Inside and Out Flood Protection | SERVPRO® of Sioux Falls
9/7/2022 (Permalink)
Regardless of where you live, you need to be protected from floods. It takes as little as an inch of water to do damage that could end up costing any property owner quite a bit.
Not everyone can rely on private insurers or federal funds for help, which means prevention is key to minimizing your losses.
Protecting your home first means you need to understand your risks. Over the years, we have seen substantial flooding in Sioux Falls. Our springs typically bring snow melt that can lead to flash floods.
We also have to contend with ice dams that can cause rivers to overflow. These risks mean the more we can protect our homes, the safer we can stay.
An unexpected heavy rain can dump massive amounts of water, leaving your yard saturated and your gutters struggling to keep up. If your home is prepared outside, you can lower the chances of damages on the inside.
Your gutters offer a great line of defense when they are clear of debris. Adding a downspout extension can be a cost-effective way to ensure water is flowing well and avoid ponding near your house.
Landscaping is another great way to control water and to keep it from gathering and coming into your house. Adding a garden can increase absorption by pulling water down through soil into roots.
Mulch and other organic materials can also add protection when used near in a sloping pattern. This can provide protection for your foundation by preventing puddles.
There are some upgrades you could consider as well, including having exterior electric moved up and anchoring fuel tanks. While these can cost a pretty penny, an inexpensive rain barrel that catches water directly from a gutter can be an effective addition. This not only prevents ponding water, but it also provides a free source of water for your plants.
Protecting your home from external flooding means you need to have a well-sealed basement and solid foundation.
Adding a sump pump to the basement is another effective way to remove water. A battery-operated pump can ensure water is removed in the midst of a storm that has knocked the power out.
To protect your property from internal flooding sources, there are some maintenance steps you can take.
Plumbing failures are a common cause of water damage. If you have a faucet that is dripping, fix it quickly. Take care of pipes that have aged, and take time to check your toilets, sinks and showers for issues to stop problems before they start.
Adding a leak sensor to your home security could also give you an extra layer of protection. This is a device that alerts you when water is leaking somewhere so you can stop it quickly.
Regardless of where it begins, water will damage paper items right away. Put irreplaceable goods on a high shelf or in a leak proof container. Store your emergency plans somewhere safe as well, and call SERVPRO as soon as disaster strikes. We are available day or night to get your recovery started quickly.
Experienced water damage in your home? Call SERVPRO today to get your restoration completed faster.