What is Iron Ochre and Does your Basement have it?

Have you noticed a reddish, orangish, slimy substance in your basement or sump pit? Your home may have what's called iron ochre. Although not damaging to your health, it could be effecting how your current waterproofing systems are working. We'll break down what exactly iron ochre is and how Cleveland Basement Systems can help manage it. 

What is Iron Ochre? 

Iron ochre is a rust-colored, gelatinous sludge that forms when iron bacteria in soil interact with air and water. This bacteria feeds on the iron in the groundwater to make a thick, muddy byproduct that clogs drainage systems and sump pumps. 

What Does Iron Ochre Look Like? 

• A thick orange or reddish-brown slime
• An oily film on water
• A gel-like sludge 
• Orange stains on walls and floors 

Why is it a Problem? 

Iron ochre is thicker than mud, so it can create serious blockage problems and cause basement flooding. This gelatinous substance reduces drainage efficiency and therefore causes your sump pumps to work overtime, burning them out. Even with newer waterproofing systems, iron ochre can clog and prevent them from working like they should. 

How do you Treat Iron Ochre?

Dealing with iron ochre correctly requires yearly maintenance and high-quality waterproofing products. At Cleveland Basement Systems, we offer: 

• Easy-Access WaterGuard Drain Channel. WaterGuard directs water from the walls and floor into the sump pump. This patented product has a wide-open drain that resists clogs and has a removable lid to access the drain system for service. 
• Sump Pump Upgrades. Our powerful TripleSafe sump pump is equipped with 1/2 and 1/3 horsepower pumps that can handle thousands of gallons of water per hour. 
• Yearly Service Plans. Once a Basement Systems product is installed by us, we make sure to schedule a yearly service to ensure that iron ochre isn't effecting any of the waterproofing systems. 

If you're unsure if you're dealing with iron ochre, Cleveland Basement Systems offers FREE in-home estimates. Our expert inspectors can identify if iron ochre is present and help create a detailed plan to keep your basement dry. Call us today to schedule!