General Rules for Building a Sump Pump Basin

Before a sump pump can be installed, a sump pump basin needs to be prepared. There are a few things you need to know before you embark on this project.

Water Lines

To create a basin, you will need to dig a hole in to the basement floor. It's easy to break through a water line, causing a lot of problems. Before you start planning for your pump location, find out where the water main runs under your home so you can plan accordingly.

Spacing

You will need to find a location that is already close to existing plumbing and electrical lines. This way you can avoid more work later by eliminating the need to create new connections.

The area you dig out will need to be approximately 6 inches wider than the base of the actual pump basin. This will allow you enough clearance to add concrete around the basin to keep it secure. It will also allow enough room for the concrete to dry flush with the floor.

Fill Surrounding the Basin

While concrete is popular to use to secure the basin, gravel works well too. Gravel will allow the basin to remain secure, but will still allow you to remove the basin if you ever need to for repairs.