Heavy rains are the source of major troubles throughout the world every year. Even individuals who believe they live a substantial distance from flood zones can find themselves in danger when rivers outgrow their banks or rain comes too rapidly for drainage canals to handle. Do you know what you would do if your home was assaulted by damaging floodwaters?
Even in locations away from flood zones, basements are notorious for water leakage when the winter snow melts or when the soil is completely inundated with water. One of the most significant things a homeowner with a basement can do is to make certain his or her furnace is installed on concrete blocks at least 12 inches off the ground. In many residences, furnace systems are installed directly on the floor. If your basement floods, your furnace is one of the most costly systems to replace. The elevated water will extinguish your pilot light causing a grave, if not dangerous, state with any gas-fired appliance. Electric furnaces and oil fueled furnace systems are potentially dangerous as well. It's also significant to keep water heaters, washer, dryers and other appliances out of reach of floodwaters.
If your home in not equipped with a basement, floodwater can still enter your home. During times of exceptionally heavy rain, water can accumulate and turn streets and roads into waterways where water pours into a home through thresholds. You should make certain that electrical plugs and light switches are at minimum a foot greater than ground level in your home. Think about adding ground fault interrupter switches to your outlets as a defensive measure if you live in areas where flooding is a general concern.
In certain instances, people do not even realize that they live in proximity to or in a flood zone. As rivers alter their size and shape due to erosion, flood maps also change. While living in a flood zone is supposed to be revealed during a home sale, some sellers are unaware they are in a flood zone and do not know to disclose it. Check local maps and authenticate this information to be safe.
If the home is located in a flood zone, you will be wise to purchase flood insurance. Flood insurance is costly, but if your home floods, it can save you thousands of dollars in the long run.
There are precautions you can take to help reroute any floodwaters that may come your way. Brick or stonewalls can be built. They do involve a little time, but they boost your home's value, are aesthetically attractive and can keep water from rushing towards your property.
If you live near a road that floods or where water runs off into your yard during heavy rain or snow melt, consider excavating a drainage ditch. The water will flow away from your home to the nearest stream or river and avoid flooding. Most towns and cities establish the drainage systems, so if you believe your dwelling is in danger, talk to the road commissioner about your apprehension.