Finding a Responsible Basement Waterproofing Contractor

Finding a competent, ethical and responsible contractor IS possible. Avoid a horror story by doing some simple research, using common sense, and educating yourself about the job at hand before you write that check.

1. Look for a contractor with an established business - This does not mean that someone with a new business won't do a beautiful job, ask about experience and training before you proceed.
2. Check references by phone and look at previous jobs if possible. It's great to be able to talk to someone who has worked with the contractor before.
3. Ask about professional associations that the contractor is involved with such as NARI (National Association of the Remodeling Industry), or NAWSRC (National Association of Waterproofing and Structural Repair Contractors).
4. Make sure the contractor has General Liability Insurance and Worker's Compensation. You can get a copy of their documentation if you call the carrier - this is public information and the carrier should be happy to provide them for you.
5. Make sure that you get a proposal or copy of the work to be done in writing. Do not go on a handshake, word, or promise.
6. Ask about training on the products the company uses and the manufacturer of the goods.
7. Make sure you are clear on what is warranted and what is not covered.

Being prepared for your project is half of the battle. Your experience will go much smoother if you've done your research and communication with your contractor is open. Make sure you understand the work to be done and that you possess a written copy of the plans. You'll be on your way to a dry basement and peace of mind.

You Breathe Basement Air!

Do you or someone in your family suffer from asthma or allergies? Your basement could be contributing to allergy symptoms or even causing asthma in some cases.

A "stack effect" exchange of air occurs in your home. This means that new air replaces the warm air that rises and escapes out of the upper levels by a process of suction. Air from your basement is drawn up into the first floor, then to the second. Scientists say that up to 50% of the air you breathe on the first floor comes from the basement.

This means that whatever is in your basement air - this includes mold, rot, dust mites - you and your family are breathing it. The damp odors in your basement will rise up into the 1st floor and so on.

Effects of a Wet or Damp Basement:

-Dust Mites
-Sticking doors and windows
-Smelly damp carpets
-Buckling hardwood floors
-Condensation/rotting/mold in attic
-Frost or condensation and mold on inside of windows in cool weather
-Increased cooling bills (damp air takes more energy to cool)
-Increased heating bills (damp air takes more energy to heat)
-Mold upstairs
-Decreased life of roof or sheathing and shingles
-Decreased life of the paint on the outside of your house
-Aggrivated asthma and allergies

#1 Home Allergen: Dust mite droppings floating in the air. Dust mites are parasites that live in your carpeting, bedding, and furniture. Dust mites absorb water out of the air, so with high humidity levels (especially in the basement) they thrive. If humidity levels drop below 50%, they will dry up and die, but leave their larvae behind to hatch when it gets damp again. Combat this dangerous life cycle by keeping your basement at a humidity level under 50% with a quality dehumidifier. For more information on the dangers of toxins in your basement, read this article.