"Alex and Donavan were very thorough. Discovered more than what we called them for. We originally wanted information on sealing cracks to eliminate cricket infestation coming through cracks in stem wall. We were not interested in repairing foundation rebar which is typical in slab homes in AZ. They were knowledgeable and honest in their evaluation of our home."
Basement Waterproofing questions, answered by experts
No, you don’t want your crawl space to be wet because water and even moisture in the air under your home can attract insects and rodents, decrease your indoor air quality, increase your energy bills, promote mold growth, and even lead to structural damage. If you notice any signs of water or humidity in your crawl space, you should get the issues addressed immediately by contacting a professional. They can remove moisture and will know how to waterproof your basement to prevent ongoing problems.
Due to the nature of basements, some level of waterproofing is necessary to prevent water from seeping in and causing damage. Some definitive signs that your basement needs waterproofing measures or needs existing waterproofing measures need to be updated include:
Water in your basement, including damp walls or puddles on the floor
Mold spots in your basement
Musty smells or odors
Warped doors or walls
Cracks in walls
Insect issues, such as cockroaches and termites
Walkout basements cost more than other kinds of basements, and can also increase your risk of leaks as well as a loss of insulation, leading to higher heating and cooling costs. Improperly installed walkout basements may lead to structural issues with your foundation, so ensure you’re working with a contractor who has extensive experience with this kind of basement.
In most cases, it is safe to live in a home with minor foundation problems, but you should not let the issues persist. Virtually all foundations have small cracks from normal settlement, which are not a structural concern but should be sealed to prevent water intrusion. However, major damage—such as large structural cracks, sinking foundations, or bulging walls—can make a home unsafe. Other issues that can pose safety and health risks include poor indoor air quality from mold or pests, uneven floors, and rotten beams or joists. It is always best to have a foundation repair expert or structural engineer inspect any issues to determine if your home is safe to live in.
Proper basement ventilation is very effective at reducing humidity. Without enough ventilation, your basement is prone to mold and moisture damage. Your basement should have as much natural ventilation via windows and doors as possible, and if your budget allows, you should also consider installing an ERV system to keep basement humidity levels at bay.
The Cibecue, AZ homeowners’ guide to basement waterproofing services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Need to fix basement water problems or safeguard your home from damage in the future? Use this basement waterproofing cost guide to budget appropriately.
An unfinished basement has a lot of potential for a family room or guest suite. So how much does it cost to finish a basement? Read on for all cost factors.
Dealing with a damp basement? Follow these steps for DIY basement waterproofing to keep water and moisture out and boost your home’s energy efficiency.
Can’t seem to get rid of the moisture and mold in your basement? Learn why basements tend to hold moisture and how to get rid of moisture in the basement.