When Is a Sump Pump Needed ?

A sump pump is a pump that is installed in the lowest part of a crawlspace or basement. The job of the sump pump is to keep the area under the building dry and prevent flooding.sump-pump-installation-in-los-angeles

Sump pumps are usually installed in basements or crawlspaces in areas that experience frequent flooding or where the water table is equal or above the foundation of the house. Most of the flooding occurs during winter and it is estimated that 90% of American households need sump pumps. There are 3 main factors that determine whether your house needs a sump pump or not.

High Water Table

Water table is the level at which free standing water exists. If your basement or crawlspace floor is lower than the surrounding water table then you need a sump pump. In areas with high water tables, the water tends to rise and flood the basement or crawlspace after rainfall. If you happen to have a crawlspace or basement that has a high water table, a sump pump will come in handy as it will stop the rising water table from damaging your foundation or belongings.

Related: Signs Your Might Have Poor Drainage

Hillside Areas

Rainwater runoff can pose serious problems to houses that are located on hills or at the bottom of hills. Chances of having a flooded basement or crawlspace are very high if the house is built in a hilly area compared to a flat surface area because rainwater has to drain down the hill and in the process tends to seep in the crawlspace or basement of the house. It’s wise to instal a sump pump in your hillside home In case of a flood. A sump pump will prevent your crawlspace or basement from flooding or damaging your property and even in instances where the sump pump is not able to pump out the water, it will alarm you of the flooding.

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Bad Soil Density and Drainage

Clay soil is referred to as a dense or heavy type of soil because it’s so compact and drains so slowly, which allows the water to pool. If a foundation is built in such dense soil, the water that can’t drain through the soil will instead drain through the porous walls of the foundation and cause flooding in your basement or crawlspace, hence the need for a sump pump. With high dense soils, elevation of the house doesn’t affect the water table, which means that the water table can be equally high on highland just like the lowest point. A sump pump is one of the best ways of solving this problem.

Related : Spotting Foundation Problems During Winter

Contact a drainage contractor If you believe that your house fits the criteria of that which needs a sump pump. To get a free drainage inspection estimate Call California Foundation Works on 323-418-2239.