Some areas are more prone to flooding than others. If you happen to live in one of those areas, it’s understandable that you might be concerned about your home and what you can do to keep it safe. Fortunately there are things you can do in and around your home to help protect it.
Lawn Grading
Your landscaping may be one of the first lines of defense you have against flooding. Lawn grading is a landscaping technique in which the level of the land is altered so that it directs the flow of water away from your home. This is something you can actually do yourself, if you have the time and inclination. First, make sure the soil is nice and ready to be worked. Then, identify low points around your house that need to be addressed. Next, find the slope of your lawn. Finally, fill in low areas and make sure that the slope is appropriate to your needs.
Install a Basement Pump
In some cases, a graded lawn may not be enough to keep water out of your home. In the event that water enters your home, you’ll need a way to get it back out. Installing a basement pump is one way to do this, and quite possibly the easiest way. It’s certainly easier than a manual alternative. If you decide to pursue this option, consider the type of pump you want to install. A submersible pump has significant advantages over other types of pumps. You don’t want to choose one type of pump and then find out when you’re flooded that you chose the wrong one.
Waterproof Your Basement
Of course, the preference is that you do not need to use a pump, so consider waterproofing your basement as something of an inbetween measure that can help if lawn grading doesn’t quite do enough on its own. You can waterproof your basement walls on both the interior and exterior. Exterior waterproofing seems to be more effective than interior waterproofing, though it also tends to come with a higher price tag. If you choose to waterproof your basement, research the different types of waterproofing to figure out which one will likely work best for you.
Water can do some serious damage to a home. If you live in an area where flooding is a concern, you need to take measures to make sure your home is protected. Your landscaping can help prevent water from getting to your home, and waterproofing can help stop it from entering if it reaches your home. In the event that water gets in, a pump can help get it back out. These steps can help you protect your home in flood-prone areas.
It’s always good to inspect your home for issues every once in a while, especially if you want to sell it. Schedule an appointment for an inspection with us today!