At '58 Foundations & Waterproofing, we are incredibly proud to announce that Kevin Coppersmith’s leadership has been recognized with a prestigious industry award. This accolade is a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence and the high-quality service we provide to each and every customer. It's not just an acknowledgment of the work we do, but of the trust that homeowners have placed in us over the years. Receiving this award is a great honor, and it only strengthens our resolve to continue delivering exceptional results in the field of foundation repair and waterproofing.
At '58 Foundations & Waterproofing, the focus isn’t just on creating strong foundations for homes but also on building a legacy of trust, reliability, and expertise. The story behind this company is as solid as the foundations they repair, and at the helm is Kevin Coppersmith, a leader with a deep passion for making homes safer and more secure.
Kevin Coppersmith, the CEO of '58 Foundations & Waterproofing, embarked on this journey with a clear vision: to create a company that not only excels in foundation and waterproofing solutions but also in customer satisfaction. Under his leadership, the company has grown from a regional service provider into a trusted name across multiple states, serving thousands of homes and businesses. This success is no accident—Kevin’s dedication to innovation, training, and customer education has built a brand that homeowners can trust for life.
One of the key elements of Coppersmith’s approach is education. By equipping customers with knowledge, '58 Foundations & Waterproofing empowers them to make informed decisions about protecting their homes. Whether it’s about fixing crawl space issues, waterproofing basements, or stabilizing foundations, customers receive expert advice and transparent service.
Kevin’s journey is not just about business growth; it’s about creating a lasting legacy. His commitment to quality workmanship and exceptional service reflects the company’s core values: integrity, honesty, and a dedication to doing the right thing for every homeowner. It’s these values that have allowed '58 Foundations & Waterproofing to expand while maintaining a personal touch, treating each home as if it were their own.
As the company continues to grow, Kevin Coppersmith remains focused on the future. His leadership is driving '58 Foundations & Waterproofing toward new innovations in home foundation repair and waterproofing. For homeowners looking for peace of mind, Kevin’s story is a testament to the fact that, with the right team and leadership, your home can rest on a foundation built to last.
We are beyond grateful for this recognition, but it wouldn’t have been possible without the support of our amazing team and loyal customers. Every project we undertake is a partnership with the homeowner, and this award is as much theirs as it is ours. We look forward to many more years of service, innovation, and building strong foundations—both in homes and in the relationships we cherish with our customers. Here's to a future filled with continued success and growth, grounded in the values that have brought us this far!
Waterproofing a basement is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your home from water damage, mold, and structural issues. A basement that is not properly waterproofed can lead to serious problems, including foundation cracks, flooding, and unhealthy living conditions. With several waterproofing methods available, homeowners often wonder which is the best option. The answer depends on the specific needs of your basement, the source of the water intrusion, and your budget. In this article, we'll explore the most effective basement waterproofing methods, their advantages and disadvantages, and how to choose the right solution for your home.
Before diving into the different waterproofing methods, it’s essential to understand why basements leak in the first place. Common causes of basement water issues include:
Understanding the source of the water intrusion is crucial for choosing the best waterproofing method. A comprehensive inspection of your basement and foundation will help identify the root cause of the problem.
Exterior waterproofing, also known as "positive-side" waterproofing, involves stopping water from entering your basement by creating a barrier on the outside of your foundation. This method is considered one of the most effective ways to prevent water from penetrating your basement walls.
Interior waterproofing, also known as "negative-side" waterproofing, involves managing water that has already entered the basement. This method focuses on directing water away from the foundation and managing moisture within the basement.
Waterproofing paints and sealants are a popular option for homeowners looking for a quick and inexpensive way to manage minor moisture issues in their basement. These products are applied directly to the interior walls and floors and create a barrier that helps prevent water from seeping through.
Drainage systems are a critical component of both interior and exterior waterproofing methods. These systems are designed to collect and redirect water away from the foundation, preventing it from entering the basement.
