There's a Jackhammer in My Basement

No this is not a figure of speech.  There is literally a jackhammer IN USE in our basement.  Actually at least two....  maybe a third in the near future.  The third is hanging out in the yard.  Maybe I should go try it-

If you remember last month I mentioned our basement flooded after all the rains.  We had about 2-3" of standing water throughout.  Though the basement is unfinished, it still causes problems and is not good for the foundation.

We have been aware of this problem for a while.  We actually first became suspicious when we inspected the house before purchasing, seeing a 3' water mark and warpage on some shelving.

The owners assured us the basement stayed dry and the water mark was from a one time mishap in the water filtration system that flooded the basement.  We now assume it filled with water during the March 2010 flood.  The power was out for most of this area so we assume the sump pump was not able to run.  Though not sure it would have mattered much since the pump is not in great shape.  There even used to be a hole in the hose that sprayed water all over the basement when the pump activated..... like a sprinkler for the basement (nice right).  To add to our suspicions the company doing the job informed us that the previous owners had the same job quoted a few years back (seemingly after the 2010 flood). It is an expensive job so we are not too surprised they did not get the work done (remember we bought the home from them as a short sale).

The consistent moisture in the basement has also been affecting our new hardwood floors.  It's expanding the boards and causing them to 'bulge' or cup at the seams.  Making the floor look rippled instead of completely smooth.

In preparation for the new drainage system, Jonathan has been working hard in the evening clearing around the walls.  This included ripping out moldy shelving and throwing away some things we had stored down there.

Here is what it currently looks like (workers just left for lunch break)-

Thankfully we had the freezer up on boards keeping it out of the water.

The parameter drain areas will be covered with concrete when finished.

So the job consists of installing a french drain all around the parameter of the basement and a new sump pump.  I think this is a correct diagram/example-

Like I said, it is an expensive job, BUT this update does good things to the value of the home.  Plus we would be able to finish the basement if we like.  Maybe making a kid cave area down there (some call it a playroom).

In the meantime, we will endure the jackhammer.  (I am adamant about staying put in the house these days, attempting to potty train baby girl).
It did make for a lovely breakfast atmosphere this morning-

Hope to show pictures of the finished product soon.