Houston is one of the most beautiful cities in Texas, with a thriving culture. The only downside of living here is the high water levels and flooding. The months from May to October often see heavy rainfall, hurricanes, and tropical storms. Much of the landscape is a floodplain that turns brown with floodwater. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has several recommendations for homeowners to deal with waterlogging and secure houses to make them waterproof. Here are some ideas you can use.
Dry Floodproof Your Foundation
If Hurricane Harvey is any indication, Houston risks up to 12 inches of rain falling within a short time. Pay special attention to your foundation and work out how to dry floodproof the exterior walls at least up to 18 inches. Expert contractors treat your foundation walls’ exteriors and interiors with sealants and membranes that can protect from short-term water damage. You would also want to install a heavy-duty sump pump to drain out the water. If possible, look for solutions to elevate the house.
Install Backflow Valves
Floods present a real problem in dealing with backflow from sewer and drainage pipelines. Backflows from sewers can send dirty water back into your newly-renovated bathrooms and showers, totaling the investment you made. Installing backflow valves can prevent this damage. You could choose to get ball float valves in floor drains that automatically shut off. Alternatively, you could get manual wheels that you’ll close by turning a wheel during floods. However, make sure to check around for backflow pumps with ejector pump attachments to ensure that you can continue to flush the toilet. Most bathroom remodelers in Houston will know how to properly install the valves
Drain the Area Around Your Patio
If you’ve been noticing flood water collecting around your patio, improve the drainage and direct the water away from the area. Without proper drainage, you risk leaks into the foundation and basement. Your contractor will likely advise that you pack in the soil around the patio to create a slope, so the water flows away. In addition to gutters around the roof with downspouts directed away from the deck, you’ll also check for ponds forming in the yard. Excessive rain after a major storm can saturate the soil and collect around the basement walls.
Sealing the Deck Surface
The type of sealant you use for the deck depends on the surface you’re working with. Stone and ceramic tiles are ideal for locations like Houston that have heavy rainfall. If you have wooden decks, applying a coat of sealant can protect the boards from water damage. Also, ensure that the deck has an adequate slope to prevent waterlogging issues.
Houston’s wet weather can present a challenge. But, with the proper waterproofing solutions, you can keep your home protected.
