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Ventilate Your Basement Without Impacting Your Air Quality Trenton, NJ

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.

images Ventilate Your Basement Without Impacting Your Air Quality Trenton, NJ

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.

  1. 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.Davis After DryShield 1 Ventilate Your Basement Without Impacting Your Air Quality Trenton, NJ

  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

Battery Backup System | Morganville, NJ | Select Basement Waterproofing

3 Key Benefits of Installing a Sump Pump with a Battery Backup System Morganville, NJ

3 Key Benefits of Installing a Sump Pump with a Battery Backup System Morganville, NJ

Flooding causes notable damage to homes in the United States and other places across the world. Even if your home is not located in a flood plain or an area that is prone to flooding, the house could be affected by heavy rains. During heavy storms, surface runoff can flow into your home at a higher rate.

Another problem that you are likely to encounter during heavy storms is power outages. It is estimated that if your home has no power for just five minutes or your sump pump fails for the same amount of time, your home will be filled with more than 90 gallons of floodwater. If the flooding continues for more than one hour, your home will be filled with more than 1000 gallons of water, which will cause notable damage.

Fungus and mold are also likely to grow in your home within 24-48 hours after an event of flooding.

You can avoid the problem of flooding in your home by installing a sump pump with a battery backup system. Here is what you need to know about a sump pump with a battery backup system and the key benefits that you will get by installing this equipment.

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What Is a Sump Pump with a Battery Backup System?

A sump pump with a battery backup system is a system for backing up your home’s sump pump. The equipment is installed next to your primary sump pump. The battery backup sump pump has a float switch that is set higher than that of the primary pump, so it will detect when the primary pump is not functioning and turn on automatically.

The battery backup sump pump also detects when AC power fails and switches on automatically.

Benefits of a Sump Pump with a Battery Backup System

1. Offers Protection Against Water Damage

When you install a sump pump with a battery backup system, you significantly reduce the risk of water flooding your home and causing damage.

2. Has Its Own Power Source and Turns on Automatically

images 3 Key Benefits of Installing a Sump Pump with a Battery Backup System Morganville, NJ

A sump pump with a battery backup system has its own battery systems and turns on automatically when there is a power outage or when the main sump pump fails. These features enable the device to function and pump out water even when there is no AC power or when the primary sump malfunctions.

3. Provides Extra Help for the Sump Pump

Heavy rains or snowmelt can increase the amount of water reaching the main sump pump and overwhelm it. Sump pumps with battery backup systems detect when the water level is too high and turn automatically, thus helping the primary sump pump.

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

Foundation Cracks | Trenton, NJ | Select Basement Waterproofing

Foundation Cracks – How Do They Affect Your Home? Trenton, NJ

Foundation Cracks – How Do They Affect Your Home? Trenton, NJ

Are you dealing with foundation cracks? Have you noticed crumbling of your foundation walls? Cracks and crumbling of basement walls are not only aesthetically unappealing but also dangerous. They will not only decrease the value of your home but can also be a sign of foundation issues that could put you and your household in danger. 

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Why your foundation wall is crumbling

The most common causes for crumbling concrete foundation walls include:

Poor choice of materials

The choice of materials during construction of the foundation is important for the longevity of the structure. If substandard materials were used for the construction, the consequences will show up in the deterioration of the structure. Crumbling is only one way.

Crumbling and cracks may also occur as a result of not achieving a good mix of materials. Concrete should be mixed using the right ratio of materials to achieve a strong finish. Poor mixing practices can result in deterioration of the concrete wall.

Excessive moisture

Excessive moisture can not only cause foundation cracks but also result in the crumbling of the foundation wall. This exposure to excessive moisture is usually the result of poor soil drainage. The crumbling may be preceded by cracking of the foundation wall.

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Crack in a white wall with cement brick surface

What to do when you discover your foundation is crumbling

A crumbling foundation is a dangerous foundation. It is a sign of failure that could result in serious structural problems. The following are steps to take if you’ve discovered that your foundation is crumbling.

  1. Have your home inspected by a licensed foundation repair contractor. The inspection should address any issues with your foundation and not just the area that has shown cracking or crumbling. This is because foundation issues are often interconnected and the result of various issues. You’ll need to address the different issues in order to experience long term results.
  2. Compare quotations from at least three different service providers. Compare the solutions provided as well as the cost. The solution should not only address the repair of the cracking or crumbling but also the root cause. Choose the solution that offers the best value for money.
  3. Contact your insurance company to find out if the repairs will be covered under your homeowner’s policy or not.
  4. Engage the contractor and have the walls repaired as soon as possible.

