What are the different types of flood defence systems in the UK?

Exploring the Different Types of Flood Defence Systems in the UK

Millions of homes in the UK face the threat of flooding every year, with much depending on seasonal weather conditions and water levels during that period. If you live close by to a river, or on the coastline, it makes sense to invest in fortifying your home wherever possible to minimise any issues created by rising water. But what are the different types of flood defence systems in the UK? We explain each one in more detail below.

Flood barriers

A flood barrier is designed to prevent water from entering your property via the front and back doors. Once in place it works by creating a water-tight seal, covering the small gap that can be found at the bottom of every door. Slotting it into position is easy, and while not a permanent solution, it can help where the flood water does not rise too high.

Flood doors

Instead of installing a standard timber or PVC front or back door, this is specifically designed to prevent water from seeping under the door and into your home. There are limitations to the height of water it can prevent, however, with the limit usually around the 900-1000mm mark. They work in the same way as any normal door, so if a flood is not present (which is the majority of the time) you do not need to do anything different.

Flood fences

To stop water from getting close to the property a flood fence can be installed to keep your garden and home protected. They are typically made from PVC and feature water-tight flood seals to block water seepage. This type of flood defence for the home is also particularly useful for keeping your car or any other vehicle parked outside safer, with water unable to break through and affect it.

Flood pumps

If you experience flooding inside the home from a river flood or rising groundwater into a basement or cellar, flood pumps will help to clear the water. Many products allow you to pump thousands of gallons per hour, which are done automatically via the system. Even if you experience a power cut as a result of the flood, modern flood pump systems should still be able to clear water from the previous charge.

Anti-flood air bricks

Anti-flood air bricks are retro-fitted to replace existing brick and produce a water-tight seal when they come into contact with water. As is the case with any normal brick, air is still able to pass through, but this will stop when excess water is present. This can also be used in conjunction with a removable mesh that will prevent possible flood debris from passing through.

Tanking

This involves the use of a specialist waterproof membrane that is pasted around the basement to stop water ingress during flooding. Not only does it prevent water from coming through the side of the property, but also from the ground up. It keeps basements and cellars protected, which is where electrical mains systems are usually located.