Ways To Flood-Proof Your Home

7/20/2022 (Permalink)

Laying down absorbent mulch can help to reduce potential flooding.

While you can’t totally protect your house in North Aurora, IL from every potential flood, there are some flood safety recommendations that can reduce the risk of damage.

How To Protect Your House From Flooding

For maximum flood safety, move all electrical sockets, switches, and circuit breakers so that they are at least one foot above your area’s flood level expectations.
Boilers, air conditioning units, and generators should be elevated on wooden platforms or cinder blocks above the flood level. Also, consider elevating your washer and dryer on blocks if they are located in the basement.
Install a backstop for sewage water. A licensed plumber should install gate valves to all pipes that lead into your house to reduce the risk of sewage backup into your home.

How to Minimize the Risk Outside Your Home
The following safety tips will help to reduce the risk of flooding from landscaping and other outside fixtures.

Keep all gutters and drains clear of debris. Clogged drains will increase the risk of floodwaters that cause damage.
Inspect your roof periodically to make sure the shingles are in good condition. Call a professional to replace any damaged materials before the first chance of rain.
Put a rain barrel under your gutter spouts to reduce the risk of flooding in your basement.
Evaluate the layout of your landscaping:

Outdoor surfaces that are porous, such as rocks with a bit of space between them, will encourage water to soak into the ground before it reaches the house.
You can also dig channels into the soil so that stormwater can drain away from the house.
If you have an asphalt or concrete driveway, consider changing it to brick or gravel. Also, laying down absorbent mulch can help to reduce potential flooding.

Even though you can’t totally flood-proof your house, you can implement these smart flood safety suggestions to reduce your risk.