Choosing the best waterproofing method for your basement depends on several factors, including the source and severity of the water intrusion, the condition of your foundation, and your budget. Here are some considerations to help you decide:
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of which waterproofing method is best for basements. The right solution depends on the specific circumstances of your home, including the severity of water issues, the condition of your foundation, and your budget. Exterior waterproofing is often considered the most effective and long-lasting solution, particularly for significant water intrusion. However, interior waterproofing methods can be highly effective for managing moisture and minor water issues, especially when combined with a comprehensive drainage system. To ensure you choose the best method for your basement, it’s important to have a professional inspection to identify the source of the problem and recommend the most appropriate solution. Proper waterproofing is an investment in the longevity of your home, protecting it from water damage, mold, and structural issues for years to come.
If you are in the market for basement waterproofing calling in a professional such as ’58 Foundations and Waterproofing that specializes in these services can help. We will provide you with a zero obligation FREE inspection to help you determine the severity of your situation and the best solutions available. Remember that putting an inspection off can lead to more costly remedies down the line.
Mold in the basement is a common issue that can have serious implications for the health and safety of a home’s occupants. Mold thrives in damp, dark environments, making basements a prime location for its growth. When mold is present in a basement, it can release spores into the air, which may spread throughout the home, including living areas and bedrooms. This raises an important question: Is it safe to sleep in a house with mold in the basement? In this article, we'll explore the potential health risks associated with mold exposure, the factors that influence mold's impact on your home, and the steps you can take to protect yourself and your family.
Mold is a type of fungus that grows in damp or humid environments. It reproduces by releasing tiny spores into the air, which can be inhaled by humans and animals. While mold is a natural part of the environment, indoor mold growth can lead to a range of health problems, especially for people who are sensitive or allergic to it.
The severity of the health risks associated with mold in the basement depends on several factors, including the extent of the mold growth, the type of mold present, and the ventilation and air circulation within the home.
The safety of sleeping in a house with mold in the basement depends on the factors mentioned above. In general, it is not considered safe to sleep in a house with significant mold growth, particularly if the mold is actively spreading, producing mycotoxins, or affecting the indoor air quality.
Given these risks, it’s important to take immediate action if you discover mold in your basement. Delaying remediation can lead to worsening mold growth, increased health risks, and more costly repairs down the line.
If you suspect or discover mold in your basement, there are several steps you should take to protect yourself and your family:
Once the mold has been removed, it’s important to take steps to prevent future mold growth in your basement and home:
Sleeping in a house with mold in the basement is generally not considered safe, particularly if the mold is extensive, actively growing, or producing mycotoxins. Mold can pose serious health risks, especially for vulnerable individuals, and can affect the indoor air quality throughout your home. If you discover mold in your basement, it’s crucial to take immediate action to identify and eliminate the source of moisture, remove the mold safely, and prevent future growth.
For minor mold issues, DIY methods may be sufficient, but for larger infestations or toxic molds, professional remediation is strongly recommended. Taking steps to improve ventilation, control moisture, and regularly inspect your basement can help keep your home safe and mold-free, ensuring a healthy living environment for you and your family.
If you are experiencing potential mold issues in your basement or crawl space calling in a professional such as ’58 Foundations and Waterproofing that specializes in these services can help. We will provide you with a zero obligation FREE inspection to help you determine the severity of your situation and the best solutions available. Remember that putting an inspection off can lead to more costly remedies down the line.
Crawl spaces are a critical yet often neglected part of a home. They provide access to plumbing, electrical wiring, and HVAC systems, and they contribute to the overall structural integrity of the building. However, one question that many homeowners ask is whether it’s okay for a crawl space to be damp. The short answer is no— a damp crawl space can lead to a range of problems that can affect the health of your home and its occupants. In this article, we'll explore why a damp crawl space is problematic, the potential risks associated with it, and the steps you can take to keep your crawl space dry and safe.
