Tips for Protecting Your Property from Flood Damage

2/12/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Tulsa is always ready to respond to your emergency.

Flood damage can seem like a remote, theoretical risk – that is, until it’s in your face. Fact is, experts have estimated flood costs for the globe’s 136 largest coastal cities could cost $1 trillion annually by 2050. Wise property Tulsa, OK, property owners are thinking ahead by creating a flood plan. Not sure how to protect your property from storm damage and flooding? Here are a few tips.

About Floods

Federal officials define flooding as partial or complete inundation of 2 or more acres of normally dry land area or of 2 or more properties. Typical causes include:

• Overflow of inland bodies of water
• Rapid accumulation of surface runoff
• Mudflow

All can create damage, but even just an inch of water can result in recovery costs estimated to average $27,000. Being prepared won’t eliminate the risk, but it can help minimize the costs of recovery.

Inspect Your Property

Part of flood-proofing a building is making sure that you inspect it regularly. Look for cracks in the foundation or other structure systems that could be vulnerable in high waters. Also check:

• Flood panels, to ensure the panels or gaskets are working
• Drainage systems for signs of damage that could prevent the pipes from draining properly

Apply Waterproof Sealants

Invest in waterproof coatings and sealants and apply thoroughly to foundations, walls and even doorways of your property. This so-called “dry flood-proofing” measure can form a thin but sturdy barrier that can minimize flood damage effects.

Invest in Water Pumps

Foundation vents encourage water to flow through a building rather than pooling around it, reducing the pressure flood waters can put on walls. This type of “wet flood-proofing” is particularly useful in buildings with basements.
Flood damage can be devastating both physically and financially. Get ahead of the risk with these tips and by identifying a local water cleanup specialist in case the worst does happen.