Hi,

I dug a side of the house, and I applied waterproof membrane, and also a drain tile(4" pvc sched 40 with holes) along one side of the house along the footer.

Now, I want to add an exterior sump pump and connect the drain tile into the sump pit basin. The drain tile is about 4 feet below grade level. Now my questions are:

1. I want to put the sump pump basin bottom at least 2 feet below the drain tile, so that the water flows well into sum pit and the pump then pumps it to the curb. The problem is that most of the sump pump basins are at most 30" in height. I would like a higher one for two reasons: 1) it would contain more water, and 2) if the pump fails in the future, I won't have to dig so deep 4 feet+ to get at it.

2. Does any regular sump pit basin work for the outside or do you need a special one for the outside. Do you know a web site that sells them ?

3. Is it OK to not drill holes in the outside basin ? I already have two sumpits in my basement and those do have holes.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

thanks,
Acie

 

Let's start with the original problem. If water is entering the house & you installed a membrane, did it solve that part of the problem? Why do you think an exterior sump pump is needed? Is the ground pitched in the right direction? What is the condition of the rain gutters on that sided of the house?

 

thanks. Here is more info.

The water mebrane was applied in Septemer, so not enough time to get tested. But the problem is that I'm in a high water table. That is why I've installed a tile drain. The gutters & pitches are all fine.

I need an external sump pump to connect the tile drain water flow. I'm in a relative flat area, that's why I need the external sump pump.

So where do I get an tall sum pit basin, if available ? and my other questions.

thanks.

 

I would check with septic tank suppliers. The place where the installers go to buy the tanks & risers. They usually have more "commercial" sized things than what you find in most home centers. Worst case you could use tank risers. Put gravel in the bottom of the hole and even drill holes in the sides if you want or just have your drain pipe run through the side. You can get as many pieces as you need for your depth.

 

Thanks for the suggestion, Pilot. I will look into it.

 

If all else fails, pick up a scrap chunk of galvanized steel culvert pipe in the size and length you need. Drill or burn the holes you need in it (patching with zinc-rich paint), drop it into the hole while installing your tile, and backfill. Done.

The place we had in SW Colorado had an exterior sump that worked extremely well. The builder or previous owner had made it from a 24" concrete culvert pipe drop, set in a gravel bed about 3' below grade. Basement was very dry, even with a high water table (lots of yard irrigation and even a large canal in the area). I suggested steel culvert because it's generally more available than concrete is, but concrete would work equally well (or better) if available.