Floods can come quickly and fiercely. One minute you’re hanging out the washing, or working at your desk, the next you’re battling a torrent of gushing water.

To help you defend your home or business from floods and lessen the likelihood of having to use a flood pump, we’ve created a list of the best flood barriers. Each flood defence product has been tested in a real-life flooding event and is guaranteed to offer you the best defence against water entering your property.

  1. Emergency Flood Kits

An emergency flood kit is designed to defend domestic or commercial properties from flood damage. It includes:

  • A manual submersible pump for pumping water when your electricity is out 
  • A 10-metre hose to ensure water is directed away from your home 
  • A cage to catch any debris floating in the floodwater 
  • An array of hose clips that can be used depending on your situation or if you need to connect to a new hose

Ideal For: Homeowners and businesses in flood-prone areas.

Buying Tip: Consider the size of your property and potential debris volume when choosing a kit.

  1. Hydro Snakes and Hydro Sacks:

Hydro Snakes are highly absorbent flood barriers that inflate upon contact with water, creating a floodwall. Each snake measures about two doorways wide and will act as a line of sandbags, absorbing 30 litres of water and inflating to over 30x its original weight.

If the Hydro Snake fails, then having a few spare Hydro Sacks to hand can be really helpful. The Hydro Sacks are about the same size as a regular sandbag but only weigh 0.5kg when inactivated and will expand to 15kg once activated with water. That makes them super helpful to throw down in front of a doorway or even in the hall of your home if the floodwater starts to enter your home.

Ideal For: Hydro Snakes are ideal for external defence such as gardens and gates, while Hydro Sacks are ideal for quick indoor deployment in doorways and halls.

Buying Tip: Choose Hydro Snakes based on the length you need to protect. Consider the number of doorways and high-water risk areas when selecting Hydro Sacks.

  1. Water Repellent Sealant

The best way to defend your home from flooding is to defend it before the flooding starts. To do that, we’d recommend purchasing a good quality water repellent sealant. Water repellent sealant forms a barrier on walls, windows, and doors, repelling flood water before it enters.

Ideal For: Proactive flood defence.

Buying Tip: Apply only in dry weather for proper adhesion. Choose a sealant appropriate for your exterior surfaces.

  1. Flood Diversion Gates:

An alternative to hydro sacks and hydro snakes is a flood divert gate. Flood divert gates are permanent flood doors or covers that can be installed on doors, gates and any other entrance ways. 

Ideal For: Homes and businesses in high-risk flood zones.

Considerations: May require professional installation and can affect aesthetics. Consider flood frequency and potential disruption before investing.

  1. Air Brick Covers:

Air bricks are the vents on the side of your house that let air circulate in and out of your home. However, in the event of flooding, they will let in a lot more than just air. 

Air bricks are a common problem when an area floods. We recommend buying an air brick cover that will seal the vent when there is a flood warning, preventing water ingress.

Ideal For: Homes with air brick vents.

Important: Remember to remove covers after flood warnings pass to prevent moisture buildup.

  1. Non-Return Valves and Drain Sealers

Non-return valves are installed inside pipes to prevent sewage backup during floods. If it’s too expensive to get non-return valves installed, then the alternative is a set of toilet plugs and drain sealers. These are simple little tools that slot over your toilet or drain, create pressure and stop water coming up through your drains or toilet. 

Ideal For: Non-return valves are ideal for comprehensive protection. Drain sealers and plugs are ideal for a quick, temporary solution.

Considerations: Consult a plumber to check for existing non-return valves and proper installation. Drain sealers and plugs may not be as reliable.

How to use flood prevention products

Additional Flood Protection

Flood prevention products are a great first line of defence, but if you live or work in an area that is more and more prone to flooding, a well-thought-out flood preparedness plan goes a long way:

  • Identify multiple routes out of your neighbourhood in case one path becomes flooded or blocked. Consider walking routes, bridges, and alternate exits.
  • Choose a safe location outside your flood zone where everyone in your family can reunite if separated during an evacuation.
  • Delegate tasks to family members, such as packing essentials, caring for pets, or shutting off utilities (with proper safety precautions).

Know How to Shut Off Your Utilities

Shutting off your utilities can prevent further damage and electrical hazards during a flood. If a severe flood warning is in place, locate the shut-off valves for your water supply, gas line, and main electrical panel.

Important:  If you are unsure about safely shutting off any utilities, consult a qualified plumber or electrician.

Free Advice

If you’re struggling for advice regarding protecting your home from flooding, ring our dedicated experts on 0800 112 3134 or 0333 577 3134. We’re open Monday to Friday 07:00 - 17:30 and Saturday 08:30 - 12:30.

Free Advice

If you’re struggling for advice regarding protecting your home from flooding, ring our dedicated experts on 0800 112 3134 or 0333 577 3134. We’re open Monday to Friday 07:00 - 17:30 and Saturday 08:30 - 12:30.