Tests of Materials and Systems for Flood Proofing Structures
Abstract
This report presents test results which describe materials and systems that can be used to protect buildings from floodwaters. Each year flooding causes more property damage in the United States than any other natural disaster. High flood damage costs to property have produced an awareness that nonstructural methods should be developed to augment flood protection provided by dams, levees, and similar structures. Because of the frequency and extent of flooding, strong initiatives to protect buildings from repetitive flood damage losses will provide a quick return on investment. The structural integrity of a building must be known or the building may be flood proofed to an extent that it will be excessively loaded and damaged or collapsed. It was determined by model and prototype tests that brick-veneer and concrete-block walls can withstand only approximately 3 ft of static waterhead without damage. If a building or home is loaded to excessive depths, it can fail instantaneously and possibly result in injury or death to occupants. Closures, materials, and systems were tested to determine the effectiveness in protecting homes or buildings from floodwaters.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 1988
- Accession Number
- ADA209380
Entities
People
- Carl E. Pace