A sump pump is a vital part of any home’s basement waterproofing system, but it can be an unsightly appliance. A sump pump cover can be a simple and attractive way to hide your sump pump and keep your basement looking neat and tidy.
There are a few things to consider when choosing a sump pump cover. First, you’ll want to make sure the cover is big enough to fit over your sump pump without blocking the outlet pipe. The cover should also have a hole or opening for the discharge pipe so that water can flow freely from the sump pit.
This blog post will offer ten ideas for basement sump pump covers that can help you keep your concrete floor looking clean and modern.
Contents
Why Should You Hide a Sump Pump?
While a sump pump is vital for any basement waterproofing system, it can be an eyesore in your otherwise finished basement. It kills the basement’s beauty, but it also keeps the floor wet and your basement cold in the middle of winter, leading to dampness.
When choosing a sump pump cover, you should consider both functionality and aesthetics. Ideally, a good sump pump cover will be both attractive and functional. In addition, some covers include extra features like built-in lighting or extra storage space.
Cool & Simple Basement Sump Pump Cover Ideas
You can find pre-made sump pump covers at most home improvement stores, or you can easily make your sump pump cover with a bit of creativity. Here are some ideas to get you started:
1. Use A Decorative Sump Pump Cover
A decorative sump pump cover can be a great way to easily hide your appliance while still keeping it accessible when needed. Choose from metal or plastic covers in many shapes and sizes, or order custom-made ones for a truly unique look.
2. Use A Floor To Ceiling Curtain
Installing a sump pump doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your sense of style. If you’re looking for a more temporary solution or want the option to move your sump pump cover around, consider using a floor-to-ceiling curtain. This can be an easy and budget-friendly way to cover up your sump pump while allowing easy access when you need to use it. Just make sure the fabric is durable and won’t be easily damaged by water.
3. Build a Closet
Create a clean, modern look in your basement by building a wooden closet around your sump pump cover. This can be a great way to hide the equipment while still providing easy access for maintenance and emergencies.
4. Build A Wooden Structure Around Your Sump Pump
If you’re looking for an easy way to cover your sump pump without covering too much floor space, consider building a simple, sturdy structure around it. This can be as simple as a box built out of wood or cinder blocks, or you could choose to build something more elaborate like a cabinet or small shed. Just make sure it’s secure enough to hold up against water and other damage from the sump pump discharge pipe.
5. Cover with a Chair or Couch
You can also use furniture to cover your sump pump. This can be a great way to add extra seating to your basement while providing easy access to the sump pump. Just make sure the piece of furniture is sturdy and won’t be easily damaged by water.
7. Paint it Matching Color as Your Wall
If you want your sump pump to blend in with its surroundings, consider painting it the same color as your walls. This can be a quick and easy way to camouflage your sump pump, and it will help it blend into the background of your basement.
8. Use A Rug or Mat
You can also use a rug or mat to cover your sump pump. This is an excellent solution if you want to hide your sump pump while still providing easy access when you need to work on or use it. Just make sure the rug or mat is durable enough to withstand water from the sump pump.
9. Cover with Fake Flooring
If you want to cover your sump pump completely, consider using fake flooring. This can be as simple as a rug or towel, or you could choose to use more permanent flooring like tile, vinyl, laminate, or engineered hardwood. Ensure the fake flooring is durable enough to withstand any water damage from your sump pump.
10. Build a Small Deck
You can also build a small deck around your sump pump to cover it. A wooden deck can provide a more natural look, or you could use composite decking for a more modern look. Just make sure the deck is sturdy and won’t be easily damaged by water.
Caution: Be Careful with the Discharge Pipe Blocking
When covering your sump pump, one important thing to remember is to make sure you don’t block the discharge pipe. This pipe is responsible for carrying water away from your home, so it’s essential to ensure it’s not obstructed.
The pipe can usually run along the floor near the sump pump, so make sure you leave enough space around it when covering your sump pump. In addition, you may need to consult with a professional to ensure the discharge pipe is not blocked.
You should also avoid placing items over the discharge pipe when covering your sump pump. This can prevent water from flowing out of your home, which could cause severe damage to your basement and other areas of your house.
Conclusion
There are many different ways to cover a sump pump, so you can choose the option that best fits your needs. However, these 10 ideas should give you a good starting point for hiding your unsightly appliance.
We hope this article has helped you learn how to cover a sump pump. You may also want to read our other articles on basement waterproofing and sump pumps.
If you have any questions about covering your sump pump or if you need help waterproofing your basement, please contact us today. We’re here to help!
