The UK has experienced more extreme weather conditions over the last five to ten years, with flooding becoming an increasingly common problem. This leaves many homes vulnerable to damage and the associated costs. 

 

In fact, it is predicted that one in six properties in England will be affected by flood risk by 2050. In 2012 alone, extensive flooding caused around £400 million worth of damage. Plus, 2.4 million people live in immediate flood risk areas, with a further 2.8 million properties being susceptible to surface water flooding. 

 

As more and more properties are at risk of flooding and damage, if you live in an area that’s susceptible to flooding or you want to protect your property or basement conversion, it’s a good idea to find out more about basement sump pumps. 

 

In this article, we’ll help you work out whether you need one and what’s available to you. 

 

What is a sump pump? 

A sump pump is usually installed in a cellar or basement and is used to remove excess water from your home to prevent any issues associated with flooding. It’s installed in the lowest point of the basement or cellar and will pump the water out to a safe place where it’s not likely to cause any problems in your home. 

 

Sump pumps are an essential part of a drainage system for your basement or cellar if it’s prone to flooding. 

 

Find out more about what a sump pump is and how it works in our blog: What is a basement or cellar sump pump and how does it work? 

 

Why do you need a sump pump for your basement or cellar? 

If you don’t have a sump pump in your basement, any excess water that gets into your home can damage your foundations and cause issues throughout the rest of your house. 

 

As water builds up around the foundations of your home, the pressure builds and water will find its way through. Not only can this cause mould, it can also cause structural damage and health concerns for your family. Plus, if you live in an area prone to flooding, your basement could quickly flood leaving expensive damage behind. 

 

A sump pump will move this water away to prevent it from causing damage to your home. 

 

Do all basements need a sump pump? 

Not all basements need a sump pump because they’re not always required. If you’ve never had standing water or you live in an area that’s dry most of the time, you probably won’t need one. 

 

However, if you live in an area that’s prone to flooding, your cellar is always damp or floods regularly, we recommend installing a sump pump. 

 

What can cause water in your basement or cellar? 

It’s common to have moisture or water problems in your basement or cellar. 

 

A number of different factors can cause moisture, damp or flooding, including:

• Inadequate drainage around your home’s foundations 
• Damaged, missing or improperly installed gutters
• Heavy rain or storms 
• Plumbing leaks 
• Problems with the foundations of your home
• The age of your home 

 

Having a sump pump in place can prevent the water from any of these issues from causing further concern. The water will be pumped out to a safer place. It will also help to prevent structural damage to your home, saving money on repairs and increasing the value of your property should you wish to sell in the future. 

 

In summary…

Without a sump pump, you risk water damage to your home. Even the smallest amount of water can cause damage to the structure of your home and cause mould or other long-term problems. 

 

Instead of waiting for your basement or cellar to flood and then trying to rectify the damage, a sump pump can help to prevent this damage from occurring in the first place. 

 

Find the right basement sump pump for your home in our shop or contact us for more information or advice on the best system for you.