How Landscaping Can Help Minimize Flooding

9/4/2020 (Permalink)

With the unpredictable weather in Southeast El Paso/Butterfield by the time lunch rolls around after you have left for the day, your Texas home can be flooded in a moment’s notice. Switching up the landscaping outside of your home can help reduce flooding outside of your home that could potentially cause indoor flooding. Below are four tips to help plan ahead if a neighbor’s pool floods into your yard or there is a storm surge.

1. Add Heavier Mulch - Lighter mulch can easily be picked up by water and clog your drains causing a backup of water. Heavier mulch can absorb more water as well as stay in place. Don’t forget to place mulch six inches from the siding of your home so it does not rot your home’s exterior. 
2. Grow a Garden - Planting native plants and plants with high moisture tolerance will help prevent soil erosion and allow water to drain better. 
3. Grade your Yard - Sloping the ground around your home will allow water to flow away from your home’s foundation.  
4. Use Rain Barrels - Rain barrels collect rainwater from downspouts to redirect moisture away from your home. SERVPRO® Tip - use the collected water for both indoor and outdoor plants, or make a birdbath!

After taking measures to help reduce flooding in your yard always double-check your work. Excessive rain or dry spells can cause your landscaping to naturally change and consequently reverting your work. After extreme weather check to see how your drainage methods are doing and adjust accordingly. In the event your home does flood, SERVPRO® of Southeast El Paso / Butterfield is available 24/7 to help minimize damage and salvage the contents of your home.