When flooding is imminent, it’s too late to take steps to significantly reduce property damage. As residents of New York State’s Southern Tier found out during recent flooding, it pays to prepare for flooding well before it occurs. By taking a few precautionary steps, you can not only minimize damage to your home but also reduce after-flood repair costs.
Flood vents are one of the most effective ways to protect your home during flooding. Installed in the foundation of your home, flood vents allow free flow of water in and out of buildings. Protecting your home by letting water in (as opposed to keeping it out) might surprise you, but unequal water pressure from inside or outside your home can lead to structural damage and even building collapse. Mopping up a wet basement will cost less than repairing your foundation or replacing your home.
You can minimize damage to the contents of your house by putting as little in your basement as possible. Elevate your furnace, hot water heater and electrical panel and move anything expensive or valuable to higher floors. When you remodel or repair your home, use mold resistant drywall and insulation. For more flood mitigation tips, see FEMA’s list of flood preparation steps.
Don’t wait until flood waters threaten before taking action to protect your home and reduce repair costs. Contact Flood Solutions while your basement is still dry.
