How to Prevent Flood Damage at Home

Flooding can cause significant damage to your home and even make it uninhabitable in worst-case scenarios. Floods can lead to mold growth, wood rot and other types of water damage that can be costly to repair. Taking steps to prevent floods from occurring can protect your home from this kind of damage. Use these flood prevention tips to keep your house safe from serious water damage.

Seal Gaps in Your Foundation

Cracks and other gaps in your foundation can easily let flood waters in. Closing them up helps protect your home from flooding. Check your foundation for any gaps, and seal them up with hydraulic cement or masonry caulk. You should also check your basement walls for gaps and cracks, and close these up using waterproofing materials.

Keep Floor Drain Areas Clear

Flooding doesn't always come from rain or outside water sources. Your home can also flood from the inside. If you have any floor drains in your basement or laundry room, make sure the surrounding areas are kept clear and free of clutter or debris. Otherwise, water can build up inside your home instead of going down these drains. You should also look into installing drain plugs and sewer backflow valves to prevent sewage from flooding your home.

Improve Grading in Your Yard

Check for trouble spots where water tends to pool or collect when it rains. Water should be flowing away from your foundation rather than heading toward it or building up near it. Make changes to your landscaping to improve grading, such as filing up any sunken spots close to your foundation or digging channels that direct water away from your home. This helps prevent water from pooling close to your home.

Keep Gutters and Downspouts in Good Condition

Gutters and downspouts move water away from your home, which helps lower the risk of flooding. Clean your gutters and downspouts at least twice a year or more often if needed, such as after storms. Have your gutters and downspouts inspected to check for signs of damage that needs to be repaired.

Put Flood Vents in Your Garage or Crawlspace

Flood vents allow water to move through enclosed areas to stop water pressure from building up inside homes. This helps protect your walls and foundation from severe water damage during floods. Flood vents need to be kept clear to work properly.