What to Do Before a Flood

Floods can happen anytime and anywhere, whether a storm surge, poor weather, or internal home issues are to blame. The resulting damage can be disastrous, not only in terms of financial losses but also in terms of the inconvenience it can cause homeowners. However, there are practical measures that homeowners can take to avert or mitigate the impact of flooding. By being prepared and following simple flood safety tips, you can protect your home from flooding and enjoy peace of mind knowing that you are ready for any outcome. 

What to Do Before a Flood Occurs

Repair Leaks and Foundation Cracks

Leaky roofs and foundation cracks may seem minor, but they can cause serious damage if left unaddressed. Water damage and mould growth can wreak havoc on a home, so fixing any cracks or leaks is crucial as soon as they appear. Installing a rubber roof underlayment is a great way to protect against water, while hydraulic cement or masonry caulk can seal foundation cracks. Whatever you do, don’t ignore the problem, as it can lead to costly repairs and uncomfortable living conditions. Taking immediate action is critical. 

Learn Your Flood Level

Are you aware of the flood level of your property? You may not think about it often, but it’s critical information to remember for emergencies. Thankfully, there’s an easy way to find out. Head to FloodSmartCanada.ca and use their tool to assess your area’s flood risk. This info can help you take necessary actions to protect your property and loved ones from flooding dangers. It’s always better to be proactive and prepared rather than caught off guard during a crisis. 

Protect Electrical and Climate Systems

Preventing water from reaching your home’s electrical equipment and climate systems is crucial to avoid hazardous and expensive outcomes. The best way to achieve this is by safeguarding these vital systems. Raise wiring, sockets, circuit breakers, and switches at least 0.3 meters above your property’s flood level. Similarly, elevating furnaces, water heaters, air-conditioning units, generators, fuel tanks, or other electrical equipment to higher ground makes a difference. 

Install Backflow Valves

No homeowner wants to deal with a sewage backup, especially if you live in a flood-prone area. Installing an interior and exterior backflow valve on all pipes connected to your property prevents the horrifying scenario of contaminated water and waste entering your home. With backflow valves in place, you can be sure that your home stays dry and your possessions remain safe from dangerous sewage backups. 

Ensure Proper Sloping of Grounds

Consider an incline! To avoid water seeping into your foundation and causing damage, have the ground slope away from your home’s foundation, if possible. Not only does this prevent excess water from pooling, but it also helps to avoid potential flooding that could lead to costly repairs. If you notice that water isn’t draining efficiently on your street after rainfall, it’s best to consult your environmental services department as soon as possible. They can provide solutions to ensure proper ground sloping and prevent future water damage.

Install a Battery-Operated Sump Pump

If you have a basement, a battery-operated sump pump may seem like just another added expense, but it is an investment that could save you thousands of dollars in water damage repairs. When flood water fills your basement or crawlspace, a sump pump is a quick, convenient solution to remove it. Without it, the water can cause damage to your home’s foundation, flooring, and walls. In the long run, these repairs can be costly and time-consuming. Not to mention, stagnant water in your basement can cause mould growth, threatening your health.

Opt for Flood Insurance

Purchasing flood insurance protects your property from unexpected damages when floods occur. When floods happen unexpectedly, they can cause severe and sudden destruction to homes and businesses. While standard homeowner’s insurance policies may cover some types of water damage, they do not usually cover damage caused by flooding. With flood insurance, you’ll know your property is protected from the financial burden of remediating and replacing damaged structures and possessions. 

Consider Additional Solutions

There are other ways to safeguard your home against flooding. You can apply sealing materials to the exterior walls, raise your home columns or piers above flood water levels, and create foundation vents allowing water to flow through the property. Before you decide to tackle any one of these projects, however, consult with a professional who can guide you in determining the most effective solutions for your property. 

What Happens After a Flood?

If you have fallen victim to flooding, taking immediate action is critical to minimize damage and prevent further problems. Here are some tips on what to do after a flood has occurred on your property:

• Safety first. Before entering the flooded area, make sure it’s safe to do so. Check for any structural damage or electrical hazards. Wear personal protective gear such as rubber boots and gloves.
• Turn off the electricity. If the flood has affected electrical appliances or wiring, turn off the electricity at the breaker box.
• Document the damage. Take photos and videos of the affected areas to document the damage for insurance purposes.
• Contact your insurance company. Call your insurance company as soon as possible to report the damage and start the claims process.
• Remove the water. Use a wet/dry vacuum or a sump pump to eliminate the excess water. If it’s too much, hire a professional water removal company.
• Dry out the affected areas. Use dehumidifiers and fans to dry out the area. Open windows and doors to allow for airflow.
• Disinfect and sanitize. Clean and disinfect all affected surfaces to prevent mould growth and the spread of bacteria.
• Dispose of damaged items. Throw away any items that have been severely damaged or cannot be salvaged.
• Hire a professional restoration company. In most cases, you might need to hire a professional restoration company to handle the cleanup and remediation, as the aftermath of floods can be too much to handle alone. They have access to professional-grade cleaning technology and personal protective equipment that will allow them to remediate any losses with much more ease.

By sticking to these flood safety tips, homeowners can reduce the chances of flooding and minimize the damage that can occur when flooding does happen. However, it’s important to be prepared for spring storms and flooding, as they are common during this time of year. The PuroClean team is always ready to provide professional remediation services to any property affected by fire, water, or mould damage.

Frustrated by Flood Damage? Call PuroClean!

When a flood has damaged your property, it can be overwhelming and devastating. At PuroClean, we understand the urgency of the situation and are here to help you get back on your feet as quickly as possible. Our professionals are trained to handle any water damage, whether from a burst pipe, heavy rain, or a common natural disaster. 

We use the latest technology and techniques to assess the damage, extract the water, and thoroughly dry and clean the affected areas. As the “Paramedics of Property Damage®,” we deliver prompt and efficient service. If you experience water damage, don’t hesitate to call PuroClean. We are here to help you through this difficult time. Learn more about our remediation services and how we can help you restore your property today by visiting our website or calling us at (877) 261-7876.