How To Effectively Flood-Proof Your Home
When the weather turns colder and wetter, it is critical to ensure your home is flood-proofed to avoid major damage. According to a recent study, around 14.6 million houses in the US are at risk of flooding. Flood risks to your home can range from minor to full-scale damage, and even the smallest repairs can cost hundreds or possibly thousands of dollars. Below are some of the best ways to prevent flooding from damaging your house and belongings.
- Evaluate your flood risks
Before buying a house, it is vital to review the area’s flood map to appreciate the home’s flood risks. These maps reveal flood risk levels, including base flood elevation and floodplain boundaries. Since home sellers in some states are not compelled to disclose a house’s flood history to prospective buyers, you may want to do your own research. This way, you can understand any flooding or leaking problems in the home. You can also consider bringing in experts in water damage restoration services to check the home’s health and other untreated damages to advise the best ways to safeguard the property.
- Change your landscaping
Water seeps into the ground rather than flowing toward your house when you have porous outdoor surfaces. It is often recommended to dig out swales to channel stormwater runoff away from your house. Additionally, you can convert your asphalt or concrete roads to brick or gravel. Using absorbent mulch can also help manage heavy downpours and mitigate potential flooding damage. Another cost-effective way to prevent your house from flooding is to place a rain barrel underneath the gutter downspout. This won’t only alleviate basement flooding but can also reduce the risk of flooding and pollution in nearby waterways.
- Assess your ventilation brick covers
The ventilation brick covers are easily forgotten when protecting your home against flooding. However, it would be helpful to assess any vent that could allow water into your house. Several options are available, including installing a resistant air brick or buying brick covers to prevent water from entering the home. While the former may be slightly expensive, it eliminates the need to remember to cover them whenever there is a flood threat.
- Consider flood insurance
Flood insurance is essential if you live in a flood-prone area. And some states require individuals with a federally backed mortgage in flood-prone regions to have this. Although it is easy to assume that state-backed aid will cover flood damages to your home, studies have shown that they are mostly insufficient. Ordinary insurance plans may not cover damages caused by adverse weather. A flood insurance coverage can be a good investment depending on your house location and what you intend to protect. It is best to buy your insurance ahead of a major weather event.
While these tips should help protect your home against flood risks, the list is not exhaustive. It can be useful to research a few more ideas or seek professional assistance in flood-proofing your space.
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