First off, it’s pretty much impossible to make a property completely flood proof, but there are measures you can put in place to reduce the damage. If you’re moving to a flood prone area, or currently undergoing repairs after experiencing a flood, then these things are good to keep in mind.
If you have more time and money to put into flood defences for your home, then a local tradesman can help. Some builders Llanrwst will be able to carry out work on barriers or construction projects to flood-proof your home, or help you sort out damage after a flood.
What are simple and cheap ways to reduce flood damage?
Sandbags
Stocking up on sandbags is useful for any surprise flooding. Your council should provide you with some, but it’s best to have some incase there is a delay in delivery. You may be able to get these at you local builders merchants. Remember, if it’s groundwater flooding sandbags won’t help.
Varnish Skirting Boards
This isn’t as effective as getting water-resistant skirting boards, however, varnishing your wooden skirting boards is a quick alternative that will help somewhat.
Air Brick Covers
There are covers which fit over air bricks to block flood water from entering. You can get them fairly cheap, around £50-£300. You need to remember to remove them once the flooding has stopped so that the bricks can dry out again.
Fit Non-Return Valves
These are fitted to drains and pipes, it helps in preventing sewage from flowing back into the property. It can get in through pipes from sinks and the toilet, not nice!
Shelving
Keeping more valuable and treasured items off the floor is essential in flood prone houses. When fitting shelving, go as high as possible to reduce the risk of these things getting damaged.
Raising Plinths
Similarly to shelving, you can raise your household appliances off the ground to protect their mechanics from water damage. If they stand on plinths, then minor flooding won’t break them, saving you a lot of money.
Wall Mounts
Mounting things like your television onto the wall is handy. This gives you less things to stress about if water begins to come in.
Sealable Bags
If you have larger items of electrical goods, or sofas that are too heavy to move to a higher level, then sealable bags can help.
Unfortunately, in some towns in North Wales, flooding is inevitable. The best thing you can do is be prepared.
