Sump Pump in KC

To protect their homes, homeowners must be proactive in detecting and addressing potential moisture and water intrusion, as well as being proactive to prevent water from damaging the foundation of a home. Regular inspections, maintenance, and preventative measures are crucial for safeguarding the structural integrity of their properties and avoiding costly foundation damage in the future. More often than not, a sump pump is a preventative measure used for foundation moisture problems in Kansas City. However, many homeowners are unaware of what a sump pump is, or how they can be beneficial to keeping moisture from damaging foundations. Seeking guidance from foundation experts near you, like the ones at Olshan Foundation Repair,  can offer valuable insights for using a sump pump for foundation issues.

What Is A Sump Pump?

A sump pump is an essential device designed to remove excess water that collects in your home’s basement, foundation, or crawl space and redirect it outside. It is typically installed in the lowest area of your basement or crawl space, known as the sump pit. The sump pit is a specially constructed hole. When water enters the sump pit, whether from groundwater seepage or other sources, it triggers a float activator arm or pressure sensor, which automatically activates the sump pump.

Once activated, the sump pump begins pumping the accumulated water out of the sump pit and away from your home’s foundation. This prevents water from seeping into your basement and causing potential damage to the structure. To prevent water from flowing back into the sump pit, sump pumps are equipped with a check valve. The check valve ensures that water can only flow in one direction, preventing any backflow into the sump pump.

Sump pumps are particularly valuable in areas prone to heavy rainfall, regions with high water tables, or homes situated in flood-prone areas. They play a critical role in managing water accumulation and safeguarding your home’s foundation from potential water damage. However, it is important to perform regular maintenance tasks, such as checking the pump’s operation, cleaning the sump pit, and testing the float activator or pressure sensor. This routine maintenance ensures that the sump pump functions effectively when it is needed most.

Sump Pump Installation in Kansas City

At Olshan Foundation Repair, our sump pump installation process is designed to effectively remove and redirect basement water, ensuring a dry and protected environment for your home. Our experienced foundation experts follow a systematic approach to install sump pumps with precision and care.

Location Selection & Preparation

The installation process begins by selecting an ideal location and preparing the site. Our professionals identify the lowest point in your basement, where moisture accumulation is typically observed. A hole is then dug wide and deep enough to accommodate the sump pump, with the top edge of the pump sitting flush with the floor level.

Placing The Sump Pump

To prevent potential clogs and optimize performance, we ensure that the sump pump has weep holes, which allow water to enter from the sides and beneath. In cases where the pump lacks these perforations, our experts take the time to drill them. Additionally, a layer of filter fabric is wrapped around the basin exterior to prevent the accumulation of silt and sludge, which could impede the pump’s functionality.

Testing The Float Valve

The float valve of the sump pump, responsible for activating the pump when water levels rise, is thoroughly tested to ensure unobstructed movement. We verify that the float valve moves freely up and down, guaranteeing reliable operation.

Installing Pipe Or Hose

To channel water away from your home and prevent backflow, we run a hose or pipe from the exterior of your house to the valve, utilizing a check valve to direct the water in the desired direction. The discharge system can include a flexible hose or a PVC pipe with glued joints and necessary elbows, depending on the specific requirements of your installation.

Testing Sump Pump & Valves For Leaks

After the installation is complete, we conduct a thorough testing process to ensure the sump pump’s functionality and inspect for leaks. The pump is plugged in, and the basin is filled with water, almost reaching the top. The float should rise, activating the pump, and water should be pumped out efficiently. Our professionals carefully examine all connections for leaks and, if everything is in proper working order, securely place the lid over the basin.

Types Of Sump Pump Systems Olshan Foundation Repair Offers

Olshan Foundation Repair of Kansas City specializes in installing two types of sump pumps: submersible and pedestal pumps. The pedestal pump is positioned above ground, with its motor located outside of the sump basin. While pedestal pumps are often more affordable, they tend to be noisy, have a shorter lifespan, and are not aesthetically pleasing.

On the other hand, submersible sump pumps feature a sealed motor placed inside the sump basin and submerged below the water level. These pumps operate quietly, are considered safer than pedestal pumps, have a longer lifespan (almost twice as long), and offer a more visually appealing installation. Homeowners who utilize their basements as functional rooms often choose submersible units for their superior performance and enhanced aesthetics.

Sump Pump Repair

If you’re facing issues with your sump pump in your residential or commercial property in Kansas City, Olshan Foundation Repair is here to assist you. In some cases, a quick do-it-yourself fix might resolve the problem, and Olshan provides a helpful sump pump troubleshooting guide that you can download for assistance. However, if the troubleshooting guide doesn’t solve the issue, it might be time to consider a reliable Olshan System. Our experienced Kansas City foundation repair team offers sump pump repair services, including ongoing customer support. Don’t hesitate to schedule an assessment today to ensure your sump pump is functioning optimally and effectively protecting your property from water damage.

Contact Our KC Olshan Foundation Repair Location Near You For Sump Pump Installation & Repair

When it comes to sump pump installation or repair services in Kansas City, Olshan Foundation Repair is your trusted choice. Our expert team based in Kansas City is highly trained and well-prepared to tackle the challenges posed by excess moisture. Installing a top-quality sump pump system is an integral part of an effective waterproofing repair plan, offering a reliable solution to keep your basement dry. Mere fixes to bowing or cracked basement or crawl space walls are insufficient. To safeguard your home’s foundation, it’s essential to implement comprehensive mitigation measures, ensuring an environment free from wet concrete. Contact Olshan Foundation Repair today and let our experienced team handle your sump pump needs, providing you with a foundation that is dry, protected, and built to last.