Sump Pump
Basement Water Control
It
has been estimated that 90 to 95 percent of all basements will experience
a problem with water penetration that something as simple as a sump pump
could have prevented. Most often the water comes from rainfall or melting
snow. For every inch of rain the average roof sheds 1,000 gallons of water.
Flooding is common in houses
situated on flat terrain where the water has nowhere else to go but through
the cracks and fissures in your foundation, walls and floors. Your basement
can become a pond overnight! Mechanical systems such as electrical panels,
and main plumbing controls are also at risk of being damaged in a flooding
situation.
Moisture, water, and humidity
can damage flooring, drywall, and framing in the basement, and condense
inside the walls. It can cost thousands of dollars in repairs to these
types of basement structures. As if that is not bad enough, excessive
moisture can also contribute to health problems. When there is an accumulation
of mold in an area, mold spores begin to filter through the air and can
be extremely hazardous to your health. The wood in your home can be destroyed
by fungus and the infestation of wood destroying insects, such as termites.
It is very important to protect your home and the people that live in it. There are very simple measures you can take to make sure that your home stays dry and healthy. Listed below are the many reasons why a sump pump can make a difference in your life.
Benefits of having a sump pump
- Restores the proper value of your property.
- Keeps your foundation intact.
- Keeps the dampness from settling in, giving you a warmer dryer basement all year round.
- Results in a cleaner and healthier home.
- Keeps you worry-free no matter what the weather is like outside.
- Prevents fungus, molds and mildew.
- A dry basement will prevent termite and insect infestation.
- Prevents wall coverings and paint from peeling.
- No rust and corrosion of metal appliances.
Other Ways To Protect Your Home
Cracks: Caulk all cracks and openings in the cement around your house.
Condensation: Put insulation on cold-water tanks, water piping, and cold air ducts.
Rain Gutters: Maintain the gutters by keeping them free from leaves and debris. Add extensions to downspouts and keep them at least four feet away from the foundation.
Window wells: Install covers if they drain poorly.
Driveway: Patch all cracks.
Basement Dehumidifiers: Keep the humidity levels between 45% to 55%.
Sand Bag Alternatives: Alternative products such as FloodSax can be used anywhere, and in the same manner as a sand bag to protect your home from floods.
Flashing: Inspect flashing for water intrusion
Vents: Make sure your vents have hoods and boots, and that they exhaust to the exterior.
Attics: Do
a check for holes and air leaks and insufficient insulation. Ice damming
can occur. It will be evident that there is a problem if the bottom side
of the roof sheathing, rafters or trusses indicate water staining.
Learn more about flooded basements. Always keep personal safety in mind.
