Diverting water with a dike

Climate change is causing increasingly heavy rainfall. These heavy rains also increase the risk of flooding. This may require measures to better protect your home against flooding. One such measure is to construct a permanent dike or wall in front of or around your home.

What is a dike?

A dike or wall is a permanent flood barrier that holds back water and diverts it away from your home. The dike or wall is a permanent structure, unlike a temporary flood barrier that you remove after use. A dike or wall consists of a solid foundation with bricks laid up to the desired height. By installing a dike or wall yourself (or having it installed), you can tailor it exactly to your needs. It is an effective way to protect your home and garden.

Costs

The cost of building a wall or dike depends on its length and height. Most bricklayers charge an average price of €300 per 1,000 bricks. This includes cement but excludes grouting.

Use of space

This measure is useful if water enters your home through the front or back door, the skylight, a door or other opening on the ground floor, the basement, the walls, or the garage under the house.

What do you need?

You will need to lay the foundation, prepare the brickwork, lay the bricks, and grout the joints. This requires DIY or bricklaying experience. If you do not have this experience, you will need to hire a bricklayer or contractor.

Tips

Build the dike or wall to the correct height to prevent water from flooding your garden or home. If necessary, have the dike or wall treated by a specialist to make it waterproof.