Floodproofing: When to Hire a Pro and When DIY

Sometimes, you may feel happy fixing up your home, floodproofing to prevent water damage, doing small renovations, and doing exciting DIY projects you saw on YouTube. But, let`s be fair, it can also become a big, overwhelming undertaking that may turn out much more complex than you imagined when planning another DIY project.

You might keep delaying floodproofing projects or simply not find time for them in your busy schedule. In such cases, getting help from professionals for flood protection is a good idea. However, there are lots of cases and flood control solutions that don`t require any special skills, fancy tools, or professional experience. So, when can flood control become a DIY project, and when do you need to hire a professional? Let`s see.

You`d better call a pro when...

You may prefer to hire a professional to do some of the maintenance work in the following cases:

1. Limited Time: If you're too busy with work or personal commitments and can't spare the time needed for proper floodproofing measures,.
2. Health Challenges: If health issues make it difficult for you to carry out physically demanding anti-flooding tasks,
3. Technical Expertise: When flood control involves complex technical measures that you're not familiar with or don't have the expertise to handle,.
4. Consistent Procrastination: If you keep putting off floodproofing tasks and it becomes a recurring pattern, professionals can provide a more immediate and effective solution.
5. Large-Scale Projects: for extensive flood control projects that require professional skills, equipment, and experience.
6. Emergency Situations: In cases where urgent floodproofing is required due to an imminent threat or sudden changes in weather conditions,.
7. Regulatory Compliance: If waterproofing measures need to meet specific regulations and standards, professionals can ensure adherence to these requirements.
8. Peace of Mind: Sometimes, hiring professionals is simply a matter of gaining peace of mind, knowing that experts are handling floodproofing to the highest standards.

Floodproofing jobs you probably don`t want to do yourself.

Some mainteinence jobs are really better done by professionals. Sometimes they include using materials that require a certain level of skill and experience; in other cases, you simply cannot guarantee the safety of the finished project unless you are a certified professional. After all, it may affect the overall safety and value of your property.

So, here are some of the jobs you probably don`t want to do yourself:

1. Elevation of Structures: Raising a building above flood levels requires expertise in structural engineering and construction. Professionals can accurately assess the feasibility and execute the elevation process safely.
2. Sealing and Waterproofing: Properly sealing basements and applying waterproofing measures demand technical knowledge. Professionals can identify vulnerable points and use appropriate materials to prevent water infiltration effectively.
3. Installation of Sump Pumps: Sump pump installation involves electrical and plumbing work. Professionals can ensure that the pump is correctly installed, adequately powered, and connected to drainage systems for efficient water removal.
4. Landscaping for Drainage: Professionals can design and implement landscaping solutions that promote proper drainage, preventing water from pooling around the property. This may involve grading, the installation of French drains, or other drainage systems.
5. Flood-Resistant Materials and Construction: Using flood-resistant materials and construction techniques requires expertise. Professionals can recommend and implement measures like raising electrical outlets, using water-resistant materials, and reinforcing walls to minimize flood damage.
6. Stormwater Management: Managing stormwater runoff involves designing and installing systems to redirect water away from vulnerable areas. Professionals can assess the landscape and design effective stormwater management solutions.
7. Compliance with Regulations: Professionals are familiar with local building codes and regulations related to floodproofing. They can ensure that all work is done in compliance with these standards, avoiding potential legal issues.

While some basic floodproofing measures can be tackled by homeowners, the involvement of professionals is crucial for more intricate projects to guarantee effectiveness, safety, and compliance with regulations.

DIY floodproofing

However, there are lots of flood control solutions and floodproofing jobs that can be easy and even exciting DIY projects. They don`t require any special licensing or deep expertise. However, make sure that you count your force carefully and know what you are dealing with when choosing some of these projects:

1. Weather Stripping: Seal doors and windows with weather stripping to prevent water infiltration. This is a simple and cost-effective method that helps minimize the risk of water entering your home.
2. Gutter Maintenance: Keep gutters and downspouts clear of debris to ensure proper drainage. Regular cleaning and maintenance prevents water buildup around the foundation, reducing the risk of flooding.
3. Landscaping Slope: Adjust the slope of your landscaping away from the foundation. This helps direct water away from the house, preventing pooling around the property.
4. Removable Flood Barriers: These barriers are designed for quick and straightforward installation without the need for special tools, physical force, or specific skills.

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6. Install Splash Blocks: Place splash blocks at the end of downspouts to direct water away from the foundation. This simple addition helps control water flow and protects against soil erosion.
7. Raise Electrical Outlets: Elevate electrical outlets, switches, and appliances above potential flood levels. This can prevent electrical damage in the event of flooding and is a relatively easy DIY task.
8. Apply Sealants: Use waterproof sealants on basement walls and floors. This DIY approach helps create a barrier against water intrusion through cracks and gaps.
9. Elevate Furnace and Appliances: If possible, raise heating systems, water heaters, and other appliances above potential flood levels. This preventive measure can safeguard essential home systems.
10. Install Check Valves: Place check valves in sewer lines to prevent floodwater from backing up into your home through drains. This is a simple installation that can be done by homeowners.
11. Create a French Drain: Installing a French drain can help divert water away from your home's foundation. This involves digging a trench and filling it with gravel to facilitate water drainage.
12. Elevate Furniture: In flood-prone areas, consider elevating furniture and valuable items to minimize potential damage. This is a practical and easy DIY approach to protecting belongings during floods.

Want to know more about modern flood control? Ready to order your flood barrier kit? Need to consult a professional to estimate the flood risks of your house and suggest the best modern floodproofing solutions?

Contact Dam Easy now. Our teams are available for consultation worldwide. We do home visits in Florida and deliver our modern removable flood barriers within several days to make sure that your house is safe and waterproof when the next flood season strikes.

Together we will make flood safety Dam Easy!