Home renovations continue to be a priority in flood-damaged areas like New Orleans and New York City, which have been hit by recent hurricanes and tropical storms. But it’s not just hurricanes that cause water damage; flood-prone areas are all over the country. In fact, according to Claims Journal, more than $9.1 billion in claims from homeowners in 2011 were attributed to water damage.
When it comes to preventing moisture damage, mold and other hazards caused by excess water, using water-resistant insulation in floors, walls and ceilings is crucial. Any area that is at or below ground level needs to be prepped for potential water infiltration, even if the area has never flooded before. As the water table rises in flood-prone areas, hydrostatic pressure is exerted underneath basement floors and against basement walls. The force of the hydrostatic pressure forces water in through cracks in foundation walls, through openings caused by expansion and contraction of the foundation wall joint and up through floor cracks. These areas may never have flooded before but are still at risk for extensive water damage.