There are a lot of different basement waterproofing components that are available today. However, there is one that reigns supreme over the rest: the sump pump.
Are you wondering what a sump pump is? Curious as to how your property could benefit from a sump pump? If so, you’ve come to the right place. This Lake Bluff basement waterproofing company is going to discuss everything you’ll need to know.
What Is a Sump Pump?
A sump pump is a small pump that helps to keep groundwater from collecting around the outside of a home’s foundation. It sits inside of a hole known as a sump basin, which is generally dug in the corner of a basement. As water rises within this basin, the pump goes into action, taking the water in and pumping it out to a different area of the yard.
Ultimately, the sump pump exists to prevent basement flooding. However, it does so by reducing hydrostatic pressure around the outside of the basement.
Hydrostatic pressure is the concept of gravity forcing water against a solid surface. The gravity applies pressure with the water, thus leading to deterioration over time. In the case of basement waterproofing, this plays out with groundwater being pushed against the home’s foundation.
The more groundwater there is around your Lake Bluff foundation, the higher the hydrostatic pressure is. As such, by reducing groundwater levels, sump pumps also serve to reduce hydrostatic pressure. This results in fewer foundation cracks and fewer water-related basement issues in general.
Primary Sump Pump vs Backup Sump Pump
When it comes to installing a sump pump, you can use either a single pump, or two pumps. The first pump is known as the primary sump pump, which is powered by electricity and does most of the work. The second pump is known as the backup sump pump, which is battery-powered and kicks into gear only when the home’s electricity has gone out.
It’s recommended that you install both sump pumps. After all, storms are the most common cause of power outages, while also being the most common cause of basement floods. Therefore, if you don’t have a battery-powered pump available, your system might not work when you truly need it to.
Pedestal Sump Pump vs Submersible Sump Pump
There are two different types of sump pumps — one of these is the pedestal sump pump, and the other is the submersible sump pump.
The pedestal sump pump sits above the sump basin and has a pump entity that travels down into the water below. While not as powerful as the submersible pump, this pump is sometimes the only option (in cases where the sump basin is particularly narrow).
The submersible pump is submersed in the water within the sump basin. It floats, all the while pumping out groundwater and solid debris. It’s more powerful than the pedestal pump, and it’s generally the one that’s recommended.
If you have any questions about the type of sump pump you should install, your local Lake Bluff basement waterproofing company will be more than happy to assist you. They will be able to assess your situation and help you find a pump that’s right for your home.
Looking to Install a Sump Pump in Lake Bluff, Illinois?
Are you interested in installing a sump pump in your basement? Are you looking for a top-rated basement waterproofing company in Lake Bluff, Illinois? If so, ULB-DRY Waterproofing has the knowledge, skill, and equipment necessary to handle all your basement waterproofing needs.
Our team has installed sump pumps in countless Lake Bluff area homes, and we would be more than happy to do the same for you. Contact us today to get started.