vapor barriers

4 Benefits of Installing a Crawl Space Vapor Barrier in Morganville NJ

Posted by Jerome Fokas on

Crawl Space Vapor Barrier in Morganville NJ

Is your crawl space moldy? Is it infected with dry rot? Is the space damp? Crawl spaces are one of those spaces in the home that people rarely think about. However, these spaces have a big impact on the structure and environment of the house above. Having a healthy crawl space means having a healthy home. It is therefore important to maintain this space.

One of the best ways to ensure that your crawl space remains dry and health is by waterproofing the space. As you consider your options for waterproofing, your contractor will present you with different options. All of these options will include the installation of a crawl space vapor barrier. The benefits of installing this barrier include:

  1. Preventing moisture problems

Moisture problems in crawl spaces can be difficult to deal with. One of the most common problems that occur in damp crawl spaces is mold infestation. You may also experience dry rot, decay of wood and the destruction of other materials in the space due to high levels of moisture.

A vapor barrier will ensure that moisture cannot find its way into the space. The moisture levels in the crawl space can therefore be controlled and reduced a great deal. You can therefore prevent the growth of mold, the destruction of your property as well as the development of bad odors in the space. This will in turn help to improve the air quality within your home.

  1. Keep pests out

Crawl spaces provide the perfect environment for many pests to thrive. Pests enjoy dark and damp places. You may have an infestation on your hands if you’re not careful to keep your space clean.

Installing a barrier will ensure that pests aren’t able to enter the crawl space. Your home will therefore remain pest free.

  1. Keep floors in good condition

The floors on the first floor of your home constitute the roof of your crawl space. When the moisture levels are high in the crawl space, the floor will be affected. It is likely to expand and warp or even rot. This creates an unsafe environment in your home. Installing a barrier can help to prevent this.

  1. Improve energy efficiency

Installing a vapor barrier will help you have better control of the temperature in your home. No heat is lost to the external environment through the crawl space. You will save energy heating and cooling your home and therefore save money on your energy bills.

Contact us today for more information!

basement finishing

Basement Finishing: Should You Hire a Contractor?

Posted by Jerome Fokas 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.