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

Foundation Repair | Trenton, NJ | Select Basement Waterproofing

Foundation Repair – Understanding Underpinning Trenton, NJ

Foundation Repair – Understanding Underpinning  Trenton, NJ

Foundation issues can arise from a wide variety of causes. Factors such as unstable ground, flooding and drought can contribute to the instability of a foundation. When the damage affects the structure of the foundation, it is important for homeowners to seek a solution as soon as possible.

There are a wide variety of solutions available today. However, many homeowners shy away from foundation repair because of the costs involved. The problem with this is that simply ignoring the need to repair your foundation will not make the problem go away. In fact, the problem will only get worse over time and require more intensive repairs, which will be costlier.

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An effective solution

If you are looking for a highly effective foundation repair solution, you may be considering underpinning. This is an age-old technique used to repair foundations that have suffered the effects of settlement. However, it can cause a great inconvenience as you will be required to vacate your home for the period in which the work is to be done.

The underpinning process often involves:

  • Excavation of the foundation – This involves removing soil from under the home. Heavy machinery is used. Soil can be removed up to a depth of 10 feet.
  • Removal of soil from the property – The soil is loaded on large dump trucks and transported away from the site.
  • Pouring of concrete – The resulting holes are filled with concrete. The number of piers required will depend on the site and the level of damage to your foundation.
  • Curing – Time is allowed for the cement to cure. The time allowed depends on the type of cement used for the project. This stage could take several days.

Following the curing of the piers, you may proceed with waterproofing your foundation to keep it clean and dry. Many homeowners take advantage of the repair to have their basements finished. This creates extra living space in the home and increases its value.

Underpinning is labor intensive and can take several days or weeks to be completed, but it is highly effective. There will be lots of cement trucks and construction machinery on your property throughout the process. This can result in damage to your landscaping.

If you are considering underpinning for your foundation, be sure to talk to a professional foundation repair contractor. Consider all the options available to repair your foundation and determine which will work best for you.

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

Basement Waterproofing | Morganville, NJ | Select Basement Waterproofing

Basement Waterproofing Solutions for Every Home Trenton, NJ

If you have a home with a basement, your basement must remain dry. A wet basement can lead to a wide range of issues that are unpleasant and costly. It is less expensive, more convenient, and smarter to have the problem handled at the first sign of water or moisture in the basement. It is something that homeowners should be aware of, and you do not have to find puddles or inches of water in the basement, to have a problem. Even moisture in the basement can lead to mold, mildew, rot, staining, rusting, and pest problems. Basement waterproofing ensures that your basement remains dry.

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Outside the House

Excavation is an option done from the outside. A team comes in and digs down to the footers of the house. This method is known as positive-side waterproofing. During this process, several things take place.

  • If footer tiles need repair, it gets done during this process.
  • The walls of the basement get sealed. That adds a protective, waterproof membrane to the area so that water remains out.
  • The room then gets backfilled.

Repairs from the Inside

Repairs from the inside of the basement are known as negative-side waterproofing. It is an excellent option for many homeowners. It is much less disruptive than excavation. If water enters the basement by coming up through the floor or walls, this option works. A drain or drains get installed to lead the water out of the basement.  Often a sump pump is also installed, together with the pipes and the sump pump work to keep your basement dry.

In and Out Waterproofing

A multi-step process seals both inside and outside cracks that could be allowing water to come in. This process is less intrusive than excavation since the technicians dig the soil out by hand. The basement waterproofing technicians then inspect the walls from the outside and inside, making repairs as they are needed. The technicians will also install a drain, check footers, and make repairs. A perforated crock and pressure relief system also get installed during this process.

The first step to a dry basement is calling for an inspection from an experienced and expert basement waterproofing company. Once your review is complete, you and the skilled technician can discuss the various options available to you in greater detail and help you choose the one that works for your home and your budget.

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

Basement Sealing on Floor | Hunterdon, NJ | Select Basement Waterproofing

3 Basement Waterproofing Methods – Which One Is Right for You? Morganville, NJ

If water can find its way into your basement, this is a problem that must be addressed sooner rather than later. Fortunately, there are very effective basement waterproofing methods that will take care of the problem. Water can seep into the basement for various reasons; heavy rains, cracks or holes in the foundation, or a high water table in your area. Water in the basement can cause mold, which can make you feel sick. If you use your basement for storage, water will ruin your items. Water can also be dangerous if it comes in contact with electrical appliances that are in the basement.

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Excavation

Excavation involves digging around the home, all the way down to the footings.

  • Tiles around the footings are repaired or replaced.
  • The outside wall is sealed with waterproofing materials.
  • In some cases, an underground drain is installed.

