Basement Waterproofing | New Brunswick, NJ | Select Basement Waterproofing

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

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.

The 4 Permanent Basement Waterproofing Solutions Union County, NJ

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

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.

Do’s & Don’ts For Basement Finishing – Trenton, NJ

Are you planning for the finishing of your basement? You may have come across various basement systems designed to help you with this. The following are some tips to help you get the best results no matter which systems you choose to use.

Do:

  1. Include systems for the elimination of moisture

Moisture is your basement’s worst enemy. It is therefore important to eliminate it before you embark on finishing your basement. Don’t let moisture ruin the finished product. Install basement systems that will help to eliminate moisture including waterproofing membranes, vapor barriers, and French drains.

  1. Check building codes

It’s always a good idea to first check with building codes and local legislation before implementing a system. You should be sure that the system you intend to implement meets building code requirements.

  1. Take advantage of the positive

Unfinished basements may not seem like much but they do have some positive aspects that you can take advantage of. A good place to start is natural light. Look for egress window systems that will help you take advantage of natural lighting for your basement.

Don’ts

  1. Try to finish the whole basement area

It is important to consider space for utilities such as the storage of luggage, tools, and other seasonal items. This means that not all your basement would need to be finished. You can save money by spending a premium on the living space and leaving the utility space unfinished.

  1. Try to do it yourself

There are many do it yourself kits available in the market. While these kits encourage homeowners to carry out many of the repairs and renovations on their own, they don’t provide you with the many benefits that a skilled and experienced contractor would provide. There’s a good chance that you will overlook various aspects of the repair and renovation of your basement and end up with damage that is even more expensive and difficult to repair. Some jobs are better left to the professionals.

  1. Go cheap

Don’t be tempted to go cheap when it comes to investing in basement systems. Contractors who offer cheap solutions often have had to cut corners somewhere to be able to offer low prices. Learn to read between the lines and choose systems that offer good value for money.

Whatever systems you choose for your basement, ensure that you consider their long-term benefit.

 

 

The Basics of Basement Remodeling

Basement Remodeling

There comes a time when every homeowner finds their needs have changed and their home simply can’t meet them. Two options are available for those homeowners that need more space. These are to move to a bigger home or to increase the floor space of their current home.

Those who opt to increase their floor space will have two further options. They can either take advantage of the space currently available in their homes or invest in an extension. Utilizing space already available to you is the easiest and often most affordable option.

Considerations before basement remodeling

If you’re considering remodeling your basement in order to increase your floor space, you need to consider the following basics:

  • Waterproofing is a must

Moisture is one of your biggest enemies when it comes to finishing your basement. Moisture can lead to the destruction of your investment. It therefore makes sense to invest in waterproofing before you embark on remodeling your basement. Ensure you invest in a waterproofing method that offers long term benefits.

  • An egress window is required

It is important to ensure that your basement meets the requirements of building code when remodeling it. If you intend to use the basement as a living space, then building code requires that you install an egress window in the space. Egress windows are used for emergency escape from the building. They are also a good source of natural light for your new room.

  • Basements have special cooling and heating needs

Basements have special heating and cooling needs compared to rooms that are above ground. During the summer, basements will remain cool because they are below ground. During the winter, the basement may be warm if the furnace is located on this level. It is important to explore the special needs for heating and cooling the space to ensure that you meet them.

  • Consider specialized construction materials

Basements are prone to moisture problems. It is therefore important to consider this when choosing the materials that you will use for finishing the space. Consider choosing materials that are resistant to moisture. This will ensure that you won’t have to replace any time soon.

  • Ensure that you are up to code

It is important to ensure that all aspects of your project are up to building code standards. This is not only good for meeting the requirements of the law but also to ensure that you get the best results from your project for the long term.

basement remodeling

Basement Remodeling in Woodbridge NJ

Basement Remodeling in Woodbridge NJ

The housing market has been on the road to recovery for the past few years. There are many homeowners who are now looking forward to selling their homes for good value. Those who are smart are taking a step further by investing in basement remodeling to further increase their profit margins.

