Complete Basement Systems: How to Transform Your Basement into an Expanded Living Space Livonia, MI

Transform your basement from a storage or laundry room into an expanded living space or home office! To do this, it’s essential to understand the components of comprehensive basement systems. Below is each element to keep in mind and their significance:

1. Foundation walls: As a first line of protection, the foundation walls work to block water infiltration, which can cause considerable structural harm and mold growth. Foundation walls are mostly constructed from concrete and reinforced with steel rebar for further stability. To ensure full security against potential intrusions, these barriers must be sealed properly to avoid any unwanted water seepage.
2. Drainage system: To protect your home from foundation and basement damage, a drainage system should be set up. This incorporates pipes, gravel, and a sump pump pit to guide water away from the house. The sump pump then sends all the excess moisture out of reach so it doesn’t pool around your foundation. Neglecting this essential precautionary measure can lead to costly damages that could have been avoided!
3. Vapor barrier: Moisture intrusion in basements can lead to the development of mold and damaging indoor air quality. To fend off moisture, a vapor barrier should be installed before any construction or finishing begins. The plastic sheet must be placed directly on the foundation walls and floor for optimal protection against seeping water.
4. Insulation: Insulating your basement is not only vital for comfort but also necessary to maximize energy efficiency. During the chill of winter or heat of summer, properly installed insulation keeps basements comfortable while minimizing costly utility bills. To ensure maximum thermal protection and prevent heat loss, remember to install insulation on the interior walls and between ceiling joists.
5. Flooring: When selecting the perfect flooring for your basement, it’s essential to consider both your budget and style. Carpet provides a cozy atmosphere that is ideal for home theaters or media rooms, while resilient vinyl or tile will hold up in high traffic areas. For those looking to add value to their home, hardwood can be an expensive but worthwhile investment. Whichever you choose, make sure it meets all of your needs!
6. Lighting: Illumination is key when it comes to both practicality and atmosphere. Recessed lighting, in particular, is often favored for basements due to its ability to provide ample light without occupying valuable headroom space. For added charm and a warm ambiance you can also install lamps or additional fixtures as desired.

With these considerations in mind, outfitting your basement with complete basement systems can help you add value, comfort, and energy efficiency to your home. Whether you’re looking to create an office space, media room, or simply make the most of an extra living area, having an understanding of each component of basement systems can help make sure that your basement is both durable and aesthetically pleasing.

Contact the Professionals at Basement Cracks & Leaks Today! 800-639-1131

7 Signs That Your Basement Systems Need Repair

Basement systems need to be dry and airy in order to be used as living spaces, storage areas, garages, or laundry rooms. But it is common to find basements that are wet, damp, or smelly. Such basements need to be repaired in order to be useful. Below are some signs that your basement systems need repair.

1. Accumulation of water in the basement

Water accumulation in your basement is a sign that water enters the area. This can be via seepage through the basement walls or floor or water flowing directly into the basement as a result of poor drainage. Since water damage is a serious threat to buildings, you should talk to a basement repair professional if water is accumulating in your basement.

2. Damp areas on walls

Damp areas on the walls of your basement are a sign that water or moisture is seeping through the walls. It could also be an indicator of moisture condensing on the walls. You should let a skilled contractor check the cause of the dampness and waterproof your basement.

3. Peeling paint

If the paint on your basement walls suddenly starts peeling off, this could be a sign of water damage. If the paint is not old, water could be seeping into the basement, causing its walls to become wet and making the paint peel off.

4. Musty odor

Musty odors in basement systems are usually caused by the presence of mold or mildew as a result of high humidity. As the mold and mildew grow, they produce compounds that have a musty smell. A basement repair technician can help you by waterproofing your basement and installing systems to improve its ventilation.

5. Presence of mold and mildew

In addition to the presence of a musty smell in a damp basement, you are also likely to see evidence of the growth of mold and mildew. Since mold and mildew are associated with notable damage as well as health issues, their presence in your basement should alert you to repair your basement.

6. Wood decay

Wood decay occurs when wooden items have a moisture content that exceeds 20%. In a basement, this can be due to damp conditions, meaning that you need to check the source of the moisture.

