A working sump pump is critical to keeping basements and crawl spaces dry. If your sump pump isn’t functioning properly or has a float switch problem, it can flood your home.
French drains are more ideal for solving wet basements, but sump pumps work well if your wet area is localized to one spot. Make sure your sump pumps don’t discharge into the sanitary sewer system – this is illegal.
Waterproofing Your Basement
Waterproofing your basement can prevent a number of issues that could lead to serious damage or unsanitary living conditions. It can also save you money in the long run.
Damp walls or floors may appear harmless, but left untreated they can lead to major flooding during a heavy rainstorm. They can also indicate tiny cracks in the foundation that will continue to grow over time.
Mold and mildew are a serious health concern. They can cause respiratory problems and damage your home’s structure. By keeping moisture out of the basement, you can eliminate mold and mildew and protect your family’s health.
It can be expensive to hire a professional to waterproof your basement, but it’s worth the investment. Do your research and choose a company that uses high-quality products, has years of experience and provides competitive pricing. You can find these companies by typing “basement waterproofing near me” into your search engine. Ask friends and neighbors for recommendations and read online reviews to compare prices.
Preventing Flooding
In a time when floods and excessive moisture are common concerns among homebuyers, a sump pump is an attractive feature. It can put buyers at ease and demonstrate that you’re a proactive homeowner who takes care of issues as they arise.
However, you’ll need to ensure that the pump is working properly before putting your house on the market. Test it by filling a five-gallon bucket with water and slowly pouring it into the sump basin until the pump activates and drains the water. If the pump doesn’t turn on or stops working, you’ll need to have it repaired or replaced.
A loss of power, a tripped circuit breaker or an unplugged pump can cause your sump to stop functioning. To prevent this, you can install a backup battery for your sump pump or install foundation vents (a form of wet flood-proofing). The vents allow floodwater to escape and relieve the pressure that it puts on your walls and basement windows.
Increase Your Home’s Value
If you ever decide to sell your home, having a sump pump can make it more appealing to prospective buyers. Potential buyers will see it as a valuable safeguard against flooding and water damage, which can be costly and time-consuming to repair or remediate.
A sump pump reduces the risk of extensive basement damage due to rising groundwater during heavy rainstorms and snowstorms. It also helps protects against mold and mildew that could cause a multitude of health issues.
Although a sump pump is mechanical and will eventually need maintenance, regular checkups can help extend its lifespan. This is especially important during the winter when temperatures drop and ice can block the sump pump’s discharge line.
Save Money
Whether you live in a flood-prone area or just need to prepare for the possibility of water damage, a sump pump can help protect your home. The installation process involves digging a pit for the pump to sit in and connecting hoses and drainage pipes to it. This is a complex job that you should leave to professionals, but it can save you money in the long run by protecting your property from water damage.
One way to ensure your sump pump is ready for the next storm is to test it regularly. Shut off electricity to the pump and take a look at its discharge outlet. If it is clogged with debris or the float switch is jammed in the on position, it’s time for a new pump. A plumber can also inspect your pump for other problems that may be preventing it from working properly. For example, frozen discharge lines are a common problem during cold winters.
