A couple weeks ago we worked on answering the question “What is a Sump Pump“. This time we’d like to go over the factors that may help you decide if you need a sump pump for your home.
During heavy rains and fast snow melt off, the soil can become saturated around the foundation of our homes. If you live in a low lying area susceptible to basement seepage, a sump pump can help protect you from a wet basement.
If your basement has flooded before, then a sump pump is definitely in your future. But perhaps you have only recently noticed a damp corner in the basement, or maybe just a musty smell. Basement moisture can lead to mold, and nobody wants that growing in their homes!
A sump pump works to keep the space under the house dry, by collecting the excess water surrounding your home. That helps to prevent mold and mildew from growing.
The most common cause of moisture getting into the basement is from water draining around the foundation. Make sure the gutters and downspouts are doing their job and relocating water at least 6 feet away from your foundation.
One way to check whether moisture is getting in, is by taping a 2 foot square piece of plastic onto a couple sections of the basement. After 2-3 days, check under the plastic for moisture. If the plastic is wet than take steps to find out & remediate the cause and dry out the basement.
In a couple weeks, repeat the plastic test, if it still shows moisture, give us a call to discuss if a sump pump is a good investment for your home.
We are experts at helping you repair/replace sump pump systems. Check out our money saving coupons and then give Rick’s Plumbing a call. If you need it quick, call Rick!