If you’re looking to waterproof your home, you may have heard about French drains or sump pumps. Both of these solutions can help to keep your basement dry and safe, but which one is better?
The answer depends on your specific situation. However, in most cases, a French drain and sump pump can complement one another more often than they compete with each other.
Cost
The cost of a French drain sump pump Brooklyn OH depends on several factors. Among them are the type of French drain, location and labor.
The average French drain installation costs between $10 and $35 per linear foot, or more if the trench needs to be dug deeper than expected. In addition, it’s important to call 811 or your local before-you-dig hotline to have utility lines marked before you begin digging.
If the French drain is installed outside, landscape restoration may also be necessary, such as repairing a lawn or replanting shrubs. Homeowners can expect to pay $4 to $6 per square foot for minimal landscaping work or up to $40 per square yard for more extensive landscaping services.
Permits
French drain sump pumps can be a major part of a water remediation project. They’re usually installed by professionals because they require skillful installation and precision workmanship.
If you’re a DIYer, however, it’s a good idea to check your local government’s codes and permit requirements before beginning your work. You may find that there are specific rules that must be followed to avoid causing damage to your foundation or affecting the safety of your home’s occupants.
A building permit is needed for any excavation, grading or construction work associated with residential dwellings. These permits must be obtained before any work is performed, and they also prompt inspections to ensure that minimum standards are met to safeguard life, limb, health and property.
Materials
Whether it’s rain or snow, a sump pump or a French drain system can help solve water problems in your home. The key to getting the best waterproofing solution for your needs is determining the problem areas, nearby elevation and the condition of the soil.
If the soil is too sandy, a drain will not work well. Clay soil can also be a major issue because it holds so much water, and its fine particles filter into the aggregate.
A pipe that is surrounded by gravel and fabric mesh prevents debris from clogging the line. The size of the aggregate and how it is placed can also affect the flow.
Installation
A French drain sump pump Brooklyn OH is an effective way to waterproof your basement. It’s often used to overcome abnormal flooding situations, like homes that don’t have a good slope or street drainage that can easily carry water out.
A french drain is a trench filled with gravel that allows water to flow through a perforated pipe before it empties safely away from your home. They are typically installed during heavy rains to protect your foundation from a flooded basement.
A sump pump is a more aggressive drainage system that uses electricity to push water out of your home. It can be a backup system or a stand-alone solution, depending on your situation.
Maintenance
Like any other mechanical appliance, your sump pump requires maintenance and service from time to time. An experienced technician will check it for loose connections, excess sediment, and other conditions that can cause issues down the road.
Typically, your french drain or sump pump needs to be inspected once a year. This is because they can wear out and need to be repaired, or replaced altogether.
During a routine inspection, a professional will check the pit, the alarm, the cover, and the discharge pipe. They will also check that the backup power source is working correctly.
