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Flood Prevention Tips for your Home or Business
5/29/2019 (Permalink)
Flooded building in Snellville, GA
Flood Protection Tips
When stormy weather brings an abundance of rain, rising flood waters can be damaging and dangerous. Fortunately, there are things you can do ahead of storm season to help lessen any potential damage to your home or business. The following tips may help you avoid costly flood damage repairs.
- Inspect the Structure
Take a good visual inspection of your roof and building foundation. If you are not able to get on your roof, it’s a good idea to hire a roofer to do a quick inspection. Often flashing around chimneys can get dislodged and wind can do damage to your shingles. A damaged roof is often the cause for water entering the structure. Also take a good look at your basement foundation walls. Have any cracks discovered repaired and waterproofed as soon as possible.
- Check Sump Pumps
It’s a good idea to have any sump pumps inspected by a plumber on an annual basis. Many times, a faulty or unplugged pump can spell disaster. Make sure any floats in the pump are free from being tangled. While pumps won’t eliminate all the damage, they will certainly prevent major flood damage.
- Gutters and Downspouts
Make certain that your gutters are kept clean on a regular basis. Clogged gutters can cause water to back up thereby creating problems. Make sure the water collected in your gutters can move freely to the downspouts. The downspouts should direct water away from the structure. Often extensions can be added to ensure water is being directed far enough away.
- Have a Plan
Having an emergency plan in place will help everyone understand what they are supposed to do. Keep the plan up to date and review on a regular schedule. Tasks can be distributed so that everyone has a role.
Even being prepared is sometimes not enough when bad flooding occurs. Hopefully by following these tips you will be able to minimize any potential damage. If flooding does affect your home or business, give SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South a call at 770-448-5782.