"I only use James when I need some work done to my house. He responds fast, gets the work done quicker than just about anyone else I've ever used and seems very concerned with leaving his customers happy."
Basement Waterproofing questions, answered by experts
Yes, barndominiums can have basements. Barndominiums are typically built over concrete slabs, so barndo basements are not very common. However, it is possible to include a basement in a barndominium blueprint as long as you’re building completely from scratch. Barndos can have the same types of basements as traditional homes, including full or walk-out basements.
While a standard gutter system is widely considered the most effective way to prevent water damage to your home's foundation, several alternatives are available. These options can be used on their own in certain climates or as supplementary protection.
Common alternatives include:
Rain Chains: These are decorative chains that hang from the roof's edge, guiding rainwater to the ground.
Drip Edges: These metal strips are installed at the edge of the roof to direct water away from the fascia. While often used with gutters, they can be paired with a ground-level solution but are typically not sufficient on their own.
Rain Dispersal Systems: These systems work by breaking up the heavy sheet of water flowing off the roof, dispersing it over a wider area.
French Drains: This ground-level system uses a perforated pipe in a gravel-filled trench to collect and redirect water runoff away from the house.
Drip Paths: Placed directly below the roofline, these paths made of concrete, stone, or other materials prevent soil erosion and guide water away.
It's important to note that some alternatives like rain chains and dispersal systems may not be adequate in regions with heavy rainfall because they don't divert water away from the foundation as effectively as a full gutter system. Ground-based solutions like French drains can be very effective but are often more expensive and can affect your landscaping and curb appeal. Many experts recommend installing a full gutter system for maximum protection and using alternatives as supplementary measures.
Yes, cleaning a crawl space is worth the cost. Although it's an out-of-sight area, neglecting it can lead to significant problems like pest infestations (including termites and carpenter ants), mold, and fungal growth, which can cause structural damage. Regular cleaning helps prevent these issues. While hiring a contractor has ongoing costs, the price for cleaning—typically between $0.50 and $4 per square foot—is much lower than the cost to remediate a pest or mold problem. Additionally, a clean crawl space can lead to improved indoor air quality and more comfortable temperatures in your home.
Yes, basement insulation needs a vapor barrier due to its susceptibility to moisture seeping in from the outside of the house. You should install a moisture barrier before you install insulation or purchase insulation that comes prebuilt with a moisture barrier to avoid water damage in your insulation and costly mold and water remediation expenses.
Having a trusted crawl space contractor is the key to great encapsulation. If you're not sure how to hire a crawl space pro, begin by asking your neighbors for referrals. Homes in your neighborhood will often have a similar foundation to your house, and personal recommendations are one of the best ways to find a contractor. Additionally, double-check that the contractor has experience with encapsulation as well as proof of their license and insurance.
The Tsaile, 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.