To understand why it’s not okay for a crawl space to be damp, it’s important to first understand how crawl spaces become damp in the first place. Here are some common reasons:
A damp crawl space is more than just an inconvenience; it can lead to a variety of serious problems that can impact both your home and your health. Below are some of the most significant risks associated with a damp crawl space:
Even if you don’t spend much time in your crawl space, there are signs that can indicate it’s too damp. Recognizing these signs early can help you address the problem before it leads to more serious issues.
If you’ve identified that your crawl space is damp, or if you want to prevent it from becoming damp in the first place, there are several steps you can take. These solutions range from simple DIY fixes to more extensive professional interventions.
While some crawl space issues can be handled by homeowners, there are situations where professional help is necessary. Consider contacting a professional if:
A damp crawl space is not something that should be ignored. While it may seem like a minor issue, the potential consequences—ranging from mold growth and structural damage to increased energy costs and health problems—are significant. By understanding the risks associated with a damp crawl space and taking proactive steps to address and prevent moisture issues, you can protect your home and your family’s well-being. Regular inspections, proper drainage, and effective moisture control measures are key to maintaining a dry, healthy crawl space. If you’re unsure about the condition of your crawl space or how to address moisture issues, don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance.
If you are experiencing potential issues with a damp crawl space calling in a professional such as ’58 Foundations and Waterproofing that specializes in these services can help. We will provide you with a zero obligation FREE inspection to help you determine the severity of your situation and the best solutions available. Remember that putting an inspection off can lead to more costly remedies down the line.
Crawl spaces are often the most overlooked parts of a home, yet they play a crucial role in the overall health and stability of the structure. When crawl spaces become damp or wet, they can cause a host of problems, from mold growth to structural damage. Drying out your crawl space is essential to maintaining a healthy home environment and avoiding costly repairs. In this article, we’ll explore the steps to dry out a crawl space, the reasons why it might be wet, and the best practices to prevent future moisture issues.
Before diving into the solutions, it’s important to understand why your crawl space might be wet in the first place. Common reasons include:
The first step in drying out your crawl space is to inspect it thoroughly. You’ll want to look for standing water, signs of mold, mildew, or rot, and check for any plumbing leaks. Pay attention to the smell as well; a musty odor often indicates the presence of mold or moisture.
If you find standing water or significant mold growth, it may be necessary to call in a professional before proceeding.
If your inspection reveals standing water, it’s crucial to remove it as soon as possible. The longer water remains in your crawl space, the more damage it can cause.
After removing standing water, use fans and dehumidifiers to help dry out the remaining moisture. Running a fan for several days can help expedite the drying process.
To prevent future moisture problems, it’s essential to address the source of the water. Here’s how you can tackle the most common sources:
A vapor barrier is a crucial element in keeping your crawl space dry. It’s a thick plastic sheeting that is laid across the ground and up the walls of the crawl space to prevent moisture from the soil from entering the area.
Installing a vapor barrier can significantly reduce the amount of moisture in your crawl space, helping to prevent mold growth and protect the structural integrity of your home.
Ventilation plays a key role in controlling moisture levels in your crawl space. Traditionally, crawl spaces have been vented to allow moisture to escape. However, in some cases, sealing the crawl space entirely and conditioning it may be a better solution, especially in humid climates.
Once your crawl space is dry, it’s important to monitor the area regularly to ensure that moisture doesn’t return. Regular inspections can help you catch potential problems early before they become serious issues.
While many homeowners can handle basic crawl space drying tasks, there are times when it’s best to call in a professional. Consider seeking professional help if:
Drying out your crawl space is crucial for maintaining a healthy home environment and preventing costly damage. By following the steps outlined in this article—inspecting the area, removing standing water, addressing the moisture source, installing a vapor barrier, improving ventilation, and maintaining the space—you can ensure that your crawl space remains dry and your home stays safe. Regular monitoring and proactive maintenance are key to keeping your crawl space in top condition, but don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you encounter challenges beyond your comfort level.
