Basement Waterproofing | Trenton, NJ | Select Basement Waterproofing

Bowing Basement Walls – Why You Should be Concerned in Morganville, NJ

Posted by Stephen Bertolacci on

Bowing basement walls occur when moisture or soil exert pressure on the walls, causing them to curve inward. Some of the first signs of bowing basement walls are cracks, and if ignored, the bowing in the walls will become worse over time. If you notice this, you should have your basement walls checked out as soon as possible. Here are the reasons why you need to be concerned about bowing basement walls.

  1. The walls can cause structural problems or even collapse basement lowering new jersey 1 1 300x225 Bowing Basement Walls – Why You Should be Concerned in Morganville, NJ

Even minor bowing in the walls can cause structural problems throughout the home. You may notice cracks in doorways, or doors becoming stuck. Windows can begin to stick, and the floors over the basement walls can become uneven and begin to slope. All these are major structural issues that can be avoided if the bowing basement walls are repaired sooner rather than later.

If the bowing is ignored, eventually it can become so severe that the walls will collapse under the pressure. These walls are the foundation of your home and are an integral part of its structure. If they collapse, your home may also collapse.

  1. The bowing basement walls can cause further moisture problems

The wall cracks that are a sign of bowing in walls are an opening for water to seep through from the outside. Water from the surrounding soil will begin to move into the basement, and you may begin to see water spots and puddles forming.

As water builds up in the basement, it can cause additional problems. For example, the basement may become flooded or wood may begin to rot. Your basement may have an insect infestation, or mold and mildew may begin to grow. Not only do these cause damage, they can also affect your health.

  1. The pipes or fixtures can become damaged

The bowing basement walls can damage the pipes and fixtures that run along them. They may begin to break, which can cause extensive and costly damage. They may also cause a number of additional problems, such as burst pipes or electrocution.

If you have noticed cracks in your basement or that the walls have become bowed, you will want to take action quickly to avoid further damage. An experienced contractor can inspect your home and help you determine the best solution to your problem. In doing so, you can be sure that your home is structurally sound and safe for you and your family.

Contact the professionals at Select Basement Waterproofing today! (732) 526-7770

Basement Waterproofing | New Brunswick, NJ | Select Basement Waterproofing

BEFORE you Remodel Your Basement Do THIS | Passaic County, NJ

Posted by Stephen Bertolacci on

Basement Remodeling

Are you planning to remodel or finish your basement? That is a great idea. Basements can provide the extra living space that you seek without having to invest hundreds of thousands in an extension. Finishing your basement will add value to your home too.

While the prospect of renovation and creating a new space can be exciting, there are many factors to consider before you dive into basement remodeling. Basements aren’t like any other room in your home. There’s a lot more that goes into converting a basement into a living space.

  1. Have your basement inspected

Many builders fail to pay adequate attention to the design and structure of basements. It is therefore not uncommon to find basements with various structural problems. If you intend to convert your basement into a living space, it is important to ensure that the space is not only safe but also comfortable.

It is therefore important to have your basement inspected for structural problems. Contact a professional and experienced contractor to take a close look at your foundation. This ensures that any issues with your foundation are identified early.

243701478269094 150x150 BEFORE you Remodel Your Basement Do THIS | Passaic County, NJ

It is important to ensure that your basement is waterproofed. It doesn’t matter whether you’ve discovered cracks in your basement wall or not. Don’t leave waterproofing until after finishing the basement. Water can cause serious damage to your belongings if you give it a chance to penetrate your basement. Be proactive with your basement and ensure that it is waterproof.

Contact a professional contractor and have the basement waterproofed. Ensure that the method you use for waterproofing will give you long term results.

  1. Deal with radon

It is also important to have your basement inspected for radon. Radon is carcinogenic. If you have dangerously high levels in your basement, it is important to deal with it. This will ensure your home is safe. You will need to hire a professional to mitigate this risk by eliminating or reducing your exposure.

  1. Make room for natural lighting

Natural lighting is important in basement remodeling. It will make the basement feel open and more comfortable. A light and airy basement goes a long way to improving the aesthetics of the room.

Consider having window wells installed to increase the natural light in the room. Ensure that the window wells are up to the standards and codes in your area.

Talk to a professional contractor about basement remodeling. This will ensure that you cover all the important factors before you begin the actual renovation and therefore safeguard your investment.

