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Flooding is a primary cause of damage to residential property. It can occur when flood water enters the home or when a component in the home's water system such as a pipe or water heater tank fails. To ensure domestic flood protection, several techniques can be used to protect the home and minimize damage and repair costs. Some methods involve minimal to moderate cost, others are more expensive. It is up to the homeowner to decide whether the cost outweighs the risk of water damage.
Get insurance
If the home is in a known flood zone, check if the insurance policy covers flood damage. If not, upgrade the policy to include this coverage. The value of a good insurance policy far outweighs any premium costs.
Keep the water away
The best way to protect the home from flood water is to raise it. Depending on the home, this may not be possible or cost effective. A less expensive alternative is to add a waterproof barrier or veneer around the home's exterior. This is designed to protect it from flood water that is up to two feet high. Inside, remove the drywall on interior walls up to a level of two feet. Hire a contractor to replace it with cement board. Drywall absorbs water, cement board is waterproof.
Protect the basement
Another way to increase the level of domestic flood protection is to check any windows in the basement for gaps in the frame where water can enter the home. Repair any gaps or replace the window. Some basement windows are partly below the surface of the ground outside. They should be protected by a raised barrier around the sunken area or completely covered with a window well cover.
The basement walls should be free of cracks or damage. Repair them with a waterproof compound designed to repair concrete.
A sump pump should be installed in the basement if the home does not already have one. It should be powerful enough to handle extended periods of heavy rainfall and come with a battery system should the power go out.
Raise the equipment
The water heater, furnace and other electrical equipment should be raised at least several feet. If possible, they should be relocated to a floor above ground level. Electrical outlets or the electric meter, if it is in the basement, should be raised several feet. Televisions, radios, dehumidifiers and other electrical appliances should be well above the floor level. Consult a licensed electrician for all electrical alterations.
Protect against sewer backflow
A backflow valve will close to stop any sewage material from entering the home through the sewer line. Consult a licensed plumber about installation.
For 15 Years Kevin Williams has restored flood damaged properties ranging from domestic dwellings to commercial factories.In 2010 He set up Floodsense offering his expertise in Flood Prevention Techniques, Systems and Services.For a free E-book and further info on Domestic Flood Protection, professional advice on Flood Prevention from a leading UK flood protection company visit http://www.floodsense.co.uk
Orignal From: Effective Ways To Ensure Domestic Flood Protection
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