March 28, 2024

Ampac

Friendly Interior

5 Flood Prevention Systems and Methods to Protect Your Home

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About 90 percent of the natural disasters in the United States involve flooding. Homes across the country can fall victim to water, making it a widespread concern. Rising water can cause a staggering amount of damage, which is why many home insurance policies require you to buy separate flood insurance. 

You don’t have to accept your fate. Taking action and investing in flood prevention systems can protect your home. This reduces the risk of damage and can potentially reduce your insurance rates. 

These flood prevention tips will show you how to protect your home from flooding.

1. Sandbags 

The most commonly used method for flood control is sandbags. These are bags made from burlap or polypropylene and then filled with sand. The bags are then stacked along areas where water can seep in. 

Stacking them along your doors and garage door prevents the water from coming in. However, they are only effective up to a point. Deep water will overpower the sandbags and can come in higher placed weak points in your home. 

2. Water Gate 

A modern alternative to the sandbag wall is a water gate. This is a PVC tarp that uses the pressure and volume of water to stabilize the barrier. It’s more expensive than sandbags but significantly more effective. 

What’s nice about a water gate is that a single person can deploy this barrier in as little as a few hours. It’s lighter than sandbags, and you can roll it up and reuse it in the future. 

3. Aquobex

With this system, you install temporary walls in front of your windows and doors. They are similar to hurricane shutters in how they are a solid wall that bolts to the exterior of your home. They are different because they do not entirely cover your windows and doors. 

What’s nice about these barriers is that they are lightweight and durable. They can provide the same level of protection as a permanent barrier. 

4. WIPP: Water Inflated Property Protector

This long tube uses the theory that the only thing you can use to fight water flow is water itself. This system uses vinyl-coated polyester to create a long tube with an internal support structure. 

You’ll then use a water source to fill the tube to create a heavy barrier. Oncoming flood waters will hit the barrier and be held back by the weight of the tube. You can redeploy the barrier and pack it away when not in use. 

5. Flood Blocks 

These modular blocks are a modern innovation that uses a Lego-like design. The blocks interlock to create a solid wall. They are self-filling from the rising floodwaters, making them more affordable and convenient than other solutions that require you to fill them with water in advance. 

The blocks stack within each other, making them convenient and easy to store when not in use. These blocks are simple to use and affordable, making them a smart option for the average homeowner. 

No matter how effective your flood barrier is, you’ll want a backup plan. Lloyds of London flood insurance ensures you have a safety net for when your barrier gives way and your home ultimately floods. 

Try These Flood Prevention Systems on Your Home 

As you can see, there are several flood prevention systems available to homeowners. This means you don’t have to resort to gathering sandbags at the last minute when there’s an incoming storm. With a little forethought and investment, you can have a more effective and durable home protection system. 

Browse our other home articles for more helpful advice on taking care of and maintaining your home.