Having a sump pump reduces the risk of water damage and the need for remedies like foundation repair, flooring replacement, and mold remediation. Below is an introduction to sump pumps, as well as some steps you can take to promote healthy yard draining and prevent basement flooding.
A sump pump is installed in the lowest part of the basement or crawlspace. It typically sits in a small pit, where water first collects before starting the pump via a float activator or pressure sensor. Once the pump engages, a mechanism called an impeller pushes water up along the sides of the unit’s drainpipe, which creates a lower pressure in the center of the pipe. The water from the pit then flows in to fill this area of lower pressure, and the spinning movement of the impeller forces water through the length of the pipe and away from the home.
While sump pumps can effectively remove water from the lowest parts of a home, the best course of action is to take steps to prevent basement flooding in the first place. Most basement or crawlspace floods result from water accumulation in the yard. Yard draining systems can ensure proper channels for water to flow away from the structure and reduce the chances of a flood. Options include a French drain, which is a gravel-lined trench that directs water downhill; downspouts for gutter systems; and window well drains, which fit around basement windows to either direct water to a sump pump or a perimeter drain.
Besides yard draining, another way to minimize flooding is via basement waterproofing for either the interior or exterior of the home — or both. With interior waterproofing, a small trench dug several inches from the interior basement wall moves water toward the sump pump. With exterior waterproofing, cracks in the basement walls and foundation are repaired, and a specially designed channel directs water outside and away from the structure.
To learn more, call Cincinnati Basement Waterproofing & Drainage today at (513) 898-9723.