Today some new homes come equipped with a sump pump. A sump pump is a self-activating pump that removes water that collects inside a sump basin, and is usually placed in the basement or crawlspace of a home. As water flows into the sump pump via drains or simply movement of water through the soil, the sump pump ensures that water is pumped out of the pit and away from the building. This prevents water from building up and flooding the basement, causing damage to belongings, furniture and equipment.
Sump Pumps Prevent Basement Flooding
According to data from the American Society of Home Inspectors, at least 60% of all American homes have wetness below ground, making sump pumps necessary in many cases. In some areas, installing a sump pump has become a requirement in all homes due to amendments made to the U.S. Federal Clean Water Act to prevent flooding and unsanitary living conditions.
Gutter Helmet®: A Great Companion for Sump Pumps
If you live in a low-lying area, in addition to having a functioning, well-maintained sump pump, you also need to have well-designed and properly functioning rain gutter systems. Gutters can quickly become clogged by leaves, twigs and other matter. This prevents the flow of water from the roof down to the ground, leading to the overflow and accumulation of water which can easily flood the basement.
This excess buildup of water threatens the foundation and sides of a home and aggravates basement flooding. Hence installing effective rain gutter systems is essential to keep water flowing smoothly down the roof and to the ground without damaging the home’s foundation or walls, or flooding the basement.
In conjunction with a sump pump, installing gutter shields by Gutter Helmet® is another step to eliminate basement flooding. Call Gutter Helmet at (800) 824-3772 to learn more about our innovative gutter shields, or to schedule a home consultation free of charge with your local Gutter Helmet dealer.
