Upgrading to a new sump pump may enhance your home’s waterproofing by directing groundwater away from crawl spaces. If you notice damp spots, cracks, rotting wood, or a musty odor, your home may be experiencing water damage. Hiring a waterproofing service contractor can help you repair such issues and proactively prevent further damage. Here are a few roles of sump pumps in waterproofing your home:
Removes Excess Groundwater
Sump pumps actively remove groundwater from the basement, crawl spaces, and other low points in your home. Besides rainwater and melting snow, groundwater may find its way into these low points, increasing moisture damage. If you have an older model, it may not be the most energy-efficient option. Newer models offer more force, consume less energy, and feature backup power options to reduce the chances of flooding.
The sump pump connects to a discharge pipe that directs the pumped water away from your home’s foundation. By keeping your foundation and basement dry, sump pumps support other waterproofing service techniques, such as lot grading and downspout extension. Lot grading creates a slope that allows water to flow away from the foundation. Downspout extensions are designed to prevent gutter water from pouring too close to the foundation.
Prevents Moisture Buildup
Basements and crawl spaces are exposed to moisture buildup because water naturally flows to the lowest points. Waterproofing techniques, such as encapsulation, trap water vapor and guide the moisture downward. Without an outlet, the water may cause basement flooding and moisture damage. Damp conditions also encourage biological growth and pest infestation. Installing a sump pump allows you to direct water away from the structure, reducing moisture exposure.
The pump sits beneath a basin installed at the lowest point to draw all the water downward. It then redistributes it to the outdoor drainage systems. Removing water from your home lowers humidity levels, which limits biological growth and moisture damage. Pumps with backup batteries are intended to operate around the clock, including during power outages, which are common during storms and harsh weather conditions. Such pumps keep your home dry throughout the year.
Complements Waterproofing Systems
Sump pumps work alongside other waterproofing systems—such as interior French drains, vapor barrier encapsulations, and foundation sealants—to drain channel water into the sump basin. Encapsulations stop moisture vapor but require an outlet to drain the collected water. Foundation sealants reduce water seepage through the foundation, but are vulnerable to rising groundwater. Installing a sump pump can provide a final destination for water within your basement or crawl space. Most interior drain pipes empty into the sump basin, whereas an automated pump directs water outside your home as soon as the level reaches a specific point, reducing the chances of moisture exposure during rainy conditions.
Enhances Structural Integrity
Excess moisture around the foundation and basement can cause soil to expand and move. The shifting causes hydrostatic pressure, which pushes on the walls and foundation structures. Without intervention, hydrostatic pressure may lead to bowed basement walls, cracks, and peeling paint.
Sump pumps are designed to remove water away from your foundation, reducing hydrostatic pressure. Low moisture content around your home also reduces the chances of concrete erosion and wood framing rotting. The device contributes to property longevity by minimizing water damage, a significant contributor to foundation and structural damage. An efficient sump pump keeps your lower space dry and protected from flooding.
Consult a Waterproofing Service Contractor
Installing a sump pump is a proactive solution against water intrusion. The pump supports your waterproofing system by directing the water collected away from your home. Making sump pumps part of the basement upgrade directly impacts your home’s waterproofing. Contact a waterproofing service company today to find out more about their services.
