Protect Your Home Against Flooding

12/15/2022 (Permalink)

Protect your home against water and flood damage.

Missouri has experienced many flooding incidents in recent years. Since most homeowner’s insurance doesn’t cover flooding, it’s important to know how to protect your home and your finances in the event of a flood. 

If your home is located in a floodplain, your lender should have already mandated you to purchase flood insurance. If you are not in a floodplain but still believe your home is susceptible to flooding, you should purchase additional coverage. 

Regardless of your coverage, there are many things you can do to help protect your house from flooding and reduce potential damage. 

1. Seal Any Cracks in Foundation

Masonry caulk or mortar can be used to seal any gaps in your house’s foundation that allows water to get in.

2. Apply Coatings And Sealants

Sealants can be used on your foundation, doorways, ceilings and walls to keep water from penetrating your home.

3. Buy A Sump Pump

Sump pumps can be great ways to drain water from your house. However, in the case of a power outage, it’s better to get a battery-powered sump pump so you can use it whenever you need it. 

4. Install a Flood Sensor

Many home security systems offer flood sensors as add-ons. These can be vital in detecting small leaks before they turn into huge problems that cost you loads of money.

5. Install Sewer/Septic Line Check Valves

These valves cause waste to only flow one way, protecting against sewage flooding your home. 

6. Have Your Lawn Graded Away From Your Home

If your lawn is tilted toward your house, rain water can pool around the house and potentially seep in. By grading your lawn away from your house, you can ensure that water doesn’t flow inside.

7. Move Important Items to Higher Ground

Keeping your prized possessions in the basement or on the first floor may turn out to be a costly mistake. Move your most expensive or sentimental items to a higher story or the attic to prevent them from being damaged in a flood.