What Home Buyers Need to Know about Foundation Repair Morganville, NJ

Posted by Stephen Bertolacci on April 10, 2023

What Home Buyers Need to Know about Foundation Repair Morganville, NJ

Are you looking to buy a home? You probably have a vision of what you want in the home you purchase. However, the reality is that you probably won’t get the perfect fit. Many home buyers find that they have to compromise on some things when they buy a house.

While you can possibly compromise on some things, such as the size of your master bedroom, you shouldn’t compromise on the safety of the house you want to purchase. The condition of the foundation of your house is critical to the structural integrity of the rest of your home. It is, therefore, important to pay attention to the foundation of the house you’re interested in purchasing. The following are some things you should know about foundation repair when buying a house.

Signs of foundation damage aren’t only in the foundation

It is important to be able to spot signs of foundation issues in a house that you’re interested in buying. The signs vary depending on the type of damage the foundation is experiencing and the extent of the damage. The signs that the foundation is in need of repair are also not confined to the foundation. They may include doors that are not shutting properly, cracks around door and window frames in upper levels of the home, gaps around window and door frames, and cracks on the floor.

You’ll need to have the foundation inspected by a foundation repair expert

A general home inspection can help to reveal problems in the foundation. You will need to hire a foundation expert to inspect the property and assess the foundation problems. A foundation expert will explain to you the nature of the foundation problem, the extent of the damage and what caused the damage in the first place. A foundation expert will also provide you with possible solutions to the problem and a quotation.

You can negotiate for a lower buying price if the house needs foundation repair

If you are determined to buy the house with the foundation problems, you can negotiate for a lower buying price. Many sellers are willing to lower the price of the home when the buyer is willing to incur the costs of repair on the property.

Remember that it is best for you to do the repairs. The seller may compromise on the quality of repairs in their haste to sell the house or their desire to make a bigger profit.

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

Landscaping Tips to Prevent Bowed Basement Walls, Trenton, NJ

Posted by Stephen Bertolacci on March 23, 2023

Landscaping Tips to Prevent Bowed Basement Walls, Trenton, NJ

Who doesn’t want to have their own private oasis? We invest thousands of dollars in our landscaping. We take the time and are willing to spend money on creating a landscape that is beautiful and functional. We spend even more time and money to maintain this beautiful landscape. However, many of us don’t take the time to consider how our landscapes affect our foundations.

The soil around your foundation has a big impact on the state of your foundation. The significant expansion of soils around the foundation and the retention of excess moisture are the main causes of bowed basement walls. With this knowledge, you can take steps to improve your landscape while protecting your foundation.

How to Protect Your Foundation

In order to prevent bowed basement walls, it is important to pay attention to the behavior of the soil around the foundation. Your goal should be to prevent pressure from building up against the foundation walls and causing bowing. There are several ways you can do this using landscaping.

Leave some of your foundation exposed

Yes. It can be tempting to want to have your foundation completely hidden away. However, it is important to leave the foundation wall partly exposed. This will allow you to inspect the wall from the outside for damage. You will be better able to take action to prevent extensive damage to your foundation if you can pick up on signs of damage early. Leave about 5 inches of your foundation exposed for regular visual inspections.

Keep drains and outlets clear

Be careful about where you position your plants and shrubs. Avoid positioning them in the form of drains and outlets. Covering drains and outlets will restrict the movement of water. It will prevent the water from draining out into the yard and may cause it to pool near the foundation.

Slope hardscapes away from the foundation

Are you having a hardscape such as a walkway installed? These are often paths for runoff when it rains or when snow melts. Ensure that hardscapes are sloped in a way that guides water away from the foundation. This will prevent water from accumulating around the foundation resulting in bowed basement walls.

Install surface drainage

Installing surface drainage in your yard is a great way to prevent water from pooling in your yard and creating a swamp. It is also an effective way to prevent the soils from absorbing and retaining too much water. It will help to prevent damage to your foundation.

Use the landscaping tips above to protect your foundation.

