How To Protect Your Landscape From Flooding

10/27/2020 (Permalink)

Green roofs allow you to add some landscaping to the top of your home

Ways To Limit Outside Flooding

Floods do not just affect the inside of your Desert Uplands, AZ, home. Outside flooding can be harmful, as well. While your plants do need some water, excess rain can cause damaging runoff and soil erosion. You thus need to adjust your landscaping to protect it from increasingly powerful rainstorms.
Flood-proofing your backyard will not just keep it looking beautiful. You may also save money, as well. If you properly protect your yard, you will not have to spend as much on water damage repair services. You also may not have to pay stormwater runoff utility fees. Many cities charge residents if runoff enters the local rain drainage system.
Best of all, storm-proofing your yard does not have to be expensive. Below are some easy and affordable ways to limit outside flooding.

1. Apply Heavier Mulch
Flood water is no match for light mulch. The water will simply transport this mulch all over your lawn, forcing you to rake it following the rain storm. Opt for heavier mulch that consists of man-made materials or hardwood instead.

2. Buy a Green Roof
Green roofs allow you to add some landscaping to the top of your home. They provide several added benefits besides reducing the risk of flooding. They insulate your home and thus reduce your utility bill. Green roofs also last longer compared to traditional roofs.

3. Maximize Your Swales
Swales are depressions that redirect excess water. Make sure your swales do not drain the flood water directly off your property. Instead, have the swales direct the water toward areas that need excess moisture, such as dry wells. You can also slow down the flow of the flood water by lining the low points of the swales with rocks.
By making some simple changes, you can prevent outside flooding from damaging your landscape. Adding heavier mulch, installing a green roof and utilizing swales can all protect your property and limit the amount of runoff entering the city's water system.