Certain functional elements like sump pumps are essential yet often overlooked in home maintenance. While sump pumps are crucial in preventing water damage, their appearances might not align with your interior design aspirations. That’s where the concept of sump pump cover ideas comes into play. Imagine transforming this utilitarian necessity into an artistic and visually appealing element that seamlessly blends with your living space.
Unfortunately, sump pumps are very loud and can disrupt the look of your basement if left on display. Fortunately, ideas exist to help you hide the sump pump in your basement to enjoy peace while maintaining it dry.
Keep reading to learn sump pump cover ideas in the basement.
In this guide we’ll teach you some sump pump cover ideas:
8 Sump Pump Cover Ideas
Use A Decorative Sump Pump Cover
Installing a decorative sump pump cover is one of the best ways to hide a sump pump. Many sump pumps come with covers that are meant to be decorative and functional.
Use A Floor To Ceiling Curtain
Another idea is to hang a floor-to-ceiling curtain between two supports so it stretches from the floor to the ceiling. This makes it look as if there is a wall where the sump pump is installed. This is a good choice if you must hide the pump but keep it accessible at all times.
Ensure you don’t install a curtain directly before the sump pump. If you do, water will build up and seep through your curtain and into your basement when the pump runs. Instead, install your curtain about an inch or two on the floor.
Build a Closet
If your basement needs extra storage, we recommend building a closet to hide your sump pump. If you already have a basement with shelves and storage, you only need to add a door covering the sump pump and its storage area.
A closet is also a good idea if you have a loud sump pump because it will help contain the sound. It is also a good idea if you have children or pets because it will help keep them away once the sump pump has been turned on.
Cover with a Chair or Couch
If your basement lacks seating, we recommend covering your sump pump with a chair or couch. Simply drape the seat part over the sump pump and then attach it underneath to keep it from falling offget. This is a good idea if you have kids or pets that could get into trouble if they got caught near the sump pump while it is turned on.
Just make sure the legs of the couch are not resting on top of the cover, or else it may break when you are sitting on it!
Cover with Fake Flooring
One of the most effective sump pump cover ideas is fake flooring. You can place artificial flooring that’s meant to be wall-to-wall on the ground instead and then put your sump pump underneath it. Simply repeat this process with some shelving, and you will have a great way to hide your sump pump without sacrificing storage space.
When choosing fake flooring, try looking for one that has a natural look for your basement so it blends in with the surrounding area.
Build a Small Deck
A unique way to hide your sump pump is with a small deck. Simply build a wooden platform with two posts on either side to hold it up and place the sump pump underneath. We recommend installing carpet or hardwood over the top for an even more realistic look that won’t be out of place in any basement.
Cover with Plants
House plants are an excellent way to cover up your sump pump. Simply place them around the sump pump and ensure they don’t fall into the basin. Make sure you clean up any leaves that may fall into the pit before turning on the sump pump so you protect your basement from flooding!
House plants are also a good idea because they provide additional basement insulation because of their height. This means you can use less heat or air conditioning for your basement, saving you money on your bills! Just ensure the plants don’t block any water seeping into the basin.
Cover with a Rug
One of the quickest ways to hide a sump pump is to cover it with a rug. This is a simple and effective way to hide your sump pump without spending any extra money.
Make sure that you choose a rug that matches the style of your basement so it gives off the appearance of being part of your flooring plan. This is especially important if you want sump pump cover ideas in the basement with fake flooring because the designs need to blend, or they will stick out like a sore thumb.
Position Your Sump Pump Where It Is Not Noticeable
Hiding a sump pump and backup can be challenging, especially if you want sump pump cover ideas in the basement and your sump pump is right by the stairs. This makes it very uncomfortable for people to walk past because they will constantly be reminded of its presence. If you place your sump pump somewhere that isn’t noticeable, it will not bother anyone as much as if it were placed near the main sitting area.
Don’t Block The Sump Pump Discharge pipe
When considering sump pump cover ideas in the basement, a crucial step is not to block the sump pump drainpipe. A sump pump’s drainpipe is designed to release water that has been collected into the sump pit. If you block or clog this drainage system, your basement will flood and cause permanent water damage to your home.