How To Protect Your Building From Flood Damage
9/9/2020 (Permalink)
Take The Following Steps To Prevent Flood Damage
As a business owner in Fairview, TN, you want to make sure your building is protected from flooding. Thankfully, there are measures anyone can take to prevent flood damage. Flood mitigation measures range from simple and affordable to expensive and extreme, so find the solution that best suits your situation.
Design Your Building To Be Flood-Resistant
When preparing to build, take into consideration that the most effective solutions involve building on higher ground and above potential flood levels. Additionally, make sure all-electric and other utility equipment, such as outlets and switches, are installed at least a foot above flood level.
You might also consider installing backflow valves and a sump pump to prevent water and sewage from getting into the building. The area surrounding the building can also be fortified with flood walls or earthen barriers to provide another layer of protection.
Retrofit an Existing Building To Prevent Flood Damage
If the property permits, construct flood walls or levees on the perimeter to create a flood-proof barrier. Relocate utilities and appliances to upper levels whenever possible. If necessary, update the plumbing with backflow valves and a sump pump.
Additionally, you can cover both exterior and interior walls with waterproof sealants that will keep the water from seeping in through cracks. It is also wise to purchase temporary flood-proof barriers that can be easily stored and then utilized whenever flooding is imminent.
Create an Emergency Flood Plan
The best preventative measure is to make sure you are not caught unaware, even when nature surprises you. Create an emergency flood plan, and make sure all your employees are familiar with and capable of executing the plan.
When creating your plan, consider the structural needs of your property, as well as the safety of your employees and customers. Periodically practice your emergency flood routine to ensure everyone will be ready when disaster strikes.
Flood damage can be extensive. It can also be expensive to repair, requiring professional water restoration services. Take steps now to prevent storm damage and ensure your building and the people within are protected.