If you have a basement, it needs a drain system and pumps to remove water. Gravity works against a homeowner at all times, drawing the surrounding area’s water downward into the earth. Additionally, water tends to go the path of least resistance, so when it finds its way into a basement, water is going to pool.
Even the best basements develop and permeate moisture through the walls, which drains to the floor and pools without removal.
A well-designed drain system and sump pump to match it ensures whatever water does pool gets removed quickly and effectively back outside. And that makes a big difference on days when the rain doesn’t seem to want to end, or the surrounding area is saturated with water already.
Problems with Wet Basements
A damp basement is not a good thing to have. Even if there is no water on the floor, high humidity tends to bring mildew and mold, especially on items stored in the basement prone to creating a perfect foundation for fungi. That includes paper, clothing, boxes, materials, and anything organic in nature that absorbs moisture.
Humidity levels shoot up in the basement due to an inability for the moisture to evaporate, as well as sitting water levels in the immediate area. While venting helps push air exchange in a basement, that’s not always a great situation in the middle of winter.
A drain system and pump, alternatively, remove any sizable water deposits from the basement entirely, which also cuts down on the humidity source.
Installing a Full Drainage System
When a basement is built, in most cases it already has a drain set up, slanted floors and a capture basin incorporated. What is not included in the sump pump feature? If the basement was homemade, it may not have either at all, and the drain line has to be installed.
Basements always need a drainage system, regardless of how dry it might be normally in the area. The one time a basement floods will be the learning lesson otherwise.
A sump pump installation involves connecting a sump pump system to the drain channel so that in the instance when the water level in a basement reaches a problem point, the pump turns on and starts ejecting the water out of the basement entirely. This removes the liquid and avoids the damage problems noted earlier.
The Benefits of a Dry Basement
Not only is a dry basement warmer, it’s far safer to store materials in. With moisture removed and humidity levels low, a basement can easily provide far more utility space, freeing up the home from clutter and things used only occasionally. With a sump pump installed and ejecting water into a storm drain, a basement doesn’t face the risk of flooding in very bad weather or if the home is near a water source that overflows.
Water damage is incredibly pervasive, and most things that get exposed become destroyed completely, especially if organic-based. Sump pumps can be hard-wired as well as powered with a backup battery system as well, so even when the power goes out on a bad rainy night, the pump can work.
Dry basements also provide additional living space, which can be a big plus for a large family or with guests on an extended stay. They also work well for recreation areas as well as additional office space. However, in all these uses, the assumption is that the basement stays dry. That only happens with a proactive approach towards water penetration and presence.
Rely on a Plumber for Installation
Because sump pumps involve both electrical connections and line and drain integration, a licensed plumber is your best approach for an installation. This ensures all aspects of the installation are addressed, especially those that the average person isn’t familiar with every day, but a plumber knows how to check for safety and performance.
While there are “do it yourself” options, they are not recommended. A plumber’s expertise can be advantageous for choosing the right pump model as well as making sure it’s installed correctly for reliable service.