Basement Waterproofing

Weather changes can lead to wet or damp basements, with problems ranging from occasional dampness to severe water damage to walls and floors. In some cases it is difficult to determine whether the water is coming from the outside or from condensation on the inside. To determine where the water is coming from, tape a twelve-inch square of aluminum foil to the damp wall area. Seal all four sides of the aluminum foil as tightly as possible. If in a couple of days, the outside is wet, it is condensation. A dehumidifier in the basement near that wall will help solve that problem.

However, if the side of the foil that was against the wall is wet, it is seepage. This may be more difficult to overcome. It may be necessary to excavate and seal the wall, or a drainage system may be needed to carry the water away from the home.

The Better Business Bureau urges homeowners not to panic. Don't ignore the problem, but consider taking the following approaches to ensuring a reasonable result.

• Look for obvious solutions first. Slope lawns away from the house, and slope the ground away from the outside foundation. Plant grass so that water does not drain into the basement. Trim heavy shrubbery so that soil dries quicker and allows for ventilation around the basement walls. Keep gutters and downspouts clear.
• Consider drainage systems or waterproofing compounds. Installing an interior drainage system on the inner side of the foundation is one method to eliminate wet walls. Applying waterproofing compounds to the interior walls may solve the problem of mild and occasional seepage. An extreme measure to make walls watertight involves excavating and exposing basement walls. However, be aware the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) finds that injecting waterproofing substances between the exterior and the wall "has not demonstrated a satisfactory performance and is not acceptable under HUD standards".
• Hire a home inspector. Before hiring a basement waterproofing contractor, you may find it beneficial to have a home inspector make an independent assessment of your problem. Check with the BBB on the reputation of the home inspector and the waterproofing contractor before hiring.
• Beware of contractors who require large payments in advance. Generally homeowners should obtain 3 written estimates to compare recommended procedures and costs before signing a contract.
• Read the contract carefully. Once you've decided on a contractor and the appropriate steps to take, read the entire contract before signing it. A full description of the work, a payment schedule, and a guarantee should all appear in a written contract. Keep a copy for your records.
• Know your rights. New York State law allows consumer to cancel the contract in writing within 3 business days. This clause should appear in the contract with directions for canceling.

For more information, contact:

Better Business Bureau
(800) 828-5000
www.bbb.org

New York State Attorney General
(800) 771-7755
www.oag.state.ny.us

Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
(877) 382-4357
www.ftc.gov

National Association of the Remodeling Industry
(800) 611-6274
www.nari.org

This information is general in nature and is not intended as a reliability report on any company, product, or service.