5 Tips for Avoiding Home and Property Damage from Floods

"The most dangerous factor when it comes to flash floods is the speed at which they can escalate," Puzio said. "Rather than waiting to hear about impending storms that may result in damaging water levels, it's best to be prepared. Floods can easily cost homeowners thousands of dollars in property damage and loss, so spend a little time and effort now to protect your home and belongings in the event of flooding."

Puzio and the Southern Trust team offer the following tips for preparing your home and property against possible flooding from severe weather:

1. Keep gutters clean. The purpose of gutters is to safely divert water spilling off the roof away from the foundation of the home. When gutters get clogged up with birds' nests, sticks and other debris, the water will likely spill out early and can intrude into the basement or foundation. Spend some time making sure they are free of debris and properly directing the water out and away from the foundation.
2. Check for cracks around the foundation. Prior to dealing with severe weather, homeowners should regularly inspect their foundations for cracks or gaps. The same goes for basement walls and floors. Epoxy and masonry sealer can be used to treat these issues, but if they appear severe it may be wise to call a professional.
3. Make sure your sump pump is working. In homes with basements prone to flooding, there is a good chance that a sump basin already exists and has a sump pump installed. Sump pumps automatically switch on as flood water fills the basin to remove it from the basement. Regularly check the operational status of the pump to make sure it will do its job in an emergency.
4. Consider a generator. Having a generator on hand will allow the sump pump and other key pieces of equipment to continue working, even during the inevitable power failures that happen during the severe weather season. It is critical to choose the right generator to power the amount of equipment needed to continue operating. Contact a generator backup specialist for advice on which size generator would fit your needs.  
5. Elevate and anchor exposed equipment. Air conditioning units and fuel tanks should be elevated above the flood level of the home, and any backup equipment like generators should be elevated as well. Anchoring the equipment will prevent them from breaking free should water levels continue rise.

"Considering some of the fierce storms and power failures we have already faced this year, it's a good time to prepare for worst-case scenarios," Puzio said. "Following these tips won't prevent possible flood waters from coming, but it can help put you, your family, and your home in a better position for when they do."

For more information about Southern Trust Home Services and how to safeguard your home and basement against flooding, call 540-343-4348 or visit www.southerntrusthomeservices.com.

About Southern Trust Home Services
Founded in 1995 as Southern State Electric, Southern Trust Home Services provides residential plumbing, electrical and HVAC services, including 24/7 emergency repairs, to homeowners in more than 60 cities throughout southern Virginia. Roanoke's first to offer a lifetime guarantee on all recommended repairs, Southern Trust Home Services staffs dedicated, certified, licensed and insured, drug and criminal background checked technicians who provide timely, same-day services for a variety of home repairs, installations, and maintenance. A Better Business Bureau accredited company since 2006, Southern Trust Home Services has financing available including 0 percent for 18 months, and Lifetime Repair Guarantee on stated repairs. To find out more, call 540-343-4348 or visit www.southerntrusthomeservices.com.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Heather Ripley
Ripley PR
865-977-1973
[email protected]

SOURCE Southern Trust Home Services

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