The Basement Guru Blog

Perfect customer service from basement waterproofing contractors in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio

ronleemail@yahoo.com (Ron Lee) — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 20:33:25 -0500 EST"

Pioneer Basement Solutions has earned Perfect Customer Service records for 33 years straight in Cuyahoga Falls. Not only a Better Business Bureau rating of A+ but Pioneer Basement Solutions has never had one complaint filed in the history of the company. No other basement waterproofing contractor has the same record.

Pioneer Basement Solutions has also been awarded the coveted Super Service Award from Angie’s List several years in a row.

Pioneer is a full service basement waterproofing contractor offering all types of basement waterproofing systems from interior basement waterproofing, full exterior basement waterproofing and combination basement waterproofing systems customized to fit each specific scenario.

No sales gimmicks and no sales pressure are at the top of the list of why people choose Pioneer to waterproof their basement. Pioneer takes a no-nonsense straight forward approach and treats each prospective customer the same as they would friends and family. Fair pricing with no games such as phony last minute or one time only discounts are what you get from Pioneer, unlike the other basement waterproofing contractors in Cuyahoga Falls and surrounding areas.

Call us today at 330-773-0109 or 1-877-321-4889 for a free estimate.

Basement Waterproofing In Winter?

ronleemail@yahoo.com (Ron Lee) — Sat, 10 Dec 2011 09:47:38 -0500 EST"

People often ask if basement waterproofing can be done in the winter and it depends on the basement systems being used. Exterior basement waterproofing is where the perimeter of the home is excavated to the bottom of the footer most always with an excavation machine. This type of work is messy and definitely fair weather work; however, exterior basement waterproofing can be performed during winter months as long as the weather is fairly dry. In fact dry and cold is better than warm and wet.

Other basement systems designed to waterproof basements from the interior are performed year round with very little to no exceptions. Interior basement waterproofing involves removing a small area of the perimeter of the floor to allow access to the footer from inside the foundation. Interior footer drains are then installed to collect and direct ground water to a pump system that keeps the foundation dry.

Other basement systems are some sort of combination of interior basement waterproofing and exterior basement waterproofing methods that are usually performed all year round. In fact winter months can be an ideal time to get your basement waterproof project completed based on availability of basement waterproofing contractors and dry weather conditions. This will also prepare your foundation to stay dry during wet spring rains.

To learn more about different basement systems and what basement waterproofing system is best for your foundation, call today at 1-877-321-4889.

Popular sales gimmick to watch out for

ronleemail@yahoo.com (Ron Lee) — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 20:07:13 -0500 EST"

Let me start by stating the obvious. You cannot run a successful business of any kind without knowing what it takes to deliver the desired result to the customer. Basement waterproofing companies know almost if not exactly how long it will take to perform the work and solve the basement water leaks. Any company that does the same thing over and over for a long period knows just about if not exactly what it will take to get the work done.

I often find myself looking at basement water leaks and talking to homeowners who seem very leery of me due to the treatment they have had from other basement waterproofing companies . There are some pushy sales people out there trained by the basement waterproofing contractors to "close the sale" on the first appointment, pulling out all the stops to get a commitment. I will touch on the most popular one here so you can be on the look out.

So what is my point, right? Here it is…the "stand by" or "flex" or "on call" sales tactic is used after trying other "closing techniques" and is usually introduced by "I just thought of something that could save you a lot of money"...but you have to decide right now. The premise is that the basement waterproofing contractor cannot predict how long a project will take to complete. So this creates "gaps in the schedule" and if you are willing to be on call on a 24 hour notice to fill the gap it really helps our production flow...blah blah blah. This sounds very convincing coming from a sales pro (who probably told you when he got there he is not a salesman but they are so busy he had to come out of the office or where ever and help cover the appointment) who has practiced it over and over and has a logical explanation of how it works.

It is a gimmick. You should never be persuaded by a basement waterproofing company to sign right away. Take time to explore your options of different basement systems from different basement waterproofing contractors and check out their references.

For a no pressure free consultation, call us at 1-877-321-4889 or complete the email request here.

Foundation repair for your bowed basement walls

ronleemail@yahoo.com (Ron Lee) — Mon, 29 Aug 2011 17:55:12 -0500 EST"

If you have bowed basement walls you and are looking for foundation repair you are likely considering one or two of the following options for your foundation fix: wall anchors or carbon fiber foundation reinforcement.

The older technique of installing a wall anchor involves a large bolt that goes through your foundation mounted to a plate inside and a fixed point outside in the soil. This works like a giant clamp holding the bowed basement walls to the dirt outside. You will not be able to finish your basement with this type of foundation repair because it will need routine maintenance to keep the bolts / wall anchors tight due to expanding and contracting soils. Another downside is the clamps only hold the areas where the plates are installed in the wall, an area about 1 x 2 feet ever six feet apart. This technique if used to try to straighten the walls will create a wavy effect due to the fact the point being moved is just behind the wall anchor plate.

