basement waterproofing

The 4 Permanent Basement Waterproofing Solutions

Posted by Kevin Angelescu on

Basement Waterproofing

When searching for a solution for your leaking basement, you’ll be bombarded with a wide variety of massages. If you’re not familiar with basements and how they function (like most homeowners), you may fall for a scam.

As a homeowner, it is important to seek as much information about basements as possible when considering basement waterproofing solutions. This will ensure that you make an informed choice and avoid being lured by flashy sales gimmicks.

There are many different types of solutions for basements in the market. However, the following are the basic permanent waterproofing solutions currently available:

  1. Waterproofing membranes

Water can find its way into your basement through cracks and crevices in foundation walls. A waterproofing membrane can be applied on the external surface of the foundation wall to prevent water from penetrating into the basement.

This waterproofing solution involves excavating the soil around the foundation wall and installing the membrane. The soil is then returned.

  1. French drains

Water collecting in the soil can exert pressure on the walls of your foundation. The water in the soil is then forced through the cracks and crevices in your foundation walls and into your basement. This is especially common in homes built in areas with a high water table.

The best way to solve this problem is by relieving the hydrostatic pressure. This is possible through the installation of a French drain. The water collects in the French drain and is guided into a well.

  1. Sump pumps

These are usually installed together with French drains. The sump pump is installed in a sump pit or well where water from the surrounding soil collects. The water is then removed from the well by the pump. This reduces the hydrostatic pressure on the foundation walls. It also prevents the flooding of the basement especially during heavy downpours.

  1. Grading

Your landscape plays a major role in the health of your basement. If the landscape slopes towards your home, water will follow the slope. It is therefore important to ensure that the land around your foundation slopes away from the foundation. This will reduce the pressure of the water against the foundation walls.

These are only a few of the many solutions that professional contractors can offer you for permanent basement waterproofing. It is important to discuss your options with a contractor and find what will work best for you. The solutions can be applied on their own or in combination for the best results.

crawl space waterproofing

How to Get a Crawl Space Waterproofing Repair Quotation

Posted by Stephen Bertolacci on

Crawl Space Waterproofing

Have you noticed any changes in your home? Are the floors sagging? Do your doors or windows jam when trying to open or close them? Is there a musty smell in your home? Are your energy bills much higher than they once were?

These are all signs of problems in your crawl space. If you haven’t already, now is the time to invest in crawl space waterproofing. If your crawl space has been encapsulated already, there may be issues that need to be addressed.

Whether you need your crawl space repaired or waterproofed, it is important to ensure that you use a professional contractor to address the issues in the damp space.

Finding professional crawl space waterproofing contractors is now easier with the internet. Many have websites that you can visit to see the services they offer. Finding the right contractor for your needs is where the challenge lies.

  • Educate yourself

Every home owner should take some time to learn about how to maintain their property. Educating yourself about crawl spaces is part of this process. This will help you determine what needs to be done and therefore avoid been scammed.

  • Seek referrals

The best way to find a reliable contractor is by seeking referrals from people you know who live in the area or other consumers online. Referrals help you gather information on the backgrounds of contractors so you can make an informed choice.

  • Contact contractors

Get in touch with contractors who have a good track record based on the information you’ve gathered. Ask them how you can get a quote from them. End any communication with contractors who provide you with instant quotes before inspecting your crawl space.

  • Compare quotations

Now comes the hard part. Comparing quotations isn’t as easy as eliminating all the high quotes. Money is important since you should be able to afford the services, but it isn’t everything.

Carefully go over the services and actions included in the quotations. Look over how the cost is broken down. Are there any hidden costs that you should be concerned about? Is there anything that isn’t clear? Get in touch with the contractor for further clarification.

  • Make your choice

Finally make your choice based on which contractor will give you the best value for your money. You should choose a contractor that is professional and easy to work with.

Remember that all crawl spaces are unique. Don’t be cheated into taking a one size fits all solution.

Santa Fe dehumidifier

Choosing a Santa Fe Dehumidifier for Your Space

Posted by Stephen Bertolacci on

Santa Fe Dehumidifier

Are you considering purchasing a Santa Fe Dehumidifier? These dehumidifiers are amongst the best in the market. You may have come across them as you searched for solutions to controlling humidity levels in your home. Your contractor may have referred them to you. It doesn’t matter what the case may be. The time has come to make a decision and get the right dehumidifier for your home. So, which one should you pick?

The Santa Fe Dehumidifier you select ought to be designed to provide the best performance for your space.

Basement

If you’re looking for a dehumidifier for your basement, your first consideration should be the size of the space. This will determine the capacity of the dehumidifier you choose. You should therefore begin by taking measurements to determine the square footage of your basement.