7. Cracks on the basement floor and walls

Cracks can cause water to seep into your basement from outside or underground. These cracks can expand over time as more water leaks through them. Therefore, if your basement has cracks, you need to have them sealed by a certified basement repair technician.

Current Basement Waterproofing Methods Livonia, MI

Basement waterproofing is a big job and can be costly. Many homeowners worry about the cost of hiring a contractor to do the work, especially when it may appear that they could do it themselves. Professional basement waterproofers have the experience and specialized tools needed to properly seal your walls and floors, making sure that no moisture or water will seep in. Basement waterproofing systems installed by professionals provide long-term protection from flooding— something you may not get with DIY solutions. Furthermore, professional contractors are trained to identify potential hazards such as mold growth and structural damage caused by water entering into your home’s foundation, so their services offer peace of mind for years to come. Basement waterproofing can also save you money in energy costs by reducing the amount of air leakage from your basement, which can help lower your cooling and heating bills in the long run.

Another common concern is that contractors may take shortcuts when completing basement waterproofing projects. However, reputable Basement Waterproofers are certified professionals who adhere to local building codes and regulations. They also use quality materials and follow industry best practices— this ensures that your basement waterproofing job is done right the first time!

Ultimately, basement waterproofing can be an expensive but necessary part of home maintenance. Working with a professional Basement Waterproofer provides you with peace of mind knowing that your home is protected against future water damage and flooding. Investing in basement waterproofing now will save. you money in the long run and can help keep your home safe and dry.

If you’re considering basement waterproofing, it’s best to hire a professional Basement Waterproofer who has experience with Basement waterproofing projects of all shapes and sizes. When searching for Basement Waterproofers, be sure to ask about licensing, insurance, certifications, warranties and guarantees. You may also want to inquire about any special offers or discounts that may be available— these could help save you money on basement waterproofing costs! Additionally, make sure to review any feedback from previous customers before selecting a Basement Waterproofing Professional for your project. This will give you an idea of what kind of customer service and results to expect.

If you have any questions or concerns about basement waterproofing, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional advice! With the right Basement Waterproofer, your basement will be protected from water damage for years to come.

Contact the Professionals at Basement Cracks & Leaks Today! 800-639-1131

5 Clear Signs Your Home Needs Foundation Waterproofing Fenton, MI

Water damage is probably one of the most common types of damage that many homes experience. When your home’s foundation comes into contact with water, a number of things happen. One is non-structural damage, which involves seepage of water through cracks, wall joints, and other porous sections of the foundation walls.

The second one is structural damage, which is mostly associated with hydrostatic pressure. As the soil that anchors the foundation becomes saturated with water, its weight is increased. In turn, the soil exerts more hydrostatic pressure on the walls, causing them to bend or warp little by little.

All kinds of water damage are associated with the growth of mold in places such as basements as a result of the damp environment.

Foundation waterproofing helps stop the seepage of moisture and water through the foundation of a home, thus lowering the risk of the building being damaged by water. Foundation waterproofing is also key to keeping basements and crawlspaces dry, thus eliminating the growth of mold in these places. 

For effective results, you need to work with a certified basement repair contractor. The following are some clear signals that your home needs foundation waterproofing services.

1. Presence of Water or Moisture in the Basement

The presence of moisture in your basement is the clearest indicator that water is seeping through your home’s foundation. Water or moisture may be in the form of puddles on the floor, damp walls, condensation on windows, and coldness in the basement.

2. A musty odor in the Basement

If your basement is smelly and there is no clear explanation for this, you could be having a mold problem. Since mold thrives in damp conditions, you need to let a contractor check the basement and waterproof it appropriately.

3. Patches of Mold in the Basement

If you can see blemishes or patches of mold in the basement, it is clear that the basement has high humidity or is moist and needs to be waterproofed.

4. Foundation Wall and Floor Cracks

Cracks on the basement walls and floor cause moisture to seep in. If water seeps from the ground or through cracks in the floor, it will cause notable damage to the basement floor. Similarly, seepage of water through the basement walls can expand the cracks and compromise the walls’ firmness.