The most current technology in foundation repair is the carbon fiber meshed with kevlar strap system. With this system the engineered straps are embedded into the face of the foundation with an epoxy from the floor to the top of the foundation wall. Once cured, these straps do not stretch or tear and they create a web effect on the bowed basement walls to lock them in place permanently.

The best way to straighten bowed basement walls is full excavation to remove all pressure from the wall. The wall will then need to be stabilized since it has fractures (thus the bowed basement walls) to ensure the walls to not simply return to their bowed state or worse. Using the carbon fiber and Kevlar mesh straps in this scenario is best case since they allow for no movement.

For more information or guidance in selecting the best foundation repair for your bowed basement walls in the Northeast Ohio area such as Akron, Canton, Medina, Kent, Cuyahoga Falls etc… Call Pioneer Basement Solutions at 1-877-321-4889.

Basement Waterproofing Akron, OH and surrounding areas

ronleemail@yahoo.com (Ron Lee) — Sat, 09 Jul 2011 10:53:48 -0500 EST"

If you just searched basement waterproofing Akron looking for a basement waterproofing contractor, call Pioneer Basement Waterproofing, an award winning basement waterproofing company that has been serving Akron Ohio since 1979. Our perfect customer service record with no complaints ever in 32 years ranks us the #1 basement waterproofing company in Akron, Canton, Kent, Medina and surrounding areas.

Offering all basement waterproofing systems, our approach is to first perform an inspection of the foundation and identify the root causes of the issues before recommending a solution. We do not sell a one size fits all basement systems solution to everyone we meet. Each basement problem is potentially unique and requires professional evaluation.

A leaky basement, or even mold and mildew in your basement can cause damage to your stored items, utilities and the foundation that could lead to thousands of dollars in loss.

Call Pioneer Basement Waterproofing Company to learn more about your basement waterproofing options in Akron Ohio and surrounding areas, serving Northeast Ohio including Akron, Canton, Kent, Medina and surrounding areas.

What causes basement mold growth

ronleemail@yahoo.com (Ron Lee) — Sat, 09 Jul 2011 10:38:11 -0500 EST"

Many people ask me what causes basement mold growth and how do they get rid of it. Most feel it is due to a leaky basement but many times it is not. There are many factors that can contribute to basement mold growth.

High humidity is natural in basement spaces. Basements are the lowest point in the home and humidity in the air is heavy. This heavy humidity will naturally settle into the basement space. With no ventilation the humidity creates an ideal environment for the mold to grow on things that are fibrous in nature. Boxes, painted walls, wood and other stored items will be great food for the mold to grow.

If you have water held in your basement walls this may contribute to the mold growth as well. This would not usually happen with unpainted walls however. Mold needs something fibrous to grow into, and that is usually the paint on the walls. Mold due to water in basement walls is obviously more serious than mold due to high humidity levels.
A ventilation system to eliminate the conditions allowing the mold to grow in the basement like a Humidex unit may be all you need. More serious conditions may be solved with either interior basement waterproofing or exterior basement waterproofing. You should have a professional basement waterproofing contractor evaluate your foundation and recommend the basement solutions that fit your specific needs.

For more information or a no pressure consultation call 1-877-321-4889

Good basement waterproofing contractors offer straight talk and free advice

ronleemail@yahoo.com (Ron Lee) — Fri, 06 May 2011 19:27:26 -0500 EST"

Basement waterproofing contractors range from very small “one man shows” to large corporations and it can be tough to sift through the good, the bad and the ugly. One criterion to look for is a basement waterproofing contractor who is not trying to control the visit by giving you his one size fits all presentations.
Not all basements have the same construction, condition or issues and certainly common sense would be that not all would need the same repair. Many basement systems type companies out there (companies that sell the same basement systems to all prospective customers) are designed to walk you through a sales pitch that is very logical, convincing and strategically designed to move your decision to what they are selling. You will spot them simply by trying to get them off of their path. If they constantly say “I’ll get to that in a minute, first…”
And basement waterproofing companies with the highest integrity have nothing to hide so they are happy to answer all your questions on your terms, your schedule. I haven’t visited a basement where there wasn’t some tip I could freely offer the homeowner that could help them save money and or their foundation in some way. Even as simple as pointing out that their idea of adding more dirt around the foundation could actually add to the problem they were having.
Business is changing these days, for the better. You can find straight talk, free advice and basement waterproofing companies with integrity if you take the time to compare and interview well.

