Home Flood From Rainstorm

1/6/2021 (Permalink)

Drying Floor Affected By Flood

Flooding in your home from stormwater can feel overwhelming and frustrating. Having a plan in place in case of flooding can help prepare you.

FEMA Flood Map

To see how likely you are to suffer from a flood you can look up the FEMA Flood Map; it shows general flood risk by region. All you have to do is enter your address in the search bar on the website to see your area's flood zones.

Take note the next you have a rainstorm - does the water run towards or away from your home? Does it puddle around any doors? Any basement windows?

Floodproofing

Floodproofing renovations are helpful if you plan on building a home in a heavily flooded area. Or if your existing home is in a heavily flooded area, but was not built with flooding in mind. Installing Foundation vents is a form of "wet flood-proofing," which allows water to flow through your home, as opposed to water being trapped around it. This both provides an outlet for flood water to escape your home. Having a Sump pump on hand with a battery back up is a great tool for removing water from basements. 

Make sure all gutter runoffs are pointed away from your home. All pipes entering your home should have check valves to prevent sewage flooding from back up into your home. Coating and sealants are also great to help flood-proof your home. They can be applied around your foundation, windows, and door frames.

A Plan

If flooding in your home has already started, or if a storm is on its way, use these tips to help minimize the damage:

• Clear out gutters and drains so that water can flow freely
• Use sandbags to block any gaps that will lead to flooding
• Move rugs, furniture, electronics, and other valuables to prevent damage
• If it's not raining, open windows to allow airflow through your home
• Use a shop vacuum or sump pump to remove water quickly
• Document flooding with pictures or videos to defend your insurance claim

Here For You

Additionally, always know that SERVPRO Glendora & San Dimas is here for all of your water damage needs. The San Gabriel Valley Foothills are notorious for flooding. Wildfires in the surrounding mountains change the composition of the soil; leading to the more dramatic water runoff during the rainy season. SERVPRO Glendora & San Dimas is able to provide you flood restoration services, sanitation contaminated water, drying services for both commercial and residential properties.