Crumbling and cracking foundations can be a danger to you and your household. Ensure that they are repaired by a foundation repair professional.

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

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.

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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

Basement Wall Cracks | Trenton, NJ | Select Basement Waterproofing

Foundation Repair Common Misconceptions Trenton, NJ

Foundation Repair Common Misconceptions Trenton, NJ

Do you have basement wall cracks? Chances are that you’re searching the internet for information on how to repair these cracks and whether or not you should be worried about them. While the internet provides us with a lot of useful information, it is also a source of false information. If you’re not careful, you could end up going down a rabbit hole that could steer you off the right path.

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The following are myths about basement wall cracksthat every homeowner should be aware of.

  1. Cracks only appear on basement walls of homes that were poorly constructed

Foundation cracks are caused by various factors. Poor construction is just one causes of these cracks. Your wall may be cracking because of the natural settlement movements of your foundation. It could also be cracking because of high hydrostatic pressure from the soil surrounding the foundation. The cracking could also be a combination of various factors. The only way you can determine the root cause of the cracking is by having your foundation inspected by a foundation repair professional.

  1. You can fix leaky cracks by sealing them

Sealing cracks using crack injections is effective for stopping water seepage. However, this fix will only be temporary if it is used on its own. In fact, it can result in more serious damage as the water pressure continues to build up behind the wall.

Sealing of cracks should only be done if the underlying problem has been identified and resolved.

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  1. Foundation repair is expensive

Repairing foundation cracks isn’t always expensive. In fact, the faster you act on foundation cracks, the cheaper it is likely to be to have the cracks repaired. Ignoring the cracks will only result in the problem becoming worse and therefore more expensive to repair.

There are many cost-effective solutions for crack repair that offer long-term benefits. For example, installing carbon fiber straps isn’t costly. These straps last for years and provide long-term benefits for your foundation. Discuss your needs with your contractor and find a cost effective solution for the repair of your foundation cracks.

  1. You can’t sell your home with basement wall cracks

While cracks in foundation walls often put off buyers, it is not impossible to sell your home with cracks in the foundation. However, it is best to repair the cracks before putting your home on the market. You will get a better price for the house that way.

If you have a cracked foundation, be sure to discuss your needs with a professional contractor. This will ensure you have all the information you need to make the best choice.

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

Foundation Repair | Morganville, NJ | Select Basement Waterproofing

Signs That You Need To Contact A Foundation Repair Pro Immediately Morganville, NJ

Signs That You Need To Contact A Foundation Repair Pro Immediately Morganville, NJ

The foundation of your house plays two very critical roles. First, it supports the building by bearing its weight and ensuring that the walls of the house stand firm. Second, the foundation helps keep moisture out of your building by acting as a barrier against water in the surrounding ground. Therefore, signs of damage to the foundation of your house can be worrying.

Interior Wall Crack and Bowing Walls Signs That You Need To Contact A Foundation Repair Pro Immediately Morganville, NJ

What is more worrying is that some signs of foundation problems can be insidious and not easy to notice. Other signs of foundation damage can be seen very far away from the foundation, such as on door frames and windows.

But the good news is that many foundation problems can be repaired. All you have to do is to act quickly by requesting a foundation repair company to inspect your building in case you see or perceive any signs of foundation damage.You need to call a foundation repair company for help if you see any of the following signs in your house.  

  1. An uneven floor and doors that are out of position

If your floor becomes uneven or suddenly starts slanting towards one side, you are likely to be dealing with a foundation issue. Also, if your doors become really out of position, this could mean that the walls have moved due to foundation issues.

damaged foundation Signs That You Need To Contact A Foundation Repair Pro Immediately Morganville, NJ
  1. Interior and exterior cracks

While small vertical cracks may be nothing to worry about, but you need to be concerned about your foundation if you notice large vertical cracks and diagonal cracks on your foundation or walls. Horizontal cracks also indicate serious foundation issues.

  1. Door and window frames separated from the brick wall

If your door or window frames pull away from the brick wall, you could be having a notable foundation problem.

  1. Tile cracks

Although tiles are hard, they are quite brittle. While there are many causes of tile cracking, too many cracked tiles in one part of your building could be an indication of foundation issues. 

  1. Walls pulling away from each other

If you notice that one or more external walls are pulling away from the rest of your building, you should call a foundation repair expert immediately. Walls pulling away indicates that the foundation is unstable or has settled unevenly.