Morris County, NJ | Select Waterproofing

Is Your Sump Pump Discharge Line Working Against You? | Morris County, NJ

Posted by Stephen Bertolacci on

Sump Pump Discharge Line

The sump pump discharge line is the pipe that gets the water out of your basement.  The sump pump is tied into the discharge line that goes up and out of the basement and from there filtered through another drain pipe and out into a drainage area in the yard.  If your sump pump system is designed correctly, it can keep your basement dry.  If it isn’t, your discharge line could be working against you.

Pump Strength with Discharge Line Length (or head)

First, make sure that the pump is the right size and strength for the length of the discharge line and the amount of water you need to be pumping.  The efficiency of a pump is figured by how many gallons of water it can pump out per hour.  The length of the discharge line, or head, is factored into the equation. Sometimes when a pump states the amount of gallons per hour, it is at zero foot head. That means that is how fast it can pump out the water at the floor level.  If a pump says it pumps 2,000 gallons at an 8 foot head (which is about what you need to get the water out of a typical basement) that is a good, strong pump.  A professional basement waterproofing contractor can help you determine the right pump to install in your system.

maxresdefault 150x150 Is Your Sump Pump Discharge Line Working Against You? | Morris County, NJ

The Force of Gravity

Another way a discharge line could be working against you is with gravity.  The discharge line is usually vertical and goes up the basement wall. If you don’t have the proper check valve on the discharge line (and backup check valves in place) water will start going the wrong way back down into the sump pit or liner.  Generally one third to two thirds of the total water pumped will slip back down if you don’t have a one-way valve to stop the water from going back down into the pit for the pump to pump it out again.  Make sure your check valve is working properly and your discharge line isn’t working against you.

Keep the Discharge Line Clear

While the sump pump is the heart of the waterproofing system, the discharge lines are the veins and arteries. If either part fails, your system is in trouble.  If the water can’t exit the basement due to clogged or frozen discharge lines, the whole system won’t work to keep the basement dry.  There will be water backed up, and even if the pump is working, your basement could flood.  It is important to take precautions to make sure the lines don’t freeze or clog.  Regular check and maintenance on the discharge lines will make sure they don’t get full of debris. The vertical discharge line and the lines on the outside of the house should be in good working condition for the system to work effectively.

Replacing Sheet Rock After a Flood Jersey City, NJ

Posted by Stephen Bertolacci on

Flooding Can Cause Problems for Your Home

A basement flood in New Jersey is bad enough in an unfinished basement. However, if you have a finished or partially finished basement with any sheetrock as wall board then you will need to replace the sheetrock.

Flooding can lead to wet sheetrock

Sheetrock absorbs water. If it comes into contact with any amount of water (or even moisture for that matter) you have a problem. Sometimes you will only need to replace part of the sheetrock on a wall. You can cut out the wet portion and replace it with new sheetrock. Sheetrock will not dry out on its own before you will have a problem with mold behind the walls. If you leave wet sheetrock, mold will grow behind the wall because mold is using the material in the sheetrock for food. Add the water and the dark, damp spots behind the wall and a serious mold problem could start to grow in no time.

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How to deal with wet sheetrock

If you are trying to save part of the wall, you will need to determine how high the water has traveled up the wall. The longer the sheetrock sits in the standing water, the higher the water problem will be. Typically, water travels up the sheetrock 3-6 inches a day. If it is left for a few days, the water could be halfway up the wall.

One way to check for water damage in sheetrock is to slice the wall with a razor. It will cut easier if the wall is wet. You will notice the blade slide quicker and easier through the wet wall compared to the dry sheetrock. Find where the wall is dry, and cut a straight line there to remove the wet sheetrock.

Like we mentioned above, it is important to remove all wet sheetrock to avoid a potential mold problem. Never leave wet sheetrock after a basement flood in New Jersey or discovered water problem.

Have a professional contractor help fix the problem

contractor cob 150x150 Replacing Sheet Rock After a Flood Jersey City, NJ

A professional basement waterproofing contractor can help you in this process. He can remove the damaged sheetrock after a basement flood in New Jersey and help you install a basement waterproofing system to help avoid any future problems.

The other option is to replace all the sheetrock in the basement with waterproof wallboard. So, if there is another basement flood in New Jersey, you won’t have to replace the walls again. The EPA says basements should be finished with waterproof and water resistant materials. Think tile instead of carpet; plastic waterproof wallboard instead of sheetrock. The basement is inherently wetter and should not be finished like the upstairs even if you have a basement waterproofing system installed.

Contact us for more information about basement waterproofing!

