Minimize the Damage Caused by Flooding

8/26/2021 (Permalink)

Take some fundamental steps to reduce the flooding damage in your Washington, NC, home.

If your Washington, NC, home is situated in a part of town where flooding is a threat, it's important that you know the steps to take to minimize flood damage. After all, these situations are some of the most common and most expensive disasters to face homeowners, especially when caused by flash floods.

• An emergency flood plan should include:
• An evacuation route
• A meeting place
• Contact information for each family member
• A well-stocked emergency kit

It's also a good idea to have community resources available. The numbers of your local authorities or a flood cleanup and repair agency can be helpful.

Understand Your Flood Risk

Some communities offer information online where you can check for floodplain boundaries. You may find flood hazard maps on the FEMA website, or you can reach out to your insurance provider to learn more about the flood level in your neighborhood. Make sure you know the difference between a Flood Watch and a Flood Warning.

A Flood Watch means that you have time to prepare to evacuate, but you may not need to leave.

A Flood Warning, on the other hand, means that water is already on its way, and you need to act immediately.

Floodproof the Basement

Before there's any hint of a storm and potential flooding, take steps to prevent flood damage. The basement is one of the areas in your home that's most likely to be affected. You can prevent a lot of damage by using a concrete sealant on the floors and walls to protect the structural stability of your home. The sealant also protects against mold, mildew, and other effects of high humidity. Depending on the risk, adding a sump pump can be beneficial.

Raise Belongings Above the Flood Level

Use concrete blocks to raise air conditioning units and other outside equipment above flood levels. If your area is under a flood watch, move as much furniture into the upper levels of your home as possible. Waterlogged electrical outlets and other sources of electricity can pose many dangers. Move all electrical units at least twelve inches above the flood level. You can reduce the expense of replacing furniture and belongings and avoid hiring water damage cleanup and repair professionals by keeping your valuables above the estimated water level.

Use Maintenance and Landscaping

Even a relatively small event can lead to storm damage. For example, if your gutters and storm drains are clogged with leaves and debris, heavy rainfall can lead to interior and exterior damage. Completing routine maintenance around your property can save you from a lot of trouble:

• Keep gutters clean and flowing away from the foundation of your home.
• Prevent trash from clogging your storm drains.
• Introduce native plants to your landscape to hold the soil during flooding.
• Add a rain garden, French drains, or additional features to provide a way for water to flow away from the house.

Flooding doesn't always provide much warning before it hits. Make sure that you're ready for this type of disaster before there's any sign of rain. Use these tips to protect your Washington, NC, home.