Statistics show that up to 95% of all basements will, at one time or another, experience some form of water penetration, flooding, or recurring leak. If your home is located on a flood plain, or the water table is above the foundation of your home, you might already be in that statistic. And, if you do not already have a sump pump installed, consider doing so. For your own peace of mind, and to minimize the water damage to your basement—including to the structure and whatever furnishings and belongings are located there—one of the smartest investments you can make as a homeowner is to install a sump pump.
What does a sump pump do?
A sump pump is a mechanical device that pumps water that could potentially flood your basement and remove it away from the property where it will drain away properly. Sump pumps are usually located in the basement of a home (or lowest point of a building), either beneath or above the floor. When water in the area where the pump is located reaches a pre-determined level, the sump pump turns on via a float switch. Once the pump has begun to function, it pumps out the water that accumulated in a specially created pit and transfers it to the outside. In addition to helping avoid flooding in your basement, the pump removes the water and moisture that can lead to other concerns such as rust, rot, and mold. A dependable sump pump will reduce the potential for water damage to the floor and subfloor, carpeting, walls, furniture, and other belongings stored in the basement. And, with the water pumped out, the chance for an infestation from mold is also minimized. A sump pump is not expensive, yet having one increases your property value considerably.
What do I look for in a sump pump?
Once you’ve decided to buy a sump pump, look for one that comes with an alarm. This type will alert you when the water reaches a certain level. Add additional insurance by using one with a battery backup—that way you know the sump pump will continue to work even during a power outage. Common in urban homes are water-driven pumps. These pumps are connected to the main water supply, and the water that flows through the main provides power to the sump pump.
Once your sump pump is installed, regular maintenance checkups are key to ensuring proper functioning at all times and to avoid risk of flooding. A good time to test your pump would be at the same time you check the batteries in your smoke detectors. Make sure the check valve is functioning properly, and look for jammed switches or clogged or frozen discharge lines.
Whether you own a sump pump or not, should you find yourself with a wet basement, it’s critical to take care of the water damage as quickly as possible to minimize the need for costly repairs. You can rely on professional water damage and restoration services to expertly and efficiently handle your water damage problem. They will thoroughly dry, clean, and treat the area to avoid the potential for further damage or health concerns from a mold infestation, and repair any structural ruin to floors, subfloors, walls, etc.
If your home has received basement water damage, call the IICRC-certified professionals at Warren Restoration. We are available to handle any type of basement water damage or water leak issue from a faulty sump pump. We will thoroughly dry and clean the water-damaged area and restore it to its clean, safe condition. Our two family-owned and operated offices are located in Big Stone Gap, VA, and Hendersonville, NC, and we serve an approximate 2-hour radius from each.
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