This type of repair is highly effective. This type of repair is said to be on the positive side, that is, it stops water from ever getting into the home. A downside to this method is the cost. It is expensive and time-consuming.

Drain and sump pump

When you waterproof from the inside, this is considered the negative side. This is because installing a drain and sump pump takes care of water once it is already in the basement. However, this system is very effective, so effective that you might not even know that water is getting in. Your belongings stay dry and you reduce the risk of mold. This is a cost-effective method of keeping your basement dry. If excavation is not possible, this is the best solution for you.

Multi-step system

This system provides total protection by addressing all of the issues that impact the foundation. This method provides protection for your floor, walls and even ceiling. It is the best option if you have or would like to have a finished basement in your home.

Basement waterproofing is an excellent way to protect your home from mold, mildew, and other moisture-related issues. Even a small amount of water in your basement can cause problems. As soon as you see water coming in, call on the basement waterproofing professionals. They will assess the situation and discuss the options that are available to you. One thing that you can be sure of is that water coming into the basement is not something that will go away or fix itself.

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

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

House Foundation Cracks | Middleton, NJ | Select Basement Waterproofing

How to Diagnose and Fix House Foundation Cracks Middleton, NJ

House foundation cracks come in a wide range of sizes and shapes. It is common for foundation cracks to develop within about one year after the construction of a new building. Cracks commonly appear near windows, on the walls, on the floor, and in some sections of the foundation. Most cracks occur as a result of concrete settling and are therefore not a cause for alarm. But if cracks expand or allow water seepage, you need to contact an expert.

Having some knowledge about how to diagnose house foundation cracks and how they are repaired can help you know whether any crack that appears on your building warrants calling a crack repair company. Below, you will get some details about how to diagnose three types of cracks and what a crack repair contractor will do to repair the cracks.

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In most cases, diagonal or vertical cracks in the foundation of a house occur as the concrete settles in. Such cracks are common in new buildings. Diagonal cracks are positioned diagonally while vertical cracks are perpendicular to the floor or the ground. Small vertical and diagonal cracks (less than 1/8 inch wide) are nothing to worry much about but still need to be repaired. However, vertical and diagonal cracks that are wider than 1/8 inch indicate a more serious foundation problem and need to be inspected by an expert.

Identifying Horizontal Cracks

The presence of horizontal cracks on the foundation of a house suggests that there is a more severe structural problem. For instance, there could be considerable hydrostatic pressure from the surrounding soil as it absorbs water. This can lead to foundation bowing, more severe cracks, and even foundation failure.

How to Fix Vertical and Diagonal Cracks

Small vertical and diagonal cracks can be repaired using repair methods such as polyurethane and epoxy injections. The StablWall technology, which uses carbon fibers, can be used to repair large vertical and diagonal cracks. StablWall has unique properties such as high tensile strength and stiffness, as well as the ability to withstand high temperatures. These properties enable the material to form strong bonds and prevent further crack expansion.

How to Fix Horizontal Cracks

Technologies likeStablWall, repair beams and rods can be used to fix horizontal house foundation cracks. It is important to involve an experienced contractor when dealing with horizontal cracks and large vertical and diagonal cracks.

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

Ann Arbor, MI | Select Basement Waterproofing

Maximize Your Basement Space with Waterproofing Techniques | Trenton, NJ

Basement Waterproofing

If a basement is comfortable and well ventilated, that is all it needs in order to be used like the other rooms in your house. It doesn’t have to serve as a storage space; it can also be an extra bedroom or a play room. The space in any basement requires more attention and care due to its location. Additional lighting has to be provided too since very little natural lighting gets there.

Homeowners are often faced with problems of wet and flooded basements, especially during the rainy seasons, which is actually the main reason why basements are not utilized for anything other than storage and laundry. Fortunately, there are available solutions to wet basements and it is possible to have a dry and warm basement regardless of the season. All you need to do is carry out basement waterproofing for your basement, and have a well laid out drainage system.

Control measures that a homeowner can take to prevent wetness in a basement:

Uncontrolled water infiltration into a building is a predisposing factor for wet basement problems. What a homeowner needs to do is discourage any chance of water getting to the building by taking the measures below:

Cut off all possible water leak sources

If you can establish where the water in your basement is coming from, then you can be able to cut it off and prevent it from reaching your basement. Check the basement walls, and if you notice any cracks, get them filled immediately and see if there will be any changes.

Wash off that dirt on your gutters

If your gutters and downspouts are dirty and clogged, any water collected on them is likely to get dumped next to the foundation of your building and find its way into your basement.

Direct water in your downspouts away from the foundation of the home

Ensure your downspouts are working to keep water away from your house. If it is directing any water towards the foundation, there is a chance of causing wetness to your basement.