Creating a living space in the basement is a great way of increasing the value of your home. It is an easy and inexpensive way of increasing the square footage of living space in your home. You can turn your basement into practically anything including an extra bedroom, an apartment, a home office or even a media room.

However, basement remodeling doesn’t always go right. In fact, many homeowners have found that remodeling their basements resulted in an overall reduction of value to their homes instead of increasing the value of their homes. How?

Remodeling your basement can hurt the value of your home if the remodeling does not meet building code. It can also hurt the value of your home if the remodeling isn’t done right.

What does it take to get good value from basement remodeling? The following are some steps to consider taking.

  1. Know your code

It is important to understand building code and ensure that your plans meet the standards of the code. This is especially important if you’re planning to convert your basement into a living space such as an apartment.

  1. Hire a professional contractor

It is important to consult with a professional contractor from the beginning. Let them advise you in planning. They should oversee the implementation of your plans and ensure that your construction is in line with the requirements of building code.

  1. Invest in waterproofing

If you want to ensure that your investment is for the long term, you should invest in waterproofing. This will ensure that the space is not prone to leaks and other moisture problems that can otherwise undermine the value of your home.

  1. Consider demand

Consider the demand in the area. What are buyers looking for in a home? Do people want an apartment that they can earn some extra money from? Are buyers looking for luxurious spaces? Base your design and choices for the basement renovation on what potential buyers would want in their homes.

Ensure that your basement remodeling project is a success by hiring an experienced contractor to guide you through it.

basement remodeling

5 Great Ideas to Reclaim Your Space with Basement Remodeling

Basement Remodeling

Maintaining your basement in perfect shape is not easy and it is no wonder most homeowners neglect this space. One of the problems that come with improving a basement is containing water seepage. There are many routes through which water seeps into walls, foundation footers, window wells and the floor.

Waterproofing Your Basement

If you are thinking of basement remodeling, it is advisable to talk to a qualified contractor about waterproofing before any renovations are done. Once you have dealt with the moisture blues, it becomes easier to finish this living space and convert it to a room of your dreams. A waterproofed basement is healthier to live in and there are no risks of flooding during storms. You will also protect your valuables in the process.

Your basement might look like a trailer today, but it is easy to transform it to your favorite room in the house. Whatever remodeling ideas you have in mind, an expert basement contractor will bring them to life. Below are a few of functional ideas that you can borrow from to maximize the newly available space:

  1. Guest Suite

As the cost of real estate keeps escalating, most families are being forced to build smaller homes.  Hosting guests can be tricky in such a case but if you remodel your basement, you can create an elegant guest room with a fireplace, cabinetry, artwork and other fixtures. Your guests will be dazzled by your creativity and they will appreciate your hospitality.

  1. Family Entertainment Zone

Every homeowner dreams of having their own entertainment room just like they find in their favorite clubs. You can include a bar of your dreams in the finished basement or transform this into a large kids’ play area. A game area with a pool table, ping pong darts or other games is also a great remodeling idea.

  1. Living Room Area

If you don’t have enough room upstairs, why not transform your basement into a big living room where you can catch movies together? If you have guests, they will definitely love spending time in the cozy space.

  1. Office Area

Most people are now working from home and if not, they are forced to take some work home. Basement remodeling can give you a quiet and exclusive work or study area away from the buzz in the rest of the house.

  1. Wine Cellar

If you are a wine lover, you appreciate the importance of preserving your wine safely and away from light. A wine cellar in the basement and a bar area is a great addition to any area.

There are many other ideas you can use to transform your basement into livable space. Talk to a basement contractor and your interior designer to bring these ideas to life.

basement remodeling

Things to Consider Before Basement Remodeling in Morganville NJ

Basement Remodeling in Morganville NJ

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.