The 4 Permanent Basement Waterproofing Solutions Union County, NJ

Posted by Stephen Bertolacci 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.

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build french drain dsbrody standard c125d56484ad75eb229266c2ba5224fa 150x150 The 4 Permanent Basement Waterproofing Solutions Union County, NJ

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.

Elevator Waterproofing Hudson County, NJ

Posted by Stephen Bertolacci on

Elevator Waterproofing Hudson County, NJ

The basic construction of a typical elevator includes an elevator pit. This pit is usually below the floor level of the last floor that the lift services. This pit is used to house the counterweights, wiring and other fixtures necessary for the safe operation of the lift.

It is important to invest in professional elevator waterproofing. This protects your elevator pit from water seepage.

Elevator waterproofing is especially important for the following reasons:

  • It prevents damage to the elevator pistons

If the pistons of the elevator are exposed to a high level of moisture, they are likely to start rusting and will corrode with time. This will result in the leaking of the lift packing. The elevator will therefore become unsafe to use.

  • You’ll save on elevator repairs

Many building supervisors ignore the elevator pit. To them, waterproofing the elevator pit is an expense that can be ignored. However, exposure of the elevator to moisture results in more expensive repairs. You would spend much less by simply ensuring that the pit is properly waterproofed in the first place.

  • Prevent downtime

When damage occurs to your elevator as a result of the water present in the elevator pit, you’ll have to call in your elevator service provider to assist with repairs. However, many elevator service providers will not assist you until you address the seepage issues in your elevator pit. They will consider these conditions unsafe. This will result in extended elevator downtime. This can potentially lead to loss of income in a commercial or residential rental building.

  • Prevent bad odor

While your elevator may continue operating even under these conditions, the collection of water in the elevator pit can lead to the production of a bad odor. The water combines with oil and can become hazardous too.

  • Prevent damage to the traveling cable

As more water accumulates in the elevator pit, there are chances that the traveling cable of the elevator will be damaged. This leads to even more downtime as the lift becomes unusable.

It is important to have the elevator pit inspected by a professional waterproofing contractor. A licensed professional can guide you on the best solution to apply to your pit for the best results.

Waterproofing of the elevator pit often involves draining the elevator pit. The pit is then cleaned and dried out. The contractor then applies their solution of choice to the elevator pit to achieve waterproofing.

Controlling Moisture With Basement Dehumidifiers Ocean County, NJ

Posted by Stephen Bertolacci on

Basement Dehumidifiers Ocean County, NJ

Excess moisture in your basement can become a serious problem over time, eventually causing damage to your foundation and possibly affecting your home’s air quality. Fortunately, with basement dehumidifiers  and other preventative measures, you can control moisture problems in your home’s basement and protect your home.

Use a Basement Dehumidifier

If the humidity levels in your home are high, consider investing in a basement dehumidifier, which is a unit that, while running, can remove excess moisture from the air and prevent condensation, mold, and mildew from forming around your basement walls. A dehumidifier is one of the best options for controlling moisture in any space.

Keep Gutters and Downspouts Clean

Another possible way to control moisture in your basement is to keep your gutters and downspouts clean. Surprising, right? By keeping gutters and downspouts clean, however, you can prevent water overflow from running down into the ground near your home and seeping towards the foundation–especially during rainy times of the year. Furthermore, always make sure that your downspouts are directing water at least several feet away from the foundation of the home.

Be on the Lookout for Plumbing Leaks

Finally, be on the lookout for signs of plumbing leaks that could be sending water into the walls and/or ceiling of your basement. Specifically, look for signs of leaks behind walls and above ceiling drywall by checking for discoloration of the paint. Often times, this is indicative of water damage caused by a burst or leaky pipe.

As you can see, there are a few simple ways to go about keeping your basement’s moisture levels down. For more information on keeping your basement moisture-free, contact us today.

What You Need To Know About French Drains – Ocean County, NJ

Posted by Stephen Bertolacci on

Water is bad for foundations, but it is a natural part of the world we live in. When it rains, water seeps into the ground. There is also groundwater that is already present in the ground and can seep up to destroy a foundation.

So, how can you keep your foundations sound?

The answer is a French drain. Also known as a weeping, uncertain or rubble drain, this drain consists of a trench that is filled with rocks or gravel. Many French drains also contain a perforated pipe. The primary use of the drain is to prevent surface or ground water from penetrating into or damaging the foundations of a building.

The name does not come from France, the country but was named after the person who promoted the idea in 1859 through his book on drainage on farms, Henry French.

