Protect Your Home From Flood Water Damage

2/22/2022 (Permalink)

These Tips will help you Protect Your Home From Flood Water Damage. If you have more questions, just contact us.

It doesn't take long for flood water to leave your home in shambles, and many types of conditions can lead to flooding in Roanoke Rapids, NC. Taking a proactive stance protects your property from:

• Flash floods
• Overflowing roads and rivers
• Lack of adequate drainage
• Heavy rains or melting snow

Before storms threaten, take steps to protect your home from water damage.

There are many steps you can take to keep water out of your home and away from your belongings.

Keep Flood Water Out of Your Home

Tackle some of these tasks today and reach out to professionals in your area to learn more about how to avoid water damage.

Understand the Risk in Your Area

The National Flood Insurance Program operates a website, Floodsmart.gov, that provides information about floodplains, zones, and chances of flooding. You can also check into the history of your area to learn about past experiences and ask your insurance provider for information specific to your neighborhood.

Install Backflow Prevention Valves

These protective devices stop contaminated water from flowing back into your home and mixing with potable water. Check the water pipes to your home (near the shut-off valve) to determine whether a backflow valve is already in place and to determine the most appropriate model for your home.

Install a Sump Pump

These handy devices provide a convenient way to move flood water out and away from your home. Look for a pump that is sized appropriately for your home, taking into account the most common flood threat in your area. It's also a good idea to choose a pump with a backup battery.

Clean Out and Maintain Gutters

The gutters that run around the roof are a vital part of your home protection plan. When they are clear of debris, the gutters move a lot of rainfall away from the building. However, if the gutters are full of leaves, sticks, and dirt, the water will build up and then seep into the attic, walls, and basement.

Improve Grading and Drainage on Your Property

One common issue that quickly leads to a flooded building is water pooling around the foundation of the house. This happens when the grade of the lawn tends toward the home. Inspect your property, looking for potential problem areas. These are pretty easy to recognize on rainy days. Add to sunken areas at the base of the home and direct water to appropriate drainage locations away from the home.

Elevate Appliances and Utilities

Using the information you gathered about flooding in your area, raise your water heater, air conditioning unit, furnace, and other appliances above the expected flood elevation level. Discuss this step with your insurance agent for specific data. If you store important documents, keepsakes, and similar items in the basement, choose a raised location for these items as well.

There are several other steps you can consider when it comes to protecting your home from the damage caused by flood water in Roanoke Rapids, NC. If your home is affected by water damage, reach out to cleanup and restoration professionals as quickly as possible.