Living with water: four buildings that will withstand flooding

The article addresses the growing concern of increased severe weather events, specifically extreme rainfall and widespread flooding, due to global climate change. It highlights that even regions historically less prone to such phenomena, like the Sahara Desert and Saudi Arabia, have experienced significant flooding. The central theme revolves around innovative solutions and evolving strategies to protect homes and infrastructure from flood damage. The piece notes the emergence of a specialized industry focused on flood mitigation over the past two decades, offering advancements beyond traditional methods like sandbags. It underscores the devastating impact of even minimal floodwater ingress, emphasizing the financial and emotional toll on homeowners. Ian Gibbs MRICS, national technical manager at Sedgwick International UK and chair of the DEFRA Flood Resilience Roundtable, provides expert insights. He points out that while winter storms have always brought flood risks, the current climate necessitates preparedness for intense rainfall events throughout the year, regardless of a property's proximity to rivers or coastlines. Gibbs explains that insurers seek not just theoretical risk reduction but tangible proof of effectiveness from flood resilience measures. He discusses the shift from purely resistance measures (designed to stop water entry, such as flood doors and barriers) towards a greater acceptance of recoverability measures, which aim to minimize damage and accelerate recovery when water does enter a property. This approach reduces the need for constant intervention and maintenance. The article then details several practical and technological solutions for flood defence. Mobile flood barriers are presented as a versatile option, including lightweight, reusable fences like Boxwall, and systems like Aquafence, which famously protected Tampa General Hospital during Hurricane Milton. Other innovations include interlocking plastic crates, such as the Floodstop Barrier by Fluvial Innovations, and the WIPP (water-inflated property protector) system, a large, inflatable barrier that uses floodwater itself for deployment and can be compactly stored. For domestic use, barrier socks offer a simpler alternative to sandbags, swelling with moisture to block water entry. Beyond physical barriers, the article explores high-tech solutions. The University of Sheffield's CENTAUR system, an AI-powered sewer management tool, is highlighted for its ability to monitor drainage networks in real-time, identify spare capacity, and divert water to prevent urban flooding. While successful in trials in cities like Coimbra and Toulouse, its limitation lies in scenarios where no spare sewer capacity exists. LiDAR technology, although not directly preventing floods, is presented as a crucial mapping tool for identifying flood-vulnerable areas, offering detailed topographical scans to improve flood modelling. An automated flood barrier by Hochwasserschutz Reitthaler, which detects heavy rainfall and automatically raises to protect properties, is also mentioned. Permeable road surfaces are introduced as an urban solution to reduce water pooling. These surfaces, often made with loosely packed granite chips, allow hundreds of litres of water per square metre per minute to drain through, preventing surface water accumulation. Finally, the concept of flood resilience is discussed for highly flood-prone areas. This approach advocates for adapting homes to minimize damage rather than solely fighting water entry. Examples include raising electrical sockets, installing non-return valves, and using waterproof flooring. Gibbs emphasizes that there is no universal solution and stresses the importance of consulting qualified surveyors who follow established codes of practice to develop tailored flood resilience strategies combining resistance and recoverability measures with increased preparedness from occupants. #FloodResilience #ClimateChangeAdaptation #SmartSolutions #UrbanPlanning #WaterManagement #PropertyProtection #DisasterPreparedness #InfrastructureDevelopment

This article provides comprehensive guidance for individuals residing or working in floodplains, detailing methods to assess flood risk, secure flood insurance, and implement property protection measures. It begins by explaining that low-lying areas near creeks and rivers are designated as floodplains, inherently carrying a higher risk of flooding. Property owners and residents are encouraged to determine if their location falls within a floodplain using resources like PortlandMaps.com or by contacting the Bureau of Development Services. These resources can identify if a property is in a FEMA Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) or a 100-year floodplain, which has a 1% or greater chance of flooding annually. The article emphasizes the critical importance of flood insurance, noting that standard homeowners' insurance typically does not cover flood damage. It highlights that properties within Portland's 100-year floodplain automatically receive a 25% discount on flood insurance premiums due to the city's participation in the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Community Rating System (CRS). Portland's Class 5 rating in the CRS, placing it among the top 15 percent of participating communities, is attributed to its commitment to restoring natural floodplain functions, a comprehensive stormwater management approach, updated floodplain codes, environmental zoning, public information availability, and the