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Common Errors in the Installation of Basement Waterproofing Membranes Morganville, NJ

Posted by Stephen Bertolacci on February 16, 2023

Common Errors in the Installation of Basement Waterproofing Membranes Morganville, NJ

Basement waterproofing membranes are an essential component for protecting the structural integrity of a building’s foundation and the building in general. These membranes prevent water from penetrating and damaging the foundation. However, many property owners still don’t take waterproofing seriously. Many don’t take the time or invest the money in hiring professionals to waterproof their basements.

Errors that result in failure of basement waterproofing membranes

Basement waterproofing membranes generally come in their liquid or sheet form. No matter what type of waterproofing membrane you choose for your foundation, it is important that it is installed correctly. Poor installation will greatly impact its performance. Errors in application can result in membrane failure and flooding of your foundation. Below, we discuss some of the most common mistakes made in the installation of waterproofing membranes.

Choosing the wrong waterproofing membrane

There are a wide range of choices for waterproofing membranes available in the market. However, not every material is suitable for your foundation. Every material is designed for specific applications. They are designed to meet different requirements and are suitable under different conditions and in different environments. It is important to choose the right material for your foundation to avoid failure.

Applying an excessively thick layer

Applying liquid waterproofing membranes can be tricky. The membrane must be applied to the correct thickness. This requires a good understanding of the membrane as well as experience with installing these products under different conditions. Applying an excessively thick membrane can result in re-emulsification of the membrane. This in turn will cause the membrane to split when it cures, leaving gaps through which water can penetrate your foundation walls.

Uneven application

It is important to ensure uniform thickness of the membrane throughout the foundation surface. This provides for better performance throughout the foundation. Uneven application during installation results in thicker coats in some areas and thinner coats in others. Thicker areas will restrict movement of the foundation, while thinner coats will tear easily under minimal movement.

Not paying attention to joints between membrane sheets

Paying attention to the joints between the membrane sheets during the installation process is critical to the performance of the membrane. These joints must be done properly in order to avoid leakage.

You can avoid the errors outlined above by hiring a professional and experienced basement waterproofing contractor. You can rely on their experience and knowledge to provide you with great results.

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

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Crawlspace Waterproofing: 5 Easy Ways to Keep Your Crawlspace Dry Morganville, NJ

Posted by Stephen Bertolacci on January 5, 2023

Crawlspace Waterproofing: 5 Easy Ways to Keep Your Crawlspace Dry Morganville, NJ

A crawlspace is a space below the floor of a house or building. It is used for storage, and it can also be used as a living space. It may also be referred to as basement in some parts of North America and Australia, although this term more commonly refers to an area that was originally intended to be habitable but has been abandoned and left unfinished. For your crawlspace to be habitable, you need to consider crawlspace waterproofing services.

How to Keep Your Basement Dry for Good

Basements are notorious for being damp, which is why it’s important to consider crawlspace waterproofing your crawl space.

This can be done by using a material like polyethylene or polypropylene. If you’re planning on living in your basement for a long time, it’s also a good idea to install a dehumidifier.

Different Kinds of Basement Water Damage

Basement flooding is a serious issue that can cause a lot of damage to your home. It is important to know the different types of basement water damage before you start repairing it.

There are two major types of basement water damage: flood and seepage. Flooding occurs when the water rises above ground level, while seepage happens when the water flows through cracks in your foundation and walls.

5 Easy Ways to Keep Your Crawlspace Dry and Protected from Floods

In case of a flood, your crawlspace is the first place that water will come in. So, it is important to keep it dry and protected from floods. Here are 5 easy ways to do so:

1) Seal up any cracks or gaps in the ceiling and walls of your crawlspace with caulk or expanding foam.

2) Install a sump pump to remove any standing water from your crawlspace in case of a flood.

3) Place a bucket under each drain pipe to collect excess water flowing into them.

4) Install an overflow pipe on top of your sump pump’s discharge pipe and place a bucket beneath this overflow as well.

5) Cover all electrical outlets with plastic bags or tape so that they cannot be flooded.

Now you understand how to keep your crawlspace dry. The best way to do that is by seeking the help of a professional crawlspace waterproofing expert.