Basement flooded common issue in Northeast Ohio lately

ronleemail@yahoo.com (Ron Lee) — Fri, 04 Mar 2011 08:36:29 -0500 EST"

The foot of melting snow and heavy rain left one basement flooded after another this past week. Many people have told me that it was the first time they had seen water in the basement and asked if that meant it would now be a chronic leaker. The answer is not necessarily but it may mean a slow progression towards more occurrences of water in the basement after heavy rains or snow melts. Once water has created a pathway to enter the basement it naturally will follow that path again in the future.

Why did my basement leak? Well we had a literal, official flood for one. And the ground water built up far beyond normal reaching levels above many basement floors. When ground water builds up around your foundation like that it will be looking for a place to go. If your foundation drainage system is not sufficient you will see water in the basement.

Many people have asked me if the only way to fix the problem is to dig out the basement and to their surprise I answer no. Exterior basement waterproofing is a great solution that will solve wet basement walls and improve foundation drainage. If ground water builds up under a basement exterior waterproofing may not and often will not, stop that water from entering the basement. To stop that water you must install interior basement waterproofing. This consists of installing interior foot drains under the basement floor to grab the water before it reaches critical levels.

For a free consultation of your basement problems in Northeast Ohio call us at 1-877-321-4889 or contact us here.

Winter melts cause big basement water leaks

ronleemail@yahoo.com (Ron Lee) — Thu, 24 Feb 2011 14:02:12 -0500 EST"

Late winter to spring is the worst time of year for basement leaks. Over the winter snow accumulates on the ground and melts into the soil saturating it to the point that the ground water builds up beyond normal conditions.

There are two types of water that cause basement water leaks and they are surface water and ground water. Different basement systems solve each of these basement problems. Some basement systems are designed for waterproofing basement walls and others are more designed for the floor areas.

With exterior basement waterproofing most of the work is aimed at waterproofing basement walls from the outside giving you a dry foundation. The exterior basement waterproofing method is best for those with surface water problems resulting in wet basement walls, especially high to mid wall.

With interior basement waterproofing the work is designed to grab ground water build up before it gets to the basement floor areas keeping ground water under control and out of your basement. The basement systems designed for interior basement waterproofing solve the basement water leaks that come in where the walls meet the floor area. This is the most common problem and solution.

Installing basement drains outside will most likely not solve problems with water under the floor just as installing basement drains inside will most likely not solve wet basement walls up high to mid wall.

Call us for a no obligation inspection of your foundation and arm yourself with the info you need to make a wise decsion about which of the basement systems available today best fit your situation. 1-877-321-4889

What is a fair basement waterproofing cost?

ronleemail@yahoo.com (Ron Lee) — Wed, 02 Feb 2011 10:12:04 -0500 EST"

Because many people do not have a need to hire a basement waterproofing contractor they likely will have a hard time determining what a fair basement waterproofing cost would be. There are many factors that contribute to the numbers, some of these are obvious so bear with me.

Let’s start with the obvious for review. The estimates you receive will be a reflection of the cost of doing business of the basement waterproofing contractors you interview. Contractors who are on TV, in print ads, setting up booths at all the trade shows and fairs etc... obviously have a higher marketing cost and that will factor into your basement waterproofing cost with those contractors.

Those basement waterproofing companies that use subcontractor labor do not pull permits or licenses and work out of their home or garage will obviously have a very low cost of doing business and a relative low estimate. So it is obviously important that you do your homework on the basement waterproofing companies you interview to get proof of their licensing, worker's compensation insurance, place of business etc... This will also tell you how well established the company is and how easy or difficult it would be for them to disappear, or more popularly, close under one name and reopen under another in order to avoid customer service.

More than ever in business you cannot tell a book by its cover. The internet and various advertising outlets can make a brand new small business appear to be a well established large corporation. Again, do your homework and dig beyond the surface.

Let’s talk some numbers. Those basement waterproofing companies that are on the low side (working on a shoestring cost structure) will likely be between $25 and $35 per foot for an interior basement waterproofing system and or combination inside outside system; and $75 to $100 per foot for exterior basement waterproofing systems.

The “big guys" in the waterproofing industry are on TV and sending out teams of salespeople, with teams of inside marketing agents and will be on the high side pricing between $50 and $75 per foot for an interior basement waterproofing system and or combination inside outside system. Often times these companies will also offer some sort of "patented system" to make it impossible for you to compare other basement waterproofing contractors offerings. You should expect exterior basement waterproofing to be around $150 per foot.

And as far as a fair basement waterproofing cost goes, beware of companies that offer “today only” pricing and or call after the initial visit to offer some sort of reason they can significantly discount your project because of overstocked materials or _________ fill in the blank. Fair contractors will quote one good price and not offer gimmicks for “scheduling issues” etc…

Basement waterproofing in Barberton Ohio

ronleemail@yahoo.com (Ron Lee) — Tue, 01 Feb 2011 17:06:22 -0500 EST"

Over the years we have seen a lot of basement water leaks in Barberton largely due to the age of the homes in the area. Many homes in the Hospital area for example have a clay tile foundation - red-ish brown block with either a horizontal pattern of ridges or a sort of blown up bumpy lines like in a leaf.

