How To Landscape For Flood Protection

11/12/2019 (Permalink)

Proper rain drainage is important

How To Landscape For Flood Protection

From unexpected downpours to nationally anticipated hurricanes, severe storms can take a toll on your home and yard. As storms grow more intense, it's important to take proper measures to protect your property. You don't want to risk damaging flood water working its way into your home. Here are some ways you can use landscaping as a protective layer against outside flooding.

1. Get Creative in the Garden

Rain gardens are a beautiful and efficient way to lessen the potential damage of a heavy rain storm. Even a small rain garden filled with native plants can help absorb water more efficiently into the ground. Another option is to use heavy mulch in place of lighter pine options. Heavier mulches stay in place better and thus keep soil and rainwater in place better, too.

2. Divert Your Rain Spouts

To help guide water away from your home, proper rain drainage is important. Downspout diverters are effective for moving the water to lower ground and keeping your home safe from outside flooding. You can also consider installing rain barrels, which keep water from entering the ground to begin with. Another benefit of rain barrels is that they provide free water for your gardens during dry spells.

3. Build More Drainage

Harsh storms can greatly damage properties that feature a lot of impervious surfaces. There are many ways to divert water from within and around these areas. In addition to the above tips, you can add drainage alongside, or even within, your driveway and sidewalks. Channel drains move water away from paved areas well. You can also consider using gravel or grass in place of pavement.
When it comes to your Miami, FL, home, consider these steps when thinking about landscape options. If needed, consult professional storm damage restoration experts to help. Diligence in preventing outside flooding from entering your home will help keep it safe and dry.