The best thing about hiring a professional is that they know what they are doing and will be able to provide the best possible service for your needs.

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

3 Crawlspace Waterproofing Tips to Keep Basement Pests Out Morganville, NJ

Posted by Stephen Bertolacci on October 26, 2022

3 Crawlspace Waterproofing Tips to Keep Basement Pests Out Morganville, NJ

A termite infestation can spell disaster for your home if it isn’t dealt with. Termites are a danger to the structural integrity of your foundation. If they infest your crawlspace, you would be faced with a weak foundation that would be a great risk to your home.

Termites thrive in environments that are damp. A damp crawl space provides them with the ideal environment to thrive. They will have food, moisture, and a dark and comfortable place to breed and multiply. If you want to avoid this, the following are steps you should take.

1. Keep moisture out of your foundation

Crawlspace waterproofing is the best way to keep your crawlspace free of termites. Waterproofing ensures that the crawl space is free of moisture. This is important as termites love damp environments.

Be sure to hire a professional crawlspace waterproofing contractor. They will inspect your crawlspace to identify sources of moisture. Professional waterproofing services will not only waterproof the crawlspace but also correct issues such as poor grade of the ground around your property, short downspouts, and leaking gutters. Addressing these issues will help to keep your crawl space dry in the long term.

2. Install a dehumidifier in your crawlspace

If you live in an especially humid area, you should consider having a dehumidifier installed in your crawlspace. A dehumidifier will remove moisture from the air in your crawlspace. It will keep humidity levels in your crawlspace at a healthy level.

Crawlspace waterproofing contractors can help you with the selection and installation of a humidifier in your crawlspace. They will advise you on the best size and specs to choose and ensure that it is installed properly.

3. Plan your landscaping with your crawlspace in mind

The landscape around your crawl space affects the conditions in the crawlspace. Your activities on the landscape will also affect the crawlspace.

Avoid overwatering your landscape. Be especially careful of the landscaping that is adjacent to the crawlspace. Do not plant bushes that have roots that spread out. These could damage the crawl space floor and cause moisture to penetrate the crawlspace. You should also avoid mulching around the crawlspace. Get rid of leaves and other debris that has accumulated near your crawlspace.

Crawlspace waterproofing is the best way to keep your crawl space dry and free of termites. Use the tips above to protect your foundation and your home from a termite infestation.

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

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Factors that Could Increase the Cost of Repairing Foundation Cracks Trenton, NJ

Posted by Stephen Bertolacci on August 16, 2022

Factors that Could Increase the Cost of Repairing Foundation Cracks Trenton, NJ

Have you noticed cracks in your foundation? Many homeowners are apprehensive when it comes to repairing foundation cracks. This is because these repairs can turn out to be costly. However, ignoring the cracks or trying to repair them on your own will not bring the costs of the repair down. In fact, this is only likely to make it more expensive to repair the foundation.

There are several factors that affect the cost of repairing foundation cracks. The following are factors that can increase the costs of your repair.

Excavation of the foundation

There are times when repairing cracks in the foundation will require excavating the foundation. Excavating the foundation in order to access the foundation walls can be costly. There is a lot of heavy equipment involved and more labor required for this process. This process also results in damage to your landscape. You would therefore need to spend even more money in restoring your landscape.

You can discuss alternatives to excavation with your contractor. There are many less invasive methods of repairing foundation cracks available today. However, there may be situations where excavation is the best option.

Clearing the area around the foundation

Clearing the area around the foundation may be required in order to access your foundation. This is the case when you have to excavate the foundation. If there are bushes and trees growing close to the foundation, they will need to be removed. This can be a costly and involved process.

You may want to discuss alternatives with your foundation repair contractor.

Controlling the Costs of Repair

Repairing foundation cracks isn’t always expensive. In fact, you can reduce your costs by getting in touch with a foundation repair contractor as soon as you notice cracks in your foundation. Addressing the cracks early helps you catch the problem early. You can avoid extensive damage to your foundation and therefore apply simple and cost-efficient solutions to the repair of your foundation.

