"Honestly, proper grading and drainage outside tend to have a bigger impact."
Couldn't agree more with this. I've managed several properties over the years, and while sealing cracks helps a bit, it's usually just a band-aid. Had one place that flooded every single storm until we finally bit the bullet and regraded the yard. Night and day difference afterward... pricey upfront, sure, but way cheaper than repeatedly cleaning up water damage. French drains are solid too, seen them work wonders—but proper grading is my go-to recommendation first.
Good points on grading and drainage, but don't underestimate the value of a green roof either. I installed one a few years back, and it's been surprisingly effective at absorbing stormwater and reducing runoff. Plus, it helps insulate the house—bonus points for lower energy bills. Sure, it's not a standalone fix if your yard's a swamp, but combined with proper grading, it can really ease the burden during heavy storms...and hey, it looks pretty cool too.
Green roofs are cool, no doubt, but they're definitely not a magic bullet. I've seen a few installed, and yeah, they help with runoff and insulation, but maintenance can be a pain—especially after a big storm. Still, if you're up for the upkeep, they're worth considering.
Had a neighbor who installed one last year, and after a pretty nasty storm, he mentioned spending around $300-$500 on repairs and cleanup—mostly replacing damaged plants and fixing drainage issues. Not outrageous, but definitely something to factor into your budget. If you're handy and can handle some DIY, you might cut costs significantly. Still, it's smart to keep a small emergency fund aside for unexpected storm damage...just in case.
"Still, it's smart to keep a small emergency fund aside for unexpected storm damage...just in case."
Good point about the emergency fund—storms can be unpredictable. Curious though, has anyone found insurance helpful for covering these smaller cleanup costs, or is it usually not worth the hassle?
