Wall Cracks | Trenton, NJ | Select Basement Waterproofing

Wall Damage That May Indicate Issues With Your Foundation Trenton, NJ

Wall Damage That May Indicate Issues With Your Foundation Trenton, NJ

The appearance of cracks on your walls, foundation or basement can be unnerving. In addition to making structures look unsightly, cracks may also mean that there is some problem in the structure of walls or the foundation.

While some types of cracks simply indicate the shrinking of concrete and are therefore nothing much to worry about, the appearance of large cracks of any type should worry you. Here are details about four types of wall cracks and what they mean.

bowing or rotating walls Wall Damage That May Indicate Issues With Your Foundation Trenton, NJ

Vertical cracks

Vertical cracks run up and down in an upright position on walls and foundations. These types of cracks may also appear in a slightly slanting position (about 30 degrees relative to the perpendicular position). Vertical wall cracks often occur as a result of concrete shrinkage and are therefore also referred to a shrinkage cracks.

Narrow b are nothing to worry about because they are just a sign that the concrete is shrinking. However, you should be concerned if you see wide vertical cracks (wider than 3 mm or 1/8 inch). You should consult a wall repair expert if you see wider vertical cracks since such cracks may be an indicator of a significant foundation movement.

Diagonal cracks

Diagonal cracks run in a slanting manner (30-75 degrees relative to the perpendicular position) from one point to another on a wall. The cracks may be narrow (referred to as hairline cracks) or wider. Unlike vertical cracks, diagonal cracks are usually a sign of more serious structural issues. Such issues include an uneven shifting or settling of the foundation.

Uneven foundation movement or settling can occur as a result of a house having been built on a slope. It can also be due to excessive moisture in some sections of the soil around the foundation, which will cause the foundation to sink more on one side, leading to diagonal cracking.

Because diagonal wall cracks require more skills and resources to repair compared to vertical cracks, you need to call a professional wall repair company the moment you spot these cracks.

Stair step cracks

Stair step cracks are similar to diagonal cracks, save for the fact that they take the form of a staircase running along the joints between bricks. The causes and implications of stair step cracks are quite similar to those of diagonal cracks, meaning that you should consult an expert if you see stair step cracks.

ibeams cracked basement wall 1024x768 1 Wall Damage That May Indicate Issues With Your Foundation Trenton, NJ

Horizontal cracks

Horizontal wall cracks are a sign of severe damage to your building’s walls or foundation. These types of cracks occur due to foundation bowing, which is caused by any of the following factors:

  • Excessive hydrostatic pressure
  • Large roots near the foundation
  • Thermal movement of the soil around the foundation

Horizontal cracks are much more complicated and thus need to be urgently checked and repaired by a skilled technician.

Contact the Professionals at Everdry Waterproofing of S.E. Michigan Today! (732) 526-7770

Battery Backup System | Trenton, NJ | Select Basement Waterproofing

Why You Should Have A Battery Backup System Trenton, NJ

Why You Should Have A Battery Backup System Trenton, NJ

If you live in an area that is prone to flooding, you need to have a dependable sump pump and a good battery backup system. Because of their location below other floors of a building, basements and crawlspaces are prone to flooding, and this can cause notable damage and health issues in your home.

download Why You Should Have A Battery Backup System Trenton, NJ

When water accumulates in your basement or crawlspace, the moisture can cause significant damage to the floor and walls. Humid conditions also cause the growth of mold, which apart from causing damage to drywalls walls, ceilings and other structures, also causes health problems like allergies and respiratory issues.

It is therefore important to have a mechanism that can efficiently and consistently remove water from areas that are prone to flooding. One of the ways to achieve this is by installing a sump pump and having a reliable battery backup system.

Sump pump?

This is a device that is used to remove water from areas that are susceptible to flooding. To play their role effectively, sump pumps are positioned in the lowest points in a home, notably within the crawlspace or the basement.

home basement sump pump and float switch Why You Should Have A Battery Backup System Trenton, NJ

How a sump pump works

A sump pump is designed such that it turns on automatically when the level of water at the point where it is located reaches a certain point. This happens during occurrences such as flooding when it rains or when there is a substantial leakage from the plumbing systems. The sump pump removes the water and dumps it at a designated area outside through its discharge pipe.

How a battery backup system can help you

A battery backup system helps ensure that your sump pump is on standby at all times. Interestingly, flooding of the basement is in most cases associated with bad weather. Storms and falling trees can leave you without power. Yet it is during storms that your sump pump needs to be up and running.

