Spring in the Portland area brings blooming gardens, longer days—and a lot more water moving through your outdoor plumbing. From watering lawns to washing cars and powering irrigation systems, the shift from winter dormancy to spring activity can stress outdoor lines that may have been damaged by freezing temperatures or debris buildup.
Before summer hits, it’s smart to give your exterior plumbing a thorough check. A little maintenance now can help you avoid water waste, unexpected flooding, and costly repairs later.
Why Outdoor Plumbing Matters More Than You Think
Most homeowners focus on what’s inside the house when it comes to plumbing—but what’s happening outside can be just as important. Hose bibs, sprinkler lines, underground pipes, and even exterior drains all work together to keep your property dry and your water use efficient.
In the Pacific Northwest, where spring rains are frequent and summer water usage spikes quickly, a small leak in your outdoor system can lead to:
- Erosion or pooling water around your foundation
- Overloaded sump pumps
- Soaked landscaping and dead patches of lawn
- Mold and mildew near siding or crawlspaces
- Water bills that creep up without warning
Your Outdoor Plumbing Checklist for Spring
Here’s what we recommend every homeowner in Gresham, Clackamas, and across the Portland area check before summer begins:
- Test All Outdoor Faucets (Hose Bibs)
Turn them on one at a time and watch for sputtering, low pressure, or dripping after shut-off. These signs may indicate cracked pipes behind the wall—especially if your pipes weren’t properly winterized.
- Inspect Hoses and Connectors
Replace any cracked or brittle hoses and check for leaks where hoses connect to faucets or sprinkler systems.
- Check for Water Pooling Near the Foundation
Look for areas where water is collecting after rain or watering. This could point to drainage problems or broken pipes underground.
- Evaluate Sprinkler Systems
Run each zone and look for broken heads, uneven spray, or overly wet patches of lawn. Fixing faulty heads now prevents overwatering and lawn damage later.
- Clear Yard Drains and Gutters
Leaves and winter debris often clog downspouts, catch basins, and other outdoor drains. Clear them to prevent backups and basement leaks.
Think You Might Have a Leak? Here’s How to Tell
You don’t need professional tools to catch early signs of an outdoor leak:
- Turn off all water fixtures inside and outside your home.
- Check your water meter—if the dial is still spinning, you may have a leak somewhere in the system.
- Listen for faint hissing or dripping sounds around outdoor pipes or crawlspaces.
- Walk your yard and feel for unusually soft or soggy areas even during dry weather.
If anything seems off, it’s best to have a licensed plumber assess the situation before it worsens.
Professional Outdoor Plumbing Inspections Available
At Da Vinci’s Best Plumbing, we offer full spring checkups that include both indoor and outdoor plumbing. We use non-invasive methods to inspect underground lines, test for pressure issues, and ensure every connection is tight, efficient, and ready for the warmer months ahead.
Many homeowners don’t realize how much water is lost through seasonal leaks. Our services not only help preserve your yard and home but can also lead to lower utility bills and fewer repairs down the road.
Get Ahead of Summer Surprises
The last thing you want in July is to discover that a minor spring leak has turned into a major repair. Preventative care is always cheaper and faster than emergency fixes.
So whether you’re noticing standing water near your home or just want peace of mind before peak water usage begins, our team is here to help.
Need a Plumbing Pro You Can Trust?
Whether you’re in Gresham, Clackamas, or the Greater Portland area, Da Vinci’s Best Plumbing is your local expert for dependable service and fair pricing. From outdoor inspections to full system maintenance, we’ve got your home covered.
Contact us today to schedule your spring plumbing checkup.
