What’s Under Your Feet? The Unsettling Truth About This Basement Hole!
September 10, 2024
source: Reddit
It can be said that the cast iron backwater valve was one of the most important pieces of plumbing equipment in the past. These valves were quite strong and dependable and were intended to avert the nightmare of sewage backup and therefore prevent flooding of homes and buildings. Fitted into the main drain line this valve had a very simple yet efficient way of operation that prevented the back flow of water or sewage from the city supply into the house when it was raining profusely or when the sewage system had an overflow.
Such backwater valves could be made of cast iron and this was a material that was prized for its toughness. This made it possible for them to endure a lot of pressure and tough conditions that may be present in the environment. These were usually located in basements or crawl spaces and, like many other utility items, they worked without fanfare and went unseen by the home owner until required. Without the help of such devices, houses were at high risk of being flooded especially during stormy weather or during system faults and this could lead to huge damages.
The flap like structure was one of the main characteristic of the old cast backwater valves. When a situation arose where sewage or water pressure from the municipal line was to enter into the home, the flap would close and serve as a one way barrier. It proved very useful in the sense that it gave one a sense of security, especially in areas that were often flooded. If the valve was well taken care of it could last for many years without developing any problem.
But with time, modernization caught up with this kind of cast iron backwater valves and they were replaced by other forms that were lighter and more convenient to use such as PVC and stainless steel backwater valves. The original cast ones were very long lasting but they were prone to rust if they were not checked and cleaned from time to time. However, there are still many old houses and buildings which have these valves installed and these valves are still protecting the systems even decades later.
Today, the cast iron backwater valve is somewhat considered as an old-fashioned product, however, its contribution in the history of plumbing cannot be overemphasized. This is an important lesson of a time when quality and substance of material used was more important than style. For many old homes this simple device is still used to prevent costly water damage and is a clear example of how effective and durable this type of technology can be.