There are few improvements that can transform your home as much as a walkout basement. Having a walkout basement offers extra space, more usable square footage, and a comfortable basement. But they’re not perfect!
These basements have a basement walkout drain. Over time, the walkout drain can fail.
In this guide, we’ll explain what you can do when your walkout basement drain fails.
Assessing the Situation
Before you decide how to deal with a clogged basement drain, it’s vital to understand your current situation. To begin, do you know the telltale signs of a deteriorating walkout drain?
Here are the signs:
- Water seeping into your basement
- High humidity levels
- Musty odors
- Cracks in the drain structure
- Corrosion on the drain’s surface
- Efflorescence
These cues are often the first indicators that your drain may no longer be doing its job effectively. While you can spot some obvious signs of trouble, it’s important to consider a professional inspection and consultation.
Experts can provide a comprehensive evaluation of your walkout basement drain. Their insights can help you make informed decisions about the extent of the problem and the most suitable solutions.
Can You Unclog a Basement Drain?
As an immediate fix, you can attempt to deal with a clogged basement drain on your own. Start by determining the source of the clog. You may have a buildup of dirt and debris, or you could have a more severe problem like tree roots invading the drain.
Some people have had success clearing a clogged drain by using a manual drain snake. Be aware that persistent clogs may need a more forceful solution.
While you can find them in any home improvement store, be cautious about using chemical drain cleaners. Many contain caustic chemicals that can harm your plumbing system.
If your attempts to unclog the drain fail, you may need to contact a plumber. Plumbers have the right tools and expertise to handle complex drain problems.
How to Prevent Future Clogs
If you have a clogged basement walkout drain or blocked outside drain, unclogging is a temporary fix. The ultimate goal is to prevent future clogs.
Once you clear the drain, consider putting preventative measures in place.
Regular drain maintenance goes a long way towards preventing clogs. You can also install drain guards that catch debris.
An even better and more effective solution is to install a new drainage system. We’ll talk about drain system options next.
Evaluating Basement Walkout Drain Systems
While a temporary fix might come in handy in the short term, if you’re savvy, you’ll want a solution that can withstand the test of time. We suggest considering a new drain system.
Selecting the right drain system is vital. You have options when it comes to basement drain systems. Two common options are French drains and channel drains.
French Drains
These are subsurface drains that channel water away from your basement foundation. They consist of a perforated pipe surrounded by gravel. Water flows into the pipe and is redirected away from your home.
French drains are efficient at managing groundwater.
Channel Drains
Also known as trench drains, these surface-based drains are often used in areas with heavy surface water runoff, like driveways or walkout basement areas. They consist of a grated channel that collects surface water and directs it to a designated drainage area.
Choosing the right drain system will help protect your home from basement flooding.
What to Consider When Choosing a Drain System
Once you decide that you’re ready for a new drain system, you should spend some time thinking about your specific needs. While the design of each system optimizes drainage, one usually works better than the other depending on your circumstances.
Here are a few things to consider:
Water Management
Think about your primary source of water intrusion. Is it groundwater or surface water? Select a system that effectively addresses the source.
Installation and Maintenance
Some systems are easier to install and maintain than others. Choose one that aligns with your DIY capabilities or budget for professional installation and upkeep.
Aesthetics and Space Usage
If you’re concerned about aesthetics or space use, take into account how the system integrates with your landscaping. How does it impact the appearance of the space around your walkout area?
Compare different drain systems and select the one suited to your unique situation. You’ll be one step closer to achieving a waterproofed basement that meets your specific needs and requirements.
Time to Install the New Drain System
You’ve done your due diligence and chosen your new drain system. Now you can sit back and let a professional basement waterproofing contractor do the heavy work.
Your contractor will start the project by excavating. Proper slope and placement are vital. This excavation step is critical in preventing future basement flooding issues.
The contractor may suggest several types of waterproofing techniques, such as a waterproofing membrane. Using durable pipes and corrosion-resistant components is a technique used to optimize the longevity of the drain system.
Connecting to a Sump Pump
Connecting your new basement drain system to a sump pump is another critical step.
The sump pump is the heart of your basement’s water management system. It pumps excess water away from your home, preventing basement flooding and water damage.
When the drain system intercepts and redirects water to a central collection point, the sump pump discharges the water to an outdoor area or a storm sewer. It activates when water levels in the sump pit reach a certain point.
Between the drain system and the sump pump, you have an excellent team working to support a waterproofed basement.
Need Help With Your Basement Walkout Drain?
When you’re dealing with a failing basement walkout drain, you have options! One of the best solutions may be to install a new drain system.
Armored Basement Waterproofing specializes in basement waterproofing. Our experts have over 20 years of experience. We can quickly assess your situation and recommend the best action to take.
Contact us today for a free basement inspection. Let’s get you on the road to a waterproofed, worry-free basement.
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