Sealing Sumps
Most homes have a sump pit and an ejector pit. Both are set into the basement floor and both look similar. The difference between the two as far as radon is concerned is the ejector pit is rarely a source of radon therefore you don’t have to pay extra to seal it.
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Ejector pits (far left) are part of the sewer system and should not be a source of radon. Ejectors usually have two pipes and are already sealed. Occasionally there is a gap between the ejector pit and concrete that would need to be sealed. The pit on the right holds the sump pump, the small line on the floor is a condensation drain from the air conditioner. |
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Metal lids like this should not be used when sealing sump pits. |
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When metal lids are sealed, condensation on the underside can cause the lid to rust quickly creating an unsafe situation, and should someone step on the lid the lid could collapse. |
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Pedestal style sump pit pumps usually do not have to be replaced unless the sump pit is being used as a suction point. |
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Leaking pipes and check valves need to be repaired or replaced before sealing sumps. We check sumps and check valves for proper operation before sealing. |
If you have a lid installed by us and should you need to access your sump pit in the future for pump repairs the lid can be removed by cutting the caulk around the edge and seals, most lids are split on one side for easy removal without disconnecting pipes.
After making repairs simply replace the lid and re-seal with silicon caulk.
At VSI we rarely ever bolt a sump lid to the floor, in an emergency we want you to be able to access your sump as quickly and easily as possible.