Outlook Homes Knowledge Base Search
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- Drain Tiles, Sump Pumps, and Sump Pits
Foundation Drainage System Overview Your home is equipped with a perimeter drainage system installed around and/or beneath the foundation and basement. The purpose of this system is to collect and redirect groundwater away from your foundation to help prevent water intrusion and basement flooding. Depending on your lot’s elevation, this system will drain either: To daylight (gravity-fed discharge), or To a sump pit and pump (commonly required on flatter lots) If this drainage system becomes blocked, obstructed, or fails for any reason, water can back up and potentially flood your basement. Daylight Drains If your foundation drainage system discharges to daylight, it is important to regularly confirm that the outlet remains free and clear . Ensure the discharge pipe is not obstructed by: Dirt or topsoil Vegetation or landscaping Debris or sediment Ice or snow buildup Animals or nesting Exterior surface flooding Any blockage can prevent proper drainage and lead to basement flooding. Sump Pits and Pumps If your drainage system discharges into a sump pit, proper operation and routine checks are critical. Please ensure the following: The sump pump is plugged in and has power The float moves freely and is not obstructed or stuck against the sides of the pit The sump pit is free of debris The pump operates properly — test it regularly, especially before and during heavy rainfall Consider having a backup pump and a water or pump-failure alarm for added protection Additionally, make sure the sump pump discharge pipe outside the home remains clear of dirt, soil, vegetation, debris, ice, snow, animals, or flooding. Any obstruction can cause pump failure and basement flooding. Drain Use Reminder Do not dispose of debris or allow excessive sediment to enter garage or basement floor drains. Over time, this can lead to blockages within the drainage system and reduce its effectiveness. During construction, it is common for basements to experience water intrusion or temporary flooding—especially in homes that require a sump pit and pump. This condition is normal and unavoidable during certain phases of construction. Until the home’s permanent drainage systems, sump pump, roofing, siding, and other protective elements are fully installed and operational, there is nothing in place to prevent water from entering or accumulating in the basement or to actively remove it. Outlook Homes | outlookhomes.com
- Low Water Flow at Faucets: Cleaning Faucet Screens and Aerators
Blue device is the tool to unscrew aerator from faucet - typically left under sink or in a drawer for you. May also be clipped to water supply line under the sink. Black device is example of what aerator looks like. New water wells often contain sediment that can clog your faucets and shower heads. Additionally, faucet screens can clog over time and will require cleaning. If water is running slow at any given faucet or shower head you may need to clean the screens inside these faucets. Below are some links to helpful information that will assist you in cleaning your faucets. How To Clean a Delta® Faucet Aerator - YouTube Delta Faucet Remove Clean Install & Replace Aerators Fix Shower Head Low Water Pressure | Delta Kohler Moen For additional assistance, many other videos may be found online on how to clean faucet screens and shower head. Alternatively, you can hire a plumber to clean your faucets. Outlook Homes | outlookhomes.com
- Adjustable Door Sills / Thresholds
Most modern swing doors are built with adjustable door sills—a feature designed to improve energy efficiency (minimizing air leakage), comfort, and durability. Outlook Homes uses almost exclusively adjustable door thresholds. Over time, with normal use and seasonal changes, the sill may need a little attention to maintain a proper seal. Why Adjustment is Needed The bottom of your door relies on the sill and weatherstripping to keep out drafts, moisture, and pests. As the door and frame settle or expand with humidity and temperature changes, the seal at the bottom of the door can loosen. This can allow small gaps to form, reducing efficiency and comfort. The Adjustment Process Fortunately, adjustable sills are designed to be easy to maintain: Locate the adjustment screws – You’ll see a series of small screws across the top of the sill cap (the part the door closes against). Raise the sill – Turn the screws clockwise to lift the sill cap and tighten the seal against the door’s weatherstrip. Lower the sill – Turn the screws counterclockwise to drop the sill cap and reduce pressure if the door is hard to close. Check the fit – Close the door after adjustments. The ideal fit is snug enough to stop light and air but not so tight that it makes the door difficult to latch. Regular Maintenance Checking your door sill once or twice a year is a simple way to extend the life of your door and maintain energy efficiency. With just a screwdriver and a few minutes of time, you can keep your door performing as it should. Outlook Homes | outlookhomes.com


