Basements are often the most forgotten and overlooked parts of our homes. Hence, it is no wonder that most homeowners do not even bother to decorate this part of their house. However, whether or not you want your basement to look great, you should never overlook your basement waterproofing. Waterproofing is also where the importance of sump pumps for your basement comes in.

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What Are Sump Pumps?

Sump pumps can be found in almost all newly-made constructed homes in the US. Although they were already fairly-common in low-lying areas, this wasn’t always the case. Laws, such as the Federal Clean Water Act of 1987, have required homes with flooding risks to install this equipment. So, what is a sump pump exactly?

Sump pumps are devices that push fluids, often water, away from homes or other properties. They often work side-by-side with a sump pit. The sump pit receives water from different parts of the property. The sump pump then pushes the water to a public drain, septic tank, or other modes of disposal. We recommend that you install your sump pump in the lowest part of your home, such as your basement. 

Advantages Of Using A Sump Pump For Your Basement

Installing a sump pump and a sump pit can sometimes be costly. Fortunately, the benefits of using these two are more than worth the amount that you’ll spend on them. Here are some reasons why you should use a sump pump for your basement:

  • If you live in an area with ample rainfall, a sump pump can save you from a flooded basement.
  • One common worry for homes with a considerable amount of inhabitants is the occurrence of sewage backups. A sump pump can make sure that your basement doesn’t flood even when this issue happens.
  • Molds and mildew grow rapidly in damp and dark places, both of which can easily be your basement. Pooled water is sometimes the most significant source of dampness in basements. Sump pumps will make sure that no pooling of water will occur in your basement.
  • By removing the excess water in your basement, sump pumps can help reduce the humidity in your home. This makes your home both more comfortable to live in, and also prevents other humidity issues.

Disadvantages Of Using A Sump Pump For Your Basement

  • Sump pumps have high installation costs, most especially for larger homes that require more powerful pumps.
  • Power outages can render your sump pump and pit completely useless.
  • Repair and maintenance of sump pumps often require professional help, which means additional costs.

How To Install A Sump Pump And Pit

Proper installation of your sump pump and pit is crucial for them to work effectively. Errors can both render your system useless, and, in some cases, make water pooling worse. Luckily, you can do it within a single day. Here is a step-by-step guide on how you can correctly install your own sump pump and pit:

  1. Find a proper location: install your sump pump system somewhere close to an outlet pre-fitted with a voltage regulator and waterproofing. You should also place it in the lowest area of your basement.
  2. Dig a hole for your sump: your hole should be at least six inches deeper, and ten inched wider than your sump pit. Then, place the sump inside the hole.
  3. Pour gravel around your sump: this will help your sump fit better into your hole. Make sure to leave around two inches of the top of the sump.
  4. Attach the pump to the PVC discharge pipe: the discharge pipe should lead somewhere you can properly dispose of sewage water.
  5. Apply a sealant to the hole leading outside your property
  6. Install a check valve: this valve prevents the backflow of sewage water from your discharge pipe. Make sure that your check valve is compatible with vertical operation.
  7. Cover your sump pit

By carefully following these steps, you can now have a fully-functioning sump pump system. You can now rest assured that your basement will not be flooded. However, besides a sump pump system, waterproofing is another crucial step to preventing water damage in your home. 

Permadry Waterproofing Seattle provides one of the best basement waterproofing services in the northwest area. Our team of experts also offers top-notch drainage systems and sump pump services. You can contact us now by clicking this link.