Floods are one of the most common and costly natural disasters in the United States. According to the National Flood Insurance Program, floods cause homeowners an average of $18 billion in damages yearly. While you might think your home is safe from flood damage because you don't live in a high-risk area, the truth is that it can flood anywhere it rains. Flooding occurs in all 50 states. In this blog, our experts will explain how flood damage can affect your home and what you can do to keep your home protected.
What is flood damage?
Flood damage can be defined as water damage that occurs when water inundates your property. This can happen due to heavy rains, melting snow, burst pipes, overflowing waterways, or faulty appliances. When floodwaters enter your home, they can cause extensive damage to your foundation, walls, floors, ceilings, furniture, and personal belongings. Floodwaters can also lead to mold growth, presenting additional health risks.
The Importance of a Sump Pump
One of the best ways to protect your home against flood damage is to install a sump pump. A sump pump is a device installed in the lowest point of your home, usually the basement. It works by pumping water out of your home and away from the foundation. Sump pumps activate when sensors detect that water has accumulated in the sump pit and will turn on automatically to pump the water out.
Sump pumps are critical if you live in an area prone to flooding or your home has a history of flooding. Even if you don't live in a high-risk area, a sump pump can still be a wise investment. That's because even a small amount of flooding can cause significant damage to your home.
Lastly, a sump pump helps keep your foundation dry. If water seeps into cracks in your foundation or around windows and doors, it can cause significant structural damage to your home over time.
Other Ways to Keep Your Home Protected
Installing a sump pump is one of the best ways to protect your foundation from water damage—but there are other things you can do as well. Ensure that all gutters and downspouts are clear of debris so they can effectively carry water away from your foundation. It would be best if you also repaired any cracks in your foundation as soon as possible so that water cannot seep in. Finally, ensure that any vegetation around your foundation is trimmed, so it does not hold moisture against the walls.
We Can Help!
Is your home protected against flooding? At Pine State Services, our team of trained professionals can help you protect your home against a potential flood. Give us a call! (207) 747-1210