Basement Waterproofing Companies Near Me
Finding an experienced, reputable basement waterproofing company nearby can be a challenge. With few nationwide companies to choose from, you have to rely on local options. Or possibly state-wide options.
I don’t mean to denigrate smaller local waterproofing companies. Most of them do excellent work. Lack of competition usually leads to higher prices, longer wait times, and fewer types of repair options.
Finding Basement Waterproofing Companies Near Me
Serious basement leaks require serious basement waterproofing companies to repair them. Also to prevent future problems. Wet and damp basements are cold, uncomfortable, and smell musty. They promote mold growth, and pests, and can destroy carpets and furniture.
Preventing leaks and eliminating water and humidity from your basement increases value, and makes the space more comfortable, and safer. Having a professional basement waterproofing company eliminate yourwater problemsis an all-around win.
Search Options
- Friends and Family. A recommendation from someone you trust is always the best option. As is being told to stay away from a company.
- Online. Has become an indispensable tool.
- Local Home Improvement Stores. Home improvement, building material, and hardware stores quite often have lists of different types of contractors.
- Contractor Listing Agencies. Agencies like Angis, Home Advisor, Homeguide, Thumbtack, Taskrabbit, etc.
Note: Some of the reviews–both by customers and contractors–question Andgi/Home Advisor business practices since they joined forces.
Nationwide Waterproofing Companies
The only truly nationwide waterproofing company isBasementsystems.comwith over 200 authorized dealers in 49 states and Canada. Like the agencies listed above filling in your Zip code on their website will give you a list of contractors in your area.
They have been voted the best waterproofing company many times. Basement Systems boast over 30 patented products to keep basements dry.
Other well-known and highly respected waterproofing companies likeAmeri-Dry Waterproofingand‘58 Foundations and Waterproofingonly operate in a limited number of states. If you are fortunate enough to live in an area they service, call them for a free consultation.
Best Basement Waterproofing Services
You will likely have many waterproofing ideas and systems suggested to you while you are gathering quotes. Here are some of the more common options.
Exterior Basement Waterproofing
Exterior waterproofing is generally considered one of the best systems. It is also the most invasive and expensive. Your yard is excavated around the basement, a waterproof membrane or spray is applied and the soil is replaced.
It works so well because the water’s hydraulic pressure pushes the membrane or spray tighter into the concrete wall.
Courtesy: Pinterest Sealing exterior basement wall.
Interior Basement Waterproofing
Interior waterproofing usually involves a drainage system installed on, or under the concrete floor c/w a sump pit and pump to collect and eliminate water. Usually less expensive than exterior waterproofing
Courtesy: Pinterest Interior drain tile system
Hydraulic Cement Waterproofing
Hydraulic cement is a fast-acting product used to fill larger cracks in basement walls and floors. Once forced into the cracks it expands as it dries to form a watertight bond. Does not work well for hairline cracks.
Concrete Waterproofing Paints and Sealers
Waterproofing paints and dealers are for interior application to walls and floors. They roll on and help seal small cracks and form tie holes.
What You Need From a Basement Waterproofing Company
In many cases, the customer does not really know the specifics of the basement problems. He/she just knows it is leaking and it needs to stop.
Your Basement Waterproofing Needs
Different companies have different specialties. You might get three quotes with solutions that are not the same. You will have to do some research to get information to make the best decision. Make sure the suggested repair addresses your specific needs.
Basement Waterproofing Budget
Some basement waterproofing is fairly inexpensive–like paints or sealing. Exterior waterproofing or serious interior waterproofing can easily cost $15,000.00 or more. Naturally, you want the best solution for the least money. Collect as much information as possible before making a final decision.
Company Credentials
Any company you hire should have the following credentials.
- Licenses. Any local and state licenses should be up to date.
- Bonding. Most companies ask for a deposit before starting the job. Bonding protects your deposit if they go out of business before getting the job done.
- WCB Coverage. Make sure that WCB coverage is in place and paid up to date. (Where I live the homeowner can be held responsible for an injured worker’s costs if the company has no WCB.)
- Insurance. Quite often companies require insurance coverage to be licensed. Check that your contractor is insured. If the backhoe takes out 20’ of your wall, you don’t want to be paying for the repairs.
Comparing Basement Waterproofing Companies
When comparing quotes for work or products, the first thing we all look at is the price. Don’t stop there. Check out what is included, work timelines, warranties, and experience before signing a contract.
Waterproofing Quotes
Get three quotes if possible. Not only will this allow you to compare prices, but it also gives you an idea of what the solutions to your problem could be. Make sure the entire scope of work is detailed in the quote. Don’t be shy. Ask questions. Have anything you don’t understand explained in detail. It is your money and you will live with the result.
Extra Costs and Change Orders
Some companies leave out some costs to provide a low quote. Then charge for extras later. Good, experienced contractors should be able to quote most jobs almost to the penny. A quote significantly lower than the others deserves more questions.
But stuff happens. For instance, they excavate around your basement and discover damaged drain tile. Obviously, it should be fixed. Make sure the extra cost process is established upfront. If you don’t like surprises, get a quote for extras before proceeding.
Reputation, Experience, Specialties
比较广告样稿的声誉和经验anies that quoted the work. Check websites and reviews. Ask for references c/w phone numbers and addresses. Get permission to call or visit. Waterproofing companies should be proud of their work and happy to brag and show it off.
One of the advantages of using local companies is that people know people. It is much easier to find ex-customers and get honest information.
Find out what companies specialize in. Exterior waterproofing of an 8’ basement wall costs around $15,000.00. Not a job for someone specializing in installing sump pumps.
Note: I am beginning to lose faith in some reviews. Discovering that some companies will give an extended warranty for a 5-star review tends to do that.
Warranties
Get detailed warranty information in writing before signing the contract. The length of warranties varies between one year and lifetime. Lifetime is great if the company is around. Is it prorated? What exactly does it cover? Is it transferable? Any other questions you have.
Wait Times
Have each company specify an approximate starting date and length of time the project will take. Do not expect a definite date. All contractor’s schedules can be messed up by things like weather, supply problems, equipment problems, and employee issues.
Safety Precautions
Make sure the company has a safety plan for the job site. Excavations, equipment, the use of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC), etc. all require safety plans. Do you and your family have to move out? What about pets? Try to cover all bases.