Basement Waterproofing
Do you have a wet basement? Our team can fix it fast. We offer expert basement waterproofing solutions for homeowners across Pennsylvania and Northeast Ohio.
Why Basements in This Area Have Water Problems
Homes across Pennsylvania and Northern Ohio deal with a few common issues that make the basement more prone to leaks and waterproofing issues. Heavy rain is a large contributor to this. When the ground around your home becomes saturated with water, pressure can build up against the foundation. This pressure, called hydrostatic pressure, pushes moisture through cracks, joints, and porous concrete. In addition, soil movement can create small cracks that allow water in. Our team at America’s Basement Contractor sees this most often on older homes, which are common in our area. If you’ve noticed water in your basement, our team can help.
Regardless of whether or not you have this space below your home finished, you still need to be doing what you can to keep it safe, dry, healthy, and protected from harm. Our team at America’s Basement Contractor will be able to provide you with effective solutions and products from Richtech® Industries, one of the leading manufacturers in the business.
Signs You Need Basement Waterproofing
A lot of homeowners wait longer than they should because the signs seem minor at first. If you are seeing any of these, there is already water getting in somewhere.
- Water entering at the foundation wall & floor seam can seep into the basement and could be a sign of a larger problem.
- Stains on walls or floors, especially near the base, could indicate water infiltration.
- Peeling paint or efflorescence, which is the white, powdery residue left behind by evaporating water, are signs that moisture is causing damage to the interior surfaces.
- The appearance of mold or mildew. This growth can pose health risks to occupants. Therefore, the presence of mold or mildew on walls, ceilings, or belongings in the basement should not be ignored.
- If your basement is finished, wet carpet or drywall is an important indicator of water leaking.
- A failed or inadequate sump pump system may also be a cause if you cannot remove excess water quickly enough.
- Basement leaks through the window wells or foundation wall cracks are more obvious signs of waterproofing issues.
- If your basement smells musty or damp, it may be a sign of high basement humidity due to waterproofing issues.
What’s Causing Water in Your Basement?
Water doesn’t just show up in your basement. There is always a cause, that’s what our team aims to solve. Some of the most common causes we see include:
- Hydrostatic pressure pushing water through the foundation
- Cracks in walls or floors
- Water collecting around the foundation due to poor grading
- Failing or outdated waterproofing systems
- Clogged or missing drainage systems
The key is figuring out which of these is happening at your home before jumping into a solution.
Our Basement Waterproofing Systems
Our team at Americas Basement Contractor knows that no two basements are the same. Choosing the right system depends on how and where the water is getting in. That’s why we work with homeowners to create custom waterproofing solutions that address their exact needs.
Interior Waterproofing
Interior waterproofing systems are designed to manage water once it enters your basement and move it out before it causes damage. This involves a drainage system, usually called a French drain, along the perimeter of the basement. Water is collected and directed into a sump pump, which removes it from the house.
Here is what that process typically looks like:
- Remove a section of concrete along the basement perimeter
- Drill weep holes to relieve pressure inside the walls
- Install a drainage channel to collect water
- Install a sump pump system
- Cover the system and restore the floor
Exterior Waterproofing
Exterior waterproofing systems are designed to prevent water from reaching the foundation. This approach is more involved, and we only recommend it in specific situations, such as severe water intrusion or during new construction. This system prevents water by using exterior coatings and membranes to keep the water from touching your foundation.
The process includes:
- Excavating around the foundation
- Applying a waterproof coating
- Installing a protective membrane
- Adding a drainage pipe around the base of the foundation
- Backfilling with gravel and soil
Basement Waterproofing FAQs
How does basement waterproofing work?
It depends on the system. Interior systems collect and remove water after it enters, while exterior systems stop water before it reaches the foundation.
Do I need interior or exterior waterproofing?
That depends on the source of the problem. Most homes benefit from an interior system, but some situations require exterior work.
Will waterproofing stop mold and humidity?
It can significantly reduce both by controlling moisture levels. In some cases, additional solutions like dehumidifiers may be recommended.
How long does basement waterproofing last?
A properly installed system should last for many years. The exact lifespan depends on the system and the conditions around your home.
Do you offer free inspections?
Yes. The first step is always identifying the problem so the right solution can be recommended.
Why Homeowners Choose America’s Basement Contractor
There are a lot of companies offering basement waterproofing. What matters is whether the solution actually works long term. Homeowners across Pennsylvania and Northern Ohio choose us because we focus on getting it right the first time.
- We take the time to diagnose the real problem
- We recommend solutions based on your home, not a standard package
- We use proven waterproofing systems that are built to last
- We understand the conditions in Pennsylvania and Northern Ohio
You are not getting a guess. You are getting a plan that is built around your situation.
Schedule a Basement Waterproofing Inspection
If you are dealing with a wet or damp basement, the next step is simple. Have it inspected. We will take a look, figure out what is causing the issue, and walk you through the best way to fix it. That way, you know exactly what you are dealing with and what it takes to solve it. Contact our team today by calling 814-807-5930 or by clicking the button below to fill out our online contact form.
Customer Reviews
Basement Waterproofing
These guys are top notch. Can’t say enough good things about their professionalism and work ethic. They spent 2 days doing interior footer drains and did an epic job.
Gary S.
French Drain Installation
We had a great experience with ABC. The crew showed up on time and worked well together. They were all friendly amd had no issues with anyone.
Trisha O.
Waterproofing Installation
ABC waterproofed our basement in 2015 and we have not had a service call about our basement in all these years. I am a real estate agent and I am very careful about who I recommend but I’ve never hesitated to refer ABC contractors.
Pam H.