  1. Resolve moisture issues

It is important to ensure that your basement is waterproof. 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.

basement-remodeling

5 Basement Remodeling Tips that Keep Moisture in Mind

There is nothing worse than working hard on a basement remodeling job only to find out that it is prone to usual basement moisture problems, rendering all of your hard work useless.

A refinished or remodeled basement is a great addition for any home. The valuable extra square footage is a game-changer when it comes time to sell. So it’s important that when you are planning a basement remodel, you take some extra steps to ensure that your job is done right the first time.

Basement Remodeling

Here are 5 tips to help you along in your basement remodeling process.

1. Check that your basement is candidate for the job. Mitigate mold, water, and other moisture problems early on. If there are obvious signs of moisture or water (especially pools of water), talk to a professional before you begin.

2. Know and follow building codes, if applicable. In many municipalities, a building inspector has to approve major changes. So be prepared if structural changes require permits, and research what is needed in advance.

3. Consider adding a vapor barrier to finished walls. Even after you take care of moisture problems, a vapor barrier is like added protection against any future water entry.

4. Add offset walls to stop any moisture issues. A slight offset between your basement wall and any wall framing that you do, not only stops the appearance of moisture, it helps level wavy and uneven masonry.

5. Leave the utility area of your basement untouched. It is unsafe to surround water heaters, HVAC units and furnaces with finished materials. Plus, building codes are often set for how much open area needs to surround them, so leave their area untouched.

Doing a remodeling job? Need help with your basement waterproofing? Please feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns you make have.

basement remodeling

Your Wish Is Our Command: Basement Remodeling in Trenton NJ 08601

Do you feel like the walls of your home are closing in on you? Do you feel like you can’t relax because the kids’ toys are always strewn about in your living space? Do you want to just pack up and move because you need more space, but the thought of leaving your beloved neighborhood brings tears to your eyes? It sounds like you might be in the market for basement remodeling in Trenton NJ 08601, and Select Basement Waterproofing is the company for you.

When most people think of basement remodeling in Trenton NJ 08601, they think of a dark, dingy area that smells of must and sweat socks. It might bring back nostalgic memories of first kisses at high school parties or “borrowed” Budweisers from your dad’s mini-fridge while you and your college buds rung in 1997. That is not the basement remodel you’re in need of now. You need a space that will be aesthetically pleasing to you and your loved ones, offer functional space for your family and guests, and increase your property value when you do decide to sell. You need basement remodeling by Select Basement Waterproofing; we can provide all of these things.

Our four-step foundational process offers you the protection you need to ensure that your basement does not become a leaky, musty, mold remediation zone. The process offers you peace of mind while satisfying the foundation for later aesthetics. Our foundational process is as follows:

  1. Complete Total Basement Waterproofing: Interior and exterior basement walls are cased with a rubber membrane, and the basement floor is protected below the slab.
  2. Install Thermal Barrier: Reflective insulation is installed to lower electricity bills and eliminate wall moisture.
  3. Frame Unsightly Obstructions: HVAC and other obstructions are framed and hidden using either wood or galvanized studs.
  4. Install Choice Rock: You choose: Sheet-Rock, Purple-Rock, Dura-Rock, or Aqua-Fiber Rock, whichever you pick, we know you’ll be pleased!

After the four-part foundational process is finished, you are free to customize until your heart is content. Do you need just a simple office space? We’ve got you covered. Do you HAVE to build a guest space for your… um…wonderful mother-in-law’s impending (I mean upcoming) 3 month visit? We can make her… and you… happy. Do you desire a kick-butt theatre room with an awesome state-of-the-art design? Check out ours! Your wish is our command.

So if you’re ready to turn your current home into your own personal palace, or if you just need some extra space to make your home livable, contact us, Select Basement Waterproofing. We promise you’ll love your basement as much as you love the rest of your home, maybe even a little more!