designation of significant floodplain areas as parks and open space. The article advises checking for sewer backup insurance alongside flood coverage and directs readers to FloodSmart.gov for more information. Practical steps for protecting property from flood damage are outlined, including elevating belongings and mechanical systems above anticipated flood levels, removing items from basements and avoiding their use as living or workspaces, installing sewer backflow prevention, and physically elevating homes. The Bureau of Development Services staff are available for discussions on flood hazards and retrofit options. For construction activities within a floodplain, strict regulations apply to protect both the property undergoing development and adjacent properties. A permit is mandatory for building, altering, regrading, or adding fill, ensuring compliance with city, state, and federal requirements and preventing negative impacts on other properties. New residential buildings in floodplains must be constructed at least two feet above the 100-year flood level, with a one-foot minimum for properties in the Columbia River floodplain. No new construction or filling is permitted in a floodway unless a hydrologic analysis confirms it will not increase the base flood elevation, with a reference to Portland City Code for detailed regulations. The article also addresses flooding and drainage issues for properties located outside the 100-year floodplain, particularly in areas like SW Portland where hilly terrain and dense soils can lead to unmanaged stormwater runoff. Residents are advised to help maintain storm drains, green street planters, and ditches, and to report drainage problems to PBOT 24/7 Maintenance Dispatch. Environmental Services offers technical advice and property visits to discuss drainage solutions. Managing rain on one's property is also suggested as a proactive measure. Contact information for Environmental Services and for construction and development inquiries in floodplains is provided, along with links to related resources on flood safety, Johnson Creek flood gauge, landslides, and flood hazard regulations. #FloodplainPreparation #FloodInsurance #PropertyProtection #FloodplainRegulations #StormwaterManagement #CommunityRatingSystem #BuildingCodes #DisasterPreparedness

Many New Yorkers utilize their basements for storage, a practice that carries inherent risks due to the susceptibility of these spaces to dampness and flooding. Recent events, such as Hurricane Ida and Tropical Storm Henri, have underscored the critical need for effective waterproofing strategies in urban environments. Even if direct flooding has not occurred, these significant weather events serve as a vital reminder to assess and enhance basement protection measures. Protecting personal belongings, ranging from clothing and electronics to crucial documents, requires a proactive approach. Simple and relatively inexpensive solutions can make a substantial difference in mitigating water damage. Key among these are waterproof storage containers and bags, designed to create a barrier against moisture and environmental hazards. For instance, heavy-duty plastic bins and water-resistant bags are fundamental components of a robust waterproofing strategy. These items are readily available and can be integrated into existing storage routines with minimal effort and investment. Beyond individual storage solutions, it is also beneficial to consider broader weatherproofing products for the basement itself. One such example is the Quick Dam flood barrier, a product designed to absorb and divert water. Priced at approximately $27 at Home Depot, this barrier can be strategically placed at the base of basement doors to prevent water ingress. Such preventive measures, combined with appropriate storage, form a comprehensive defense against potential flood damage. This article outlines six specific waterproof storage solutions that can help safeguard belongings. The first recommendation is Clear Weathertight totes from The Container Store, priced between $13 and $65. These totes feature an air- and water-tight seal made from urethane foam, effectively keeping out moisture, dirt, and pests. They are also designed with handles and are stackable, offering practical storage and organization. Available in various sizes starting from 6.5 quarts, these totes have received a 4.6-star rating based on 337 customer reviews and have been recommended by professional organizers for flood-proofing basement storage. Another practical solution is Ziploc Big Bags, sold in packs of six for $19. These oversized bags feature a double-zipper enclosure, ideal for protecting items like towels, clothes, and linens from moisture. Constructed from heavy-duty plastic, they also guard against dust and pests and include built-in handles for easy transport. They boast a five-star rating on Amazon from over 2,000 reviews. For valuable documents, the Doc Fortress fireproof and water-resistant document bag is recommended at $40. This bag offers triple-layer protection with a zipper and Velcro closure, safeguarding passports, important papers, jewelry, and small electronics. Measuring 15 by 11 inches, it accommodates legal A4-sized documents and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee. For smaller, sensitive items, the Nite Ize RunOff waterproof pouch, priced at $30, is a suitable option. Initially designed for travel, its medium size makes it ideal for protecting small electronics and adapters from water, dust, and sand. It is tested to be waterproof in up to one meter of water for 