Home Flood Prevention: 5 Easy Ways to Protect Your Home
There are proven strategies to prevent water damage when it rains or floods. Quality construction materials are an essential element in making sure that you reduce the environmental impact of your house. They should be constructed properly and maintained in good shape. However, this is not a good idea if you must act immediately or learn the best way to prevent water damage during a flood. Instead, you can follow some simple steps to safeguard your home from water damage and ensure that your home is dry.
How to Protect Your Home From Flood Damage
Every property is susceptible to being affected by flooding regardless of where it is located. But, there are things one can take to minimize the effect of the flood and speed up the process of recovery.
1. Repair any foundational cracks.
Repair foundation cracks using a mortar and hydraulic cement that increases and completely fills gaps. Both are reasonably priced. Be careful not to patch with cement or mortar only because these products are extremely brittle and could break. If water is an ongoing issue, consider other options for basements that are damp and other problems.
2. Invest in a battery-operated sump pump.
The battery-powered sump pump is a good investment. The sump pump can help you eliminate water from your home in a flood; however, it won’t be able to operate if it’s not powered with electricity. Sump pumps powered by batteries are an affordable option (ranging between $150 and $400).
3. Move items to a more secure area.
If you reside in an area that is a flood zone, moving your possessions to higher levels, such as an attic or the second floor, will ensure that they’re secure. Also, put in heating systems and water pumping systems at least 12 inches higher than the maximum flood level at your home as per the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
4. Secure your fuel tanks.
Unanchored tanks may float, crack, and leak fuel. After closing off and cooling down equipment such as furnaces and water heaters, it is also possible to protect the tanks with waterproof tarps to prevent water and flood damage.
5. Install septic line check valves or sewer.
They will only let garbage flow in only one direction. To ensure that the wastewater doesn’t flow back into your home’s stagnant water, plan to spend up to $100 or more per valve or install it yourself for between $10 and $15 each. Select a place within the pipe that is practical for repairs or maintenance.
In case of a flood, hire a flood cleanup company.
Don’t try the task of cleaning up after a flood or fixing water damage at your home. It is best to leave the job to a professional with the required experience and knowledge to spot and tackle issues without the risk of illness or damage. Before entering the floodwaters to perform damage and repair, damage restoration professionals usually wear protective equipment and glasses.
Flood cleanup is often long and physically exhausting. The best advice is to avoid homes damaged by floods so that they are not exposed to polluted water and potential illness or injury.
If your house has been damaged due to water, then you’ll require a business with the proper skills, training, and experience to help you restore and repair your home. Then, after your home is fixed by a professional flood cleanup firm, you can return with peace of mind knowing that it’s livable. To find the best professional flood cleanup company, click here.
Final Thoughts
In dealing with the aftermath of a flood, time is the most valuable resource. I hope this guideline can help you learn how to fix water damage following a flood. These methods have been tried and proven to be effective. While it’s unpleasant, however, it’s crucial to remain calm and immediately take action on the most pressing issues. This way, you’ll be able to greatly reduce the damage and repair your home and return to normal living within the shortest time.
