How to waterproof your basement

Angie Hicks For Mct Information Services

Published: Sunday, Feb. 2, 2014, 9:00 p.m.

There are several methods to keep water out of your basement or remove what gets in. The most expensive, as well as the most effective, can require extensive excavation. Some methods:

Interior solutions

Interior-based waterproofing methods, often called “negative side” projects, involve moving out water that’s inside the home. Fixing a water problem from the inside may be a cheaper option, especially in cases where exterior work isn’t practical or possible.

Drain: This system moves water out of the house through a hole or trench in the foundation, paired with a sump pump. Such a system should include insulation of basement walls, with a vapor barrier to protect against condensation. Drainage systems start at around $2,000.

Sealants: Some highly rated waterproofing companies don’t recommend sealants because they say they fail too easily. The cost of a sealant-based waterproofing project may range from $4 to $8 a square foot.

Epoxy injection: Like sealants, this option is not always favored because it may provide only a temporary solution to fill cracks in poured-concrete walls. Epoxy injections can start at $300.

Exterior solutions

Exterior waterproofing projects are sometimes called “positive side” jobs, because the aim is to prevent water from getting in the house.

Excavation: Many contractors consider installing an underground trench or perimeter drain to be the most effective method, if done correctly. However, the average range for an excavation job is $20,000 to $30,000, and can be as high as $80,000, depending on how accessible the targeted areas are, how much digging is required and how much landscaping or other work must be restored.

Sodium bentonite: Some waterproofing contractors don’t like this method of adding a clay material to the dirt around the home to fill cracks and absorb water. They say it’s a temporary solution and difficult to control, since the clay can clog outdoor drains. Costs for this method start around $500.

Before you hire

  • First, try the simplest solutions, such as making sure gutters are free of debris, downspouts are moving water 20 to 30 feet from the foundation and the property slopes away from the foundation.
  • Consider contractors who belong to the Basement Health Association, a trade organization that offers certification and continuing education. Also, get multiple bids, check references and make sure that the company you hire is properly licensed, insured and bonded.
  • Beware of a prospective contractor who repeatedly offers to lower the estimated price. Also, be aware that waterproofing work is often calculated by the linear foot. Be sure to get all relevant details, including price, in writing.

Advanced Basement Solutions Earns Esteemed 2013 Angie’s List Super Service Award

Award reflects company’s consistently high level of customer service

Advanced Basement Solution has earned the service industry’s coveted Angie’s List Super Service Award, reflecting an exemplary year of service provided to members of the consumer review service in 2013.

“Only about 5 percent of the companies Advanced Basement Solution competes with in Southwestern Pennsylvania are able to earn our Super Service Award,” said Angie’s List Founder Angie Hicks. “It’s a mark of consistently great customer service.”

Angie’s List Super Service Award 2013 winners have met strict eligibility requirements, which include an “A” rating in overall grade, recent grade, and review period grade; the company must be in good standing with Angie’s List, have a fully complete profile, pass a background check and abide by Angie’s List operational guidelines.

Service company ratings are updated daily on Angie’s List. Companies are graded on an A through F scale in areas ranging from price to professionalism to punctuality. Members can find the 2013 Super Service Award logo next to company names in search results on AngiesList.com.

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