Faq Questions Archive -

13

Nov

What’s the difference between interior and exterior drain tile, and which is better? Interior drain tile is installed below the concrete floor around the perimeter of the basement. It is designed to redirect water through the use of a sump pump once it enters the home. This approach doesn't stop water from entering the building and can lead to foundation erosion. Exterior drainage systems are very effective in keeping water absorbed from heavy rains, overflowing gutters and other sources away from your foundation [...] Read further

13

Nov

What type of basement waterproofing is most effective, interior or exterior? Exterior waterproofing methods are your best defense against water infiltration. Gutters and downspouts collect and direct water away from your home. While a waterproof membrane will seal out moisture and protect the concrete from cracking and leaking. Used in conjunction with a French drain system, the exterior waterproofing package will keep your basement dry and problem-free. Interior waterproofing is made up of pipes and drains that re-routes water to a [...] Read further

13

Nov

Why am I finding a white chalky substance on my basement walls? Is it dangerous? Crystaline or salt deposits may appear on the surface of your concrete foundation walls and most often a whitish color. Efflorescence, or "whiskers," is often a seasonal problem caused by humidity and groundwater. Porous concrete materials can be susceptible to water movement through channels in the wall. When the water reaches the surface, the water evaporates and leaves white salt deposits behind. Slow water evaporation during high-humidity seasons provides an [...] Read further

13

Nov

Is waterproofing my basement going to cost a lot? There are many levels of waterproofing available and pricing is dependent on the type of problems that exist. When researching or obtaining estimates for waterproofing, consideration should be given to the complexity of your problem, whether the work is being done inside or outside your home, if excavation is required, what type of access is available to the site, the type of materials needed (such as drain tile, membrane, sump [...] Read further

12

Nov

What could be causing my basement to be damp, musty or leaky? There are several common causes of moisture or water infiltration. Often, naturally occurring hydrostatic and lateral pressure can force water into the basement from underneath the footings or against the foundation walls, causing damage and creating leaks. Heavy rainfall or snow melt can cause the water table to rise and increase pressure. Soil composition can affect drainage; sand and loam drain well, while clay drains slowly and absorbs water. Installing [...] Read further

04

Sep

What is a trenchless drain system and what are the advantages compared to a typical trench system? As the name implies, a trenchless repair requires minimal excavation. An entry point and exit point are dug, existing pipe is drilled away, and a new High Density Polyethylene pipe is simultaneously put in its place. There are many advantages of utilizing this system over the common trench system: Landscape and yard damage is kept to a minimum, work can be completed faster, new pipes won't corrode or rust, and [...] Read further

04

Sep

When should I start worrying about foundation cracks? There are many types of cracks that can appear in your foundation walls or concrete floor. Shrinkage and settlement cracks are the most common and may signal damage. The size, shape and location of the crack will determine if a crack needs remediation or no action at all. A general rule of thumb indicates that shrinkage cracks less than 1/16-inch wide may be a source of water entry but [...] Read further

04

Sep

What can be causing brown stains on my walls, and will it hurt my foundation? Brown stains on poured concrete or block walls is a sign of acid damage. This generally signals that the soil around your home is clay, which is very acidic. As water travels though your porous concrete wall, it draws the acidity with it. The acid is filtered through the concrete and allows clean water to enter your basement. The brown stains are difficult to remove and they may lead to [...] Read further

04

Sep

What credentials do you have to ensure I’ll be satisfied with your work? As a Better Business Bureau accredited business with an A Rating, you can feel confident we meet their accreditation standards and always make an effort to resolve any customer complaints quickly and satisfactorily. We have also received over 120 favorable HomeStars reviews from satisfied customers. HomeStars utilizes a collective knowledge-base that assists homeowners in finding reputable renovation, repair and retail companies. Reviews are collected based on good and bad home [...] Read further

04

Sep

Is there a way to excavate without destroying my yard, driveway and sidewalk? With exterior waterproofing methods requiring excavation to a depth of 6 to 8 feet to expose the wall, plantings and landscaping must be relocated. We'll take a comprehensive approach to the work required and will prepare a plan to minimize damage to your property. If excavation using machinery is impossible we will offer option digging by hands. Read our clients' feedback about it on our HomeStars review page.[...] Read further

Posts

RECENT

CATEGORIES

TAGS

BLOG & INDUSTRY NEWS