30 minutes and is available in two colors. Larger items like clothes and linens can be stored in BYG waterproof clothes storage bags, which cost $33. These 100-liter bags are made from heavy-duty fabric with a waterproof undercoating and feature a transparent window for easy content identification. They are also foldable, allowing for efficient space-saving when not in use, and have a 4.5-star rating on Amazon. Finally, for a professional-grade option, the Husky 20-gallon waterproof storage container is available for $34 at Home Depot. This container is both waterproof and dustproof, built from durable materials, and features a hinged lid with six attachment points for security. It also includes side handles and tie-down holes for added safety, receiving a five-star rating from over 500 Home Depot customers. These diverse storage solutions cater to different needs and budgets, providing practical ways to protect belongings from water damage in flood-prone areas like basements. Implementing these strategies can help New Yorkers minimize losses and preserve their possessions during adverse weather conditions. #WaterproofStorage #FloodDamagePrevention #BasementStorage #NYCPreparedness #HomeOrganization #Weatherproofing #StorageSolutions #HurricanePreparedness

Climate change and rising sea levels pose a significant challenge, leading architects to explore innovative floating structures as a potential future for human habitation. This article showcases a collection of such designs, emphasizing their sustainability and adaptability to a changing world. These projects range from luxury yachts and hotels to offices and entire communities, demonstrating a creative response to environmental concerns. One concept is the Ocean Community vessel, designed to extend a city's coastline by existing within 800 meters of it. These vessels would serve as fully functional living spaces, integrated with existing land infrastructure, and would rely on solar, water, and wind energy, operating off the electric grid. This offers a vision of coastal living that is both connected to urban life and self-sufficient. The Arkup 75 is presented as a solar-powered luxury yacht, functioning as a floating villa. This 75-foot vessel provides 4,350 sqft of living space, offering off-the-grid comfort and luxury. It represents a significant development for the hospitality market, making self-sustainable, blue developments a reality with versatility in scalability, configuration, and relocation. Another innovative design is Löyly, a prefabricated floating sauna built from Swiss wood. This sauna can accommodate up to three people and includes a built-in wood stove. Its design features a shed roof for headroom and translucent side paneling for privacy, while allowing views of the surrounding water and landscapes. It exemplifies a smaller-scale, leisure-oriented floating structure. The We The Planet Campus, designed by 3deluxe, is a mobile, floating green platform intended for international summits, workshops, and educational programs focused on a sustainable future. Located off the Manhattan shoreline, this biotope is designed to be 100% self-sufficient, generating its own energy and drinking water, and serving as a communicative platform for environmental protection. Enclaves introduce the idea of floating office pods, addressing the demand for remote work and flexible lifestyles. These low-impact structures offer privacy and scenic views, accessible by kayak, effectively minimizing disturbance and carbon footprint on land. The design draws inspiration from the Vistula River, envisioning co-working spaces directly on water. Kairu is a two-story floating home constructed from shipping container materials and Sapele wood. This design is engineered to adapt to fluctuating sea levels, serving as an affordable, sustainable, and resilient housing solution in areas recovering from natural disasters, like Hurricane Sandy. Its name, a variation of the Japanese word for frog, pays homage to its water-based nature. Sou Fujimoto Architects' winning design for Shenzhen's New City Center Landmark competition features a floating water tower. This 268-meter-tall structure in Qianhai Bay will appear as a cylindrical water fountain with 99 pillar-like support beams, symbolizing societal diversity in the future. The pillars gradually expand in width, supporting the tower's upper horizontal structure. Yacht Hub by Naskov is a hospitality resort inspired by the form of a yacht, floating on an artificially planted forest canal. This resort features a yacht station and floating platforms for guests to stroll, offering a tranquil environment with lush greenery while providing proximity to the water without direct immersion. Finally, the Eco-Floating Hotel in Qatar, designed by Hayri Atak Architectural Design Studio, sets a new standard for eco-friendly tourism. This 35,000 sq m hotel with 152 rooms is powered by wind and solar energy, incorporates tidal sustainability mechanisms, and features a revolving restaurant. Its vortex-shaped roof collects rainwater, and the overall design is centered around sustainability. These diverse projects highlight a growing trend in architectural innovation, where sustainability and adaptation to environmental changes are paramount. Floating structures offer not only practical solutions to rising sea levels but also opportunities for unique living, working, and leisure experiences that are in harmony with aquatic environments. #FloatingArchitecture #SustainableDesign #ClimateChangeAdaptation #EcoFriendlyDesign #OceanCommunity #Arkup75 #WeThePlanetCampus #KairuHouse #YachtHub

