Basement Waterproofing | Trenton, NJ | Select Basement Waterproofing

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

Posted by Stephen Bertolacci on

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

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

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

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

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

  • You can seek estimates from different contractors

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

  • Many contractors give estimates for free

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

  • Estimates are just that

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

  • Never go with an estimate that is too low

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

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

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

Elevator Waterproofing | Morganville, NJ | Select Basement Waterproofing

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

Posted by Stephen Bertolacci on

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

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

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

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

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

  • Get in touch with your elevator service provider

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

  • Contact an elevator waterproofing company

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

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

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

  • Provide an alternative for elevator users

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

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

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

Foundation Repair | Trenton, NJ | Select Basement Waterproofing

Foundation Repair – Understanding Underpinning Trenton, NJ

Posted by Stephen Bertolacci on

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

Wet Basement | New Brunswick, NJ | Select Basement Waterproofing

Waterproofing Solutions for a Weekend Warrior | Mercer County, NJ

Posted by Stephen Bertolacci on

Waterproofing Solutions

We at Select Basement Waterproofing understand do-it-yourselfers.  You are self-reliant, like to figure out solutions to your own challenges, and have a wide range of skills that can get you through most of the problems homeowners routinely face.  You like to have control over what work you do and how much you do it.  We salute and respect those skills and the do-it-yourself ethic.  After all, this country was primarily founded by DIYers.  However, there comes a time for every (sane) DIYer to call in the experts.  Even George Washington had to hire someone to train the Continental Army.

tools 150x150 Waterproofing Solutions for a Weekend Warrior | Mercer County, NJ

Finding yourself ankle-deep in water in your basement is the most tempting time to engage your DIY drive and try to fix the problem yourself.  Don’t do it!  There are a whole range of waterproofing solutions you could, in theory, research on the Internet.  You could then buy all the tools and materials you think you need to plug the leak.  The problem comes when you get halfway through the project and realize there’s more to the leak than just the water trickling in under the carpet.  That’s when the sinking feeling every DIYer dreads kicks in:  you’re in way over your head, and the drywall is beginning to mold and buckle.

Call in a Professional

The time to call in the experts is before you give in to your DIY temptation.  When you contact us, we will send an expert to appraise your individual basement and assess the possible causes of your flooding problem.  We will educate you about your options and help you decide which of our many systems will achieve the best value for your hard-earned dollar, and you retain full control over which system our trained, licensed and bonded expert contractors install.  Best of all, the initial estimate is free of charge and obligation.  Don’t worry, there will still be plenty for you to dig into.  You just won’t have to do it with wet feet.

Foundation Repair | Trenton, NJ | Select Basement Waterproofing

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

Posted by Stephen Bertolacci on

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

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

Cracks, Crumbling, and Water

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

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

Doors and Windows that Are Difficult to Open and Close

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

Look Up

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

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

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

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

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

Posted by Stephen Bertolacci on

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

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

  1. Vibrating excessively

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

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

  1. Age

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

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

  1. Rust

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

  1. The system is continuously running

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

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

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

Basement Waterproofing | Morganville, NJ | Select Basement Waterproofing

Basement Waterproofing Solutions for Every Home Trenton, NJ

Posted by Stephen Bertolacci on

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

Posted by Stephen Bertolacci on

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

Posted by Stephen Bertolacci on

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

Posted by Stephen Bertolacci on

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.

Identifying Diagonal and Vertical Cracks foundation repair 2 300x200 How to Diagnose and Fix House Foundation Cracks Middleton, NJ

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