If your basement keeps getting wet, you need a good waterproofing solution so mold doesn't grow and make your home smell musty. Plus, you won't be able to use your basement for anything if it keeps getting wet, and that's a waste of space. There are a few waterproofing options to consider, and your contractor might recommend a sump pump. Here's how a sump pump can help, how it works, and some important steps in a sump pump installation.

A Sump Pump Gets Rid Of Water

There are two ways to waterproof your basement. One is to use methods on the exterior of your home, and the other is to use interior waterproofing methods. Interior methods deal with water once it has gotten inside your basement, while exterior methods keep water from getting inside. A sump pump is an interior type of waterproofing that pumps water out of the basement as soon as it gets inside so your floor doesn't flood.

A Sump Pump May Require Interior Drains

There are a few types of sump pumps. One is submersible and is placed in a small pit on the basement floor. The other type of pump sits up on the floor where it can be seen easily. The pit is an essential part of the system since that's where water collects that needs to be pumped out.

You might need drains installed on the floor to route water to the pump. The drains are lower than the foundation so they catch water before it seeps into your basement. When the water level in the pit is high enough, the sump pump is triggered, and the water is pumped out leaving your basement nice and dry.

A Sump Pump Needs Electricity

The first step in a sump pump installation is to find a location for the pump. A low part in your basement is a good idea so water naturally drains toward it. However, a sump pump needs electricity, so you'll need to place the pump near an outlet or have a new outlet installed.

When the location is chosen, the contractor has to dig a hole in the basement floor to hold the pit. A sump pump pit looks like a garbage can that fits in the floor with the top level with the floor. Then the pump is placed in the pit and plugged in.

The contractor also has to install a drain that connects the pit to the outside. The drain will run up the wall and exit the house. The contractor makes sure the water drains away from the house so the water won't come back inside.

The sump pump installation process ends with a check to make sure it works. This is done by pouring water into the pit to see if it triggers the pump to turn on. If so, you leave the pump plugged in and turned on so it's ready for the next rain.