FAQ
What should I do if I think there's water in my basement?
Call or e-mail Everdry Waterproofing today to schedule a free basement waterproofing inspection. We'll report on the condition of your foundation and help you choose a basement waterproofing solution that fits your budget and needs.
What can happen if I don't fix the moisture problems in my basement?
Damp basements promote mold growth and encourage vermin, leading to serious health problems for your family. Termites can gain entrance into your home through foundation cracks. Resale value of your home is reduced by as much as 25 percent if you have persistent water problems.
Also, if you are planning to finish your basement or have a finished space already, water can cause serious problems. Too often homeowners ignore potential water problems only to have their finished basements destroyed by moisture, dampness, mold, and mildew.
What's the first step?
Contact EverDry Basement Waterproofing your your free basement inspection and consultation. We'll provide a detailed analysis of your foundation and basement and offer recommendations on eliminating any moisture that may exist. Your inspector will provide photographs and explanations of problem areas and discuss options for correcting these issues.
After my EverDry Basement inspection, what comes next?
Following your basement inspection, our senior team will discuss your waterproofing needs and order materials. We'll schedule a convenient starting day for your basement waterproofing service. Our crew usually arrives around 8 a.m., unless other arrangements are made. The foremen will speak with you about the work planned for the day and answer any questions before the EverDry Basement Waterproofing team gets to work.
How long does it take to install the average basement waterproofing system?
Actual time depends on your particular situation and what we find once the floor area is opened. Our projects usually last 2 to 4 days, but should we find it necessary to extend our schedule, there is not additional cost to you. Homes requiring structural and exterior work will require additional time.
Does the EverDry Basement Waterproofing service make a mess? What is done to protect my belongings?
Unfortunately, the nature of our service will create dust and cause some disruption. To protect your home and belongings we hang plastic dust covers and drape any exposed storage boxes and items. When we're done, we sweep up after ourselves and remove project debris from your home.
Does living on a hill prevent my house from having a water problem?
Sadly, no. Exterior grade is only one of many factors involved in basement moisture issues. Water problems can also be the result of foundation cracks, a high water table, drain tile issues, or many other causes.
Is mold a problem in my basement?
YES! Mold is both dangerous to your family's health and a sign of moisture/water problems. You need to address both the existing mold problem and the underlying causes to ensure your home is sound and safe. For more information, visit the Environmental Protection Agency's introduction to mold at: http://www.epa.gov/mold/moldresources.html
My house is built on a crawlspace, so I'm safe from leaks, right?
Sorry, but no. Because crawlspaces are generally shallower than basements your chances are better, but crawlspaces do leak, develop mold, and have water problems just like basements. And since your crawlspace is holding up your home, you must address these issues to ensure your home is structurally sound and a safe environment.
If my basement only leaks in one area, can I fix just that one spot?
You could, and it might even work. However, it usually doesn't. Think about it this way: water follows the path of least resistance. So if you fix the one spot, the water will simply find the next easiest place to enter. It's a vicious cycle. That's why the EverDry Basement Waterproofing System addresses not only HOW and WHERE the water is getting in, but also why the water is there in the first place (grading, etc.) Whole basement waterproofing is generally more cost-effective and efficient because it addresses the source of the problem as well as the symptoms.
If my basement only leaks after a heavy rain, can I sue a waterproofing paint to fix it?
Nope. Waterproofing paints seal walls to prevent moisture from passing through, which is different than water seepage. You may temporarily stop the water but it's still there, pushing on the walls or floor. It will continue to be a problem until you remove the water; again it's all about eliminating the source as well as the symptom.
My 20-year-old house just started leaking. Why now?
Over time, homes need basic maintenance and repairs. You replace your roof and consider it normal--the same goes for foundations. As the original drain tiles and sealant age, they will eventually fail and need to be replaced. The conditions in the ground around your home may have also changed, so that the original construction of the foundation wasn't designed to handle the water that is now present. Regardless of the causes, it is perfectly normal for an older foundation to need waterproofing and repair work.