If you are experiencing potential issues with a damp crawl space calling in a professional such as ’58 Foundations and Waterproofing that specializes in these services can help. We will provide you with a zero obligation FREE inspection to help you determine the severity of your situation and the best solutions available. Remember that putting an inspection off can lead to more costly remedies down the line.
Waterproofing a basement is a crucial step in protecting your home from water damage, mold growth, and structural issues. When faced with basement moisture problems, many homeowners wonder whether they can tackle the waterproofing process themselves or if they should hire a professional. While some aspects of basement waterproofing can be handled as DIY projects, others are more complex and may require professional expertise. In this article, we'll explore the different aspects of basement waterproofing, assess which tasks are suitable for DIY, and provide guidance on when it's best to call in the experts.
Before deciding whether you can waterproof your basement yourself, it’s important to understand what basement waterproofing entails. The goal of waterproofing is to prevent water from entering your basement and to manage any moisture that does make its way inside. This typically involves a combination of exterior and interior waterproofing methods, as well as proper drainage systems.
Key components of basement waterproofing include:
If you're considering waterproofing your basement yourself, there are several tasks that you can likely handle, especially if the moisture issues are minor. Here are some DIY-friendly basement waterproofing methods:
While some basement waterproofing tasks are suitable for DIY, others are more complex and require professional expertise. Here are some scenarios where it's best to hire a professional:
If you decide to tackle some aspects of basement waterproofing yourself, it’s important to prepare properly to ensure success. Here are some steps to take before starting your DIY project:
Waterproofing your basement is a vital task to protect your home from water damage, mold growth, and potential structural issues. While some aspects of basement waterproofing can be tackled as DIY projects, others require professional expertise to ensure effective and long-lasting results. Simple tasks like sealing cracks, applying waterproof coatings, and improving drainage can be done by homeowners, especially for minor moisture issues. However, severe water intrusion, foundation repairs, exterior waterproofing, and mold remediation are best left to professionals who have the necessary skills, tools, and experience.
Before starting any DIY waterproofing project, it’s important to assess the severity of the moisture problem, gather the right tools, and plan your approach carefully. If you’re unsure about the extent of the issue or the best solution, consulting with a professional can provide peace of mind and help you avoid costly mistakes. Ultimately, the key to successful basement waterproofing is to address the problem at its source, whether that requires a DIY solution or the expertise of a professional.
If you are experiencing potential issues with a damp or wet basement calling in a professional such as ’58 Foundations and Waterproofing that specializes in these services can help. We will provide you with a zero obligation FREE inspection to help you determine the severity of your situation and the best solutions available. Remember that putting an inspection off can lead to more costly remedies down the line.
Discovering mold in your basement can be alarming. Not only is mold unsightly and unpleasant, but it also poses serious health risks and can lead to significant structural damage if left untreated. The good news is that a moldy basement can indeed be fixed, but the process requires thorough assessment, remediation, and preventative measures to ensure that the problem doesn’t return. In this article, we’ll explore the steps involved in fixing a moldy basement, from identifying the cause of the mold growth to implementing long-term solutions.
Mold thrives in environments where moisture is present. Basements are particularly susceptible to mold growth because they are often damp, dark, and poorly ventilated. Mold can grow on a variety of surfaces, including wood, drywall, insulation, and carpeting. The key to fixing a moldy basement is addressing both the mold itself and the underlying moisture issues that allowed it to grow in the first place.
Before you can effectively fix a moldy basement, it’s important to assess the extent of the problem. Mold can be visible on surfaces, but it may also be hidden behind walls, under flooring, or in insulation.
Inspection Tips:
Mold will continue to grow as long as moisture is present, so identifying and addressing the source of moisture is a critical step in fixing a moldy basement.
Common Moisture Sources and Solutions:
Once the source of moisture has been addressed, the next step is to remove the existing mold. Mold removal can be a DIY project for small areas, but larger infestations or toxic molds, such as black mold, may require professional remediation.
After mold removal, the affected areas may need to be repaired and restored. This can include replacing damaged drywall, insulation, flooring, and other materials. It’s important to use mold-resistant products when restoring your basement to reduce the risk of future mold growth.
