Are Sandbags An Effective Form Of Flood Protection?

In the UK, the annual level of rainfall received has gradually been increasing over the last 40 years. Average yearly rainfall levels are now approximately 162 millimetres greater when compared with levels from the 1980s.

Sandbags are a common sight in flood prone areas; however, the Environment Agency (EA) acknowledges that they are “ineffective” in mitigating flooding, and are only used as they are “Cheap, easy to obtain and can provide protection for short periods of time”.  Sir Michael Pitt conducted a review following the extensive 2007 floods, which also found sandbags to be ineffective.

Despite this, thousands of people across the UK continue to opt for sandbags when there is an increased risk of flooding.

If you’re concerned about flood protection for your home, take a look at our Floodplan Stormguard range of Flood Barriers and Floor Doors!