5. Warping Foundation Walls

If the soil that holds your home’s foundation is constantly wet due to poor drainage, faulty gutters, or plumbing leaks, it will exert more hydrostatic pressure on the foundation walls and cause them to curve. If you notice that your foundation walls are bending, you urgently need to call a dependable foundation waterproofing contractor.

Contact the Professionals at Basement Cracks & Leaks Today! 800-639-1131

Top Tips When Choosing Basement Systems, Atlanta, GA

Do you have a flooded basement? If you do, you’re probably searching for the best solution to keep the water out so that you won’t have to experience flooding ever again. However, there are so many basement systems to choose from. It can be difficult to decide which one you should go with. 

Each system has something unique to offer. The following are some factors you can use to base your decision.

1. Reviews 

Have your neighbors had their basements repaired? What basement systems did they have installed? Check with neighbors and friends in the area. You should also check online reviews on third-party websites. This is one of the best ways to determine whether a system is effective. 

2. Warranties

It is extremely important to ensure the basement systems you’re considering have warranties. This ensures that the contractor will take responsibility for any expenses for work that has to be done on the foundation as a result of the system’s failure. 

Check the warranty offered to see what exactly is covered and for how long. 

If you’re being offered a lifetime warranty for the system, be sure to check how long the contractor has been in business. You can trust an experienced contractor who has been in business for decades to fulfill a lifetime warranty. 

3. Pricing

If it’s so cheap you can’t believe it, you probably shouldn’t. Dirt cheap systems are often offered by contractors that have had to cut some corners in order to be able to make a profit despite cutting down on the price. 

Go for systems that are reasonably priced. You can know a reasonable price by comparing quotations from different service providers. 

4. The contractors level of experience 

You’ll want to choose a system offered by a contractor that is experienced. They should be able to provide you with references for their work to show just how well the system has worked for other clients. 

It is good practice to call see their references to have a first-hand account of the effectiveness of the system. Never rely solely on the account of the contractor. 

There are different systems available in the market. The system you choose should provide you with long term benefits. It should be able to meet your specific requirements and preferences. 

Be sure to talk to an experienced and licensed contractor to find out what options are available for your foundation. 

6 Reasons Why Wall Cracks Appear Fenton, MI

Walls are more than just mere aesthetic features of a building, they provide invaluable support and protection for the structure and its occupants. Nonetheless, wall cracks can emerge over time which not only disrupts the look but may also be indicative of greater underlying issues. In this blog post, we will investigate the numerous causes of wall cracks.

1. Settlement

Wall cracks are typically the result of settlement, especially common in just-built properties. Settlement transpires when the soil beneath a foundation compacts or shifts, thus causing it to settle or shift too. As this base moves, so does the walls above and can therefore crack them as well.

2. Moisture

Moisture can be a primary factor of wall cracking. When it permeates the walls, it weakens their structure and eventually leads to cracks forming. This is especially true if you live in an area with high humidity or your bathroom/kitchen are prone to moisture exposure due to lack of proper ventilation or insulation.

3. Temperature Changes

Temperature fluctuations can be particularly detrimental to walls, especially in areas with extreme weather. When the heat or cold alters, so do the materials making up your walls; this phenomenon causes cracks and fractures within them.

4. Poor Quality Materials

The caliber of materials used in the walls plays a key role in wall cracking. If inferior materials are chosen or not installed properly, cracks will surface at some point down the line.

5. Structural Damage

Cracks in walls can be the result of structural damage to a building, particularly problems with its foundation. When this occurs, the structure may settle or move, which will cause breaks and fractures in the wall’s surface. By inspecting for foundational issues first, you can prevent these cracks from occurring down the line and ensure your buildings are secure.

6. Poor Design

Ultimately, structural design flaws can also be responsible for wall cracking. If the walls are not appropriately equipped to support the weight of a building or if there is an architectural defect, these walls may indeed fracture over time.

