Before the Storm: A Homeowner's Guide to Flood Prevention in Your Utah Home

Here at Apex Restoration, we know that nothing disrupts the peace of your home like water damage. With Utah's summer monsoon season bringing the potential for sudden, heavy downpours, now is the perfect time to be proactive.

Flooding can cause immense damage, but many of its causes are preventable. Taking steps to protect your property today can save you from significant cost, stress, and disruption tomorrow. In this newsletter, we’ll explore practical strategies you can implement to safeguard your home and keep it the sanctuary it should be.

1. Inspect and Maintain Your Drainage Systems

Your home's drainage is its first line of defense against excess water. When it fails, water has nowhere to go but toward—and into—your foundation.

• Clean Your Gutters and Downspouts: This is one of the most effective prevention tasks. Regularly clear leaves, nests, and debris from your gutters. Clogged gutters will cause rainwater to overflow and cascade down your siding, pooling directly against your foundation. Ensure your downspouts are securely attached and extend at least 5-6 feet away from your home.

• Ensure Your Sump Pump is Ready: For homes with basements, your sump pump is a critical safeguard. Test it regularly (especially before a big storm) by pouring a bucket of water into the sump pit to ensure the pump activates. Consider installing a battery backup system to keep it running during a power outage—which often accompanies heavy storms.

• Consider Advanced Drainage: In areas with poor natural drainage or persistent water accumulation, consider installing a French drain. This trench with a perforated pipe redirects groundwater away from your foundation before it can cause problems.

2. Use Landscaping as a Protective Barrier

Your yard can either work for you or against you when it comes to water management.

• Check for Proper Grading: The soil around your home should gently slope away from your foundation. The standard recommendation is a drop of at least six inches over the first ten feet. This simple grading uses gravity to your advantage, directing water away from your home's vulnerable perimeter.

• Leverage Native and Water-Wise Plants: Planting native Utah vegetation and other water-wise plants can be beneficial. Many have deep root systems that help absorb excess moisture during a downpour and prevent soil erosion, keeping your grading intact.

3. Seal and Waterproof Your Foundation

Your foundation is what separates your home from the damp earth. Keeping it sealed is crucial.

• Seal Foundation Cracks: Do a visual inspection of your foundation, both inside and out. Even small cracks can provide an entry point for water under pressure. Use high-quality masonry caulk or epoxy sealant to fill any gaps you find.

• Waterproof Your Basement: For persistent moisture issues, consider applying a waterproof sealant coating to your interior basement walls and floors. For more robust protection, professional exterior waterproofing may be necessary. Also, ensure your basement window wells are covered and their drains are clear of debris.

4. Know Your Emergency Flood Barriers

While the goal is prevention, you should be prepared for an emergency if a flood warning is issued for your area.

• Have Materials on Hand: In a flood-prone area, having a supply of sandbags or deployable flood gates before they are needed can be a home-saver. These act as temporary dams to divert water away from doorways and low entry points.

Stay Prepared and Proactive

• Develop a Seasonal Maintenance Checklist: Create a simple routine for each season. For summer in Utah, this should include checking your gutters after storms, inspecting your sprinkler system for leaks or overspray against the house, and ensuring your air conditioner's condensate line is draining properly.

• Maintain an Emergency Kit: A flood can sometimes lead to power outages or require temporary evacuation. Have a kit ready with essentials like flashlights, extra batteries, non-perishable food, water, a first-aid kit, and any necessary medications.