Are you looking to hide your sump pump in a finished basement? Many homeowners struggle with finding the best way to keep their sump pumps out of sight, but there are a few ways to ensure you can keep your sump pump working without detracting from the appearance of your finished basement.
If you’re considering finishing your basement, you might also be thinking about what to do with the sump pump. It is an obvious option to keep it visible, but hiding your sump pump in the finished space could be a great solution if you want a cleaner look without sacrificing functionality. Hiding a sump pump can transform the visual appeal of any space while still maintaining its important purpose: protecting your home from flooding and moisture accumulation.
In this post, we’ll show you how to hide sump pump in finished basement!
What Will You Need?
To hide your sump pump in a finished basement, you’ll need the following items:
- Sump Pump
- Drywall
- Concealment Box
- Sturdy Shelving or Furniture
- Paint and Wallpaper (optional)
Once you have all your supplies, it’s time to get started.
10 Easy Steps on How to Hide Sump Pump in Finished Basement
Step 1. Install a Concealment Box
Start by installing a concealment box around the sump pump. This will provide an aesthetic covering that allows you to hide the sump pump from view while still allowing access when needed. Some companies even offer custom boxes designed specifically for this purpose.
Step 2. Attach Furniture:
Securely attach shelving or furniture over the concealment box, making sure it’s secure and level. You can also use drywall to create a false wall if you want a more refined look and don’t need easy access to the sump pump. If you choose to use drywall, ensure the box is securely mounted.
Step 3. Paint:
Add a coat of paint or wallpaper to match the rest of your basement. This can help further disguise the sump pump and make it less noticeable. Additionally, adding a layer of paint or wallpaper can help protect the concealment box and make it last longer.
Step 4. Use Rugs or Carpet:
If you’re going for a more finished look, consider adding rugs or carpets over the area where the sump pump is located. This can help to hide the sump pump and make it less noticeable in the finished basement. Don’t forget to use carpet padding for extra cushioning and noise dampening.
Step 5. Install Lights:
Add overhead or accent lighting to brighten the space and draw attention away from the concealed sump pump. Try using LED lights to help save energy. Moreover, dimmable lights can also be used to create a pleasant atmosphere and provide just the right amount of light when needed.
Step 6. Add Decorative Items:
Now that you’ve hidden your sump pump add some decorative items like pillows, plants, or artwork around it to disguise its location further. If you’re feeling extra creative, try designing a mural to cover the area or hang a tapestry over it. Don’t be afraid to get creative with this step!
Step 7. Make Sure It’s Accessible:
Make sure you can access the sump pump easily in emergencies by leaving a small opening at one side of the furniture/shelving for easy access. Try to keep the opening as small as possible but large enough to fit your hand inside and operate the sump pump if necessary. Be careful not to block any air vents or plumbing pipes when you do this.
Step 8. Test the Sump Pump:
Once everything is in place, test the sump pump and confirm it’s working properly. You can do this by filling the sump pump pit with water and observing how it operates. Ensure that the sump pump is able to drain the water properly and make any necessary adjustments.
Step 9. Maintain Regularly:
Make sure to regularly maintain your sump pump by cleaning it and checking for any blockages or potential issues. This will help ensure that your sump pump is always ready when you need it! Remember that it’s important to keep the sump pump pit free of debris and other objects that could interfere with its operation.
Step 10. Enjoy Your Basement:
Now you can enjoy your finished basement without having to worry about an unsightly sump pump detracting from its appearance! Remember that it’s important to regularly check the sump pump for any issues and ensure it is operating properly. Just follow the steps outlined above, and you can hide your sump pump in a finished basement without compromising its functionality.
By following these simple steps, you can easily hide your sump pump in a finished basement. Not only will it keep your basement looking great, but it will also ensure that your sump pump is always working properly and can be easily accessed in cases of emergency. So don’t hesitate – to start transforming your basement today!
5 Additional Tips and Tricks
1. Install artificial plants or outdoor-style furniture along the perimeter of a finished basement to help mask an exposed sump pump. Be sure to water and maintain the plants or furniture regularly.
2. Install a PVC access panel to conceal the sump pump behind the wall of your finished basement. This allows you to easily access the sump pump if repairs or maintenance are needed while keeping it out of sight from guests and visitors.
3. Put a large decorative area rug in front of an exposed sump pump in a finished basement for a quick aesthetic fix. Choose a pattern that will help draw attention away from the device and toward something more visually pleasing instead.
4. Add curtains around an exposed sump pump for more coverage without completely blocking it off from view, allowing you to check on its functionality occasionally if needed.
5. If possible, move the sump pump to a corner or other less noticeable area of your finished basement. This may require some minor construction work but can make all the difference in hiding an exposed sump pump from visitors and guests.
These tips should help you successfully hide your sump pump in a finished basement without sacrificing functionality or safety. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have an aesthetically pleasing space that ensures your sump pump is still working properly and ready for use when needed.
5 Things You Should Avoid
1. Do not attempt to move the sump pump yourself without consulting a professional first. This could lead to costly repairs and increases your chances of the device becoming damaged or malfunctioning.
2. Avoid placing furniture directly in front of an exposed sump pump, as this can block its ventilation and cause it to overheat.
3. Don’t forget to regularly check on the functionality and maintenance of your sump pump, even if it is out of sight. This will help ensure that it remains in good condition and is ready for use when needed.
4. Refrain from completely blocking off or hiding an exposed sump pump with permanent fixtures like walls or cabinets unless you have consulted a professional first. If repairs or maintenance are needed, this could prevent you from accessing the device.
5. Don’t forget to turn off your sump pump before attempting any sort of repair, as this could lead to serious injury and damage to the device itself.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can hide an exposed sump pump in a finished basement without sacrificing functionality or safety. With a few simple steps, you can create a safe and aesthetically pleasing space that ensures your sump pump’s longevity while keeping it out of sight from visitors and guests.
Can You Cover Your Sump Pump?
The short answer is yes – you can cover your sump pump with various materials. However, it’s important to note that this should only be done with the help of a professional if major changes are made, such as installing a PVC access panel or moving the sump pump to another area in your finished basement. Additionally, it’s essential to remember not to block off or completely hide an exposed sump pump unless absolutely necessary. This can prevent you from accessing the device if repairs or maintenance are needed.
By following these tips and tricks, you can safely and successfully cover your sump pump in a finished basement without compromising its functionality or safety. With just a few simple steps, you can create a visually pleasing space that ensures your sump pump is still in good condition and readily available if needed.
Conclusion
So there you have it – many ways to hide your sump pump in a finished basement. Whether you want it to blend into the background or give off a statement of its own, plenty of creative options are available to help you with your project. If necessary, take the time to select the right material for added soundproofing and ensure the optimal placement that meets all applicable codes.
Most importantly – don’t forget about maintenance! Staying on top of sump pump issues can save you thousands of dollars in water damage repair bills down the road. With these few steps in mind and some creative thinking, you can find a fair balance between aesthetic appeal and function in your finished basement.
Hopefully, the article on how to hide sump pump in finished basement has been helpful in getting you started. Good luck!
Happy hiding!
