Skip to Main Content

Why Every Basement Needs a Sump Pit

Sump pump inside a blue sump pit.

The sump pit—an unsung hero of basements everywhere. What is this little thing that looks like a bucket in the corner of your basement, and why does every basement need one?

On this page, we’ll show you just how valuable having a sump pit is. If there’s one thing to take away, it’s this: sump pits keep groundwater out of your basement.

What is a Sump Pit?

Sump pit filling up with water.

A sump pit is a special container that collects excess water in your basement. Usually, it is located in the lowest part of your basement. It’s very important to have one, especially during heavy rains or when a lot of snow melts quickly, causing water to gather around your home’s foundation.

Inside the pit, there’s a sump pump. This pump turns on by itself when the collected water gets high enough. Once it turns on, it moves the water out of the pit and sends it through a pipe that leads away from your house.

Having a sump pit keeps your basement dry and protects the walls from water damage. It also stops mold from growing, since mold likes wet places. Overall, the sump pit is essential for keeping your basement in good condition and safe.

Benefits of Installing a Sump Pit

Prevents Water Damage

Installing a sump pit in your basement can help prevent water damage. When it rains a lot, or snow melts quickly, water can start to gather around the foundation of your home. The pit collects this water and keeps it from flooding your basement. This helps keep your home’s structure safe and avoids costly repairs that come with water damage.

Reduces Mold and Mildew

A sump pit reduces the risk of mold and mildew growth in your basement. Mold and mildew thrive in moist environments, and they can cause musty smells in your home if left unchecked. Having a pit helps keep the basement dry by removing excess water. This is important for maintaining good air quality in your home and protecting the health of everyone living there.

Makes Your Home More Attractive to Buyers

Having a sump pit can increase the value of your property. Buyers often look for homes that have good flood protection systems in place, including a sump pump system. This feature can make your home more attractive to potential buyers because it shows that the property is well-maintained and protected against basement flooding.

Provides Peace of Mind

Installing a sump pit provides peace of mind, especially during seasons with heavy rainfall or snowmelt. Knowing that your basement is protected from flooding can relieve stress about potential water damage. This makes it easier to enjoy your home, regardless of the weather outside.

Why Keep Your Basement Dry?


Too much water in your basement will cause problems throughout your home. Eventually, it can even lead to water damage.

Water damage in the basement can weaken your home and become expensive to fix. However, if you keep your basement dry with a sump pit and other waterproofing solutions, you can use it as extra living space, like a family room, a home gym, or an office.

Keeping your basement dry gives you more safety and more space.

FAQs

Wet basement walls pose significant risks including structural damage to your home’s foundation and increased growth of mold and mildew, which can harm health, particularly for those with allergies or respiratory problems. A persistently wet basement can also lower your home’s value and reduce the amount of usable space.

It’s a good idea to check your basement for signs of moisture or water damage at least every season, or four times a year. Pay special attention during heavy rainfalls or rapid snow melts, as these are times when your basement is most at risk for water intrusion.

If your sump pit isn’t draining, it could be due to a clogged pump, blocked discharge lines, or a malfunctioning pump. Check for obstructions in the pump and lines, and ensure the pump is operational.

Professional Basement Waterproofing Solutions With AFS

AFS work truck.

If your sump pit is outdated or you don’t have one at all, it’s time to call the experts. AFS Foundation Repair & Waterproofing Specialists have been helping homeowners in the Southeast United States since 2000.

We’re a trusted source for basement waterproofing with over two decades of service and thousands of completed jobs. Contact us today to schedule a free inspection and start the process of creating a dry, protected basement!

Related Resources

Ted Dryce

Ted Dryce

Content Writer

Ted is an SEO Content Writer who has been with Groundworks since 2021. He’s covered home repair topics ranging from crawl space encapsulation to regional soil conditions. When he’s not working, Ted is performing improv comedy and working on his own creative projects.

Publish Date:

Last Modified Date:

AFS service area

Our Locations

Birmingham AL

130 Interstate Commerce Crt. Bldg. 100 & 200
Alabaster, AL 35007

Chattanooga TN

214 Industrial Park Dr.
Soddy-Daisy, TN 37379

Columbus GA

2701 Opelika Road
Phenix City, AL 36870

Dothan AL

1909 Montgomery Hwy, Suite 322,
Dothan, AL 36303

Florence AL

118 E Mobile St
Florence, AL 35630

Gulfport MS

1317 26th Ave, Ste 101
Gulfport, MS 39501

Huntsville AL

2415 Jordan Road
Huntsville, AL 35811

Knoxville TN

3028 E Governor John Sevier Highway
Knoxville, TN 37914

Louisville KY

1904 Watterson Trail, Suite 130
Louisville, KY 40299

Mobile AL / Biloxi MS

3131 Hamilton Blvd.
Theodore, AL 36582

Nashville TN

1519 Heil Quaker Blvd.
LaVergne, TN 37086

Pensacola FL

89 W. Hood Dr.
Pensacola, FL 32534