The second consideration when selecting a dehumidifier for your basement is whether the basement is finished or unfinished. This will influence the model and installation of the unit. There are units that are specifically designed for indoor spaces. These are the units you should consider for your basement.

Crawl Space

If you’re looking for a dehumidifier for your crawl space, you will also have to consider the size of the crawl space. Just like dehumidifiers for basements, the square footage of the crawl space will influence the capacity of the dehumidifier you select.

It is also important to consider the waterproofing method used for the crawlspace. A Santa Fe dehumidifier will give you great results if your crawlspace is completely sealed up. If your crawl space is vented, moisture will still get into the space. You should therefore ensure that the space is encapsulated and completely waterproof before installing a dehumidifier.

It is important to note that there are dehumidifiers that are designed for use in crawlspaces. These are designed to fit in these spaces. They are not only great for aesthetic value but also for better performance.

Size Matters

Sizing a dehumidifier for your space is important. The right size of dehumidifier will ensure that the space is kept dry. This is one of the most important considerations when it comes to selecting a dehumidifier for any space.

The best way to ensure that you select the best dehumidifier for your space is by talking to a waterproofing contractor that is licensed to install the dehumidifiers. They will advise you on the best fit.

basement finishing

Basement Finishing: Should You Hire a Contractor?

Posted by Stephen Bertolacci on

Basement Finishing

As a homeowner in today’s struggling economy, it is tempting to want to do everything on your own. After all, it is a great way to save money. However, can you turn the finishing of your basement into a DIY project and be successful at it?

Basement finishing is a major undertaking. In this article, we examine whether or not you should hire a professional contractor.

The DIY Route

One of the major reasons homeowners decide to take this route is that they believe that they will save money. However, is this really true?

You won’t have to pay a fee for the services of a professional contractor, so you will definitely save on this. However, you may incur larger costs in terms of sourcing material and purchasing the right tools. Should you make any major mistakes while finishing your basement, you’ll incur an even greater cost hiring a professional contractor to ensure that the job is done right.

Another reason people opt for the DIY route is that it gives you complete control over your project. You decide what to do every day. You can change anything at a whim.

The problem with the DIY route is that basement finishing requires the expertise of various professionals ranging from plumbers and electricians to waterproofing contractors. Making mistakes in these critical areas can result in serious repercussions down the road.

There are also building codes and regulations to meet and safety hazards to consider. Finishing a basement is about more than cosmetics. It is about providing a long-lasting living space.

Using a Contractor

When you hire a professional contractor, you will have the benefit of relying on their experience and knowledge. A professional contractor is invaluable when it comes to planning, preparing for and executing the project.

Professionals also have widespread networks having worked in the industry for several years. They know where they can source materials at reasonable prices. They can therefore help you get the most value for the money you have.

Contractors will also help to ensure that all building codes and regulations are met in the execution of your project. They’ll check to ensure that all safety hazards have been considered. You can be sure of your project being completed safely and in accordance with the law.

Ensure that you hire a professional contractor with good references. A trustworthy contractor will ensure that the job is done right the first time round, therefore saving you thousands of dollars.

basement moisture

Common Solutions to Basement Moisture Problems

Posted by Stephen Bertolacci on

Basement Moisture

One of the most important things you can do for your home and your sanity is to deal with basement moisture problems. This will go a long way in not only protecting the value of your home but also the health of your family.

Wet basements are nasty places. They not only smell but feel nasty. If left unchecked, they can provide the perfect environment for mold and mildew to grow. They can also be the perfect home for other pests and insects.

If you’re determined to keep basement moisture out, here are a few strategies to get you started:

  1. Add extensions to your gutters

Basement moisture problems aren’t confined to the ground level. They can result from further up. This includes the runoff from your roof. If the runoff is not been drained far enough from the foundation, it can result in moisture problems by increasing hydrostatic pressure against the basement walls.

You can prevent this from happening by adding extensions to the gutters. These extensions should drain water not less than five feet away from the house.

  1. Fix the plumbing

Are the pipes in your home leaking or dripping water near the foundation? Call your plumber and have these pipes fixed or replaced. This will prevent the leaking from continuing. You will not only save your basement but save money by preventing water wastage.

  1. Redirect surface water

If the landscape around your home is sloping towards the foundation, then surface water will flow towards your home. You’ll need to create a berm or trench that can direct water away from the foundation of your home.

One of the most effective ways of dealing with excess water in the soil is to install an exterior drain tile around the foundation walls. This will drain water from the soil and guide it away from the foundation walls. Be sure to have a professional basement contractor install this for the best results.

  1. Waterproof your walls

If you want to keep the water out, then you need to ensure that the basement walls are impermeable. The best way to do this is by installing a waterproof membrane on the exterior surface of the foundation walls. These membranes keep the water out and ensure your basement is kept nice and dry.

