Professional Basement Waterproofing Company

Basement leaks are pervasive issues in homes. Any foundation type can leak, whether it be poured concrete, cinder block, or stone, they just leak differently. At Schmitt Waterproofing, we have appropriately trained our staff to diagnose the real cause of the basement leak and ensure that we address the issue with the most cost-effective solution.

Warning Signs You Need a Professional Basement Waterproofing Company

A wet basement is more than just an inconvenience; it can lead to significant property damage, health issues, and decreased home value. Recognizing the warning signs of a water problem earlier is crucial to prevent these issues. If you notice any of the following signs, it’s time to consider hiring a professional basement waterproofing company to assess and address the problem effectively.

1. Visible Water Stains
Water stains on your basement walls or floor indicate water intrusion. These stains may appear as dark spots, streaks, or patches and are often accompanied by a musty odor.

2. Persistent Dampness or Humidity
Excessive dampness or high humidity in your basement can indicate ongoing moisture problems. This can lead to mold and mildew growth, which poses health risks and can damage your belongings.

3. Cracks in the Basement Walls
Cracks in your basement walls allow water to seep in. They may start as hairline cracks but can widen over time, increasing the risk of water infiltration.

4. Peeling Paint or Efflorescence
Peeling paint on basement walls or a white, powdery substance called efflorescence can indicate moisture issues—efflorescence forms when water evaporates from the concrete, leaving behind mineral deposits.

5. Mold or Mildew Growth
The mold or mildew in your basement clearly indicates excessive moisture. Mold damages your property and can lead to health problems, particularly for those with allergies or respiratory issues.

6. Puddles or Standing Water
If you notice puddles or standing water in your basement, you have a severe water problem. Poor drainage, foundation cracks, or a high water table can cause this.

7. Rotting Wood or Corrosion
Moisture can cause wood to rot and metal to corrode. Inspect any wooden structural elements or metal fixtures in your basement for signs of damage.

8. Insect Infestations
Damp basements can attract insects such as termites and carpenter ants, which thrive in moist environments. If you notice increased insect activity in your basement, it may be due to excess moisture.

9. Sump Pump Overload
If your sump pump runs constantly or frequently overflows, it may indicate that it’s struggling to keep up with water infiltration. This can be a sign of a more significant water issue.

10. Cracked or Buckled Foundation
Visible damage to your home’s foundation, such as cracks, bulges, or inward movement, can be severe. These structural problems can allow water to enter your basement and should be addressed promptly.

11. Wet or Damp Insulation
If your basement is finished, wet or damp insulation behind walls or ceilings can be a hidden sign of water intrusion. This can compromise the effectiveness of your insulation and promote mold growth.

12. Unpleasant Odors
A musty or moldy odor in your basement clearly indicates moisture issues. If you don’t see visible signs of water, trust your nose and investigate further.

13. Increasing Utility Bills
Unexplained increases in your energy bills may be related to a damp basement. Moisture problems can make your HVAC system work harder to maintain temperature and humidity.

14. Efforts to Manage Water
If you’ve resorted to using temporary solutions like towels, dehumidifiers, wet vacs, or temporary patching to manage water in your basement, it’s time for a permanent fix.

15. Recent Water-Related Disasters

Suppose your area has recently experienced heavy rainfall, flooding, or other water-related disasters. In that case, inspecting your basement is a good idea, even if you haven’t noticed any immediate issues. Sometimes, problems can develop gradually after significant weather events.

Recognizing these warning signs of a wet basement is crucial to addressing moisture problems before they escalate. A professional basement waterproofing company can assess the extent of the issue, identify the root causes, and provide practical, long-term solutions to keep your basement dry and your home protected. Be sure to act promptly to safeguard your home and your family’s health before water damage becomes severe.

How a Basement Waterproofing Company Can Permanently Fix Your Wet Basement?

A basement waterproofing company can permanently fix your wet basement by addressing the underlying cause of the water problem and installing a comprehensive waterproofing system.

Here are some of the most common ways a basement waterproofing company can permanently fix your wet basement:

Interior waterproofing involves installing a drainage system inside your basement to collect and redirect water away from the foundation. This can be done using a sump pump, interior drainage channels, and a dehumidifier.
Foundation repair: If your foundation is cracked or damaged, water can seep into your basement. A basement waterproofing company can repair your foundation to prevent water from entering your basement.
Grading and drainage: Water can also seep into your basement from the ground around your home. A basement waterproofing company can grade the soil around your home and install drainage systems to direct water away from your foundation.

In addition to these standard methods, there are several other specialized waterproofing solutions that a basement waterproofing company may use, depending on the specific needs of your home.

Once the underlying cause of the water problem has been addressed, a basement waterproofing company will install a comprehensive waterproofing system to protect your basement from water damage. This system may include a combination of exterior and interior waterproofing measures, as well as foundation repair and grading and drainage improvements.

A reputable basement waterproofing company will offer a warranty on their work, so you can be confident that your basement will dry for years.

Here are some tips for choosing a basement waterproofing company:

Get estimates from multiple companies before making a decision.
Ask about the company’s experience and qualifications.
Make sure the company is licensed and insured.
Read online reviews to see what other homeowners have said about the company’s work.
Ask about the company’s warranty.

Once you have chosen a basement waterproofing company, follow their instructions carefully to ensure your basement remains dry.

