Although the number one area where homes experience flooding is in the basement, leaking roofs also contribute to annual water damage. This is something you should be thinking about especially during the unpredictable weather that Wisconsin is having this winter. With the inconsistent temperatures, there is a lot of standing water, creating the opportunity for that water to make its way into your home.

Homeowner’s insurance doesn’t cover floods. If your home is at risk of flooding, you need to purchase separate flood insurance. Even if your home isn’t in a high risk area, you should consider your options. Insurance isn’t the only thing you can do to for flood prevention. Do some preparation of your own with these quick tips.

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Flood Prevention Tips

Fix Leaks Immediately

A small leak can lead to big problems. It’s better to fix a roof or pipe leak early on to minimize the damage it causes and to minimize how much the repair will cost.

Install Extra Roof Protection

If you’re planning on replacing your roof in the near future, invest in a water resistant underlayment. This is an added layer between your roof structure and the shingles that waterproofs your roof and stops water from getting inside.

Seal Foundation Cracks

Don’t only look for leaks in your roof. Make sure that your foundation doesn’t have any cracks where water can seep in from. If there are minor cracks, you can seal them with mortar and masonry caulk or hydraulic cement.

Clear Gutters and Drains

Gutters are designed to carry water away from your home. If they are clogged, there’s nowhere for the water to go. Also keep an eye on downspouts and street drains. If these things are blocked, water will begin to pool putting your home at risk of flooding.

Battery Powered Sump Pumps

Sump pumps remove water from the sump basin that is typically located in a home’s basement. Typically these are powered by your home’s electricity, but you should consider investing in a battery powered option. Flooding and power outages go hand in hand and if your pump isn’t battery operated, it likely isn’t working during the flood.

Sometimes, even after taking all of the prevention steps, your basement can still flood. Make sure that you are as prepared as possible by documenting all of your belongings that are stored in your basement. Also, move expensive items and ones that can’t be replaced to a location that is higher in your home. But with preparing your home for a potential flood, you’re also preparing yourself.