With climate change leading to more intense and frequent storms, New Yorkers in apartments, brownstones, and townhouses are increasingly vulnerable to leaks and flooding. This article offers comprehensive advice on how to weatherproof properties in NYC, emphasizing preventive maintenance and specific strategies for different areas of a building. The exterior of a building, including the roof, facade, windows, doors, terraces, balconies, and chimneys, is where most leaks originate. For apartment dwellers, especially those in co-ops or condos, the building board is typically responsible for exterior repairs and upgrades, influenced by regulations like Local Law 11, which mandates frequent facade inspections. However, even if not directly responsible, residents should monitor their landlord or board's approach to storm damage, as their belongings are at risk. For brownstone and townhouse owners, the responsibility for weatherproofing rests entirely with them. If planning a major renovation, collaborating with an engineer to implement barriers exceeding current code requirements is advisable. Securing the roof is the first line of defense against heavy rainfall. Residents with roof access should regularly inspect for cracks or openings, particularly around the parapet and flashing. Caution is advised when installing decking or gardens to avoid damaging the roof's protective membrane. All drains must be clear and unobstructed, with water flowing freely without pooling or gurgling. Frequent inspection and cleaning of gutters, especially in the fall, are crucial to prevent overflow that could damage terraces and seep under doors. During windy conditions, all freestanding items on roofs or terraces should be secured or brought inside to prevent them from becoming projectiles. Terraces and balconies are common flood points. Similar to roofs, their drains need to be kept clear of debris, such as leaves. For ground-level apartments or terrace doors, using flood barriers like Quick Dam Flood Barriers can prevent water intrusion. These reusable, water-absorbing bags become heavy when wet, forming a protective seal, and shrink back as they dry, offering a practical alternative to heavy sandbags. Window seals are another critical area for potential leaks. Older, single-pane windows are particularly vulnerable to gaps around frames or cracks in the glass, especially in cold weather, which can lead to breakage. While replacing caulking and paint can offer some protection against normal rain, upgrading to newer, double- or triple-pane windows designed to withstand extreme weather is often necessary. These modern windows have vacuum seals to prevent air and rain infiltration, but their seals can fail due to poor installation, age, or temperature fluctuations. It is recommended to have a window company test the seals and perform necessary repairs, including re-caulking, adding weatherstripping, or replacing hardware. In some cases, replacing older windows with sturdier "skyscraper" glass might be considered. Any window replacements in co-ops, condos, or historic buildings require board or Landmarks Preservation Agency approval. Locking all exterior windows when a storm is forecast or when away can provide an extra layer of protection by creating a tighter seal. Basements are highly susceptible to flooding. If moisture is a persistent issue, identifying the source—whether through exterior walls or from below—is the first step. Solutions range from filling cracks with hydraulic cement or caulking around windows to sealing bare masonry walls with waterproof paint and applying an external waterproof membrane. More severe issues may require a foundation specialist. Ensuring the drainage system is adequate is essential, potentially involving the installation of a dry well to accumulate excess water, a trench around the interior perimeter, or a French drain with a perforated pipe to redirect water. Sump pumps, though historically less common in NYC, are becoming more vital. Existing sump pumps should be regularly checked for functionality by ensuring the power is on, the circuit breaker is not tripped, and the floater mechanism activates the pump. Annual professional servicing is recommended, as sump pumps typically last about ten years. For basements prone to moisture, continuous use of a sufficiently powerful dehumidifier with a direct run-off hose to a sump pump or French drain is advised. Elevating items like washer and dryer machines on pedestals can also mitigate damage in case of flooding. During townhouse renovations, additional waterproofing measures can be integrated. Architects might suggest floating floors with a space for water accumulation beneath, paired with a drainage system. Dricore subflooring can offer protection against minor leaks, and waterproof flooring materials like luxury vinyl sheets or porcelain tiles can be installed. Anti-microbial options can help prevent mold and mildew. For those with a substantial budget and a desire for maximum protection, advanced materials and applications can be used. For example, some high-end townhouses have incorporated more substantial waterproof membranes with lead-coated copper and a fold-over “drip method” on roofs, along with double-drainage systems and sturdy steel-encased windows. While these measures come at a higher cost, they can offer significant long-term protection against increasingly severe weather events. #Weatherproofing #NYCRealEstate #HomeMaintenance #FloodPrevention #Renovation #Brownstone #ApartmentLiving #ClimateChangeAdaptation #BuildingSafety