What do you need to know about basement drains?

1 Exterior Drain Tile Installed around the outside perimeter of a foundation, exterior drain tile is a highly effective way of collecting groundwater and draining it away before it can 2 Interior French Drains Interior French drains are often installed when existing homes start to have basement water problems. 3 Floor Drains

How much does it cost to fix a basement drain?

Plan on spending $8,000 to $15,000, depending on foundation size, to have a contractor excavate around the foundation, dig a collection pit, and install the drain tile around an existing home. Con: Tends to clog over time if the contractor does not use adequate gravel under, over, and around the perforated pipe. 2. Interior French Drains

What’s the best way to unclog a basement drain?

This should clear the clog and get your water flowing again. Sometimes, baking soda and vinegar can unclog a drain if the blockage isn’t especially stubborn. Start by pouring a pot of boiling hot water down the drain, followed by ½ cup baking soda.

When do you need a French drain in your basement?

Interior French drains are often installed when existing homes start to have basement water problems. But, if you live in an area that gets a lot of rain, it doesn’t hurt to install one when you build your home, too.

Why is there a drain in the basement?

Anatomy of a Floor Drain. Situated at the lowest point on the basement floor, the floor drain serves as an outlet for water from a leaking water heater, condensation from an HVAC unit or even seepage due to heavy rain.

Can a concrete floor be used for a basement drain?

Unlike in new construction, in which a concrete contractor would simply design the floor with a gentle slope toward the drain, existing basement floors are typically made to be level—in other words, water will not naturally run toward the drain.

What can I do about sewage seeping through my basement floor drain?

If a clog occurs in the home’s main drain line and sewage has nowhere to go, it can seep up through the floor drain. You can install a backwater valve, also called a backflow valve or check valve, in the drainpipe.