You should also consider having at least three foundation repair contractors inspect your foundation and determine the best approach to repair the foundation. Consider the options available and choose a solution that will provide you with great results in the long term.

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

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4 Key Facts You Need to Know about Egress Windows Morganville, NJ

Posted by Stephen Bertolacci on July 15, 2022

4 Key Facts You Need to Know about Egress Windows Morganville, NJ

Egress windows are an important aspect that you should consider when building a new house or renovating your home. The International Residential Code (IRC) requires all habitable spaces such as living rooms and basements to have egress windows. Also, every indoor space or room that is intended to be utilized as a bedroom, including rooms within a basement, should have an egress window.

Egress windows should meet some specifications in order to serve their functions well. When installing these windows, it is important to work with a professional contractor to ensure that the specifications are met. Here are the key facts that you need to know about egress windows.

1. The Meaning and Uses of Egress Windows

The term egress window is coined from the word ‘egress’, which means ‘to exit’. As the name suggests, the window is used to exit the room or building in which it has been installed during an emergency. Egress windows are installed in basements, bedrooms and the first floors of split-level buildings among other areas.

In addition to playing a key role as emergency exits, egress windows can also be used to allow the entry of natural light into the rooms in which they have been installed and promote ventilation. Therefore, well-installed egress windows ensure that spaces such as basements are well-lit and well-ventilated.

2. Egress Window Specifications

The IRC stipulates that every space that is used as a bedroom should have at least one egress window. Additionally, each egress window that is installed should meet the following requirements:

· The window should be designed in such a way that when it is open, an individual can crawl and use the window to quickly exit.

· The window’s opening should be clear and have a minimum area of 5.7 square feet.

· Height: Not less than 24 inches

· Width: Not less than 20 inches

· The window’s lower part should be at the height of no more than 44 inches to allow easy access.

· It should be possible to open and close the window from the inside.

· The window should not have grilles or bars which block the opening.

· It should be possible to open the window without using any other separate equipment such as a key.

download 1 4 Key Facts You Need to Know about Egress Windows Morganville, NJ

Special Considerations for Basement Windows

It is not necessary for all basement windows to be designed as egress windows. If you have an unfinished basement, you may only need to install ordinary windows for ventilation. But an egress window is required in the basement if this room is used as a living space or as a bedroom.

You can also combine ordinary windows and egress windows in your basement to improve lighting and ventilation.

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

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Foundation Repair And Landscaping Issues Morganville, NJ

Posted by Stephen Bertolacci on June 22, 2022

Foundation Repair And Landscaping Issues Morganville, NJ

One of the things that contractors will examine during foundation repair is the grading of your land. Poor grading – where the land slopes towards the foundation – can be one of the leading causes of foundation damage. Water flow from rain can pool around the foundation and lead to cracking, buckling, and other problems. Understanding how landscape grading works is important for keeping your foundation in good shape.

When water flows down a slope, it will naturally follow the path of least resistance. If your land is sloping towards your foundation, then the water will flow towards the foundation when it rains. This can lead to serious problems over time, as the water can saturate the ground around the foundation and cause cracking, buckling, and other damage.

There are a few things that you can do to make sure that your land is properly graded. First, you should make sure that the ground slopes away from the foundation at a rate of about six inches for every ten feet. This will ensure that water flows away from the foundation and doesn’t pool around it.

You should also make sure that there is proper drainage around the foundation. This can be accomplished by installing gutters and downspouts that direct water away from the foundation, or by creating a ditch that channels water away from the foundation.

If you’re not sure whether your land is properly graded, you can contact a foundation repair contractor to take a look. They will be able to assess the situation and make recommendations for how to fix it. In some cases, poor grading can be corrected by simply adding more soil to the area around the foundation. In other cases, more extensive work may be necessary.

No matter what, it’s important to address poor grading as soon as possible. If you wait too long, the damage to your foundation could become irreparable. By taking action now, you can protect your foundation and keep your home in good condition for years to come.

