Floodwalls and levees are self-supporting barriers to flood water. There is more to them than meets the eye.

A floodwall may look like a garden wall or privacy fence, but it has more internal reinforcing and a more substantial foundation. This heavier construction keeps the wall from tipping or sliding. The foundation also blocks seepage of water under the wall. Floodwalls and levees do more than keep the building dry. They protect the building from unequal water pressure on its walls and from erosion (or scour) at its foundation. They also protect the building from damage from floating debris. More on Floodwalls. More on Levees Also visit the Back-flow and Panels rooms of the Mall.