To ensure that your basement remains mold-free, it’s important to implement long-term preventative measures. These steps will help you maintain a dry, healthy basement and prevent mold from returning.
While many homeowners can successfully address mold issues on their own, there are situations where professional help is necessary:
A moldy basement can be a serious problem, but with the right approach, it can be fixed. The key to success lies in thoroughly addressing both the mold itself and the underlying moisture issues that allowed it to grow. By following the steps outlined above—assessing the extent of the problem, addressing moisture sources, removing mold, repairing damage, and implementing long-term preventative measures—you can restore your basement to a healthy, mold-free condition.
In some cases, particularly with widespread or toxic mold, professional remediation may be necessary to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the cleanup process. Whether you handle the issue yourself or seek professional help, taking action to fix a moldy basement will protect your home and your health, giving you peace of mind and a safer living environment for years to come.
If you are experiencing potential mold issues in your basement calling in a professional such as ’58 Foundations and Waterproofing that specializes in these services can help. We will provide you with a zero obligation FREE inspection to help you determine the severity of your situation and the best solutions available. Remember that putting an inspection off can lead to more costly remedies down the line.
'58 Foundations & Waterproofing has earned a spot on the Inc. 5000 list, which recognizes America’s fastest-growing private companies. This prestigious ranking highlights the company’s significant growth and success in the foundation repair and waterproofing industry. Being featured in this exclusive list by Inc. Magazine places '58 Foundations & Waterproofing among the top innovators and leaders driving the economy forward, demonstrating their commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction. This achievement underscores the company’s rapid expansion and dedication to quality service.
The recognition places '58 Foundations & Waterproofing among an elite group of companies that are not only expanding but also setting new standards in their industries.
To qualify for the 2024 Inc. 5000 list, a company must meet the following criteria:
The Inc. 5000 list is an annual ranking of the fastest-growing privately owned companies in the United States. Ranks are based on revenue over a three-year period. Companies apply for the Inc. 5000 list by submitting an application and financial statements that are verified and certified.
The Inc. 5000 list is a significant achievement in the business world, showcasing companies that have shown exceptional growth rates over the past three years. As companies get older and more established, large growth becomes more difficult to achieve. As a testament to the strength of ’58 Foundations & Waterproofing and their appeal to home and business owners, the company has received this growth recognition after being in business for more than 60 years!
“We’ve been building the business to meet our customer demand. But never expected this much more demand!” said Richard Fencil, co-owner of ’58 Foundations & Waterproofing. “Customers love to be a part of our older American brand that was established back in 1958. They appreciate the local service and passion we bring to fixing their homes.”
'58 Foundations & Waterproofing's inclusion in this list underscores their commitment to quality, customer satisfaction, and continuous improvement. As the company continues to grow, they remain focused on delivering exceptional service and expanding their reach to help more homeowners protect their properties.
This recognition also reflects the hard work and dedication of the entire team at '58 Foundations & Waterproofing. Their relentless focus on excellence, coupled with their innovative approach to solving foundation and waterproofing challenges, has propelled them into the national spotlight.
For more information on '58 Foundations & Waterproofing’s services and to learn more about their achievement, visit Inc. Magazine's website to see the full list of honorees. [link: https://www.inc.com/inc5000/2024]
When you choose ’58 Foundations & Waterproofing, you’re choosing a company that offers both high-quality solutions and genuine customer care. We have 65+ years of experience in foundation repair, basement waterproofing, crawl space encapsulation, and mold removal. Since 1958, we’ve continually improved our quality products and sharpened our techniques to deliver the best outcomes for our customers. With our experts on the job, you can enjoy the peace of mind that only our money-back guarantee and industry-leading life-of-the-structure warranty can offer. Contact us today to schedule for a free inspection and to receive a detailed cost estimate! We’ll make your home’s lower-level problems go away!
