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Sudden storms in Hawaii are known to create flash floods at any time of the year, but these events are particularly common during the wet season between October and April. While homeowners can’t do anything to control the weather, they can protect their properties from water damage. Here are a few ways you can fortify your home and minimize the need for flood cleanup

5 Ways to Defend Your Home Against Flooding

1. Invest in Insurance

Standard home insurance doesn’t cover flood damage. If you’re not in a high-risk zone, you may not be required to have flood insurance, but it’s a good idea to open a policy anyway. This protection will help cover the cost of structural repairs and flood cleanup, so you can get back to your normal life in a timely fashion without draining your bank account.

2. Seal Walls

flood cleanupEven if it seems like your home’s exterior will provide a barrier against flood damage, water may seep through the cracks. That’s why you should coat and seal all of the structures on the lower level of your house, such as the foundation, walls, doors, and windows.

3. Develop Better Drainage  

The position of your home’s landscape can greatly reduce your risk of flood damage. You should have your landscape graded on a decline away from your home so water can flow away. Foundation vents are another feature that can help prevent water from pooling around the perimeter. 

4. Have Sandbags Ready

Placing sandbags around your home in a strategic fashion can help keep water back. However, since filling sandbags can be time-consuming, have them prepared and laid out well before the flood waters start to approach your home.

5. Move Lower-Level Belongings

If there is a high chance that flood waters will penetrate your home, minimize the amount of damage by clearing out the lower levels of your home. Save your furniture, electronics, photographs, and any other belongings susceptible to water damage by elevating them or moving them to the second story. To avoid electrical accidents, cut off the power supply within exposed areas.

 

When flooding does occur, acting fast can significantly reduce your risk of water damage and mold growth. That’s why SERVPRO of Kailua North / Laie offers 24-hour emergency restoration services throughout Oahu. With state-of-the-art water extraction equipment, these specialists will provide swift and thorough flood cleanup to help bring your home to its original condition. After water damage is repaired, this team can also provide mold remediation. To learn more about these services, visit this Kaneohe, HI, residential restoration service online. For immediate assistance with flood cleanup, call (808) 235-5015.

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