Spring is just around the corner and with it comes rain showers that may affect your basement. So there’s no better time for Long Beach flooring than right now to prevent your home from becoming a hub for mold and fungi. Below we provide you with a simple step-by-step guide on how to install your own drain system for less than $1,500 including tools and materials, whereas a pro would easily charge you $5,000 to $8,000 for doing the same work.
Before you Get Started
Before you start working on the inside of your house, first check if there are any issues to be addressed on the exterior, such as installing gutters and ensuring that your irrigation system is spraying water away from your walls and onto the lawn where it should. In preparation for setting up the drain system consult with your local building official to find out if your area requires any inspection or licenses before you start working on your flooring Long Beach CA project. The official may even offer you some useful insights on common issues that are unique to the houses in your area, which may also affect your project.
Prepare for Dust
Part of the drain system installation requires that you drill into the concrete floor of your basement, which will obviously lead to a dust explosion. Prepare for it by removing all the furniture from the basement, switch off the air conditioning, and separate the area you’ll be working from with a large plastic sheet and wear a protective dust mask.
Drill into the floor
Drill into the floor with your rented jackhammer, starting with a line that is 18 inches from the wall. When you’re done with your initial spot, bust up the concrete chunks into a manageable size, and make sure to open up ample space in the area where you’ll be fitting your sump basin.
Dig the Trench
After you’ve removed the concrete, dig a trench and make sure that it’s no deeper than the bottom of the footing.
Drill Holes in Block
For those that have basement waterproofing walls that are constructed from concrete block, it’s recommended to drill 1 inch into the core of each block and mortar joint, giving the water enough space to flow into the drain. If your walls are made of poured concrete instead of block concrete, then place foundation wrap 4 inches above the holes as well.
Install the Pipe
Makes sure the pipes are facing downwards when you fit them, and that they’re in a slightly slanted position that makes it easier for water to get to the water basin.
Divert the Water into the Drain
Place a 1-inch irrigation hose inside the 1-inch holes you drilled into the mortar joints and block core.
Cap Off the Trench
Be sure to place plastic covering on the rock before you conceal it with concrete and then smooth it out with a float.
Hook Up the Pump
The last part of your flooring Long Beach project involves installing a submersible pump with a vertical float switch while making sure that the check valve is not in a position to interfere with the pump. Also, place the exit pipe in a position that slopes away from the basement, and keep it to 8 inches past the siding or less if your house is located in a place with a cold climate.