Dealing with a wet basement:

If water gets to your basement anyway, act on it. The longer you wait, the more the dampness will damage your basement and thus limit its use. It is also important to emphasize that a wet basement encourages the growth and multiplication of mold. Molds are known to cause respiratory problems, worsen conditions like asthma and trigger allergic reactions such as nasal congestion and sneezing.

If you want to get that extra living room, office, playroom or even a guest room in your basement, look for basement waterproofing services from professionals who have rendered similar services for many years.

Contact Select Basement Waterproofing with any questions, or concerns! Click here: https://www.selectbasement.com/contact-us/

House Foundation Cracks | Middleton, NJ | Select Basement Waterproofing

Changes In Foundation Walls Can Cause Cracks | Mercer County, NJ

Have you spotted cracks in your foundation? The sight of foundation cracks can be disheartening for any homeowner. It can also be a cause for great anxiety. You may start to wonder what type of damage your foundation has undergone and what can be done about it. Your top fear will probably be how much it will cost to repair the foundation.

Before you go into full panic mode, take some time to call a waterproofing contractor. A full inspection of your basement will help to determine just how bad the situation is. Many homeowners find that things aren’t as bad as they seem and repairs are often done quickly and affordably.

A waterproofing contractor will help you evaluate the foundation cracks and determine the cause of the cracks. They will help you determine the best way to repair the cracks and deal with any other problems.

Shrinkage Cracks

Foundation walls aren’t static. They change in size and shape as they cure. They also shift in reaction to environmental conditions including temperature, groundwater and other such conditions. Cracks can occur in foundations as a result of the stress of shifting and curing.

Shrinkage cracks occur in different types of foundations:

  1. Poured concrete foundations

Shrinkage cracks occur in these foundations as a result of rapid curing, poor mixing of concrete as well as poor reinforcement of the foundation with steel. Changing temperatures can also cause shrinkage cracks when concrete expands and contracts in reaction to temperature changes.

  1. Brick walls

Bricks aren’t commonly used for the construction of foundations in modern houses. However, many old buildings feature these types of foundations. Shrinkage cracks in brick foundations occur in the mortar between the bricks. The bricks themselves never shrink but continue to expand.

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  1. Block foundations

Shrinkage cracks in these types of foundations appear as cracks of uniform width at the center of the wall. They occur as a result of curing as well as variations in temperature.

Repairing Shrinkage Cracks

Shrinkage cracks in poured concrete and block foundations often aren’t structural. Their repair is therefore not as intensive as when dealing with structural cracks. Shrinkage cracks in brick walls are often a sign of a structural or support problem in the wall.

It is important to talk to a foundation expert in order to determine the best method for repairing the foundation cracks. Ignoring the cracks will only make matters worse. They can easily progress to pose a structural threat to your home.

Morris County, NJ | Select Waterproofing

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

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.

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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.

Bergen County, NJ | Select Waterproofing

3 Signs You Might Need a Battery Backup Sump Pump | Bergen County, NJ

Install a Battery Backup Sump Pump

Protecting your home from water damage is always a good idea and installing a battery backup sump pump will do that job well.  However, there is a cost to installing a battery backup sump pump system. A quality battery backup system costs between $1000-$1500 to have installed.  In order to know if you need one,  consider three signs and areas of concern.

1.) If you have an older primary sump pump:

Sump pumps usually have a lifespan of about 10-15 years.  Because it has mechanical moving parts, they will someday fail, and you will have to replace it.  If you have an older pump, it is more likely to fail, but there is no telling when.  The best way to transition to a new pump and also get the most out of your primary pump is to install a battery backup system.  When the primary pump dies, it won’t leave you with water in the basement. If you have an older pump, or if you have had any trouble with your primary pump, it is a sign to get a backup system.

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2.) If your area is prone to power outages:

During a rainstorm is when you need your pump working; however, during a rainstorm is when you are most likely to lose power to your house—and to your sump pump. The combination is asking for disaster.  We are pretty sure this possibility is why they invented battery backup sump pump systems in the first place.  How often does a storm knock out power to your house? Do you lose power a few times a year or once every few years?  If you live in an area where power outages are a concern, then that is a sign you might need a battery backup sump pump.

3.) The basement contents:

No matter what you have in your basement, you will want to keep it dry.  A wet basement is not something you want to deal with, and it causes more problems like mold, mildew, and rot that, of course, you want to avoid.  That is why you have a sump pump in the first place.  And the battery backup will ensure you will be protected even if your primary pump fails.  However, the urgency of getting a battery backup system will be determined by the status of the basement.  Is your basement empty? Is it full of priceless storage items?  Is your basement finished? Did you just spend thousands of dollars making it a new TV room?  Obviously, the more valuables you keep in the basement the more you need to protect it.

Evaluate your house and determine if you need a battery backup system.