Homeowners in Belleville can prevent flooding and water damage by having sump pumps installed. They are motorized units that remove water from a built-in basin in the basement.
They enhance the benefits of gutter systems and other drainage installations. They also decrease negative effects of rainstorms and severe weather.
Prevents Foundation Damage
While gutter systems mitigate the negative effects of heavy rain on a home, a sump pump adds an additional layer of protection for the basement and foundation. These pumps help control the amount of moisture that enters these spaces and can significantly reduce problems such as mold growth, musty odors, structural damage, and other health and safety concerns.
A sump pump is typically installed in a pit that is dug specifically for the purpose, often below your basement floor. A water-level sensor or pressure-sensing valve controls the motor that activates when the level reaches a certain point, pumping the moisture out of the pit and away from your property.
Contractors will ensure that a drain pipe is connected to the sump pump to manage excess rainfall and prevent soil shifts that can compromise your foundation. Proper grading and downspout extensions can also help by controlling how much work your sump pump has to do, which can extend its lifespan.
Enhances Gutter Systems
Gutter systems are a great way to manage rainwater and protect your home. But sump pump installation is an additional layer of protection that can save you thousands in severe flooding and water damage after storms or heavy winter-spring rainfall.
A sump pump installs in a pit or basin that is lined with a waterproof material. It typically sits in a basement or crawl space and is powered by electricity. Having a plumbing specialist hook up your sump pump and drainage pipes is a good idea, especially if you are going to be using a submersible sump pump or cutting through a concrete slab.
A sump pump will also ensure that your gutters are properly connected to the sanitary sewer system. Incorrect connections can cause sewage to back up into your home or overflow into the nearby waterways and rivers. Ask a local gutter services company for tips on this important issue. They can also review your property for proper down spout and sump pump connections.
Keeps Basement and Foundation Dry
A sump pump helps prevent the basement and foundation from flooding during severe storms. This protects the home from serious water damage and can prevent mold, rotting wood and other problems that require expensive repairs.
A plumbing specialist will find the lowest spot in the basement floor and install a sump pit there. It will then be backfilled with clean stone and connected to a perimeter drain, like WaterGuard. A sump pump is then installed to remove the water from the basement and send it outside, away from the home.
The plumber will ensure the pit is large enough to move gallons of water per hour and recommend a battery backup system for peace of mind. He will also install a clean sump lid with rubber grommets that keep odors, humidity and debris out of the pit. A sump pump stand is also installed to raise the pump off of the bottom of the liner and discourage silt and sediment from clogging it.
Ensures Proper Maintenance
If a sump pump is installed correctly by plumbers, it will help keep the foundation dry and the home free of moisture that can rot wood, promote mold growth, weaken the foundation, cause uneven floors and other problems. Excess moisture in a basement or crawl space can also ruin appliances like washers and dryers, televisions, water heaters, and heating systems. It can also lead to electrical fires that threaten the safety of a family or guests.
A professional plumbing contractor will install a sump pit in the lowest part of the basement or crawl space, ensure that the pump is connected to a GFCI outlet, and run drainage pipes away from the house. They will also clean the pump inlet screen and check the owner’s manual to understand if the pump bearings need oil or grease.
Many plumbing contractors offer both sump pump installation and repair services so that homeowners can save time and money by working with a single company for all of their plumbing needs. They can also request a quote from a contractor online before making any commitment to work with them.
