TAKE ACTIVE STEPS TO REDUCE YOUR WATER DAMAGE LOSSES

Living in Northern Idaho, flash flooding never crossed my mind.  ...not until January 2010.  We had endured many days of sub zero temperatures followed by heavy snowfall.  A sudden warm front moved through, bringing with it heavy rains.  The combination of warm air and rain turned all the snow to water, water that couldn't seep into the still-frozen ground!  I worked till late into the night helping my friends sandbag to protect their properties.  This picture was shot the next day after much of the water had receded and is a great example of the wicking properties of T-111 siding.  As far as I know, this was the only home to sustain significant damage. 

Water damage from naturally occurring floods and mechanical breakdowns cause extensive and catastrophic losses to homes every year. But there are numerous ways you can safeguard your home from these losses, including the following.

• Your home's drainage system should be checked to verify that proper water drainage occurs. For example, gutter downspouts should extend the proper distance from the foundation.
• Your yard should be properly graded to slope away from your home to allow surface water to adequately drain. French drains can also assist in this process.
• A sump pump system should be considered in your basement to keep unwanted water out of this vulnerable part of your home.
• Periodically check your washing machine hoses since these hose failures cause millions of dollars of water losses each year. Hoses should be replaced at the first sign of wear. Consider upgrading to the heavy-duty wire mesh hoses or stainless steel hoses during this replacement.
• Ascertain the location of your main water shutoff valve. Water shut-off valves should be installed on water lines under toilets and sinks and water lines leading to outside faucets.

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