FAQs about FloodFrame
How does FloodFrame work?
A waterproof cloth is rolled around a light pipe, adjusted to the measurements of the building that FloodFrame is to protect. The cloth is then placed in a pre-installed concrete box – typically placed about 1 m from the walls of the building. The cloth is placed on top of an inflatable plastic tube. When the water level rises the plastic tube will be inflated and hereby lifts the cloth out of the box and onto the ground. The force of the advancing water pushes, unfolds and rolls the cloth towards and up the building, as high as the water reaches.
To what water level will FloodFrame be able to protect my house?
FloodFrame can be tailor-made to provide protection at almost any water level. FloodFrame’s experts will help you estimating to what water level you want the FloodFrame to be able to reach when you order it. An important consideration is the height at which the walls or structure might start to cave in which will vary depending on the materials and type of construction.
Does FloodFrame protect against sewage flooding?
No, FloodFrame protects against surface-water flooding. You will need additional sewage plugs if sewage flooding is a problem.
How about debris in the water – will it damage FloodFrame?
It is very unlikely – once debris can flow in the water FloodFrame has already been activated and pushed up the walls of the building. Debris floating on the water might hit the house just above the top of FloodFrame.
What if the water comes very quickly?
This is not a problem. FloodFrame is able to roll towards and up the house within seconds. If the water reaches the box before Floodframe is fully on the ground the water simply helps pushing the cloth out of the box. It can still easily roll with a bit of water on the ground.
What if there are strong winds?
This is not a problem. As FloodFrame is placed around the building it cannot be blown away.
What if there is heavy rain?
Floodframe cannot be pushed down by the rain as the cloth is pressed tightly against the walls by the force of the surface-water. Rain alone will not release FloodFrame as the auto-release system can only be activated when the sensor is flooded from below by surface-water.
What about buoyancy?
As FloodFrame is not attached to the building, it does not lead to buoyancy of the building.
Can my house withstand the water pressure?
The walls, doors and windows must be able to withstand the water pressure, which will be highest at the bottom and lowest at the top.
Conservative calculations estimate that 90cm/3 feet of water pressure is not a problem, if the building components of the house are properly built and maintained.
Texas A&M University has calculated that a typical home in Texas can take 5-6 feet of water.
Is FloodFrame only suitable for residential properties?
FloodFrame can be customised and installed to protect a variety of structures, including critical infrastructure assets like electricity substations.