With a battery backup system, you are able to protect your home from flooding by ensuring that your sump pump has power even when the mains electricity fails. A battery backup system turns on automatically any time there is a power outage in your home.

So, by installing a good battery backup system, you will not have any reason to worry in the event that there is a storm because your sump pump will function normally.

Contact the Professionals at Select Basement Waterproofing Today! (732) 526-7770

Elevator Waterproofing | New Brunswick, NJ | Select Basement Waterproofing

Reasons Elevator Waterproofing Should Be Completed By A Pro New Brunswick, NJ

 

Reasons Elevator Waterproofing Should Be Completed By A Pro New Brunswick, NJ

Elevator pits are just like small basements. This is because these pits are almost always below ground level. Even when a building has a basement, the elevator pit will still be the lowest part of the building. Elevator waterproofing is therefore important for the health and safety of the building as well as ensuring the elevator operates at its maximum ability.

Elevator Pit Main Image Reasons Elevator Waterproofing Should Be Completed By A Pro New Brunswick, NJ

Like basements, elevator pits are vulnerable to water seepage. Water from the surrounding soil can seep into the elevator pit and cause problems. Waterproofing the elevator pit helps to prevent this.

However, it isn’t enough to waterproof the elevator pit and forget about it. Regular maintenance is required to ensure that the elevator pit remains in good condition. Without maintenance, the elevator pit‘s waterproofing may fail. The following are some of the most common reasons for elevator waterproofing failure.

  1. Errors During The Waterproofing Process

Some people try to save money on waterproofing their elevators by doing it themselves or hiring the cheapest contractor. This often results in errors during the waterproofing process. The waterproofing may not be installed properly or poor-quality materials may be used. This may result in the failure of the system after a short while.

  • Cracks in the elevator pit wall

Like basements, elevator pit walls can develop cracks. These cracks may be the result of a wide range of factors including hydrostatic pressure acting against the walls of the elevator pit or movement of the building’s foundation. Wall cracks can act as channels through which water can seep into the elevator pit and cause moisture problems.

  • Deterioration of construction elements

This may occur as a result of various factors including the use of poor-quality material during construction, failing to apply the right construction techniques or cutting corners in other ways during construction. When the structure of the elevator pit fails, the waterproofing elements will fail along with it, resulting in water seepage.

images 1 Reasons Elevator Waterproofing Should Be Completed By A Pro New Brunswick, NJ
  • A change in the water table

Water may seep into the elevator pit as a result of increased hydrostatic pressure against the elevator pit walls. This occurs when the water table rises. This often occurs due to flooding, heavy rainfall or melting snow.

It is important to have your elevator pit inspected every once in a while. Make it part of your annual building maintenance schedule. This will ensure that problems that could cause elevator waterproofing failure will be identified early and solutions implemented to prevent further damage. You will save money by preventing major damage and elevator failure.

Contact the Professionals at Select Basement Waterproofing Today! (732) 526-7770

Basement Waterproofing | Trenton, NJ | Select Basement Waterproofing

Things You Should Know About Basement Waterproofing Cost Estimates Trenton, NJ

Things You Should Know About Basement Waterproofing Cost Estimates Trenton, NJ

Are you considering investing in basement waterproofing? One of the biggest concerns homeowners have when faced with the need to waterproof their basement is how much it will cost. The best way to get this information is by having a professional contractor provide you with an estimate.

The following are some things you should know about basement waterproofing estimates.

basement waterproofing new jersey Things You Should Know About Basement Waterproofing Cost Estimates Trenton, NJ
  • The cost of waterproofing will depend on the solution provided by the contractor

There is a wide range of options available for waterproofing basements. The estimate you will be provided with will depend on the type of solution suggested by the contractor. You may therefore be provided with different costs by different contractors depending on the solutions they offer and the price of their labor.

  • You can seek estimates from different contractors

Many homeowners go with the first waterproofing contractor they contact. They don’t take the time to consider other opinions or to compare different estimates. This is one of the biggest mistakes you can make when considering basement waterproofing. Comparing estimates from different contractors is the best way to identify great deals as well as the best solution for your basement.

  • Many contractors give estimates for free

If you’re worried about the cost of getting an estimate, don’t be. Many professional contractors offer this service for free. You can therefore contact different contractors and request for their estimates for the waterproofing project to compare. You are under no obligation to go with any particular contractor until you choose the contractor you will engage for the project.

  • Estimates are just that

Estimates aren’t an accurate calculation of the cost of the project. An estimate is just an estimate. There is therefore a good chance that you will spend more on the project than was outlined in the estimate. The estimate is just a guideline of how much the contractor thinks the project would cost.

