If a home or property is damaged by excess water, it is considered an emergency that requires a swift response. The moisture will degrade porous surfaces and materials, and the damage can worsen when it is not addressed.

Since climate change is causing floods to become more regular and severe, safeguarding your house becomes increasingly essential. While a flood can significantly damage your home, there are methods to prevent flooding damage to your property.

Even moderate flooding could cause massive and costly damage to buildings, homes, and personal possessions. Fortunately, there are several options for homeowners to safeguard their properties.

Flood Damage Tips

Stormwater and flooding can result in significant destruction to your home or business. The risk of flooding increases for those who live in an area of flooding or plain. Click here to learn more information.

Install Water Sensors

Various water detection devices, sensors, and alarms are available to alert the water leaks within your home or business. The sophisticated water detection devices can be integrated with your security system for your home to alert you to water issues before they become a problem.

Test Your Sump Pump Regularly

Test your sump pump regularly. Ensure that it can drain enough water during heavy rains. Consider adding a battery backup so that should power go out, and your sump pump is shut down, it will continue to run until power is restored.

Update Your Water Valves

Even if the storm may not deliver enough water to inundate your home thoroughly, it can still cause damage if it causes the sewage to back up and run into it. To prevent this, install a gate or backflow valve on each sewage line that links to your home. The valves are designed to ensure water flow is in the intended direction.

Clear Debris From Drains and Ditches

Avoid stacking leaves, mulch, or any other waste in your yard that could block drainage or even flush into sewage drains. Check neighboring storm drains for obstructions, and use a rake to remove any obvious ones. Contact your county’s water or sewer department for more severe blockages.

Clean Downspouts and Gutters

Check and clean the downspouts and gutters. To keep the downspouts clear, take care to clean the trenches using the help of a leaf blower, gloves, and flexible water the hose using a high-pressure attachment. You can also engage a lawn or landscape professional to do this.

Improve Grading and Drainage

Note any flooding or rainwater that collects around your home in the event of rain. Be particularly attentive to zones around your foundation. The soil should slope away from your home.

To fix the grade, you might need to bring soil and sod. In some situations, you may need to construct drainage areas where water collects to provide where water flow can be during intense storms.

Seal Your Basement Windows

Increase the resistance to water in the basement and low windows by adequately sealing and caulking them. If you have older windows, it is advisable to consider replacing them.

Newer windows have more seals, reducing the chance of water entering your home. Efficiency in energy use can also be increased with new windows. Consult a water damage restoration company after a flood.

Change Your Landscaping

The porous exterior surfaces permit water to sink into the ground instead of rushing toward your home. Changing asphalt or concrete roads to gravel or brick will help you manage rainy days and decrease possible flood damage. A company like PuroClean of Powhatan, VA, can help you with flood damage in your home.