  1. Bowing foundation walls

Foundation wall bowing occurs due to factors such as increased hydrostatic pressure from the soil that surrounds the foundation or large roots expanding towards the foundation. Wall bowing can cause major cracks and even lead to a building’s collapse if left unrepaired.

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

Foundation Wall Cracks | Hunterdon County, NJ | Select Basement Waterproofing

Putting Off the Repair of Foundation Repair Could Be Costing You Money Hunterdon County, NJ

Putting Off the Repair of Foundation Repair Could Be Costing You Money Hunterdon County, NJ

Are you a fan of surprises? If you’re like most people, you probably don’t like surprises that could cost you a lot of money. In fact, if you’re a homeowner, you probably hate any surprises to do with your home’s foundation.

Unfortunately, unexpected events do happen. While it may be tempting to ignore them, it is important that you deal with them when you come across them. One such thing is the appearance of foundation wall cracks.

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Many homeowners try to ignore foundation wall cracks for as long as they can. For many, their primary motivation is to save money. However, ignoring those cracks in your foundation is only causing you to spend more. Here’s how those foundation cracks are costing you money.

  1. They’re causing structural damage in other parts of the home

Foundation cracks are often a sign of weakness in the foundation or increased pressure against the foundation wall. This in turn can result in damage in other parts of the home. You may notice cracks in walls in the upper levels of your home, bulking floors, cracks in the floor and other damage. If you continue to ignore the cracks in your foundation, you will continue spending money on repairs in your home.

  1. They can cause water damage

Cracks in the foundation can be the channel through which water from the soil surrounding the foundation finds its way into your home. This can result in flooding of your basement. It can also result in other moisture-related problems such as rotting wood or a mold and mildew infestation.

Mold remediation would be required to restore the health of your home. You would also need to spend money on the replacement of wooden parts of your home structure that show signs of rot.

cracks Putting Off the Repair of Foundation Repair Could Be Costing You Money Hunterdon County, NJ
  1. They can result in plumbing issues

Water pipes that run below the foundation are often vulnerable to breakage. If the foundation is moving as a result of settling or hydrostatic pressure, there’s a good chance that the foundation will put a lot of stress and strain on the water pipes. This can result in breakage of the water pipes.

Even those with above-ground pipes aren’t safe. These pipes often run through walls or beneath the floors in upper levels of the home. They will also be damaged as the foundation shifts.

If you have cracks in your foundation walls, now is a great time to have them repaired.

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

Bowed Basement Walls | Bergen County, NJ | Select Basement Waterproofing

3 Situations Where You Should Have Your Foundation Inspected By A Professional, Bergen County, NJ

3 Situations Where You Should Have Your Foundation Inspected By A Professional, Bergen County, NJ

Foundation inspection is an important step to take in maintaining the structural integrity of your house. Inspection by a professional foundation repair contractor will help to identify problems early. A professional will help you identify the root cause of the problem and the best solution to apply to it.

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There are various instances when foundation inspection is necessary.

  1. As part of your home’s maintenance

It is a good idea to schedule foundation inspection for your home as part of its maintenance. This will help you identify issues before they become serious problems that are expensive to repair. This type of inspection doesn’t have to be an annual thing, especially since foundation issues such as settling occur very slowly. Inspection every five years is a good idea.

  1. When you want to buy or sell a house

Are you looking to buy or sell a house? Ensuring that the house is in its best condition is vital to getting the best value for it. Buyers should inspect foundations to identify issues and make informed decisions when purchasing properties. You can negotiate for a lower price if there are foundation issues that need repair. You may also choose to avoid buying a property if there is extensive foundation damage.

Foundation inspection is important if you’re planning to sell. You should identify and repair foundation issues in order to get the better value for your home.

  1. If you’ve noticed symptoms of foundation damage

Do you have bowed basement walls? Are your walls cracked? Is your basement damp? Then you need to have your foundation inspected. Ignoring foundation issues will not make the issues go away. In fact, this will result in even more serious damage that will be more expensive to repair. Bowed basement walls will only continue to bow in further and may one day collapse. Foundation damage can also result in other structural issues around the home.

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You will spend much more on repairs if you don’t get them done as soon as possible. If you notice issues such as cracks or bowing, get in touch with a foundation repair contractor to have the foundation inspected.

What will you do now?

Many professional contractors offer free inspections and consultation. Those that do charge offer these services at very affordable fees. Take advantage of these services to ensure your foundation is in its best condition. An inspection could save you thousands of dollars in repairs.

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