Guide
What is dry floodproofing?
The plain-English version, and how it fits with elevation, wet floodproofing and insurance in Florida.
Dry floodproofing, defined
The three main approaches
| Approach | How it works | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| Elevation | Raise the building above the flood level | New construction, major renovations |
| Dry floodproofing | Seal the building so water stays out | Existing homes and businesses, shallow to moderate flooding |
| Wet floodproofing | Let water in and out of non-living areas with vents and resistant materials | Garages, crawlspaces, storage below the flood level |
Where flood panels fit
Doors and other openings are where water gets in first, so flood barriers are the core of dry floodproofing for most existing buildings. Flood Guard panels seal each opening with compressed EPDM gaskets and are removed after the storm.
Limits to know
- Depth: deeper water means more pressure on walls. FEMA guidance generally limits dry floodproofing to shallow flooding, around 3 feet.
- Waves: in coastal V zones with breaking waves, elevation and structural design matter most.
- Every opening counts: one unprotected door defeats the rest.
- Someone has to deploy it: removable barriers only work if they're put up in time.
Insurance
Under the National Flood Insurance Program, certified dry floodproofing is credited mainly for non-residential buildings. Some private insurers consider mitigation for homes. Ask your agent.
Related: FEMA flood zones explained.
Questions people ask us
What is the difference between dry and wet floodproofing?
Dry floodproofing keeps water out of the building by sealing it. Wet floodproofing lets water in and out of certain areas (like a garage or crawlspace) using flood vents and flood-resistant materials, so pressure on the walls is balanced and damage is limited.
How high can dry floodproofing protect?
FEMA generally treats dry floodproofing as suitable for relatively shallow flooding, around 3 feet or less, because deeper water puts heavy pressure on walls and floors. Flood Guard panels cover openings up to 6 feet, and the right height for your property depends on the building and the expected water level.
Is dry floodproofing allowed for homes?
Barriers like flood panels can be used on any home to reduce damage. For NFIP insurance rating and for meeting floodplain building rules in new or substantially improved buildings, dry floodproofing is generally only recognized for non-residential buildings.
Find out what protecting your property costs
Free on-site assessment and a written quote. Most homes come in around $5,000–$8,000, less than 10% of the cost of flood repairs.