These methods used in combination will ensure that you have a dry basement for the long term. Contact a professional contractor to help you find the best solution for your basement.

drain tiles

3 Reasons Why a Plumber Shouldn’t Install Drain Tiles

Posted by Stephen Bertolacci on

Drain Tiles

Basement waterproofing refers to the process of using certain methods, materials and techniques to prevent water from penetrating the basement of a building or house. Since a basement is always located underneath the house or building waterproofing would require the use of strong sealants and materials as well as the installation of drain pipes and sumps to collect and remove water from accumulating in the basement.

Finding someone to repair leaks in your basement or home and perform any other repairs related to water seepage, leaking or flooding can be difficult. If you have a ‘water’ problem the first person that pops in your mind is a plumber but you would actually have to seek the basement waterproofing contractor.

Seepage through a cove joint is one common water problem in any basement. The cove joint is a small opening that lies between your basement floor and the wall. Heavy rainfall and melting snow cause hydrostatic pressure forcing water through the foundation.

Sealants won’t work as the pressure is so strong that it will force the sealants that is placed in the cove joint out. Instead, interior drain tiles will have to be installed to relieve water pressure to drain the water from the house.

Here are three reasons why a plumber won’t be able to install drain tiles –

  1. Training – Mostly plumbers are not trained or qualified to repair basement waterproofing problems. Their skills are directed towards how to control the entry and exit of water in the house in the proper fashion. Only the basement waterproofing contractor would be skilled and trained to fix basement water seepage problems.
  1. Experience – Even though the plumbers are efficient and could probably make out how to install drain tiles, they won’t have the necessary experience to finish the job efficiently. Only a basement waterproofing contractor would have the years of experience dealing with all kinds of basements to have the installation and design experience to properly install basement drain tiles.
  1. Materials and technology – Again only a basement waterproofing contractor would have all the requisite materials, products, and high-end technology needed to safely and effectively install drain tiles in the basement of a house or building and keep your basement clean and dry.

A plumber, even though his work has evolved through the years, will carry only the materials and equipment he would need to carry out his plumbing work effectively. The technology and material required for basement waterproofing would be much more expensive than what a plumber can afford.

Wet Basement | Trenton, NJ | Select Basement Waterproofing

3 Major Causes of Basement Moisture in Woodbridge NJ and Effective Remedies

Posted by Stephen Bertolacci on

Basement Moisture in Woodbridge NJ

If your home is built over a basement or crawl space it is highly likely that you are experiencing moisture problems in these spaces. According to American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) 60% of American homes suffer from basement moisture and 38% of these run the risk of toxic mold growth.

Why Care about Water in Basements?

The damage that is caused by such moisture cannot be underestimated. The National Foundation Repair Association, Inc. (NAFR) says over 70% of their members’ projects have to do with foundation damage caused by water leakage. What’s more, the risk of toxic mold growth to families is well detailed in studies by EPA.

Your family is at risk of respiratory complications, eye and skin irritation among other health issues due to such mold growth. Wooden foundation supports are also at risk of rotting which compromises your home’s structural integrity. High indoor humidity level also increase chances of bacteria growth and also diminishes quality of indoor air.

Major Causes and Solutions for Basement Moisture

Here are some major causes of basement water and techniques contractors prefer to correct them:

  1. Surface Runoff

Flowing water on the surface poses great danger to your basement. It causes lateral hydrostatic pressure against walls which eventually seep through wall cracks and gaps. Crawl bowl effect where porous soil stands next to walls also causes basement water. Your contractor will correct the poor grading to force water away from your walls. Other techniques include external water proofing and installation of a weeping tile in your yard.

  1. Subsurface Water

If your basement is constantly wet even when there are no storms your foundation might be sitting on a high water table. When the water level rises, pressure against your concrete floor forces water through the floor. The most applicable solution here is use of a sump pump which automatically drains such rising water away from your basement. An interior drainage system along the walls can also be used in conjunction with the sump pump depending on the level of subsurface water.

  1. Condensation

This is one of the most overlooked causes of basement moisture but your contractor will help identify if this is the major cause. Condensation shows up in form of droplets on walls and the floors. It occurs when warm air through vent windows comes into contact with un-insulated pipes or cold surfaces in the room. Use of a dehumidifier in the basement has been found to work effectively in drawing away moisture in the basement to avoid damage.

There are many other techniques to remedy basement moisture including improving surface drainage, proper basement window well drainage among others. The bottom-line is that this is a problem that you can’t dare ignore.

sump pump

In Basement Waterproofing, Don’t Forget About the Sump Pump

Posted by Stephen Bertolacci on

Don’t Forget About the Sump Pump!

