Damage from floodwaters can be very hard to repair and may cause long-lasting problems if proper care is not taken. Structural flood mitigation techniques can be used to prevent minor damage from occurring, especially if you live in an area where flooding only occurs on an occasional basis. The fact that minor flooding has occurred in the past will make using these mitigation techniques a valuable option. Protecting homes in flood-prone areas is the responsibility of the homeowner. Organizations like FEMA can often step in and provide valuable assistance in situations involving flooding and other types of damage.
Elevate Your Home
If you don’t have a crawlspace or basement, you may be able to elevate your home and dramatically reduce your risk of potential flood damage. Lifting your home as little as 18 to 24 inches will make a world of difference when it comes to preventing water damage. The original foundation will have to be raised in addition to the structure itself. A new foundation, complete with pillars and piers, will have to be put in place to support the home and allow the water to flow through. Homes that are located along the coast are often elevated by several feet to ensure they are protected against large waves that often accompany hurricanes.
Dry Flood-proofing
Dry flood-proofing seals a home to prevent water from making its way inside. Installing watertight doors and windows is the first step. Waterproof shields and floodwalls add an extra layer of protection against water, making its way inside your home. Dry flood-proofing also use sealants to prevent moisture from collecting around cracks and corners. Waterproof barriers can be installed a short distance from the foundation to reduce the amount of water that generally makes it inside the home. Dry flood-proofing can be accomplished in several steps. The key is to know where to begin and what types of materials are most effective.
Wet Flood-proofing
Wet flood-proofing uses vents and small passageways to allow water to pass safely through the home or its crawlspace. By allowing water to flow freely through these areas, you can reduce the risk of structural damage. Most flood damage in homes occurs because of the pressure that builds up as water passes around the house. Letting it go through the home reduces that pressure. Certain flood-prone areas are required to have water vents to prevent structural damage.
VGW Walker Insurance agents can assist homeowners in understanding what type of home insurance plans can be used to reduce the risk of water damage in your home. The agents have the experience they need to help you purchase the right homeowner’s policy and the flood insurance to go along with it. When you want expert advice, call the office today and schedule a review of your policy to find out how they can help.