How they work

French drains are constructed around foundations to give water an easy channel through which it can flow. Water in the surrounding soils runs into the gravel that fills the drain and down through the perforations in the pipe that is often located at the bottom of the trench.

Water collects in the pipe and is channeled away from the foundations to a point some distance away from the house.

It is important for the trench bottom to be constructed at a slope of about 1 inch for every 8 feet traveled in the direction that the water will flow. The French drain may terminate in any place depending on your situation and preference. Some examples include:

  • Low lying areas within your property
  • Dry wells
  • The street
  • Drainage ditches

Deciding when to put in a French drain

French drains have become necessary to help with drainage. This is true especially for:

  • Homes that are experiencing a problem with surface water. You may have a soggy lawn or driveway that washes out.
  • Homes whose basements are being damaged by water. It is important to ensure that water from the surrounding soil is directed away from the foundations. This ensures that the foundation is not destroyed.
  • Homes that are being constructed on a hillside. It is important to install a French drain if you will be building a retaining wall.

Surface water problems

Shallow French drains in Morganville NJ are a great way to deal with surface water problems. The French drain should be constructed to intercept water on the property and channel it away from the building’s foundations.

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basement waterproofing

Signs of Basement Leaks – Union County, NJ

Posted by Stephen Bertolacci on

Basement leaks in New Jersey have many common causes. First, water that is on the ground can seep into your foundation and basement floor. Water could also leak into your basement due to issues with your gutters. Your gutters may overflow due to heavy rain, clogs, a sudden thaw, or poor installation. If you do not have enough gutters, water will also leak. Basement leaks in New Jersey are also often caused by disconnected downspouts, poor planning in terms of landscaping, and sprinklers aiming at your home. Finally, basement leaks in New Jersey are also a risk if your pipes have excessive condensation or if your interior walls have water inside them.

Signs of Basement Leaks in New Jersey

To catch basement leaks before they become serious floods, watch for these common signs.

  • Staining: Water stains on your basement floor or walls are a definite indication of a basement leak.
  • Odor: If your basement smells damp or musty, it is likely that there is excessive moisture and a potential leak.
  • Mold: Mold will also appear in a basement that has a leak, and it can come in many colors. If you suspect mold, you should have it tested.
  • Efflorescence: Efflorescence is a condition in which salt deposits are left by water that has evaporated. These may appear on your walls as gray or white ash, and it can sparkle.
  • Spalling: This also refers to salt deposits that are left behind, but spalling occurs when the surface that the salt is on begins to peel away or otherwise come off.

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5 Reasons to Invest in Elevator Waterproofing – Essex County, NJ

Posted by Stephen Bertolacci on

Elevators have become essential as the construction industry shifts focus to high rise buildings in order to make the most of vertical space when acreage is limited.

A lot of thought has to go into elevator design right from the start. Proper planning should include adequate elevator waterproofing. This is because the elevator pit is an integral part of the structure and function of the elevator. If you haven’t had your elevator pit waterproofed, the following are reasons you should contact a waterproofing contractor as soon as possible.

  1. Protect the lift’s mechanical system

The elevator pit is a vital part of the functioning of the elevator. Parts of the mechanical and electrical system of the elevator are located in the elevator pit. Moisture can result in these parts being damaged. Elevator waterproofing keeps water out of the elevator pit.

  1. Prevent the lift from breaking down

Moisture in the elevator pit can cause systems to fail. It can also increase the rate of wear and tear on different parts of the elevator. This can result in the elevator breaking down. Keeping moisture out of the pit will help to prevent this.

  1. Prevent health and safety issues

Leaving your elevator pit open to water penetration allows for the development of various health and safety issues including mold and pest infestations. These issues can cause problems throughout the building. You can save yourself the trouble of having to deal with them by investing in elevator waterproofing.

  1. Environmental issues

Water can pool in the elevator pit when nothing is done to keep it out. This water is likely to be polluted with oil and other lubricants used in the operation of the elevator. The water and the dissolved lubricants may pollute ground water if allowed to sip into the soil below the building.

  1. High costs

Waterproofing your elevator pit will help you save a lot of money in the repair, maintenance, and replacement of parts of the elevator’s operation system. You won’t have to deal with damage and other issues that moisture can cause to the system if allowed to penetrate the elevator pit.

Invest in waterproofing and avoid many of the issues that may arise. Find a reputable contractor with experience in waterproofing elevator pits to help.