  • Never go with an estimate that is too low

It can be tempting to go with the contractor offering the lowest estimate in an effort to save money. However, you may end up regretting this. In many cases, extremely low costs are achieved by cutting corners. This could result in failure or damage that will require you to pay a different contractor to fix.

Go through the estimates and determine which contractor meets your needs. Choose a cost-effective solution for your basement. 

Contact the Professionals at Select Basement Waterproofing Today! (732) 526-7770

Elevator Waterproofing | Morganville, NJ | Select Basement Waterproofing

Elevator Waterproofing – What to Do When You Find Water in Your Elevator Pit Morganville, NJ

Elevator Waterproofing – What to Do When You Find Water in Your Elevator Pit  Morganville, NJ

Have you found water in your elevator pit? Elevator pits lie below the level of the foundation of buildings. This means that water intrusion is a common problem for elevator pits. Elevator waterproofing can help to protect your building from equipment damage and the hazards that water intrusion presents.

If you’ve found water in your elevator pit, the following are some steps you should take for the safety of your elevator system and building.

  1. Stop using the elevator
Elevator pit water intrusion Elevator Waterproofing – What to Do When You Find Water in Your Elevator Pit  Morganville, NJ

The mechanics and electrical circuits for running the elevator are located within the elevator pit. If there’s water in the pit, it can cause damage to the circuits and the elevator system. Operating the elevator when there’s water in the elevator pit is dangerous. Be sure to stop usage of the elevator immediately.

  • Get in touch with your elevator service provider

It is important to get in touch with your elevator service provider for support. They should be able to provide you with technicians that are trained to handle such situations. This isespecially important in case systems are damaged and require repair. It is also important for maintenance of the elevator and ensuring that it works well after the water is removed.

  • Contact an elevator waterproofing company

Get in touch with an elevator waterproofing company to remove the water and determine its source. The company will also provide solutions to keep water out of the elevator pit based on the findings of their inspection.

Please note that not all waterproofing companies can provide elevator waterproofing services. You should look for a contractor that is experienced in waterproofing elevator pits. This will increase your chances of success with waterproofing. You will have less to worry about in future.

If you want to get the best deal, you should contact at least three companies and request for quotations. Compare the quotations and choose the company that offers the best value for money.

  • Provide an alternative for elevator users

Waterproofing an elevator pit often isn’t something that can be done in one day. Depending on the issue, waterproofing may take two or three days and, in some cases, even longer. It’s therefore important to provide visitors to the building with alternatives, for example, the use of the emergency stairs or a service elevator.

Waterproofing your elevator pit is important for the safety of your building. Be sure to hire an experienced contractor for the job.

Contact the Professionals at Select Basement Waterproofing Today! (732) 526-7770

Foundation Repair | Trenton, NJ | Select Basement Waterproofing

Don’t Miss the Signs That Your Home Needs Foundation Repair Trenton, NJ

Don’t Miss the Signs That Your Home Needs Foundation Repair Trenton, NJ

Foundation repair is required in many situations. However, a small crack does not indicate an immediate need for foundation repair. There are plenty of signs and signals that something is not right with your foundation when there happens to be potential serious damage. Unfortunately, many homeowners ignore the signals, allowing things to deteriorate further. If these homeowners had paid attention and called for help at the first sign of trouble, repairs could have taken place before further damage took place. These repairs would have been easier, less expensive, and there would have been less damage to their home and belongings. Below are some signs to consider.

Cracks, Crumbling, and Water

One of the first signs that your foundation is in trouble is usually cracking in the foundation. These cracks allow water to get into the basement. The cracks can and often do become worse over time.

Cracks and walls can get repaired, and your basement can get waterproofed. It is important to note that not all water in the basement points to foundation issues. The water may be coming up into the basement due to a high water level. In this case, having your basement waterproofed will stop the problem.

Doors and Windows that Are Difficult to Open and Close

If your doors and windows are becoming more challenging to operate, it is a sign of foundation problems. Think back to when you first moved into your home, did they open and close more easily? They may become more difficult over a long period, which makes it harder for you to notice, so it’s essential to pay attention.

Look Up

Do your ceiling and molding meet? They did at one time, and they should still meet now. If they do not, your foundation could very well be the cause, and you should have it checked out.

The above are a few of the signs of foundation issues. Pay attention to your house, so that you will be alerted at the first sign of problems. Foundation issues can impact the entire integrity of your structure. If they are allowed to progress, you could experience bowing walls and wall failure. A strong foundation is needed to have a safe and secure home. If you suspect foundation issues, call for a professional inspection today.