Suppose you are experiencing condensation, vapor transmission, mold, or mildew on the walls. In that case, we can also add a sealed vapor barrier to the foundation wall to protect you and improve the overall health of your home. Properly sealed foundation walls and waterproofing systems are necessary to prevent water intrusion, but in homes, with radon systems, much care must be taken to ensure that improperly installed systems do not reverse the effects of a radon mitigation system.

Questions to Ask When Hiring a Basement Waterproofing Company

Here are some important questions to ask when hiring a basement waterproofing company:

How long have you been in business? This will give you an idea of the company’s experience and track record.
Are you licensed and insured? This is important to protect yourself in case of any problems with the work.
What kinds of solutions do you offer? Ensure the company offers a solution that suits your specific needs.
What is causing the water problem in my basement? The company should be able to identify the source of the problem and recommend a solution to address it.
How will the work affect my home? The company should be able to explain the work process in detail and answer any questions about how it will affect your home and family.
How much does it cost? Get estimates from multiple companies before making a decision.
Do you offer a warranty? In case of any problems with the work, it is important to have a warranty in place.

In addition to these general questions, you may also want to ask the following:

What products do you use? Make sure the company uses high-quality products that are backed by a warranty.
Can you provide references from past customers? This is a great way to get feedback on the company’s work and customer service.
What is your payment schedule? Make sure you understand the company’s payment schedule before signing any contracts.

Once you have interviewed multiple companies and gotten estimates, you can choose the company you feel most comfortable with, offering the best solution for your needs.

It is also important to remember that the cheapest price is not always the best solution. When choosing a basement waterproofing company, it is essential to consider the company’s experience, qualifications, and warranty as well as their method to solving the problem.

What Makes a Basement Waterproofing Company Better Than DIY Options?

There are several reasons why hiring a basement waterproofing company is better than DIY options:

Expertise: Basement waterproofing companies have the expertise and experience to diagnose the underlying cause of your water problem and recommend the best solution. They also have the knowledge and skills to install a comprehensive waterproofing system to protect your basement from water damage for years.
Equipment and tools: Basement waterproofing companies have the specialized equipment and tools needed to install a waterproofing system properly. This includes large excavators, sump pumps, and other equipment not typically available to homeowners.
Safety: Basement waterproofing can be dangerous work, especially if you are digging around your foundation. Basement waterproofing companies have the experience and training to work safely and efficiently.
Warranty: Most basement waterproofing companies offer a warranty on their work. If there are any problems with the waterproofing system after it is installed, the company will return and fix them at no cost.

DIY basement waterproofing can be a tempting option for homeowners on a budget. However, it is important to remember that basement waterproofing is a complex job that requires specialized expertise and equipment. If you are not careful, you could end up making the problem worse or causing severe damage to your home.

Here are some of the risks associated with DIY basement waterproofing:

Misdiagnosis: If you misdiagnose the cause of the water problem in your basement, you may choose the wrong waterproofing solution. This can lead to the problem persisting or even getting worse.
Improper installation: It may be ineffective if you do not install the waterproofing system properly, which can lead to water damage to your basement and your home.
Safety hazards: Basement waterproofing can be dangerous work, especially if you are digging around your foundation. If you are not careful, you could injure yourself or others.

If you have water problems in your basement, hiring a professional basement waterproofing company is best. This will ensure that the problem is diagnosed and fixed correctly and that your basement is protected from water damage for years.

Dealing with a wet, flooded, or leaky basement can be incredibly frustrating. You may be tempted to tackle waterproofing your basement using quick DIY fixes found online. However, hiring a professional basement waterproofing company offers key advantages over the DIY route.

Facts and Questions

How do I know if my foundation is leaking or if it is a plumbing leak?

If it hasn’t rained in several weeks and you are seeing water in your basement you may want to check to make sure you don’t have a plumbing leak. Turn all appliances off and check the meter outside to see if there is water moving through the line. If there is check with a plumber to see where it is coming from.

I have a finished basement. How do you identify where the water is getting in at?

If you have a finished basement the best thing you can do before calling an expert is to remove sheet rock and finishings in the area where you are seeing the water coming in at. You may find that you have a crack in the foundation wall or see water coming in at the base of the foundation wall where it meets the floor. Identifying how the water is getting in is extremely important to make sure the correct fix is applied. If you aren’t sure wait and watch the area during a few heavy rains. Take a video or photo of the water as it comes in and track it back as far as you can on the wall. Some detective work on your end can save you a lot of money and time in the long run.

What is the difference between a below grade leak and an above grade leak and why does that matter?

There are several ways water can come into a basement. Know exactly how it is getting in and where is very important to finding the proper fix. A below grade leak is considered a leak that happens on a wall that is buried. These walls are typically constructed of either poured concrete or stacked cinderblock and are called foundation walls. When a home is built with a basement these walls are treated with a waterproofing membrane and a foundation drain is put at the footer of the house before it is buried. These systems will fail overtime and that is why it is important to inspect your basement often. An above grade leak is when water is coming in on a wall that is not buried and normally has windows, doors and siding or brick on it. An above grade wall in a basement is normally wood framed and does not have any waterproofing on it. When water enters your basement in this way you either have a grading problem or water is getting into the house higher up either through a roof leak or window. Most waterproofing companies do not specialize in above grade leaks, and you will need to identify how the water is getting in to identify the right expert to call. Outside grading or drainage can help pull water away from the house but if not done properly the leak may not get fixed and during extreme floods you still may see water coming in.