If you’re living in a flood-prone area, you may have experienced that unsettling feeling every time there’s a heavy downpour. Even with all the preventive measures in place, sometimes the best solution to protect your home is to raise it. Not sure if that’s something you need to consider? Here are the top five signs that your home may need to be elevated to avoid flood damage.
1. Frequent Flooding or Water Accumulation Around Your Home
One of the most obvious signs that your home may need to be raised is if you experience frequent flooding or constant water accumulation around your property. If you notice water pooling in your yard after a rainstorm or if your basement often has standing water, it’s time to pay attention. According to FEMA, homes in flood-prone areas that aren’t raised are at a much higher risk for costly repairs. Elevating your home could save you tens of thousands of dollars in the long run by avoiding repeated flood damage.
2. You Live in a FEMA Designated Flood Zone
Living in a FEMA-designated flood zone is a significant indicator that your home could be at risk. FEMA flood zones are categorized based on the likelihood of flooding, and if your home is in a high-risk zone (like Zone A or AE), raising it might be one of the most effective ways to protect your investment. Insurance rates for homes in these areas are also typically higher, but raising your home could help reduce those costs and give you peace of mind.
3. Your Home Sits Below the Base Flood Elevation (BFE)
The Base Flood Elevation (BFE) is the height at which there’s a 1% chance of a flood happening each year. If your home sits below the BFE, you’re in danger of being impacted by even minor flooding events. You can find out your BFE through local government or FEMA resources. If your home is below that level, raising it can help you stay above rising waters and prevent serious damage. In fact, FEMA suggests that homes raised above the BFE are significantly less likely to be affected by floods.
4. Signs of Foundation Issues Due to Water Exposure
Water damage doesn’t always come in the form of an obvious flood. If your foundation shows signs of deterioration, like cracks or uneven settling, it could be due to long-term exposure to moisture. Over time, even small amounts of water can weaken the structural integrity of your home, leading to more significant issues down the line. If you notice any of these warning signs, elevating your home may not only prevent future flood damage but also protect the overall stability of your property.
5. You’ve Experienced Previous Flood Damage
If your home has already experienced flood damage in the past, raising it might be the best way to avoid a repeat scenario. Studies show that over 40% of businesses and homeowners who have gone through one major flood event experience another within 10 years. Don’t wait for it to happen again. Elevating your home can be a proactive measure to safeguard your property and your peace of mind, especially if you’ve already dealt with the costs and stress of repairing flood damage before.
Why Call DeVooght To Help You
Choosing the right company for the job is crucial if you’re considering lifting your home to protect it from flood damage or address foundation issues. DeVooght House Lifters is one of the leading names in the industry, and here’s why they’re a smart choice for homeowners looking to lift their homes:
- 1. Decades of Experience—DeVooght House Lifters has been in the business for over 45 years, bringing unmatched expertise to every project. When it comes to something as significant as lifting your home, you want a company with a proven track record.
- 2. State-of-the-Art Equipment – DeVooght uses advanced, state-of-the-art hydraulic lifting systems that ensure your home is raised with precision and care. This equipment allows for controlled and smooth lifting, reducing the risk of damage during the process.
- 3. Customized Solutions – No two homes are the same, and DeVooght understands that. They take a personalized approach to each project, carefully evaluating your home’s specific needs and designing a lifting solution that works best for you.
- 4. Commitment to Safety – House lifting is a complex process, and safety is paramount. DeVooght has a long-standing reputation for adhering to the highest safety standards. They employ licensed professionals who follow strict safety protocols, ensuring the project is completed without compromising the structural integrity of your home or the safety of your family.
- 5. Expertise in Flood Mitigation – If you’re lifting your home due to flood concerns, DeVooght has extensive experience in flood-prone areas. They have successfully elevated countless homes to prevent future flood damage, helping homeowners comply with FEMA regulations and reducing their flood insurance costs.
- 6. Exceptional Customer Service – DeVooght House Lifters offers exceptional customer service from initial consultation to project completion. They work closely with homeowners throughout the process, keeping you informed at every stage.