Thursday, August 21, 2014

5 Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring Basement Waterproofing Contractors


If you are looking for a contractor to waterproof your basement, you may not know where to start. Do you open the phone book and choose the prime contractor on the list? Are you looking around online for the best deal?

The good news is to find the best basement waterproofing contractors is actually quite easy. Just make sure you avoid these common mistakes when hiring a contractor.

Basement Waterproofing Contractors

Mistake # 1: Choosing a contractor based solely on price.

There is nothing wrong with wanting to get a good deal, but never forget, there is no truth in the saying “You get what you pay for.” Do not choose basement waterproofing contractors simply because they say they have the lowest price in the city. Choosing a contractor based solely on price will reach an inexperienced contractor who cuts corners and does shoddy work.

Instead, you want to find a reputable contractor that offers a fair rate that meets your budget. Get estimates from the best contractors in your area, and find the price that includes most of the services of an experienced contractor at the best prices.

Mistake # 2: Not asking for referrals.

One of the biggest challenges is separating marketing hype from reality. Any contractor may claim to be an expert in basement waterproofing, but unless you can actually prove these claims are pointless.

The best contractors can provide plenty of references from previous clients who have used their services. In fact, many contractors even publish testimonials from satisfied customers’ right there on their website, which allows you to see which have helped a lot of people like you in the past.

If the contractor does not have testimonials or references, take your business elsewhere.

Mistake # 3: not get written.

Before hiring a contractor, you need to know exactly what services you will be receiving, the price they are getting at, and when they will be completed. Never just reached a verbal agreement with a contractor, and you can always say later “never agreed with this”.
Get everything in writing: services, pricing, and deadlines. Make sure that the contract signed by both parties, and keep a copy of the contract somewhere that will not lose it. If the contractor is going to his word, show the contract to ensure that it adheres to the agreement.

Mistake # 4: Not looking at the credentials of the contractor.

Never hire a contractor qualified independent certified not to do work from home. Reputable contractors basement waterproofing is registered (and in good condition) with the Better Business Bureau and several housing associations and local nationals.
Certifications are important because they speak directly to the quality of the construction contractor. If the contractor does not have any credentials to show you, find one that does.

Mistake # 5: No interior systems compare available.

There are several systems available interior waterproofing contractors. The first is designed to sit right on the floor slab on the floor and wall meet. The holes should be drilled in each block core to allow drainage. This system is called the motherboard and is primarily designed to control the water trapped in the block walls only. Any water under the floor should reach its highest level and be ready to get out in the lounge before I could get to this type of system. This method is simpler and less costly to try to waterproof a basement and is a very poor at best.

Second is what is known as a system of drainage channel or channels to be placed at the base of the wall in the footer. The holes should be drilled in each block core to allow drainage. This system controls the water trapped in the wall, and the water below the floor. However, the water level should rise until it reaches the system allowing the water to remain in contact with the floor slab at all times. This causes the vapor transfer at home, wet spots on the ground, and possibly ground water, soil if cracks are present.

And finally, the more efficient interior drainage systems are a perforated drain pipe installed inside and along the perimeter of the base. Tile drainage works most effectively when placed under or next to the foundation footer, instead of on top of the footer. This system allows you to lower the water table additional effective 6.8 “below your basement floor. Keeping your basement dry and away from water as much as possible is vital to prevent the transfer of moisture in your home from top. This system and the systems, especially, require the installation of a sump pump and crock.

Make sure you understand the system being installed or recommended by the contractor and if it will effectively prevent the problems you are having.

Besides avoiding these common mistakes, another thing you can do is give you plenty of time to plan before hiring contractor’s basement waterproofing whenever possible, do not rush into anything that’s when you make mistakes.

Instead, take your time in hiring a contractor to make sure you find the best worker for the job.

Find basement waterproofing contractors today.


Photo Credit : Flickr.com

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