Do Walkout Basements Need Sump Pumps?

One of the most common home improvement projects is the walkout basement. And if you plan to make your basement an effective part of the house, then it is required to have a minimal egress opening.

Most new house builders or buyers have a query that does walkout basements need sump pumps? Basically, it depends on the water management system of your house. Some houses will never flood, thus they don’t need sump pumps.

If you are getting confused about do walkout basements need sump pumps or not, then this article is for you.

In this article, you will get a crystal clear concept of the conditions while a sump pump is needed. Sounds great! Isn’t it?

Let’s have a look!

Do walkout basements need sump pumps- Clarification

Sump pumps are the indicator of a properly maintained house. But every house does not require a sump pump. The requirement of sump pumps may vary according to some geological and topographical conditions.

However, the fact that the basement has an exterior door does not matter. A lot depends on where the house is located concerning the rest of the area.

But before making a proper decision, you have to focus on the benefits and drawbacks of the sump pump. These will help you to make a decision.

Benefits of Sump Pumps

Prevents flooding

Most people install a sump pump in their homes for this specific reason. The pit at the bottom of your sump pump is called the sump. When the pit is full, a pump removes the water via a pipe leading to the outdoors.

After a certain amount of water has been pumped into your sump pump, it will be automatically emptied by the device. For the most part, sump pumps make use of a float or a pressure sensor.

Prevents the growth of mold

The sump pump in your home keeps the ground beneath it dry, preventing the growth of mold and mildew. Mildew and mold can only exist if they have access to a constant supply of water.

If your home is flooded and you don’t have a sump pump, the additional moisture will encourage the growth of mold. These substances have the potential to leave your house smelling bad. Mold and mildew aren’t just unsightly; they pose a health risk as well.

Prevents pest and insect infestations

Living in a house full of insects or rodents can be a real pain in the backside. The use of a sump pump will help you avoid an infestation of insects and pests because wet basements are ideal breeding grounds.

Electrical Fires

Exactly how do flood-prevention systems also fight fires? Home electrical fires are commonly caused by flooding. It may appear strange at first, but it makes perfect sense. As the water rises through your basement or crawlspace, it fills every available space.

As a result, it has direct contact with the interior of your walls as well as the wiring in your home. These devices should never come into contact with water.

Drawbacks of sump pumps

If you are not dwelling in a low-lying or flood-prone area or there are no hard and fast rules for a sump pump installation, then there is no need to have a sump pump in the walkout basements. Because it has some cons too.

Electricity requirements

During a storm, if electricity is not available your sump pump will not work, putting your new basement at risk of flooding. Though battery backup pump systems are easy to install but require a cost.

Regular maintenance

The sump pump needs to be maintained on a regular basis. The job is simple, but you must check the vent and the outlet pipes for the discharge pipe on a regular basis.

Structural damage

In the event of a basement flood, the foundation and eaves may suffer irreparable damage.

Financial loss

The installation of a sump pump, battery backup pump systems, and the whole procedure require costing. So, it may be a financial loss for you.

Final Thoughts

A sump pump isn’t usually required if there’s no standing water in the basement.

If you dwell in or want to buy a house in a low-lying area, then there is a chance of water damage and it is a must to install a sump pump otherwise not.

Hopefully, you have gathered a clear concept against your query: do walkout basements need a sump pump?

So, make the proper decision and stay safe.