There are numerous possible causes for wall cracks, such as moisture infiltration, structural fatigue, poor quality materials, and more. If you notice any splits or crevices in your walls, it is imperative to look into the cause without delay in order to prevent further destruction. Talking with a specialist can help you understand what’s at play and determine the best course of action.

Contact the Professionals at Basement Cracks & Leaks Today! 800-639-1131

Should I Invest in Foundation Repair Before Remodeling or Vice Versa?

Does your foundation show signs of damage? If you’re considering having your home remodeled, you may be wondering about whether you should invest in the remodel first and then the foundation repair or vice versa. It is understandable that this can be confusing for homeowners. Many face budgetary and time constraints. 

Both remodeling and foundation repair can be costly. You will want to ensure that you get the best value for your money. Below we explore how you can do just that. 

How remodeling can affect the foundation? 

When designing a building, architects and structural engineers design foundations to support the structure of the building and the activities that they expect to occur within the building. Remodeling results in changes to the building structure. This affects the forces acting on the foundation. For example, adding heavy cabinet to the kitchen or adding a room on top of the garage can result in increased weight on the foundation. This can result in foundation damage. 

It is important to consult a structural engineer when planning a remodel to determine its impact on the foundation. 

How foundation repair can damage your home

Foundation repair can result in damage to upper parts of the home. This of course depends on the extent and type of the repair. For

example, repair that involves lifting the foundation can result in damage to walls, roofs and even countertops. You may notice cracks and other visible signs of damage in your home after the repair is completed. 

Foundation repair can also result in damage to plumbing and other utilities. You may even be required to make some changes to these utilities during or after the repairs. 

Should you invest in Foundation Repair or Remodeling First? 

While it is possible to remodel your home prior to investing in repairing your foundation, it is best to complete foundation repair first. If you remodel your home first, there is a good chance that your home will experience damage during the repair of the foundation. Cracks and other damage will cost money to repair following repair to the foundation. Your investment in remodeling could end up being a total waste of money. 

If you’re thinking of investing in a remodel for your home, be sure to consult all the right professionals prior to remodeling. Have a structural engineer determine the impact of the remodel on the foundation and have a foundation repair professional inspect and repair your foundation prior to remodeling. 

Prevent Basement Flooding With These Popular Methods Fenton, MI

Fortunately, there are a number of simple steps you can take to ensure your basement stays dry and free from water damage. Here are some tips for waterproofing your basement:

1. Install a sump pump – A sump pump is used to draw out excess water from the basement and channel it away from the home. It should be connected to an outlet that is powered by electricity or battery-operated backup in case of power failure.
2. Check plumbing pipes regularly – Broken or leaking pipes can cause serious flooding problems in the basement. Regularly inspect all your fixtures and make sure any visible cracks or leaks are taken care of before they become a major issue.
3. Repair any cracks in the walls or floor – Even the smallest cracks in the basement walls or floor can allow water to seep in. Make sure to repair any cracks as soon as you notice them, and seal them with a waterproofing compound for added protection.
4. Install gutters and downspouts – Gutters divert rainwater away from your home, while downspouts direct it further away from the foundation of your house. Make sure that both are properly installed and angled correctly so they can do their job effectively.
5. Install window wells – Window wells help keep out moisture by surrounding windows with a well-draining material such as gravel or crushed stone. This way, rainwater won’t be able to collect near your windows and seep into the basement.
6. Check exterior landscaping – Improper exterior landscaping can cause water to pool near your foundation and eventually leak into your basement. Make sure that slopes, grading, and other landscaping features are properly maintained to keep water away from your home.

By following these simple tips, you can protect your basement from major flooding problems and enjoy a dry, safe space for years to come!

Last but not least it’s always important to have an experienced professional inspect your home at least once a year as part of a routine maintenance schedule. This way you can be sure that any potential problems are detected and addressed in time before they become serious issues. With regular inspections and repairs, your basement will be waterproof and safe.

