Protect Your Home From Flooding, Inside and Out | SERVPRO® of West Forsyth County
9/8/2022 (Permalink)
According to FEMA, 98% of counties in the United States are at risk of flooding at some point during the year. Since it is likely that your property may experience a flood at some point—whether minor or major—it is important to protect your home from potential damage.
Unfortunately, flooding assistance isn’t always available and your insurance may not cover the water damage. Like most things, prevention is less expensive and will save you a headache in the long run.
Being aware of the regional risks in our area is the first step to understanding where to put prevention efforts. Severe weather, such as hurricanes along the coast or summer thunderstorms, can cause major flooding in Forsyth County. We’re all too familiar with an influx of water.
If you haven’t already, it is a good idea to prepare the outside of your home. Fortunately, there are many ways to do this.
First, clear out your gutters. When gutters are clear of debris like leaves, water can exit them freely, away from your home. Installing an extended downspout can also help the water flow away from your house foundation.
A garden not only looks great on your property, but it can also help absorb excess water around your home. Mulch can also be added to create a slope to direct any excess water away from your home.
To mitigate water damage, sealing your basement will likely be the most effective option. If you notice cracks in your foundation, seal them as soon as possible.
Additionally, a sump pump in your basement can quickly pump out water if it does come in. If you are located in a high-risk area, a battery-operated sump pump is a good investment since it will work when the power is out.
Sometimes, flooding can originate indoors. Internal plumbing or even appliances can spring a leak and cause damage, but regular maintenance can help prevent damage.
Old and worn pipes are a main source of internal flooding. If you notice your pipes are leaking or need repair, be sure to get it done as soon as possible. A leak sensor, which notifies you if there is more water in a given area than there should be, can also be helpful in identifying leaks.
Any water that enters the home can be damaging. Keep all important and sentimental documents up off the ground, in waterproof containers. Be sure to have an emergency plan handy in the event of a flood.
Experienced water damage in your home? Call SERVPRO of West Forsyth County today to get your restoration completed faster. 336-946-1131