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I need to permanently block off this laundry floor drain, which last week filled my house with storm water.
My plumber suggested inserting a dmv in pipe plug into the 50mm drain. However the metal grate opening is approx 42mm diameter and the dmv plug is rigid, so it wont fit.
I am thinking of gluing a rubber plug to the metal grate. What solution would you use?
Hi @PeterE,
It's important to note that permanently blocking a floor drain can lead to several potential issues. If this area is classed as a wet area under building codes, the drain may be required to remain functional as part of compliance. Blocking it could also create a risk of flooding in the event of a burst pipe or overflow, and might cause insurance complications if future water damage occurs.
Another concern is that floor drains should be connected to the sewer system, not stormwater. Stormwater pipes are only meant to carry rainwater from roofs and outdoor areas. If stormwater has been backing up through this drain, it suggests a plumbing connection issue that needs professional correction rather than a DIY blockage.
I’d recommend discussing the situation further with your licensed plumber, explaining what happened and asking how the underlying pipework could be corrected or rerouted to prevent another flood. Attempting to block the drain yourself, especially by gluing or sealing it, could lead to serious water damage or compliance problems down the track.
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Mitchell
That's great to hear you've verified that with the plumber @PeterE. Just didn't want you to get into a sticky situation.
I'm sorry, but I'm not aware of any plugs that can fit through a 40mm opening and then expand to block a 50mm pipe. Does the plumber have access to the pipe under the house or outside it? They could cut the pipe and disconnect it, and then cap off the stormwater line.
The only other option I can think of would be to cut out the grout to release the drain cover surround and lever it out. Block the pipe and then reinstall it.
Let me tag @Dave-1 and @Noyade to see if they have any thoughts.
Mitchell
What amount of stormwater came up through the grate, @PeterE? Stormwater can have a tremendous flow and pressure, especially if other routes out of the property are blocked or have limited flow. Your idea of gluing in a plug could work, but I have concerns that if it fails, you could end up with a flooded home.
I would suggest you have the plumber disconnect and cap off the plumbing work, as that would be the only real solution I'd be comfortable with.
Mitchell
Do you still use the laundry @PeterE?
Obviously the point of having a drain in a laundry is so that if you have an internal plumbing issue, water can escape and won't damage the property. I have previously experienced the ramifications of a burst pipe in an apartment in which the drainage was insufficient, and the property damage was very significant and expensive.
I would be inclined to get a second opinion from another plumber about how to rectify this issue.
Jason
