So, you’ve elevated your home—congratulations on taking a big step toward flood protection! However, house lifting is only part of the equation when it comes to defending your property against storms and water damage. At DeVooght House Lifters, we believe in a holistic approach to flood preparedness. That’s why we’re sharing additional strategies—beyond lifting—to help you keep your home safe from everything Mother Nature might throw at you.
1. Install a Sump Pump System
How It Works
A sump pump is typically installed in the lowest part of your home, like a basement or crawlspace. Its main job is to pump out water that accumulates during heavy rains or groundwater infiltration.
Why It’s Essential
- Prevents Flooding: Even if your home is elevated, water can still seep into lower-level spaces. A sump pump quickly removes excess water, keeping these areas dry.
- Backup Power: Consider a battery backup or generator to ensure the pump still runs if the electricity goes out during a storm.
- Maintenance Tip: Test your pump at least once a year by pouring water into the sump pit. Check that the pump turns on, drains the water, and shuts off properly.
2. Seal Basements and Crawlspaces
Why This Matters
Elevating a home may leave some crawlspace area below the main living level. Even if floodwaters don’t reach your living area, they can still pool in these lower spaces, leading to mold, structural damage, and a host of other issues.
Sealing Steps
- Waterproof Coatings: Apply waterproof sealants or paints to basement walls and floors to prevent water infiltration.
- Vapor Barriers: Install a high-quality vapor barrier over exposed soil in crawlspaces to reduce moisture buildup.
- Dehumidifiers: Running a dehumidifier in enclosed areas can drastically cut down on humidity and reduce the risk of mold.
3. Improve Drainage Around Your Home
The Importance of Grading
Even an elevated home can face challenges if the land around it is poorly graded. Water that doesn’t drain away can pool and eventually seep into lower-level areas. Proper grading ensures that stormwater flows away from the structure.
Additional Options
- French Drains: These subsurface drainage systems collect and divert water away from your home’s foundation.
- Rain Gardens: Planting a rain garden can help absorb excess runoff, especially in heavy rainfall areas.
- Swales: If you have space, creating shallow ditches or swales can channel water to a safe drainage outlet.
4. Reinforce Doors and Windows
Why It’s Necessary
During high winds, hurricanes, or severe storms, doors and windows can be the first points of failure. Water intrusion often starts when these openings aren’t properly sealed or reinforced.
Actionable Tips
- Storm Shutters: Installing storm shutters or impact-resistant windows can greatly reduce the likelihood of breakage.
- Weatherstripping: Make sure all doors and windows have intact weatherstripping to keep out wind-driven rain.
- Garage Door Upgrades: Garage doors can be surprisingly vulnerable during hurricanes. Reinforce them or invest in a hurricane-rated model if you live in a high-risk region.
5. Landscaping for Storm Protection
Beyond Curb Appeal
Thoughtful landscaping can play a significant role in storm-proofing your home. Trees, shrubs, and permeable surfaces help manage stormwater and reduce erosion.
Key Considerations
- Native Plants: Choose plants well-suited to your climate; they often have deeper root systems that help with water absorption.
- Permeable Materials: Use gravel, mulch, or permeable pavers for walkways and driveways to reduce runoff.
- Retaining Walls: In sloped areas, retaining walls can help manage soil movement and direct water away from your foundation.
6. Check and Update Your Insurance
Why It Matters
Even the best storm-proofing measures aren’t foolproof. Floods can be unpredictable, and damages can soar into the tens (or hundreds) of thousands of dollars quickly.
Insurance Must-Haves
- Flood Insurance: Standard homeowners’ insurance doesn’t cover flood damage. If you’re in—or near—a flood zone, investing in a separate flood policy is essential.
- Policy Limits: Review your coverage annually to ensure it aligns with current rebuilding costs, especially if you’ve recently made upgrades or renovations.
- Documentation: Keep updated records of your home’s condition and maintain an itemized list (with photos) of personal property.
7. Emergency Preparedness
It’s Not Just About the Structure
Having a storm-ready home also means having a plan for your family’s safety and comfort if severe weather hits.
Essential Preparedness Steps
- Evacuation Routes: Familiarize yourself with local routes and potential shelter locations.
- Stockpile Supplies: Keep a stash of bottled water, non-perishable foods, flashlights, batteries, and a first-aid kit.
- Family Communication Plan: Ensure everyone in your household knows who to call and where to meet if separated during an emergency.
- Weather Apps and Alerts: Download reliable weather alert apps or sign up for local text alerts so you’ll know when a storm is on the way.
8. When to Call DeVooght House Lifters
Even if your home is already elevated, you may need additional modifications or professional advice. That’s where DeVooght House Lifters comes in. We offer:
- Assessments of Existing Elevations: We can determine if your home meets current flood protection standards and discuss if any upgrades are needed.
- Foundation Reinforcement: If you’ve noticed cracks or shifts, we’ll evaluate and strengthen your foundation to ensure long-term stability.
- Guidance on Local Codes: Flood zone regulations and building codes can change over time. We stay informed, so you don’t have to.
Conclusion
Lifting your house is a fantastic way to protect it from flood damage—but it’s not the only step you can take to keep your property safe from storms. From installing sump pumps to reinforcing windows and doors, these additional measures create multiple layers of defense against Mother Nature’s worst. And the best part? Many of these strategies not only protect your home but can also increase its overall value and resilience.
At DeVooght House Lifters, our mission extends beyond just lifting homes. We’re here to help you navigate every aspect of storm-proofing and flood protection. If you’re looking to take the next step—be it drainage solutions, foundation checks, or a thorough assessment of your current setup—reach out to us. We’ll bring our decades of experience to the table to help ensure that when the next storm hits, your home stands strong and your peace of mind remains intact.
Stay safe, stay prepared, and remember: even small upgrades can make a big difference when it comes to preserving your home’s integrity. We’re always here to answer any questions and guide you through the storm-proofing journey.