If you live in a home that has a basement, purchasing a sump pump is a good investment. A sump pump is a device that is typically placed in the lowest point of the basement, and it will promptly pump out any moisture that finds its way into the area. There are several reasons to purchase a sump pump for your basement, such as:

Keeping the Basement Dry

One of the main reasons homeowners have sump pumps installed is to keep their basement and any surrounding crawl spaces dry and to prevent flooding. A sump pump is typically installed in a sump pit, and when water reaches a certain level the pump will turn on and pump the excess water through a pipe that deposits the water outside of the home. After having a sump pump installed, make sure that the soil around the drain pipe is properly graded so water flows away from the foundation of your house.

Preventing the Growth of Mold and Mildew

Mold and mildew thrive in damp places, and a basement without a sump pump is at higher risk of mold and mildew growth. Since a sump pump removes water from the basement, there is less moisture in the air and mold and mildew is less likely to grow. The last thing you want is mold in your basement-- in addition to causing costly damage, excessive mold growth could also cause health problems for the people living in your home.

Increasing Home Value

A sump pump can go a long way in increasing the value of your home. When you have a sump pump you won't have to worry about your basement flooding after every rain storm, and your basement is more likely to be structurally sound. In addition, having a sump pump can be an attractive feature to potential buyers when you choose to sell your house.

Stabilizing the Soil

If you live in an area that receives a lot of rain or has a high water table, the soil surrounding your basement may be unstable. A sump pump can help make the soil more stable by pumping out any water that enters in the basement and making sure that it is removed and diverted away from the house. This can help prevent the soil surrounding your foundation and basement from becoming too damp and muddy, which could eventually cause structural damage to your house. 

For more information about sump pumps and if you should get one, check out a company like Always Dry Basement Waterproofing.