When you think of your basement, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? While many homes feature finished basements that provide additional living and recreational spaces, others are simply used as utility or storage spaces. But no matter what you use your basement for, all these below-ground floors share one thing in common: their tendency to collect excess moisture and grow mold.
As a homeowner, discovering mold in your basement can be an unsettling experience—especially since many types of molds produce microbial volatile organic compounds (MVOCs) that are harmful to human health. And even if your basement seems dry, mold could be lurking behind walls, underneath carpet, or below your furniture unknowingly due to moisture vapor or humidity seeping in from your foundation or leaky pipes.
Fortunately, there are a few ways you can prevent mold in your basement—and they all encompass reducing the chance of moisture hanging around in the lower-level of your home. These prevention methods include:
Before we break down just what these prevention methods entail, it’s important to understand what mold is, how it can grow inside your basement, and the different types of molds that could compromise human health.
Molds are fundamental to the decomposition process of all living things, but some molds can be extremely dangerous to human health. While spores from molds are constantly all around us, higher concentrations of spores from certain types of molds can cause severe allergic or toxic reactions in those who are sensitive to them. This makes finding mold growing in your basement concerning, as harmful spores could be released throughout your living space.
As we mentioned earlier, spores from molds are all around us, which means they are also floating throughout the air inside your home. Unfortunately, molds only need two things to grow indoors: excessive moisture and organic matter to grow on like drywall, carpet, ceiling tiles, wallpaper, insulation, or wood. When indoor areas of a home are exposed to high levels of moisture or humidity, mold can take hold quickly. This is especially true for basements, as these spaces typically provide poor ventilation.
Basement moisture can be caused by two main sources, including outdoor moisture sources and indoor moisture sources.
Outdoor Moisture Sources
Outdoor moisture sources include rain, floods, or groundwater—all of which can seep through cracks in your foundation or through improperly sealed window wells. Improper yard grading and clogged gutters can also play a role in moisture building in your basement.
Indoor Moisture Sources
Indoor moisture sources include leaky pipes, laundering clothes, over watering houseplants, and more. Anything in your home that causes high levels of humidity—which could include showering, cooking, or even breathing—and produces condensation can lead to a moisture-prone basement.
Types of Harmful Molds Found in Basements
The most common harmful molds found in basements include Cladosporium, Penicillium, and Aspergillus. Stachybotrys chartarum—otherwise known as “black mold”—is a rarer type of indoor mold. As a homeowner, knowing the specific species of mold that is growing in your home isn’t necessary, as any presence of mold should be addressed by a NORMI– or MICRO-certified professional with the proper knowledge and protective equipment. If you suspect mold is growing in your basement, contact ‘58 Foundations & Waterproofing today for your free mold remediation inspection and quote.
Preventing mold from growing in your basement starts with taking proactive steps to prevent moisture or humidity from building inside your home. Not only could these DIY moisture prevention methods reduce your chances of breathing in harmful mold spores, but they could also prevent costly structural repairs later down the road.
Repair Leaky Pipes and Insulate Them
Leaky pipes are a common moisture source in many homes, and they could be caused by improper installation or expansion over time that results in loose connections. Because leaky pipes are often difficult to find until it’s too late, it’s important to inspect your pipe infrastructure regularly for leaks or bad connections.
If you find a pipe that is leaking, be sure to apply plumber’s tape, a pipe joint compound, or give a professional plumber a call. If you live in an area with harsh winters, be sure to insulate your pipes prior to dropping temperatures. Uninsulated pipes could freeze and burst, which could cause a significant amount of water damage and mold growth.
Fix Cracks in Your Foundation
Cracks in your foundation that allow groundwater to seep through can quickly promote mold growth in your basement. Be sure to inspect your foundation thoroughly, both around the outdoor perimeter of your home and your basement walls, if possible.
If you find any cracks, fix them promptly with sealants such as flexible and expandable epoxy that won’t dry or crack. For even more protection, try adding additional outdoor downspouts to your gutter or a French drain system to push water away from your foundation. You can also remove landscaping that’s near any foundation cracks or add soil to the area to help promote better yard grading.
