A recent study showed that around 20% of home insurance claims are attributed to water damage. This isn’t a risk you want to take with your home or your finances.

Too many people bury their heads in the sand regarding flood risk or simply don’t know how to protect their homes. With a few proactive steps, however, you can keep the risk of significant home damage to a minimum.

Let’s take a look at some of those steps by exploring ways to protect your home from flood damage.

1. Invest in Flood Insurance

Investing in flood home insurance is a good way to protect your home from flood damage. It’s important to get insurance that covers both the structure of your home and the contents inside. 

Just keep in mind that each state’s insurance coverage may vary. So you’ll need to research your local area’s offerings and choose the plan that best fits your needs. Then look for experts like, these water damage restoration services for repairs.

2. Move Important Belongings to Higher Ground

Moving important belongings to higher ground should be at the top of the list of things you need to do. This is because they are very vulnerable to becoming damaged if exposed to floodwaters.

Consider storing important documents, artwork, electronics, and furniture above the expected flood level. When moving items to higher ground, use waterproof plastic bags and boxes to keep the items dry and safe. Be sure to consider the weight of the items before transporting them to higher ground.

3. Install Flood Sensors and Alarms

Flood sensors are easily installed sensors that detect moisture and alert you when water is present. These sensors are typically placed in areas where water is prone to enter a home. This can be areas like the basement, crawl spaces, sump pits, and near water heaters.

Flood alarms are also easy to install. They sound an alarm when they detect water. You can wire them to an automatic shut-off system for water supply or devices to help pump out the water.

You can monitor both the sensors and alarms can remotely. This allows you to minimize the damage by getting a timely warning of the presence of flooding. 

4. Utilize Sandbags or Water Diverters

Sandbags or water diverters are a great way to flood-proof your home. Sandbags can be strategically placed around your home, doors, and windows to block water from entering. Water diverters are plastic shields that you can use on the outside of the home to safely divert the direction of the water.

You can fill sandbags with dirt, debris, hay, and other materials to help create a barrier to protect against flooding. All you need to give is your time and effort.

When used in combination with other flooding prevention efforts, these tools can make a big difference. So you should use them in conjunction with other barriers like stone walls, fences, and berms. They can help add an extra layer of protection from flooding.

5. Use Storm Shutters and Protect Windows

One of the best ways to protect your home from flood damage is to use storm shutters and protect windows. Storm shutters shield your home’s windows and doors from wind, debris, and water. It does this by creating an additional barrier between your home and the exterior environment.

Storm shutters come in a variety of styles, sizes, and materials so you can find the best fit for your home and budget. Not only will storm shutters help protect you from floods, but they also help reduce impact and noise. They can even increase your home’s energy efficiency and boost security.

Be sure to buy storm shutters that meet or exceed the local code requirements. This is so that they will perform optimally when a storm occurs. Taking the time to install storm shutters can help save you money and stress during a time when you need it the most.

6. Install a Sump Pump and Direct Outflow Away From Home

You should install a sump pump and direct outflow away from your home. This will help protect your home from flood damage.

A sump pump acts like a tiny underground pool. It collects and pumps out water that would otherwise collect in your basement or crawlspace and cause extensive damage.

Ensuring the outflow is away from your home is key to protecting the structure. This is because it prevents the water from being able to damage the foundation and other parts of your home.

Properly installing the sump pump and ensuring the outflow is directed away from the home requires the help of a professional. It may also cost more but the investment is well worth it.

7. Secure Your Foundation and Basements

Flood damage can be devastating for homeowners. So you should invest in waterproofing materials. And you need to ensure that your basement is properly sealed.

You should regularly clean gutters and downspouts. You should extend them away from the home to direct water away from the foundation.

You should also install a backflow valve to the lowest plumbing fixtures such as sinks and toilets. This will prevent sewage water from backing up into the house.

You should do regular checkups on all these systems to ensure they are in proper working order. You should stay informed of projected weather patterns and prepare to make adjustments to their flood barriers if needed.

Lastly, having an emergency kit with first aid, food, water, a battery-operated radio, and cash would be a great asset. In the event of a flood, you know that you will have the supplies you need so you can rest assured.

Follow Our Guide to Protect Your Home From Flood Damage

You can avoid issues of flood damage with good home maintenance and thoughtful planning. Prevention is key: install sensors, strengthen your home’s foundation, and take out flood insurance. Taking the necessary steps to protect your home will help to provide peace of mind and security.

So what are you waiting for? Make sure to take the steps to protect your home from flood damage to prevent inconvenience and heartache!

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