Weather Proofing Homes: Protecting Floors Against Flooding

A study presented at a conference organised by the United Nations Development Programme last year indicates that there would be 90% less damage due to floods if similar levels of heavy rain experienced in Serbia in 2014 were to occur again. Flooding is now the most common of all natural disasters and poses an increasing risk around the world due to climate change.

While investment in coordinated disaster prevention and flood defence infrastructure has the potential to significantly reduce the amount of water damage to properties, there are also several measures that homeowners can take in order to ensure their properties are watertight, protecting their floors and furnishings against the damage caused by storms and heavy rainfall.

Waterproofing materials prevent the penetration of water into a building’s interior while reinforced windows and doors can create a watertight seal during heavy storms. Being nearer the ground, flooring can be more susceptible to damage from flooding but with a careful choice of water-resistant materials and treatments, any potential damage can be minimized. 

Protective Features Prevent Water Ingress

In humid climates like Florida, the most common flooring type is ceramic or porcelain tile due to its durability and resistance to moisture. In addition to experiencing humid summers and wet winters, Florida is also highly susceptible to hurricanes that often bring heavy rainfall. With the highest percentage of flood prone land of all 50 states in the US, the region has developed highly sustainable and fortified homes to prevent water entering the home and damaging interior fixtures and fittings.

While the neighbouring streets are deliberately constructed to flood in order to keep water away from the houses, a number of protective measures are also included within the properties in order to keep floodwater at bay. Impact windows and doors provide effective protection against strong winds  and, together with concrete walls and waterproofed flooring, help to make the homes watertight.  As well as implementing these flood prevention tactics, it’s important for homeowners to first deal with  any potential weak points in their property such as uneven and cracked floors or gaps between the walls and floors where water could enter the property.  

Water Resistant Flooring Withstands Floodwater

If a home is at risk of flooding after heavy and prolonged rainfall, it’s important to carefully consider the type of flooring to install. Even with measures to make a home watertight, very high water levels may still enter the property through rising groundwater, drains or even plumbing fixtures like sinks and toilets and during very cold weather burst pipes could cause damage from water within the home.

As carpets are very easily damaged by water, a more practical alternative for flooring would be durable ceramic tiles or stone flags that are water resistant and easier to clean once dirty flood water subsides.  Even more effective is to pour a concrete floor throughout the ground level of a property as it can withstand being immersed in water for a few days and then scrubbed clean. With an extra epoxy resin coating, the risk of staining or discoloration can be avoided completely.  

Innovative Designs Mitigate Flooding Risks

For its non-corrosive qualities, concrete is the choice of watertight building material for floors and walls in innovative floating homes in the Netherlands. The dwellings are designed to withstand the threat of flooding in low lying areas as they are adapted to remain on top of the water as it rises. The number of people around the world exposed to flooding is increasing and other global projects are also seeking innovative solutions to mitigate the risks.  These include the development of modular residential buildings made with raised floors and waterproof materials that are quick and easy to set up before a flood and take down after the waters have subsided. 

The ground floor of any home where flooding is a potential risk will endure the most damage from water ingress. Choosing the right type of water-resistant flooring such as ceramic or stone tiles can help to minimize any long term structural or cosmetic issues. Other innovative home designs and storm protection features can help to ensure flood water is prevented from entering the property, keeping flooring and furnishings safe from damage.