A properly waterproofed basement is going to have a sump basin, where moisture in the basement from sources such as condensation, ground run offs and underground water will be channeled to by the perimeter drains of the waterproofing system.

It will also have a sump pump to pump out the water collected to a proper disposal area. These two components are vital in the prevention of water damage to basements, plus all the related problems of excess moisture around the house.

It is not uncommon for people to forget about their installed sump pump system. When was the last time you had yours cleaned, serviced or even checked? Typical recommendations say that sump equipment need to be maintained at least once a year, and this is only for a typical installation where water damage conditions are minimal. In areas where you have the sump pump running every now and then due to bad weather or a higher water table, the frequency of maintenance should be higher.

Rarely used systems may have some component failures that will go unnoticed up until that time of great need, like say a severe rainstorm or a hurricane. The backup systems for the sump can also fail at their time of need simply because they went unchecked for long periods of time. For the avoidance of dire and potentially damaging basement water situations caused by a failed sump system, always remember to check on it.

Maintenance

When carrying out maintenance of your basement waterproofing system, you should clean the sump basin and pump by removing dirt, sand, gravel and other kinds of debris that might be hampering the efficiency of the system.

Such kind of obstructions can greatly affect the ability of the pump to drain out the sump, leading to overflows. They will also force the pump to overheat as it works harder to overcome the impediments, leading to its shortened life.

If your system has the automatic sump pump that has a float switch, make sure it is also cleared of any obstructions that will jam it, and cause it not to switch the pump on or off when necessary. If you don’t have a float guard installed, you should consider getting one to prevent such situations.

Remember to test your system to make sure the pump is working okay because if it not, you will have to call in a qualified technician.

basement-leaks

Common Causes for Basement Leaks in Morganville NJ

Posted by Stephen Bertolacci on

Basement Leaks in Morganville NJ

Most homeowners are quick to assume that a basement leaks is a result of poor or improper building methods, but that is not always the case. Basement leaks are affected by numerous factors such as rain water management, drainage system, hydrostatic pressure and basement construction framework. Let’s take a look at the most common causes for basement leaks.

Water pressure

The foundation of a home can experience water pressure either laterally due to absorption of excess water by the soil that surrounds it, or from under the surface due to rise in ground water levels leading to floor cracks. Both these situations can cause water to seep through and lead to a basement leaks.

Wall leaks

Your basement walls may lead to leaks due to cracks in the surface that may have developed due to water pressure or deterioration over time. If the basement was built using brick or stone, chances are the mortar that snugly holds each block has allowed water to seep through. In case it uses a concrete construction, it may be caused due to the formation of honeycomb cavities in the wall.

Drainage leaks and clogs

If the sewer pipe suffers a leak, then it naturally affects your basement. Some signs of a drainage leak are stains or  molds on the ceiling, in the vicinity of the problematic sewer pipe in question. Sometimes the sewer line to your home or the local municipal line can get clogged, causing the sewer water to back into the drainage system in your house, and in turn lead to basement moisture and leaks.
A basement waterproofing professional can diagnose the issue that is causing leaks in your basement and help fix it.

waterproofing-solutions

Hurricane Season is Not Over: Basement Waterproofing Solutions

Posted by Stephen Bertolacci on

Waterproofing Solutions

We all remember hurricane Sandy, and recently had a scare with Joaquin, which thankfully veered off into the ocean before it created too much damage in the Jersey area. Of course, the media had us all hyped up and worried for a good week beforehand, and then it turned out we were spared. Officially, hurricane season runs through November 30th, so there’s still a chance of some storms coming our way. If your basement or crawlspace collects water with a lot of rain, waterproofing solutions can take care of that problem.

We don’t remind you of hurricane season as a scare tactic, but just to let you know there are solutions to your problem. If the news reports of Joaquin made your blood pressure rise because you knew it could cause some damage, then don’t sit idly by waiting for the next hurricane. Some very simple changes could help your home weather these storms with minimal damage.

At Select Basement Waterproofing, we can come look at your situation and determine the best course of action. We won’t try to sell you anything you don’t need, but will just offer our recommendations in a free consultation.

Every home is different, so what works for your neighbor might not work for you. Maybe the slope of your yard is the problem, and a french drain will divert water in a different direction. Sometimes hairline cracks to the foundation allow water to seep in, which can be easily repaired. Other times, a home’s foundation was not correctly waterproofed at the time it was built, and, an application of a waterproofing product or vapor barrier is well worth the investment. Sump pumps and dehumidifiers are also possibilities to help keep your basement dry.

If you’re a homeowner and heavy rain in the forecast concerns you, a simple call can start you on the road to getting the problem solved. We’ve taken care of some pretty serious water problems with fairly simple solutions. For more information, contact us.