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

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4 Signs You Need Mold Remediation Morganville, NJ

Posted by Stephen Bertolacci on May 15, 2022

4 Signs You Need Mold Remediation Morganville, NJ

When mold grows in your home, it can cause severe respiratory illnesses and problems such as nose, skin, and eye irritation. In addition to causing health issues, mold is also notorious for damaging different types of structures in homes, such as drywall, paint on walls, and wooden materials.

Mold remediation is the process of removing mold from areas that have been infested and cleaning and sanitizing these surfaces so that there is no recurrence of mold growth. The aim of mold remediation is to ensure that all mold particles, including spores, have been eliminated so that there is no chance for the mold to grow again.

Mold remediation is particularly necessary if your home is prone to having large growths of mold. Knowing the factors that contribute to heavy mold infestations can help you tell if your home needs mold remediation. Here are four key signs you need to know.

Musty odors

Even if your building does not have visible signs of mold, musty smells indicate that the fungi do exist. This is because as mold grows, it produces smelly compounds. So the mold may be hidden somewhere or even trapped in humid air within your basement or rooms. Mold remediation ensures that all mold is eliminated.

Water intrusion occurrences

Cases of water intrusion include events such as flooding, plumbing leaks, and seepage of water from outside through cracks in the foundation. The wet or humid conditions that result from water intrusion create a perfect environment for the growth of mold.

Discoloration or stains on walls, ceilings, and drywall

The occurrence of patches that may be black, gray, greenish, or brown on surfaces such as ceilings, walls, and drywall is a clear indication that mold is growing in your building. Large mold infestations need to be removed through mold remediation.

Illness symptoms that are consistent with mold problems

Musty smells associated with mold can cause irritation of the eyes and nose. If your house or basement has mold as a result of high humidity, you are also likely to have any of the following health issues:

Wheezing
Coughing
Sore throat
Nasal and sinus congestion
Itchy and watery eyes
Nosebleeds
Tightness of the chest
Difficulty breathing

If you experience any of the above symptoms each time you visit spaces such as the basement or others that are not well-ventilated, this is an indication that the spaces have mold growths that need to be removed.

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

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Ventilate Your Basement Without Impacting Your Air Quality Trenton, NJ

Posted by Stephen Bertolacci on April 15, 2022

Ventilate Your Basement Without Impacting Your Air Quality Trenton, NJ

Basement ventilation is a controversial topic. Some people will tell you not to ventilate your basement while others will tell you ventilation is important for your entire home including your basement. Basement ventilation is important as the conditions in your basement have an impact on indoor air quality in the upper levels of your home. However, those against ventilation argue that ventilation will compromise basement waterproofing.

If you’re concerned about ventilation and basement waterproofing, it is best to consult with a waterproofing contractor. Contrary to popular belief, these contractors don’t only focus on installing waterproofing systems. They also ensure other factors that affect the health of your basement are considered. They can therefore be of great assistance in determining the best way to ventilate your basement and ensure that it remains clean and dry.

Here’s how a professional contractor can help.

They will help you seal your windows

Natural ventilation is one of the best and cheapest ways to ventilate your basement. It’s as simple as throwing your basement windows open. However, windows in the basement are one of the most common entry points for moisture in the basement. A professional contractor will help you ensure you can ventilate your basement without allowing excess moisture into the space. They can help you with a selection of windows and their installation. They will seal the windows for you to prevent penetration of moisture. They can also install window wells and drainage systems to keep excess moisture out.

2. They will help you select a ventilation system

Natural ventilation may be a great option in the summer when the weather is good. However, you can’t throw open your windows when the weather is bad. You will need to find an alternative to ventilate your basement. Professional contractors can help you determine the best option for your home. They will guide you through the options available in the market and help you select and install a system that meets your needs. A whole-home ventilation system will ensure air circulation within the entire home including the basement without compromising basement waterproofing.

3. They will help you select a dehumidifier

While circulation of air helps to improve the quality of air in your basement, you may need to go a step further to reduce the levels of humidity in your basement. A humidifier will remove the moisture in the air and reduce it to healthy levels. A professional contractor can help you select a humidifier with the right features and the best size for your needs.

Are you grappling with how to ventilate your basement? Talk to your basement waterproofing contractor for guidance.

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

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