Contact the Professionals at Select Basement Waterproofing Today! (732) 526-7770

Possiac County , NJ | Elevator Waterproofing | Select Basement Waterproofing

Negative Side Waterproofing for Elevator Waterproofing | Passaic County, NJ

Negative Side Waterproofing for Elevator Waterproofing

When it comes to waterproofing, you will most likely come across the terms positive side and negative side waterproofing. It’s important to understand these terms and the differences between them.

The term ‘positive’ in waterproofing refers to the side of the structure on which the hydrostatic pressure is acting on directly. In a basement, the positive side would be the external surface of the basement walls. Therefore, exterior waterproofing of the basement would be positive side waterproofing.

Elevator pits are subject to penetration by water just like basements. The most common culprit of water penetration is water accumulating in the soil surrounding the elevator pit, resulting in an increase in hydrostatic pressure. The water accumulation is often a result of ineffective drainage systems, leaking drain pipes, breaks in supply lines, rising groundwater, backup of neighboring sewer lines, improper grading as well as excessive rainfall.

select image waterproofing 150x150 Negative Side Waterproofing for Elevator Waterproofing | Passaic County, NJ

Waterproofing an elevator pit in an already constructed building can be challenging. You can’t access the positive side through excavation as you would a basement. Another solution for elevator waterproofing must be applied.

Negative side waterproofing is often used for elevator waterproofing in already existing buildings. This solution is not only practical but also the most cost effective solution.

Negative side waterproofing solutions

There are various waterproofing options that allow for waterproofing an elevator from the negative side. In selecting a solution for your elevator pit, ensure that it:

  1. Accounts for the pressure that the water will exert when entering through the walls of the elevator pit. Water entering from the positive side of the elevator pit walls will most likely be pressurized.
  2. Creates a strong bond with the walls of the elevator pit even in the presence of water. This bond should be reliable enough to withstand water and therefore keep the water out of the pit.
  3. Be able to withstand contraction and expansion of the building’s walls. It should be able to move naturally along with the elevator pit walls. It will otherwise succumb to pressure and tear which will result in water seepage.

It is important to discuss your needs for elevator waterproofing with your contractor. Do your own research to find out more about the different products available in the market. This will ensure that you can make an informed decision. The products you apply should be durable, cost effective and efficient. They should be the best products you can get in the market for the best results.

 

Battery Backup System | New Brunswick, NJ | Select Basement Waterproofing

Signs That Your Sump Pump or Battery Backup System Needs Replacement New Brunswick, NJ

If you have a basement or crawlspace, it’s wise to have a sump pump and battery backup system installed to prevent flooding. With these systems in place, you can rest assured that you won’t wake up to a flooded basement.

However, like anything else, sump pumps and backup systems don’t run forever. With regular maintenance, a good system can last for well over 20 years and keep your space moisture-free and safe. There are instances when these systems fail sooner than anticipated. When this happens, your home becomes vulnerable to flood damage. It’s therefore important to be on the lookout for signs that your sump pump or battery backup system needs replacement. sump pit liner 239x300 Signs That Your Sump Pump or Battery Backup System Needs Replacement New Brunswick, NJ

  1. Vibrating excessively

Sump pumps vibrate when water flows through them. They may even vibrate more vigorously when the occasional dirt or gravel is drawn up into the impeller. Solid objects that come into contact with the impellers can damage them. This can result in the unit vibrating excessively.

When your unit sounds louder or is vibrating more than it did previously, it’s time to call in a professional technician to have a look. They can diagnose the issue and provide you with a solution. You may have to replace the pump. You will also have to attend to the part of the system that is letting gravel and dirt into the drain.

  1. Age

How long have you had the sump pump and the backup system? If you’ve had it for several years, it may have reached the end of its life and may not be useful anymore. Your system may not be able to handle the same volume of water it did in the past. It may break down in the middle of a storm and leave you with a flooded home.

Have a technician inspect your system and help you determine if you need to install a new pump.

  1. Rust

Pumping systems with metal bits may succumb to rust over time. This is because the systems are constantly exposed to water and bacteria. This eventually leads to formation of rust. The accumulation of rust in your system, especially around the terminals of the battery, can result in extensive damage and complete failure of the system. It can leave you with a flooded basement.

  1. The system is continuously running

If the system is running even when water is not flowing into the basement, it’s wise to have it checked by a technician. The system may not be working properly. The pump may burn out as a result of running for too long.

Ensure that your system is inspected at least once a year. Regular maintenance can help to prolong the life of your system. However, when the time comes to replace it, be sure you do so as soon as possible to protect your property.

