Flooding is one of the most destructive natural disasters, and protecting properties from flood damage is crucial. Demountable flood barriers are an excellent solution for safeguarding buildings and infrastructure during flood events. These barriers are highly effective, versatile, and easy to install when needed. However, to ensure that they perform optimally when required, proper maintenance and storage are essential.

In this blog, we’ll share top tips for maintaining and storing demountable flood barriers to ensure they last for many years, offering reliable protection against floodwaters when necessary.

1. Regular Inspection and Cleaning

One of the most important aspects of maintaining demountable flood barriers is performing regular inspections. Check for any signs of wear, corrosion, or damage after each use. Look for cracks, dents, or any structural issues that could affect their performance.

• Cleaning: After each use, clean the flood barriers thoroughly to remove any dirt, debris, or sediment that may have accumulated. Use a mild detergent and water solution to clean the panels, ensuring they are completely dry before storage. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the material.
• Visual Checks: Inspect the entire system, including the barrier panels, posts, and seals. Ensure that there is no corrosion, particularly if they are used in coastal or high-humidity areas, where saltwater and moisture can cause damage. Look for signs of wear on the rubber seals and components to prevent leaks in future deployments.

2. Proper Storage in a Dry, Safe Location

Proper storage is key to extending the life of your demountable flood barriers. These barriers are typically constructed from durable materials like aluminum, steel, or high-density plastic, but storing them improperly can lead to unnecessary damage.

• Temperature and Humidity: Store the barriers in a dry, cool, and well-ventilated area. High humidity can cause rust and corrosion, especially for metal components. Extreme temperatures can cause the seals to degrade, which may affect their water-tightness.
• Avoid Exposure to UV Light: Direct exposure to sunlight can degrade some materials, causing them to become brittle over time. Store the barriers in a shaded location or use protective covers to shield them from prolonged UV exposure.
• Stacking and Handling: When storing multiple panels or components, stack them carefully to avoid any damage. Use storage racks or shelves if available to keep everything organized and off the ground. Ensure that no heavy objects are placed on top of the barriers, as this could cause deformation or stress on the frame.

3. Ensure Seals are Intact

The water-tight performance of demountable flood barriers relies heavily on the integrity of their seals. The seals between the barrier panels, posts, and the ground are designed to prevent water from bypassing the system.

• Inspect the Seals: Check the seals for any signs of cracking, splitting, or wear. Rubber seals, in particular, are vulnerable to aging, UV exposure, and the wear and tear of frequent use. Make sure the seals are pliable and free of any damage. If necessary, replace worn seals to ensure a tight, reliable fit.
• Lubrication: For some systems, lightly lubricating seals or moving parts can help them slide into position more easily during installation and reduce wear. However, check the manufacturer’s recommendations before applying any lubricant to avoid damaging the seals.

4. Check Anchor Plates and Posts

Many demountable flood barrier systems rely on pre-installed anchor plates and posts embedded in a concrete foundation for strength and stability. These components must be regularly checked to ensure they remain secure and functional.

• Anchor Plate Integrity: Check that the anchor plates are firmly embedded in the concrete and free from damage or rust. Any loosening of the anchor plates could weaken the barrier’s performance, so it’s important to repair or replace any damaged anchors as soon as possible.
• Post Stability: Ensure the central posts are straight and stable. Over time, movement from weather conditions, ground shifting, or improper installation could cause the posts to become misaligned. Make sure that each post is securely fixed into the anchor plate.

5. Replace or Repair Damaged Components

Over time, even the best-quality demountable flood barriers may require some repairs or part replacements. Identifying potential issues early can save you time and money, ensuring the barriers remain in optimal condition.

• Panel Replacement: If any panels become bent, cracked, or damaged, they should be replaced to maintain the structural integrity of the system. Don’t try to repair panels with temporary fixes, as this could compromise their flood resistance.
• Component Repair: If any moving parts, like the locking mechanisms or sliding components, become damaged or worn, repair them promptly. These mechanisms are crucial for proper deployment, so any malfunction could prevent the barrier from being installed correctly when needed.

6. Training and Familiarization with Setup and Take-Down Procedures

Familiarity with the installation and removal processes is crucial for ensuring the flood barriers are deployed correctly. Many demountable flood barrier systems are designed for easy setup, but proper training is required to handle the components safely and efficiently.

• Training for Personnel: Ensure that all personnel involved in the setup and take-down of the flood barriers are well-trained. Practice deploying the barriers regularly, so team members are comfortable with the process and can act quickly when a flood warning is issued. Familiarity with the process will reduce the risk of damage during setup.
• Regular Drills: Run periodic drills to ensure that all components are functioning correctly, and the team is prepared for a real flood emergency. This helps identify any potential issues or weaknesses in the system and provides an opportunity to address them before they become major problems.

7. Documentation and Manufacturer Support

Keep detailed records of all inspections, maintenance, and repairs performed on your flood barrier system. This documentation can help ensure that all components are functioning as expected and will be helpful for tracking any recurring issues.

• Manufacturer’s Guidelines: Always follow the manufacturer’s maintenance guidelines to ensure that you’re using the correct procedures for storing, cleaning, and maintaining your barriers. The manufacturer may also provide updates or improvements that can help extend the life of your system.
• Contact Manufacturer Support: If you experience any difficulties with your demountable flood barrier system, don’t hesitate to reach out to the manufacturer for support. Their technical expertise can guide you through troubleshooting or repairs, ensuring the system performs as intended.

Conclusion

Proper maintenance and storage are essential for ensuring the effectiveness of demountable flood barriers when a flood emergency strikes. By regularly inspecting and cleaning the system, ensuring seals and posts are intact, and storing the components properly, you can ensure that your flood protection system remains reliable for many years. Additionally, familiarize yourself with the installation process, train your team, and follow manufacturer guidelines to maximize the system’s lifespan and performance.

Investing time and effort into maintaining and storing your demountable flood barrier system will provide peace of mind, knowing that you are ready to act quickly and effectively when floodwaters approach.