

1. Immediate Water Extraction: Our advanced water extraction technology quickly addressed the standing water throughout the affected area. This step was crucial in halting the spread of water and minimizing secondary damage.
2. Thorough Drying and Dehumidification: Our focus shifted to comprehensive drying and dehumidification post-extraction. We deployed cutting-edge drying equipment and dehumidifiers, eradicating even the most concealed moisture. This phase is critical in mitigating the risk of mold and mildew, which can pose hazards and further damage the property.
3. Detailed Damage Assessment: We conducted a thorough inspection to identify all areas affected by the water damage, including hidden moisture behind walls and under floors.
4. Restoration and Repair: We performed necessary repairs to restore the building's structural integrity, including replacing damaged flooring, drywall, and electrical systems.
5. Safety and Compliance: Ensuring the safety of the building’s occupants was our top priority. We adhered to all safety protocols and compliance standards throughout the cleanup and restoration process.

This incident in Blue Ridge, Georgia, exemplifies the resilience and efficiency of our SERVPRO team. Faced with a potentially devastating storm drain backup scenario, our swift action and professional expertise salvaged the property and safeguarded it against future vulnerabilities. This case is a testament to our commitment to providing rapid, reliable, and comprehensive water damage restoration services, especially in commercial environments.

What should you do when you experience a storm drain backup?

Immediate action is crucial in the event of a storm drain backup. The first step is to stop the source of the water if possible. Then, quickly contacting a professional water restoration team is essential for mitigating the damage. While waiting for professional help, remove any wet items and attempt to dry the affected area. Extensive water damage requires professional equipment and expertise for thorough and safe restoration.

Wrapping up

SERVPRO’s reputation in water damage restoration is built on swift response, advanced technology, and skilled professionals. We understand the nuances of water damage restoration, particularly in challenging storm drain backup scenarios. Our team is trained to handle complex situations, ensuring efficient and effective restoration. With SERVPRO, property owners receive comprehensive restoration services tailored to their specific needs.

Choosing SERVPRO for storm drain backup restoration offers more than just repair services; it provides partnership in property protection. Our quick response, cutting-edge techniques, and customer-centric approach make us a trusted ally in navigating water damage challenges. As we have seen, storm drain backups can strike unexpectedly. Still, with preparation and the support of SERVPRO professionals, your property can emerge unscathed from the most challenging water damage incidents.

By following these tips and relying on professional expertise, you can effectively manage and prevent storm drain backups, ensuring your property remains safe and secure. Whether dealing with minor flooding or significant water damage, SERVPRO is ready to help with comprehensive water damage restoration and prevention services.