Contact the Professionals at Select Basement Waterproofing Today! (732) 526-7770

Crawlspace Waterproofing | Middletown, NJ | Select Basement Waterproofing

Who Cares About Crawlspace Waterproofing? You Should Middletown, NJ

As a homeowner, you have enough to worry about and take care of around the home. You might consider areas such as the crawlspace unimportant. If this sounds like you, you are mistaken. You may even be one of the many homeowners who think that water in your crawlspace is okay and normal. Again, this is a mistake. Instead of wondering who cares about crawlspace waterproofing, ask yourself if this is something that should concern you. If you have water in your crawlspace, it is something that you should be worried about for many reasons. crawl space waterproofing 300x225 Who Cares About Crawlspace Waterproofing? You Should Middletown, NJ

Mold and Mildew Spreads

If your crawlspace is wet or even just moist, you run the risk of mold and mildew. Don’t automatically assume that the mold infestation is going to stay in the crawl space. Mold can spread and could find its way upstairs to your living space. Mold can cause a variety of ailments that can impact you and your family. Mold can cause headaches, sneezing, stuffy nose, asthma, and more. It needs oxygen, water, and food. All these things that are plentiful in your crawlspace.

You Think You Don’t Have Food in Your Crawlspace.

When you read about what mold needs to grow, you may have thought to yourself that you do not have food in your crawlspace. You may not have food that you would want to eat, but you do have food that mold enjoys.

  • The wet and humid crawl space environment is attractive to insects. As insects die in your crawlspace, they are the perfect thing for mold to feed.
  • Rodents also enjoy living in a wet crawl space.
  • Don’t be surprised to learn that snakes are living in the area, as well.

While the crawl space is not hospitable for humans, insects, rodents, and snakes find the conditions to be perfect.

Air Rises

A wet crawl space is not a healthy crawlspace. The air is unhealthy, and as you know, air rises. That unhealthy air is going into your home. You may not even notice it, but it’s happening.

This information should help you understand why you should care about having your crawlspace waterproofed. Don’t let mold, insects, rodents, and unhealthy air overtake your home. You put so much care and effort into keeping your home clean and healthy, don’t stop at the crawlspace. Call the professional waterproofing company to inspect, diagnose, and waterproof your space.

Contact the Professionals at Select Basement Waterproofing Today! (800) 593-8379

Basement Waterproofing | Trenton, NJ | Select Basement Waterproofing

6 Signs That You Need Help From a Basement Waterproofing Contractor in Trenton, NJ

Basement waterproofing is one of the ways of protecting your basement against damage by water. Left on its own, a basement whose walls and floor are leaking will experience further damage that can ultimately affect the structural integrity of your building. It is essential to be familiar with some signs that suggest that your basement has leaks. If you see the following signs in your basement, it is time to call a basement waterproofing contractor. D001CZHWsAIDNO2 300x216 6 Signs That You Need Help From a Basement Waterproofing Contractor in Trenton, NJ

  1. Growth of Mold and Mildew

Mold and mildew thrive in damp conditions. The presence of mold or mildew is a sign that your basement has high humidity. The high humidity could be as a result of a leaking wall. It could also be water that is seeping into the basement through the floor.

  1. Water Puddles in the Basement

The presence of water puddles in the basement indicates that the basement has high moisture. The water puddles could be due to water that leaks into the basement through the wall. It could also be as a result of the condensing dampness in the basement. Any of these signs indicate that the basement is porous and requires waterproofing.

  1. Efflorescence

Efflorescence is the movement of salt to the surface of a permeable material such as concrete or a brick wall. The salt deposits at the surface of the porous material as a white chalky substance. Therefore, the presence of a white chalky substance on the interior basement wall indicates that water and different types of salts are being absorbed by the basement wall. A basement waterproofing contractor will help you solve this problem.

  1. Wetness and Foul Smell

A basement that is wet or damp is a sign that water is seeping into the basement. The foul smell could be signaling the growth of mold or mildew as a result of the high moisture level in the basement.

  1. Cracks on the Basement Wall or Floor

If you spot any type of crack on the wall or floor of the basement, you need to call a basement waterproofing contractor as quickly as possible. Given that many cracks are caused by water damage, any delay in repairing cracks in the basement could lead to further damage to the basement and the foundation wall.

  1. Warped Walls

Warped basement walls result from problems such as the application of hydrostatic pressure on the walls. A certified contractor will help you excavate the exterior section of the basement, fix the wall, and waterproof the wall to avert further damage.

Contact the Professionals at Select Basement Waterproofing Today! (732) 526-7770