Contact the Professionals at Basement Cracks & Leaks Today! 800-639-1131

4 Tips To Reduce Moisture In The Crawlspace Of Your Home Fenton, MI

When you think of a crawlspace, you probably think of it as a small space that connects your home to the ground. You also may believe that there’s always moisture in this area or that it can become moldy if not cleaned regularly. However, there are ways that you can use to reduce moisture in your crawlspace and make sure it stays dry:

1.      Place a Vapor Barrier On The Ground

One of the most important things you can do in crawlspace waterproofing is to place a vapor barrier on the ground. This will absorb moisture from below, keeping it dry and cool. It also protects against mold and mildew growth, which can be toxic if they’re not properly controlled.

If you’re using plastic boards in lieu of tarps, use them only as a temporary solution until you’ve finished installing your vapor barrier!

2.      Provide Adequate Ventilation for The Crawlspace

Ventilation is important to prevent moisture and mold in your crawlspace. You can install a fan in the crawlspace, or you can install windows or doors that provide ventilation.

If you have a basement with an unfinished ceiling and no access to fresh air, then it’s important to have these windows open during the summer months so that this space doesn’t get too hot or humid.

3. Install A Sump Pump In The Crawlspace

You can install a sump pump in the crawl space of your home. A sump pump is a mechanical device that removes excess water from a building. It’s installed in the crawl space, connected to a drainage system, and should be installed in a watertight pit.

4. Seal All Cracks and Holes In The Foundation

When it comes to sealing cracks and holes in the foundation as a way of crawlspace waterproofing, there are two types of sealants: flexible and rigid. Flexible sealants can be used on any surface that’s not concrete or masonry. These include wood decks, fences, and decks; concrete slabs; and even fiberglass insulation.

Rigid sealants are designed specifically for use on surfaces like concrete slabs as well as brick walls.

In conclusion, it is important to understand that moisture in the crawlspace of your home can cause problems. The most common causes of moisture in crawlspaces are poorly sealed cracks and holes in foundation walls or insufficient ventilation. In some cases, these problems may be caused by other factors, such as poor drainage or inadequate insulation levels. If moisture is not properly managed, mold growth may result, which can lead to structural damage as well as a host of health issues!

Talk to a crawlspace waterproofing expert today!

Contact the Professionals at Basement Cracks & Leaks, Metro Inc. Today! 800-639-1131

How To Prevent Flooding & Mold Fenton, MI

A basement is one of the most important parts of your home. It’s where you can store all your things, but it can also be a part of the foundation of your house. If you have a basement that floods when it rains or gets wet from any other source, then there are steps you can take to prevent this from happening again and hopefully prevent mold from growing in the future.

Install a Sump Pump

Sump pumps are the most important part of your basement waterproofing system. Sump pumps are installed in a pit on the basement floor, and they pump water out of your home when it gets too high to keep it from flooding.

Sump pumps can be powered by electricity or a battery, but most people use electricity because it’s easier to install and maintain. If you’re worried about having to change batteries regularly, you can get a backup battery-operated sump pump for emergencies that won’t use up all your power supply. 

Look for Standing Water

It’s important to look at what’s on the floor, ceiling, and walls. Water stains are often caused by standing or surface water that has seeped into the walls and dripped down into cracks in the concrete or stone foundation. They can also be caused by leaks around plumbing fixtures, such as toilets or showers (especially if they have been used recently).

Inspect your Home’s Walls Regularly

One of the best ways to prevent basement flooding is by inspecting your home’s walls regularly. You can do this by checking for cracks and holes, as well as signs of water damage and mold.

If you notice any of these problems, call a professional who has experience in basement waterproofing.

Clean Out the Area Around Your Foundation

You’ll want to look around your foundation and make sure there isn’t any debris or plants growing around the perimeter. If you see any, remove them as soon as possible.

The best way to prevent water pooling in this area is by keeping it clear of weeds and leaves that could act like a dam, preventing water from flowing away from the foundation properly.

As you can see, keeping your basement waterproof is work, but it’s also essential to keep your family safe. Even one leaky water pipe can cause serious damage to the foundation of your home, so make sure you find the best basement waterproofing system for your needs.

Contact the Professionals at Basement Cracks & Leaks Today! 800-639-1131