Floods are expected to be the most severe environmental disaster affecting the world population in the near future as global warming continues. Flooding damages properties to the tune of billions of dollars. Floods can occur in various ways, including flash floods, hurricane storm surges, breached levees, and snowmelt. If you’re concerned about flood damage affecting your property, here are nine precautions that can be taken to reduce the chances of substantial destruction that a foundation repair company would recommend.
1. Inspect Your Drainage System
Flooding can damage the exterior and inside of your home, and inadequate water drainage is usually to blame. To correct this, start emptying your gutters of debris regularly. Examine the gutter system for any holes or leaks that might cause water to flow toward your home’s foundation instead of away from it. According to The Spruce, downspout extensions should direct water away from the foundation by at least four feet, and the soil within three feet of the house should slope away from it. If you uncover a slope issue, a foundation repair company can regrade your yard so that water flows in the proper direction.
2. Check Your Foundation and Windows
Water can leak into your property through foundation cracks, so examine it and seal any gaps with the appropriate preventative measures. Consider sealing the foundation’s outside as well. Large foundation cracks may require the assistance of an experienced foundation repair company. Water may also seep into the home through basement and low-level window wells. Purchase a window well cover that is firmly fastened to help avoid the flow of water into the well.
3. Update Your Valves
Dreadful flooding can arise when the plumbing system overloads and backflows into the home. Even if exterior floods do not damage your property, an overloaded plumbing system can leave a mess behind. To avoid this, incorporate a backflow or gate valve in each drainage pipe linked to your home. These valves are used to keep water flowing in the proper direction. For needed permission, contact your local building department.
4. Place Your Valuables on High Ground
Elevation is the best flood-prevention strategy. Keep any valuable or sentimental items above ground, such as on the higher floor of your home or the top shelves of closets and cabinets. Objects should not be stored on the floor, especially in ground-level areas. Washing machines and dryers, for example, should be placed on wood or cement blocks at least a foot from the ground. Also, make duplicates of your vital documents and store them in a fire-resistant, waterproof box in a high-level position.
5. Acquire a Sump Pump
A sump pump removes water that has accumulated in an area of your property below ground level, such as a basement. The sooner you get rid of water, the less destruction you may incur, making this a worthwhile investment. Acting immediately can help avoid the formation of mold and mildew, which can have serious effects. So, while the pump investment may appear excessive initially, it will most certainly pay off in an emergency. If you already have a sump pump, keep it in excellent operating order so it’s available when needed.
6. Turn Off Electricity When Flooding Is Likely
Water and electricity are a potentially lethal mix for your household. Remove the hazard by turning off all the electricity in the house before the flood reaches your door. Water is an excellent electrical conductor, and the current conducted can inflict catastrophic damage. Don’t go into the wetlands if you’re caught off guard by a flood and don’t have time to switch off the electricity. Call your energy provider and request that the power be turned off as soon as possible!
7. Waterproof Your Property
Waterproofing your property, according to Visually, is a low-cost alternative for protecting your home against serious water damage, which might result in thousands of dollars worth of damages. Basement waterproofing is necessary when a structure or a portion of a property is erected at ground level or lower. Water will most likely accumulate in the earth surrounding the basement, increasing the water table and causing hydrostatic water pressure. Without basement waterproofing, water infiltration can cause mildew, deterioration, structural concerns, and other damp-related problems.
8. Install Flood Barriers
Consider placing flood barriers on doors and windows and having sandbags on hand if feasible. All concerns regarding the home’s interior may be alleviated by making it difficult for water to enter via the entryway. If you live in a flood-prone area, install as many barriers as possible.
9. Use Landscaping to Your Advantage
If you have a backyard or garden, you are probably aware of which places are most prone to water accumulation. Using landscaping techniques, you may slope your property so that water flows away from your house. Check that the diversion does not send water into a neighbor’s residence.
Preparation is the best defense against flooding, so take precautions to avoid flood damage before floodwater enters your property. Do you need foundation repair to correct foundational issues that make your home susceptible to flooding? Contact Pro-Seal today so the top foundation repair company can fix your foundation.