As we proceed toward harsher weather, the GTA expects quite a bit of rain and snow, as usual. For many homeowners, this could be a reason to worry about water damage to their basement unit. If you are one of those, consider learning more about a sump pump. Installing a sump pump into your basement could answer all your worries. Hence, we are here to help you decide for yourself if that is something your property needs right before we step into winter.
What does a sump pump do?
A sump pump is a plumbing pump that removes water from spaces under the home. They are installed in the lowest point of your house, which is usually your basement or crawlspace. The two primary components of a sump pump are the check valve – which prevents the backflow of water, and a sump pit, dug out below the basement, making it the lowest space where the water will gather.
Types of Sump Pumps
Pedestal or Column-style: Sump pumps on pedestals are situated above ground. They’re less expensive and simpler to install and maintain than submersible systems. However, they are considerably more susceptible to the water you attempt to drain than underground ones.
Submersible: A lid can be used to cover submersible sump pumps, essentially making them impossible to be broken into. Even if they are isolated, there is a lower chance that they would be made inoperable. Thus, we recommend choosing this variety.
Do I need a sump pump?
There are multiple factors that determine if your house needs a sump pump or not. It is important that you consider each situation before you invest into one.
- A sump pump is recommended if your house or business is constructed over a basement. Even if you’ve never experienced a damp basement or moisture problems, installing a sump pump ensures you’ll have the resources necessary to safeguard the area in an emergency flood. Sump pump installation is an insurance strategy to protect your finished basement from water damage that might destroy all your building work and the items you keep inside.
- If the crawlspace under your house or place of business is prone to moisture issues, standing water, or mould growth due to excessive humidity and water in the region, you need a sump pump.
- Another factor to be mindful of is the soil quality, as sandy soils with large particles can quickly drain the water outward naturally compared to clayey soil with smaller particles.
- Lastly, check the slop of your yard! If it is naturally sending the water towards your basement, you would require a sump pump to prevent your house from water damage.
How long do sump pumps last?
Unfortunately, not forever. Depending upon the usage of a sump pump, they can last up to a maximum of 10 years. However, you must make sure that you have a professional installing them for you. The biggest reason a sump pump would fail is if it is not installed correctly. We always say the money you would save to install a sump pump is not worth the damages you might have to face if your basement were to flood tomorrow.
If you already have a pump installed in your basement, consider calling Water Guard Plumbing to check it for maintenance. If you don’t have one and feel there is a potential risk of basement flooding, our skilled plumbers will gladly install it into your basement. Call us today for an estimate appointment, and we will assist you anywhere in the GTA.
