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Waterproofing a structure ahead of time can save lots of time, money and damage should leakage occur. Flooding from various sources can create havoc and ruin which will cost big dollars to repair. Preventing these mishaps ahead of time is just plain smart. Water damage can occur due to flooding because of a nasty series of rainstorms, excessive snow melt, pipe breakage and even due to a calamity such as a typhoon or hurricane. Mother Nature can be fierce when she wants to be. Don't let her wrath ruin your home or office building. Here are some things to think about:

- Roofs must be maintained: A building's roof must be kept in excellent shape in order to fend off leaks. A homeowner should keep the surface cleared of leaves, branches and debris. He or she should walk around every few months in order to check out the shingles or tiles. Any loose or missing ones should be repaired or replaced. Flashing should be checked around chimneys and corners to make certain it's firmly attached. These are prime areas to collect debris and pooling water.

- Drainage in landscaping should be adequate: Grading and drainage systems surrounding a building must be designed by a landscaper or engineer who knows how to keep waterways from running toward the structure.

- Rain gutters: Rain gutters should be installed around the perimeter of the buildings in order to allow run off. The spouts should point away from the house at ground that has been graded to prevent pooling.

- French drains: French drains are also referred to as blind drainages. These are trenches set in the yard with gravel covering them. There are often perforated pipes attached to allow groundwater to be dispensed quickly. When this system becomes clogged by sediment and heavy dirt, the weight can be substantial enough to collapse basement or cellar walls.

- Leaks can damage wiring: Electrical wiring in a structure can be shorted out when flooded. This can be an expensive and dangerous situation. Electricians will need to be brought in should this mishap occur.

- Sealants: Using sealants on areas that come into contact with moisture will help to preserve the wood or material that has been sealed. Marine varnish or waterproofing agents can add many years of longevity when used properly.

- Insect problems: Damp basements or crawl spaces attract an array of unwelcome insects. Carpenter ants, termites, water bugs, spiders and mosquitoes just love to breed in moist regions of the home.

Not only will waterproofing protect the livability of one's home or work space but it will protect the property value, as well. Even after a flood has been cleaned up, evidence that one has occurred in the property can make the value drop substantially. Not only is there physical damage but the chance of mold and mildew occurring is much higher. Mold can cause a host of health problems which can be toxic to human or pet breathing systems. Spending some time researching waterproofing solutions and initiating them before problems occur will be money and energy well spent.