Top Tips For Flood And Water Damage Prevention And Restoration 

Although water damage can happen quickly and cause immense damage, there are ways to prevent much of it. If you live in a flood prone area, learn about steps you can take to prepare for a flood. Get in the habit of monitoring and maintaining areas in your home prone to water damage.

Water Damage Restoration In Santa Rosa

Optimize Backyard Drainage

Next time it rains, walk the property. Are there low spots that stay “mushy”? Or, if the yard slopes toward the home, does the water pool next to the foundation? Check that the driveway and sidewalks direct the rain toward the gutters and city sewer system. Some drainage problems can be corrected with some simple yard work; some problems will need professional contractors. 

Maintain Gutters and Downspouts

You’d be surprised how many gallons of water fall on your roof during a heavy spring shower, and overflowing or broken gutters and downspouts can channel the water in all the wrong directions, often contributing to a flood problem. 

Checking your gutters and downspouts should be part of your regular home maintenance routine. Clear out leaves and debris. Inspect for cracks at the seams or avers of visible mold. This indicates a moisture problem.

Inspect Your Sump Pump

If groundwater saturation is an issue for your property, ensure that your basement is protected with a high quality sump pump and a dependable backup system, like a battery backup sump pump or a water powered sump pump. Your regular maintenance routine should include checking that the intake valve isn’t blocked and ensuring that the sump pit is free of any debris which could cause a blockage.  

Install Flood Sensors

A simple flood sensor is both affordable and easy to install. Moisture sensor automatic water shut off systems work by leaving physical discs where you predict there might be a future leak; they then shutoff your water supply. To sufficiently protect your home, you will probably need at least ten sensors placed in various areas of your home: around toilets, washing machines, and hot water heaters.  

A whole home leak detection system detects continuous flow anywhere in the home for an extended period of time. For example, an eroded toilet flapper that runs continuously would trigger the sensor to shut off that appliance.

Last Minute Tips During a Flood Watch or Warning

In addition to the tips for preventing flood damage; here are some ideas when flooding is imminent:

• Listen to your local radio or television station for updates. Gather emergency supplies, nonperishable food and water. Store at least 1 gallon of water per day for each person and each pet. Plan for three days.
• Grab insurance cards, immunization records and place in a waterproof zippered bag. 
• Bring in outdoor furniture, grills, and trash cans.
• If evacuation appears necessary, turn off all utilities at the main power switch and close the main gas valve.

A serious water emergency requires a plan; get help from an experienced team in Santa Rosa Bravo Restoration & Construction is a woman owned, full service property restoration and general contractor serving Sonoma County, Marin County, and Napa County. Locally owned and operated, they are dedicated to providing fair and honest service for quality construction work. 

Bravo Restoration & Construction is a woman owned, full service property restoration and general contractor serving Sonoma County, Marin County, and Napa County. 

For immediate restoration service in Santa Rosa or any other emergency, call as soon as you can. For general questions, to request a quote, to report a claim, or to pre-register for emergency planning, please contact us by email and the team will respond to your inquiry during office hours.