Flooding can significant big damage to your house. The only way to save your property is to call water damage restoration specialists. They will restore your house and prevent water damage. However, how will you save your home from flooding?
Assess the flood risk –
The most important step is to analyze how much flood risk you have in your region. Is your house capable of enduring it?
Some zones in your country may have a flooding risk at least once every 50 to 100 years. Homeowners in these zones must take steps to prevent the impact of flooding. On the other hand, some zones receive a 0.2% risk of annual flooding. Research the flood history of the region where you live. It will help you in identifying the most effective steps for flood prevention.
Moreover, you have to find how the floodwater accesses your house. Water can enter through your basement windows, doors, and several other places. An understanding of the potential flooding risk will enable you to apply the right dry-proofing techniques.
Renovate your house- Make it flood-resistant –
The smartest step for every homeowner is to make the house flood-proof. From basic maintenance to costly renovations, there are several options for you. Still, the most commonly used flood-proofing techniques are listed here.
Raise the house on some stilts – Although it is a costly affair, it will elevate the house above the flood level. A small amount of floodwater can cause damage.
Install sump pumps and foundation vents – Foundation vents cause the flow of water through your house. They relieve the pressure put by water on your basement and water. Moreover, you may install a sump pump in a place, which has a risk of regular flooding.
Apply sealant – Sealants and coatings to the walls and foundations prevent the leakage of floodwater through cracks.
Raise the switches and electric panels – The electrical systems, including the switches and outlets must be about 1 foot above the flood level. Furthermore, AC, dryers, water heaters, and other appliances should be above the flood level.
Fit check valves to your pipes – Ensure that the pipes entering the house are integrated with valves. The sewage system will not back up into your house.
Leave a gap between siding and mulching – Wet mulch makes your siding rotten, and ultimately, you find leaks. By maintaining some space between siding and mulching, you can keep the base of the building dry.
Start grading your lawn – When the lawn is slightly tilted towards the house, there will be an accumulation of floodwater around the building. You need to use soil for re-grading the lawn.
Check out the position of the downspout – The downspout should direct the water away from your house to avoid any damage.
When you find the rainwater already flooding the adjacent regions, you have to be alert. Clean your gutters, block gaps with sandbags, and turn off the electricity. You may also move your carpets, electronics, and furniture to the higher floors.
