With the effects of climate change getting worse and flooding becoming more of an issue in the UK – Experts can today reveal the 8 best ways to reduce the impact of flooding in your home.
Buildworld have revealed the areas in the UK with the highest risk of flooding and rain destruction, and provided tips on the best ways to reduce the impact of flooding on your home – including a visual of what your future home could look like due to climate change. The experts at Buildworld have also highlighted 8 ways to reduce the impact of flooding on your home:
1 Plant Trees: Planting trees, hedges and plants reduces CO2 in the atmosphere and the effects of climate change. In recent years, climate change has led to melting ice caps which raise sea levels. On a more local scale, planting trees increases the water absorption in your area through tree roots, helping slow the rate of water flow into rivers.
2 Install water storage areas: Below-ground reservoirs are the perfect way to reduce the flooding risk around your property. Water tanks or reservoirs can be built or purchased and used to release floodwater.
3 Build water diversions: Alternatively to storing water, employing methods to drain water away from your property can save your home in the case of a flood. A french drain or catch basin can divert surface water away from your property, keeping your foundations dry.
4 Non-return valves: NRVs can be fitted in the drains in your home, and prevent flood water and sewage water from backing up into your property. They ensure water only flows in one direction down the pipe, no matter the water pressure.
5 Air bricks covers: Covering your air bricks is one of the easiest ways to prevent flood damage. You can get covers for your air bricks to use during a flood, however, these must be removed at other times to prevent dampness. Automatically closing air bricks are one solution, which is designed to cut off flow when they detect water.
6 Flood gates: Barriers and gates can be installed around your home, to doors, windows and other openings which would otherwise let in floodwater. The flood gates provide a water-tight barrier so no water can enter the house.
7 Water pumps: When facing flash flooding, it is essential to respond quickly, so having a water pump is vital. Pumps can stop water pooling and pump away water quickly. They are extremely useful to prevent rising groundwater from entering through the floor
8 Flood doors: An alternative to flood gates is flood doors. These are automatic, self-closing doors that require no human to activate them. The flood barrier rises when water reaches a certain level and locks to create a seal.