Seal and Insulate Windows and Window Wells
Improperly sealed basement windows or window wells can also lead to excess moisture in your below-grade floor. If you find condensation on your windows or feel air coming through their frames, be sure to seal any exposed area with a silicone latex-based caulk that’s designed to withstand inclement weather. For your window wells, installing window well drains and adding fresh gravel can help keep hydrostatic pressure from building near your basement windows. Additionally, installing window well covers will prevent water from getting into your window well entirely.
Keep Your Gutters Clean
Keeping your gutters clean and debris-free is essential to promoting proper water drainage away from your home. Be sure to check your gutters frequently and clear any blockages you find or have a professional install gutter guards for easy and worry-free maintenance. If your yard has poor grading, consider installing gutter downspout extenders to ensure water isn’t pooling near your foundation.
Ensure Your Yard is Properly Graded
Poor water drainage in your yard can lead to rain or groundwater pooling around your foundation. To ensure water moves away from your home and doesn’t put hydrostatic pressure on your foundation or basement walls, proper yard grading is essential. Grading your yard starts with figuring out how it’s sloped, as well as its high and low points. Using a load of dirt, you can then begin to add more dirt near your foundation and gradually taper off as you get closer to the low point of your yard. You can also hire a professional landscaper to regrade your yard.
Note: If the dirt you add to your yard isn’t properly packed, even regrading won’t always move enough water away from your foundation to prevent build up and hydrostatic pressure against your foundation walls.
Address Flood Water Immediately
Flood water from heavy rain, rivers, burst pipes, or sewage backups can easily make its way into your basement, regardless of the precautions you take. If this occurs, the speed in which you begin the clean-up process is important, as mold can start growing within 24-48 hours after water exposure. Be sure to remove all exposed items (e.g., furniture) from your basement immediately and place them in a well-ventilated area to dry. It’s also important to remove any wet carpet, drywall, or insulation, as these materials can grow mold quickly.
Once all wet items are removed, you must begin the drying process immediately. Eliminate any standing water with a wet-dry vacuum or a sump pump, and place fans and dehumidifiers in the room to speed up drying times.
Use a Basement Dehumidifier
Outside of cleaning up flood water, dehumidifiers are great tools to use if your basement is naturally prone to collecting moisture, humidity, or condensation. Before selecting a dehumidifier, it’s important to measure your basement’s square footage to ensure the one you choose has enough capacity to keep things dry. In some cases, more than one dehumidifier might be necessary.
Avoid Houseplants in Your Basement
While houseplants are a great way to spruce up your basement living space, their soil and leaves are the perfect breeding grounds for mold. The easiest way to reduce this risk is to avoid having too many houseplants in your basement or remove them entirely. If you decide to keep plants in the lower level of your home, be sure to avoid overwatering them, check on their soil frequently, and re-pot them with fresh soil if you start to notice mold or mildew.
Launder Responsibly
Many homeowners turn a portion of their basement into a laundry room, and moisture and humidity are produced during both the washing and drying process. If your laundry room is in your basement, try to run a dehumidifier nearby.
Book Professional Basement Waterproofing Services
Even with the most comprehensive DIY moisture prevention methods in place, water can still find its way into your basement and cause mold growth. To ensure your basement is protected from moisture and mold year-round, professional basement waterproofing solutions should be your first line of defense.
Exterior Waterproofing Services
Exterior basement waterproofing systems utilize a waterproof coating that covers your foundation, as well as a perimeter drainage system (sometimes referred to as a French drain or curtain drain). Unfortunately, exterior waterproofing solutions can be expensive, as they require heavy equipment to remove soil and landscaping away from your foundation to make way for the waterproof coating and drain system installation. Exterior drain lines can also clog with silt over time, which means the entire system will need to be dug-up a second time to make repairs.
