1. Location: The level of flood risk varies based on the area in which the design is located. Designers need to have a comprehensive understanding of the area's flood hazard history and anticipate potential flood impacts.
2. Materials: Choosing the right materials is critical to make a structure flood-resistant. The materials used should be water-resistant and durable enough to withstand the forces of floodwaters.
3. Plan Elevation: The layout and elevation of a structure are crucial in flood-resistant design. Structures should be raised above the floodplain to protect against high waters.
4. Landscaping: Landscaping around the building is a crucial part of the design process. The use of proper grading, drainage systems, and vegetation can help minimize damage during a flood.
5. Foundations: Adequate foundation design for flood resistance is crucial. It should be strong enough to support the structure and built to keep water out.
6. Utility Placement: Always ensure that critical utilities like electrical outlets, HVAC, and plumbing are placed above flood level.
7. Dry Floodproofing: This technique entails sealing a building to keep water from entering. Through measures like airbrick covers, backflow valves, and flood-resistant doors and windows, the art of dry floodproofing helps protect property.
8. Wet Floodproofing: Wet floodproofing entails the safe adaptation of spaces like basements to withstand floods, even when water enters the space. It can entail installation of flood vents or removal of gypsum walls to ensure the water doesn't have any ill-effect on the structure.
9. Emergency Sustenance: Prioritize emergency sustenance throughout flood-resistant design, there should always be a contingency plan in place in the event of a flood. This can take the form of emergency power, evacuation procedures, safe storage of food and water, and more.
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