HOW MUCH STORAGE SPACE IS REQUIRED FOR MY FLOOD BARRIERS?

A flood barrier is as high as required to be above the base flood elevation Base Flood Elevation (BFE): The height of the base flood, usually in feet, in relation to the National Geodetic Vertical Datum of 1929 or other datum as specified. (BSE) and is a minimum of 4” wider than the opening and between 4” to 8” thick. There are as many barriers as openings below BFE. By using simple math, one can determine the amount of storage area necessary for the barriers. The maximum single panel length is 12’-0” wide, and multiple panels can be combined to cover larger openings.

Because and the weight and construction of the barriers, it is recommended that they be stored on the ground resting upside down.

The average weight of panels varies with the BFE, due to different member sizes. But an average panel weight is approximately, 40 Lbs. for a standard 3-4” door with a barrier height of 4’-0”. A 5’-0” barrier for the same opening weighs around 100 lbs.

It should be noted that these barriers are constructed of aluminum, they make a good target for theft.
Secure storage is highly recommended.

Definitions

Base Flood Elevation:  Base Flood Elevation (BFE): The height of the base flood, usually in feet, in relation to the National Geodetic Vertical Datum of 1929 or other datum as specified.