3 Alternatives to Sandbags

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

Sandbags Aren't The Only Option.

Your commercial building in Oklahoma City, OK, is likely built to withstand common weather conditions in your area. If a big storm hits, though, are you prepared? Many businesses rely on an old, faithful solution - the sandbag. You can protect your building faster and perhaps more effectively, however, with one of these three newer products on the market.

1. Water Dams

Did you know you can actually use water to fight storm runoff and prevent flood damage? Instead of lugging out heavy sandbags when you need extra protection for your building, you simply your water dam where you want it and fill it up with water. Water dams are easier to use than sandbags, and they can be stored easily, too. Just empty them, dry them and stack them in a closet. You can create small walls that are 20 inches high and about six feet wide, or you can surround your building with a temporary water gate that is several feet tall.

2. Miniature Levees

A levee is essentially a wall that blocks water. Traditionally, they are used by municipalities to protect entire cities. You can construct your own levee on the sides of your building that are most prone to flooding. You can build a wall of synthetic materials that blocks water, or you can go the more natural route and construct what is basically a large sandbag.

3. Synthetic Dams

Another innovation flood mitigation experts suggest for damage prevention is a synthetic dam. These flood dams can be placed where flooding usually occurs. As long as there is no water in the area, they remain compact. When water comes into contact with them, however, they absorb it and swell, creating a barrier between the rising waters and your building.

The sandbag has proven a reliable deterrent against flooding, but there are easier products on the market to use and store. You may find that one of these newer options has benefits that sandbags lack.