In 2008, Hurricane Katrina ripped across the southern United States. Aside from killing nearly 2,000 people and displacing thousands more, it also inflicted around $125 billion in damage. Much of that damage came from flooding.
When people think of devastating natural disasters, most people think of events such as tornadoes and earthquakes. Yet flooding can also be destructive and can happen at a moment’s notice. So what can you do to protect yourself and your home?
Keep reading to learn about some of the different ways you can protect your home from home flooding.
Build With the Right Materials
If you live near a flood zone, make sure that the floors, walls, and other parts of your house are built with flood-resistant materials. This means that they can survive contact with floodwaters for 72 hours without a problem.
Flood-resistant materials include foam insulation, marine-grade plywood, concrete, and ceramic tile. All of these can take a beating with only cosmetic damage to show.
Install Electrical Systems Above Flood Level
Floodwaters can cause serious damage to different electrical systems, such as meters, service panels, outlets, and switches. Unlike building materials, damage can occur in a matter of minutes. You’ll then need to replace them.
Make sure to remove these systems, as well as any wiring, a foot or higher above the flood level. This will also prevent short-circuiting, which can lead to fires.
Anchor Down Fuel Tanks
If you have untethered fuel tanks outside, make a point to anchor them down. As floodwaters rush in, they can lift the tank. It can then damage your property or the property of others.
Try attaching the tank to a piece of concrete that’s strong enough to resist being picked up by floodwaters. You can also wrap it with straps, then weigh the straps down with anchors.
Protect Your HVAC System
As is the case with electrical systems, floodwaters can damage your HVAC unit. The amount of damage it incurs depends on how long it’s underwater, and at what depth.
Consider moving it from your basement to your home’s upper level. If you have an attic, you can also put it there. If you can’t move it, you can try constructing a concrete or waterproof wall around it.
Protect Any Wells
As floodwaters move across the land, they often pick up hazardous materials. This can include things such as sewage, oil, and animal waste. If this contaminated water enters a well, it can poison the local water supply.
Do your research to find out where any local wells are, then take steps to protect them. This can mean extending the well casing, or constructing them on a raised location.
Play It Safe With Necessary Home Flooding Precautions
Although you can’t stop floods from happening, you can take the necessary steps to limit the damage they inflict. By following this guide and trying out some of the tips, you’ll be as prepared as possible the next time any home flooding occurs.
Do you have a better understanding of how to protect your belongings and house from water damage? If you do, take a moment to check out some of our other articles for more guides and tips.