Utah Leak Locate

Tag: help

  • How to Protect Yourself from Flash Floods

    How to Protect Yourself from Flash Floods

    [vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”30261″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][vc_column_text]Floods are one of the most common natural disasters that the United States experiences; they kill more people annually than hurricanes, lightning, or tornadoes.

    Floods can arise from many situations such as; rain, snow, storms, or even broken dams. If there’s a flood, it will come without warning. Flash floods can wreak havoc on communities, causing landslides, building and house damage, impossible transportation conditions, and even power outages. 

    The technicians at Utah Leak Locate would like to ensure that all of their clients stay safe, so if you are ever caught in the middle of a flash flood, take these few steps to remain safe.

    Resistance Is Futile.

    Water pressure from floods is extremely strong. According to some studies, six inches of moving water is enough to knock you down. A foot of floodwater is enough to move your vehicle like a little matchbox car. No matter how low the flood may seem, we recommend that you refrain from walking, swimming, or driving through floodwaters. Avoid bridges; they may collapse.

    High Ground Is Your Friend.

    In a flood, go to higher ground as soon as possible. However, some experts say that if the highest point in your home is a closed attic, do not get in it. The last thing you want is the attic to start flooding while you’re stuck inside it. Only get on the roof if it’s necessary. Try a balcony. 

    Evacuate.

    It’s not the time to be a rebellious child and defy authorities in emergency evacuations. These people are trained to help evacuate hundreds if not thousands of people during a flash flood. Follow their instructions; they do know better than you. If you feel like staying right where you are, at least get to the highest ground/floor in your home or office.

    Don’t Exit Your Vehicle.

    As stated before, a flash flood will happen without warning; you could be anywhere. If you find yourself stuck in your car, do not attempt to go out of your vehicle. However, if you’re stuck in a car in the middle of the flood and there’s water going into the car, get on the roof and signal for help as soon as possible.

    Electrocution Hurts.

    If you are standing in or near water, do not use wet electrical equipment. Also, keep in mind that in the event of a flash flood, a landslide could damage power lines and electrically charge the water around you.

    Prepare Yourself. 

    We have experienced a flash flood in Southern Utah on July 25th, 2021. It’s always wise to prepare yourself for these situations as you are but a sitting duck without knowledge and preparation. Research your local area’s official flood risk and make sure to enquire of any information to help facilitate your evacuation during these events. Consider also investing in flood insurance to protect yourself from financial devastation.

    Floods are the most common type of natural disaster and can be life-threatening. Achieve the most drainage possible with our services at Utah Leak Locate to prevent damage to your home and your belongings. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

  • How to protect your basement from water leaks?

    How to protect your basement from water leaks?

    [vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]Even though we live in a desert state, we can usually count on Utah’s weather to be all over the place. As the seasons change we can go from extremely hot and dry forecasts to freezing temperatures with lots of snow. One thing is for certain, home and business owners need to stay on their toes to avoid leaks. Basements are typically one of the key areas where leaks can occur. As the lowest point of the house, basements are oftentimes below accumulating groundwater. Basements are usually the least visited area of the home so any leaks can sometimes go unnoticed for a long amount of time. If you suspect a leak it is important that you call a professional leak detection company for repairs at (801) 613-0969 to schedule an appointment today.

    Protecting your basement from water leaks

    Keep an eye on outdoor water. Accumulating water outside your house is a large culprit behind many basement leaks. This is especially true if you live on the east bench in the Sugarhouse or the Cottonwood Heights area with a lot of hills. As a homeowner, we recommend that you keep your gutters clean and free of debris. It is also essential that ground and rainwater is properly running away from your home so it cannot accumulate around the base of your house. If necessary you may want to consider either a sump pump or even french drains to help with transferring the water. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”30043″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Check for cracks and holes in and outside your home. Cracks in your walls, concrete slabs or outside the house need to be fixed, especially before winter happens and water is allowed to freeze and expand those cracks. These types of issues are almost a sure-fire way to ensure that water will leak into your home. Foundational cracks and holes can arise from the home setting, too much outside water pressure on the house or even poor initial construction.

    Notice the signs of a leak. Water leaks are an inconvenient nuisance. They are however typically easy to detect once the damage has begun. We recommend that homeowners visit this basement regularly to check for water leaks, especially during and after heavy rainfall. You can notice things like visible damage to your walls, water accumulating inside your home, the smell of rainwater or mold inside your basement. You may also be able to hear a leak occurring by listening for the sound of running water.

    Staying on top of leaks

    By staying vigilant you can keep on top of leaks both inside and outside your home. If you see the warning signs of a leak it is best to take care of the issue right away to avoid further damage and potentially higher repair costs.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]