If your home is in a high-risk flood area, taking proactive steps to protect it essential. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about flood protection, including practical measures, essential products, and tips for long-term resilience.
Understand Your Flood Risk
Before investing in any solutions, it’s important to understand the specific risks your property faces. Use the government’s flood risk map to find out if your area is at risk from rivers, surface water, groundwater, or coastal flooding. Knowing the type and source of flooding will help you choose the most suitable flood protection methods.
Install Property-Level Flood Protection Products
There are a variety of products designed to reduce the impact of flooding on homes:
- Flood barriers and gates: Temporary or permanent barriers can be installed around doors and other entry points.
- Airbrick covers: These prevent floodwater from entering through your home’s ventilation system.
- Non-return valves: Installed in drainage pipes, they stop water from backing up into your home.
- Flood-resistant doors and windows: Specially designed fixtures that can withstand high water pressure.
- Drain guards (like the Witches Hat): Prevent debris from blocking gullies and drains, reducing the risk of surface water flooding.
Create a Flood Action Plan
Having a plan in place can help reduce panic and damage during an actual flood. Make sure your plan includes:
- A list of emergency contacts
- A safe place to move valuables and important documents
- Procedures for shutting off gas, water, and electricity
- A grab bag with essentials like torches, medication, and bottled water
Consider Reusable Flood Protection Solutions
Reusable solutions like the NOAQ Boxwall are ideal for homeowners who want quick, flexible defences that can be deployed when needed and stored away when not in use. They are especially useful for protecting driveways, garages, and garden gates from rising water.
Think Long-Term: Flood Resilience Improvements
Flood protection goes beyond just about keeping water out, it’s also about minimising damage if it gets in. Consider these longer-term measures:
- Raising electrical sockets and wiring above flood level
- Using waterproof materials for flooring and walls
- Installing sump pumps and dehumidifiers
Final Thoughts
Investing in flood protection is one of the most important things you can do if you live in a high-risk area. The cost of installing preventative measures is often far less than the cost of repairing flood damage, not to mention the emotional toll it can take.
Need help choosing the right flood protection for your home?
Contact Flood Solutions UK today for expert advice and product recommendations tailored to your property.
