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THE ARCHITECT

FUTURE FLOOD PROTECTION
After the flooding in Gloucester last summer, we’ve only just been able to move back into our home. We installed some flood defences such as replacing the wood and flagstone floor with concrete, but that was costly. With the prospect of more bad weather this summer, what measures can we take to further protect our home?
Susan Murton, Gloucester

Unfortunately, most measures to protect your home from flooding cost more than conventional construction.

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Illustrations Credit: Lee Woodgate


All finishes on the ground floor should be changed to hard surfaces. Also avoid any cavities that will trap and hold water. Most natural materials except stone and cementitious materials should also be avoided at low level, as these will be affected by water. If possible, the foul drainage system should have a non-return valve fitted at the main entry point.

The perimeter of the house can also be reinforced. There are several products that will limit water flow through doors. See the Environment Agency’s website section on flooding (environment-agency.gov.uk). However, they will only work up to water levels of approx 800mm, above that the water pressure on the walls becomes too great and it will cause structural damage.

If you have enough land, you may be able consider a construction of an earth bund (an embankment).

Peter Caplehorn - Architect and Technical Director at Scott Brownrigg
01483 568 686 scottbrownrigg.com


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