Flooding is one of the most destructive natural disasters, and it can be a nightmare for your property. But did you know that your garage is the most prone area in your home and can be an easy target for flood damage? Here are some easy steps to prevent your garage from possible flood damage.
Before we talk about how to keep your garage from a possible flood, here are some most common causes of garage flooding.
Most Common Causes of Garage Flooding
- Bad weather flooding is one of the most common causes of garage flooding. Floods from a rainstorm, hurricane, and even overflowing water from streams, lakes, or rivers can enter your garage from a different angle.
- Burst pipes can cause garage flooding as freshwater pipes that supply water to your house can burst and flow to your garage.
- Sewage flooding can be caused by clogging of drainage pipes, too much pressure, and even a failure from sewerage. Sewage leaks can enter your garage and cause a flood.
Steps to Prevent Your Garage From Flood Damage
1. Assess the area of your house
Check if there are areas of your house that can possibly cause a flood, especially the water sources near the garage. Fix and repair them if necessary.
2. Install a flood barrier
Prevent the water from flowing into your garage by installing a flood barrier like a sandbag. Sandbags are efficient in absorbing floodwater. This also helps keep your expensive things stored in your garage protected against flood damage.
3. Seal Leaks or Cracks
Check the wall, roof, and flooring for any signs of leaks or cracks and seal them immediately. Make sure that no water will enter the area to prevent possible flood damage.
4. Inspect The Garage Door
Since the door is your main line of defense against the incoming floodwater, it is important to inspect it. Check your garage door for any signs of damage such as cracks, holes, and gaps to make sure that it is secure against flooding. To secure the damages of the garage door, you can use spray foam insulation and smooth out the hole from the inside using sandpaper. If your garage door is old and worn out, consider replacing it with a new one.
5. Clean gutters regularly
Clean out the gutters and make sure to remove any debris and dirt that may cause blockage and improper flow of rainwater from your roof to the garage.
6. Install or replace weatherstripping
The weatherstripping at the bottom of your garage door is vital in keeping elements from entering your garage. Install one if you don’t have or replace worn out weatherstripping.
7. Install proper drainage
Sometimes the street gutters and drains overflow, especially during heavy storms. Consider installing adequate drainage such as a trench drain or sometimes called a french drain in front of your garage door to stop the excess water from entering your garage.
8. Inspect your home’s foundation
Check the foundation of your home for signs of damage and make sure to repair it immediately. Maintain a strong foundation to ensure that no flood happens in your garage.
9. Consider installing storage above your garage door
This is especially important for items that are expensive and valuable. Be strategic in storing your items to avoid flood water damage. You can also consider using plastic containers and duct tape for sealing the items in your garage. Use a ramp to elevate any machine or tools that rust or require electricity. Move all paper documents or photos to a higher level of your house to avoid possible damage.
Flood Damage? Talk to a Professional
Listed above are the steps that you can follow to prevent your garage from flooding. But if your home suffers from flood or water damage, it’s always a wise decision to have a professional to help you with cleanup and restoration.
Water Damage Lake Elsinore has experienced professionals that can help deal with your flood-damaged home. We have 24/7 emergency services. Call our local office for more information.
