Ireland is recognised in having to deal with many different weather conditions which can take its toll on your home. As we know, water damage from flooding has become a common problem in Ireland. Here in this blog, I am going to outline some simple tips that can be put into place to reduce your flooding risk. So how do you protect your home from flooding?
Check daily weather forecasts
It is important to watch the TV or listen to the radio bulletins for information about the weather and check the weather forecasts online daily. If your home is situated in a flood prone area, there may be the option of checking your local warning service if you can contact them via email or text message. Your local county council may also have helpful information via their websites. By checking the weather often, this will prepare you to take appropriate measures for a severe weather warning such as a status orange or red. Check the daily forecasts at Met Eireann.
Seal and fill leaks in your property
The most effective way to minimise flooding in your home is to check for existing leaks and to seal any cracks. Keeping water out is the tricky part as tiny drops easily find there way through small cracks in the foundation, roof, windows, walls, etc. Excess water will very quickly penetrate the materials in your home which can result in severe damage, mould growth, plumbing issues and many other problems. Take proper care of any leaks by using early sealants or fillers to fill in any cracks that are present. You can pick up fillers and sealants in any DIY store. Do this regularly to reduce the impact of sealant erosion.
Ensure your gutters are working efficiently
Your gutters are what guides the rain water off the roof and avoids any damage to your property. In the case of heavy rainfall, your gutters will need to work at their best. Regularly check and inspect your gutters for any leaves, branches, and debris that will block the drain and the downspout that will prevent water from draining from the roof. Wash the debris down the downspout with a garden hose. Inspect and see if there are any gaps and cracks present that may need repairing. It is advised to replace damaged or rusty drainpipes. It is a good idea to clean your gutters at least twice a year.See these gutter cleaning tips!
Stock up on sandbags
In the event of flood risk and severe weather, it's always handy to have plenty of sandbags to block off any exposed areas around your home such as the doorways and drains. The sandbags will block the water from entering your home. Whilst the sandbags may not keep out severe heavy flooding, they will keep light flooding at bay by soaking up the water that may be seeping through the door gaps and prevent it from spreading throughout your home. You can buy these from your local DIY store or your local county council may have them available.
Install flood prevention measures in your home
If your home is in a flood risk area, then you need to prepare, provide protection, and install the proper flood prevention measures. Every home is different, so it is important that you find out exactly what you need. You may need to install a few simple things to help prevent flooding to your property. Here listed and explained are a few measures that may be right for you:
1. Airbrick covers: These are designed to protect vulnerable areas such as air bricks on exterior walls of the property. You can simply attach them and place over your ventilation bricks, they are permanently fitted and will prevent water passing through the airbrick.
2. Non-return valves: Fit non-return valves to outdoor drains, water inlets and outlet pipes. This will prevent water flowing back into your property.
3. Flood-resistant doors: Buy and install specially made flood doors or purpose-built doors.
Is my Home still Insured in the Event of a Flood?
We can't control the weather, unfortunately, but we can control the protection of our property. Home insurance policies cover against losses such as fire, storm damage, and flooding, so yes, your home is still insured in the event of a flood. A standard policy will be offered by your insurance company as a routine benefit. If you live in an area that is prone to flooding, you may find that some insurance company quotes will be a lot higher as the risk of a flood is greater. A lot of insurers in Ireland will try to give you the best deal and price where possible. Ensure your property is well protected and install all preventative measures in the event of a flood. Get a quote here!