Interior Waterproofing Services
Interior basement waterproofing systems are much more affordable and efficient over time. Rather than digging up soil to apply a waterproof coating and install a perimeter drain, interior basement waterproofing systems utilize a perimeter drainage system indoors. This system then collects water and carries it to a sump pump that automatically pumps water out of the basement.
Trust ‘58 Foundations & Waterproofing for Your Basement Waterproofing Needs
At ‘58 Foundations & Waterproofing, we’ve been experts in basement waterproofing solutions for more than 60 years. With our interior basement waterproofing system, we install perimeter drain lines right where your floor meets the basement walls, making the system largely hidden. These lines are then directed to a sump pit where a sump pump is installed. When water collects in the pit and triggers a float valve, the pump turns on and clears your basement of moisture.
Additionally, if your home features a crawlspace, our crawlspace encapsulation services will actively work to keep moisture out. By sealing all crawlspace vents and air gaps with foam insulation, and then sealing your floor, walls, and columns with a 20-millimeter-thick vapor barrier, you can rest assured your crawlspace will remain moisture-free.
Stop living with moisture and mold in your basement or crawlspace; contact ‘58 Foundations & Waterproofing today for expert waterproofing and encapsulation services.
There are a lot of things that we associate with winter from snow angels and skiing to the holiday season. But there are some things that we also associate with winter that we’d rather not think of, like clearing snow off our vehicles every day… or freezing pipes bursting in our crawl space. Freezing water pipes can make your plumbing useless at the least, and can result in a burst pipe at worst, leaving your crawl space wet or even flooded. The best way to prevent any wintery complications with your crawl space piping is with preparation. Let’s dive into how you can be ready for the next winter with proper water pipe crawl space insulation and other preparation methods:
Outdoor air during the winter can be blisteringly cold. Whether your pipes are outside the house or inside a leaky crawl space, you’ll want your pipes to be protected against exterior winter temperatures and that accompanying wind chill. Use materials such as pipe-wraps and form pipe sleeves to cover your pipes and protect them. By insulating your water pipes, you will help lower the chances of them freezing and/or bursting.
Any cracks or openings in your crawl space that allow for exterior air to flow in should be sealed. The cold winter air can quickly cool the air in your crawl space and freeze the water pipes within. By sealing the cracks with caulk, you can keep the cold air out while keeping the warm air in.
You should also address any air gaps around your water pipes. Gaps where the pipes exit through your exterior wall, should be addressed. Insulate those pipe gaps with expanding foam to help insulate the pipes and prevent cold outside air from freezing the water pipes. It will also prevent those outside air from coming into your crawl space to affect the water pipes within.
Along with checking for cracks and opening to the exterior, it is important to seal the rest of your crawl space to help maintain warm temperatures and to keep more of that cold air out. Consider covering your crawl space with foam pieces that can cover the walls as well as the floors. Keep those foam pieces in place with tape or another fastener, so that they stay in place.
Another solution to keeping your water pipes warm is to use heating tapes, but this should be installed by a professional expert to ensure your safety and a proper installation.
There may be times where you may think about letting the temperature drop in your house to save on the heating bills. But whether you’re doing it because you’re taking a trip, or because a certain part of the day has a different temperature, it’s better to keep your home temperatures steady. Been maintaining a consistent internal temperature, your pipes will keep flowing and there will be less chance of a temperature change causing your pipes to freeze and burst.
Now you know how to insulate your water pipes in a crawl space! But if you feel that you require help to properly insulate your water pipes and keep the cold air out of your crawl space, be sure to call for a professional to ensure that the job gets done right. Having your crawl space pipes insulated and prepped for winter will save you money and trouble in the long run, making it a worthwhile investment.
When the winter season comes to an end, melting snow will begin to soak into the soil. That can leave a lot of water and moisture to enter a leaky crawl space. But with ’58 Foundations & Waterproofing, you can have your crawl space properly encapsulated and waterproofed, ensuring that your crawl space remains safe and dry for years and years. Contact us today for a free crawl space inspection and a detailed estimate on your crawl space!
