Whilst it’s impossible to completely flood-proof your home, there are some things you can put in place to reduce the damage. We’ve put a list together of some effective methods – some may require work from a team of builders Llanrwst.
Move Electrical Sockets/Plugs Higher Up
Most sockets in homes are very low down for aesthetic purposes, however you may be willing to sacrifice this for safety. If you move them to a height of around 1.5 metres up, then there is a much lower risk of them getting damaged if the flooding is low. This isn’t the easiest or cheapest process, but can make a big difference.
Change Wooden Floors and Carpets
Changing your floorboards and carpets to a more water-durable surface such as concrete (with a damp proof membrane) or ceramic tiles is a great idea. Make sure to seal the edges to stop water getting in elsewhere. You can put rugs down to make your home cosier, as these can be easily removed when there is a flood warning.
Quick Release Doors
This type of door can be lifted off their hinges and moved away from the flooding very quickly and easily. This stops them from absorbing lots of flood water. If you’re not going to be around to move doors, alternatively you can have synthetic or waxed doors fitted.
Seal Exterior Walls
You can apply a sealant to the exterior walls of your home for around £500 for a medium sized property. Flooding could cause damp inside your bricks without this.
Water Resistant Air Bricks
Having these means that you wont need to buy and fit covers to your air bricks everytime there is a flood warning. However, you will need to maintain these properly to avoid seepage.
Flood Barriers
You could get a flood defence barrier built where the water usually comes from. This can be quite an expensive project, but if your neighbours are experiencing the same issue, they may be interested too. You could put money together to cover the costs.
Landscaping
The land around your home could be designed in a way that would divert the flood water. Make sure it doesn’t head towards someone else’s property or you will be in trouble!
Door and Window Protection
If there is a flood warning for the near future, and you don’t have the time to fit resistant doors, you can fit flood boards. These attach to your doors and windows and act as a barrier.