There are many people over the years who have thought they didn’t need a sump pump, and the next thing they know they’re throwing out their grandparents’ wedding photos because the paper has become ruined.
So the question becomes, do you need a sump pump? The fact is, more people should have a sump pump than currently do, but they’re simply unaware that a sump pump is a good idea. Here are a few tips on whether or not you might want to invest in a new sump pump, or get sump pump repair on the one you currently have.
Floodplain
If you live on a floodplain, you’ll want a sump pump. The problem is, flood planes don’t look like most people imagine. The words “floodplain” makes most people think about a house that sits right next to the river. Of course that house is going to flood!
But for many houses, it’s the entire neighborhood that’s in danger. There might be city blocks between your house and the river. In fact, there may be many city blocks between you and a small creek or drainage ditch and you’ll still be in the same danger! Too many people don’t even realize the possibility of flooding is there because of the almost non-existent amount of water flowing most of the time. But when a flash flood comes, floodplains are farther-reaching than most residents imagine.
Leaky Basement
If you have a history of a leaky basement, there’s a good chance that you already have a sump pump. But if there’s a dry spell and you don’t think to get your sump pump maintenance taken care of, you could be in big trouble next time there’s a leak in your basement.
Low Spot
Many people don’t realize that they even live in a low spot until the day that there’s water flooding the basement. For instance, if there’s any grade in your yard that’s leaning toward the house, your house is suddenly the low spot! At this point you might start getting water in your window light wells, and as soon as they fill up the basement windows are going to burst and you’re going to have a lot of water in your basement. Let’s hope you have a working sump pump to get the water back outside.
Bathrooms
If you have a bathroom in your basement, there’s always the chance that you could get a bad leak or that someone will leave the sink going just before you head off on vacation. Basement bathrooms are nice, but they can lead to troubles if you don’t have a sump pump.
Sprinklers
Sprinklers can end up being more trouble than you’d expect. First of all, if the sprinkler head or pipe near the basement light well bursts, it’s unlikely you’ll notice until it’s too late. Also, long term leaks with outdoor faucets can cause your foundation to wear away, causing the leaks into your basement that we mentioned above.
Have Insurance
Garvin’s provides expert sump pump repair. But some jobs are beyond the work of any sump pump, so it’s a good idea to get insurance. Unfortunately, most homeowners insurance doesn’t cover water-related disasters, so be sure to have a rider.
If you need new sump pump installation or sump pump repair, Garvin’s is ready to take care of it so that your house is protected. Contact us the moment you need help.
