ASHWORTH DRAINAGE BLOG

Outdoor Waterproofing: Securing Your Property Against Spring Thaw Leaks

February 28, 2024

As winter recedes and the spring thaw sets in, homeowners face a new set of challenges in maintaining their property’s integrity. The melting snow and ice, coupled with spring rainfall, can lead to significant water intrusion issues, especially in basements and foundations. Ashworth Drainage, a leader in basement waterproofing and foundation repair services, emphasizes the importance of outdoor waterproofing as a critical step in securing your property against the potential damages caused by spring thaw leaks. This guide provides essential insights into safeguarding your home through effective outdoor waterproofing strategies.

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What You Need to Know Before Buying a Sump Pump

November 21, 2023
sump pump in hole of a house

Pointing the Way to the Right Choice: A Comprehensive Guide to Selecting a Sump Pump

Water damage in homes, often due to flooding or plumbing failures, can be both costly and distressing. A key tool in preventing such damage is a sump pump, a device often overlooked until urgency strikes. Understanding what to look for when purchasing a sump pump is not just about making an informed choice; it’s about safeguarding your home from potential disasters. A proper sump pump can mean the difference between a dry basement and costly, time-consuming repairs. Moreover, with climate change leading to more unpredictable weather patterns, having a reliable sump pump is more important than ever. This comprehensive guide aims to demystify the selection process, covering types, sizes, features, and maintenance of sump pumps, so you can make a choice that offers peace of mind and reliability.

sump pump

Section 1: Understanding Sump Pump Types and Sizes

  • Submersible vs. Pedestal Pumps: Explore the differences between submersible pumps, which are designed to be fully submerged and are quieter, and pedestal pumps, which have motors mounted above the sump and are more affordable but louder. Your choice will largely depend on the layout and usage of your basement area.
  • Choosing the Right Size: Select a pump based on horsepower (HP), considering the area of your basement, the volume of water to manage, and the vertical height to which the water needs to be lifted. Ensuring the right size is crucial for efficient water management.

 

Section 2: Key Features and Considerations

  • Materials and Construction: Consider pumps made from materials like plastic, cast iron, and stainless steel. Cast iron pumps are durable and dissipate heat well, while stainless steel pumps resist corrosion, and plastic pumps are more affordable. The right material choice can significantly extend the life of your sump pump.
  • Switch Types and Capacity: Understand the significance of switch types—float, diaphragm, and electronic—and the pump’s capacity, indicated by gallons per minute (GPM) or gallons per hour (GPH). Choosing the right switch type can enhance the pump’s responsiveness to water levels.

 

Section 3: Installation, Maintenance, and Cost

  • Power Supply and Backup Systems: Ensure a stable power supply and consider a battery backup system for power outages. This backup is essential for continuous protection during severe weather.
  • Installation and Maintenance: Decide between professional installation or DIY, and commit to regular maintenance like cleaning and testing the pump. Proper installation and maintenance are key to the pump’s long-term performance and reliability.
  • Cost Considerations: Balance the upfront costs with long-term reliability and savings from preventing water damage. Investing a bit more initially can often lead to fewer issues and lower maintenance costs down the line.

Man checking a sump pump

Choosing the right sump pump is a vital step in protecting your home. Don’t wait for a flood to realize the importance of a good sump pump. Explore your options today, ensure your home is prepared for whatever comes its way, and safeguard your peace of mind. By proactively selecting and installing the appropriate sump pump, you not only protect your property but also invest in your family’s safety and well-being. Remember, the cost of a sump pump is minor compared to the potential losses due to water damage, making it a wise and essential investment for any homeowner. Take action now to secure your home against water damage.

5 Reasons To Hire A Professional Concrete Contractor

September 15, 2023
Person Writing on paper

When it comes to building structures, construction materials play a critical role in ensuring the durability and stability of a building. Concrete, being one of the most commonly used building materials, requires a professional concrete contractor to ensure the best quality work. However, some people opt to go for cheaper alternatives by hiring non-professional contractors or even trying to do the job on their own. This may seem like a money-saving plan, but in the long run, it can cost you more. In this article, we explore the top 5 reasons why hiring a professional concrete contractor is the best way to go.

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How Do Sewer Systems Function?

July 21, 2023

Have you ever wondered where your waste goes? The answer is simple – it goes through your sewer system. Despite their importance, sewer systems are often overlooked and taken for granted. In this blog, we will take a closer look at how sewer systems function, from the underground pipes to the treatment plants. (more…)

What Is Weeping Tile? Does My Property Need It?

May 25, 2023
Weeping Tile

Weeping tiles are crucial components of every home’s foundation and drain system that helps protect your home from damage caused by soil and water seepage. This article will explore what weeping tiles are, how they work, and whether your property needs them.

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Everything You Need to Know About French Drains

February 18, 2023
French Drain Backyard

If you’re looking for an effective and affordable way to manage your home water runoff, French drains are definitely worth considering. Not only do they quickly and easily resolve drainage issues in yards and gardens, but they also require minimal maintenance once installed. In this post, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to know about why French drains can be such a great choice for managing excess water on properties. By the end of this post, you’ll understand why adding a French drain is one of the most cost-effective ways to ensure that your property stays safe from unnecessary moisture!

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Why is My Basement Drain Backing Up?

January 31, 2023

If you’ve ever had a basement drain back up, you know how frustrating it can be. Water can start to seep in through small cracks in the foundation, causing all sorts of problems. What causes this to happen and how can you prevent it from happening again? Read on to find out!

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How to Help Prevent a Flooded Basement

December 19, 2022
flooded basement in a house

If your home is in a location where floods are likely, you know how devastating it can be. A flooded basement can ruin furniture, destroy walls and ceilings, and cause mold growth. Fortunately, there are some things you can do to help prevent a flooded basement. Keep reading to learn more about preventing floods in your home and improving drainage.

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Is Your Water Bill Higher Than It Should Be?

November 21, 2022
Plumbing Fixtures

Do you feel like your water bill is a little too high? If so, you’re not alone. Many homeowners struggle to keep their water bills under control. In this post, we will discuss some of the reasons why your water bill might be higher than it should be. We will also provide some tips on how to reduce your water consumption and save money on your monthly utility bills!

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Does My Ontario Home Need A Sump Pump

October 30, 2022
sump pump

Sump pumps are an important part of any home in Ontario. If you don’t have one, you could be facing some serious water damage. In this post, we will discuss what a sump pump is, why you might need one, and how to choose the right one for your home.

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