Sump pump vs. using existing drain

[treegig]

Yesterday I had a guy give me a quote to install waterguard system, vapor barrier, and a sanidry dehumidifier. We don't get water running into the house necessarily, but it is an old (1944) basement and is damp smelling. And we get A LOT of rain here in the Pacific Northwest in the fall, winter, and spring. The fellow didn't think I needed a sump pump installed because I already have a drain that works. I'm wondering if this type of "gravity" draining is going to be the best bet for the long term. Also, if I decide I need a sump pump later, or if the situation dictates that I DO need one later, does that cost a lot more extra than just putting one in at the get go?

[Tim]

Gravity drains can be appropriate in some situations, but they are not foolproof. For example if the drain becomes clogged or freezes at any point it could backup into the basement. If you want to keep your basement dry all the time you might want to consider the triplesafe sump pump system.