These Barberton area homes will experience both damp or wet basement walls and or actual basement water leaks at the base of the walls where they meet the floor. There are many basement waterproofing methods that can solve these problems once and for all...some exterior basement waterproofing and some interior basement waterproofing.

Most of the homes built in Barberton from the 1950's and later are constructed with cement block foundations. We have seen some bowed basement walls due to the high clay content in the soil. Most of these bowed basement walls are repaired and solved once and for all using the Fortress Stabilization straps which carry a lifetime warranty.

If you have a home in Barberton Ohio and are interviewing basement waterproofing contractors or need foundation repair, give us a call for a free no sales gimmicks or sales games quote. Established in 1979, we have a perfect record with the Better Business Bureau and rave reviews with Angie's List.

New foundation repair solution for bowed basement walls

ronleemail@yahoo.com (Ron Lee) — Tue, 01 Feb 2011 14:49:20 -0500 EST"

Forget the old fashioned "giant dirt clamp" wall anchors and sightly steel beams for basement wall stabilization. If you have bowed basement walls you may want to look at the foundation repair solutions offered by Fortress Stabilization Products.

Naturally basement foundations are in soil that expands and contracts and they will often crack as a result of soil pressure, water damage, drying shrinkage, thermal movement, or other causes.

Basement wall cracks are a common condition to be expected on a minor degree. Most basement wall cracks are minor and cause few problems. However, some can grow over time and cause structural integrity. If the fracture is large or growing over time, simple injection techniques are not an appropriate or lasting fix. Under these circumstances, appropriate needs to stabilize the fracture, i.e., prevent it from expanding and getting larger. To accomplish this, reinforcement and stabilization is required.

The latest technology offered today was pioneered by Fortress Stabilization. Fortress stabilization offers a carbon fiber and kevlar meshed strap that is embedded into the face of your bowed basement walls using an industrial strength epoxy. These reinforcement straps become part of the wall, are several times stronger than the wall, and prevent further movement. They work by causing the opposing load to be evenly distributed and diverted away. This foundation repair technique is permanent and offers a lifetime guarantee backed by a global company.

For a free evaluation of your bowed basement walls contact us here

A few tips to help qualify your basement waterproofing contractor

ronleemail@yahoo.com (Ron Lee) — Tue, 25 Jan 2011 12:10:24 -0500 EST"

Are you looking to hire a basement waterproofing contractor? If so you may be wondering about how to qualify the good contractors. Let’s look at some areas to consider, many of these are obvious but let's cover them to be thorough:

Find out if they are they licensed to do business in your community. You would be surprised to learn that many basement waterproofing contractors work under the radar avoiding the paperwork and fees associated with performing basement repair. Call your local building department to check this out.

Ask them if they use subcontractors. Most do, this way they can avoid paying payroll taxes, insurances etc... And if they are using the same subs over and over they are violating the law. Using subcontractors keeps costs down but also open the door to great risk, leading to...

Ask for proof that they have Worker's Compensation insurance on all workers. If they use subs, they are not insuring them. Most subs do not carry their own worker's comp. insurance because it is very costly. So if there is an accident and an injury on the job in your home and there is no insurance, you pay for all the medical care and related damages to that person or persons.

Look to see if they sell the same basement systems to everyone. A basement waterproofing contractor that owns a franchise will definitely do this and most others do as well. It makes selling easier and performing the labor easier. The problem with a one size fits all basement systems approach is that the basement solution offered may not be the best one for you. For example, if your basement has wet walls, exterior basement waterproofing is likely the best bet. Many companies will "fix" it on the inside though and your foundation will continue to have dampness in it whether you see it or not.

These are the biggies. Obviously you should do other homework before hiring a basement waterproofing contractor such as checking the BBB and Angie's List to name a couple.

Before waterproofing the basement...

ronleemail@yahoo.com (Ron Lee) — Fri, 21 Jan 2011 12:04:57 -0500 EST"

If you are one of the many homeowners who have basement water leaks you may be considering your options for waterproofing the basement. Before waterproofing the basement it is important to take a look at what type of basement water leaks you are experiencing. If the water is coming from the walls high to mid wall, you have surface water issues. You should start by taking a look outside. Check to be sure all roof gutters are working properly and not overflowing. Also be sure your downspouts are leading the water away from the foundation.

Building the dirt up around the foundation may not help, and in many cases can aggravate your problems. Damp basement walls are often due to landscaping and or the dirt being built up too high along the foundation. If you do not first waterproof the foundation before raising the dirt or mulch level, the foundation will act like a sponge and absorb moisture from the soil or mulch causing bubbling paint, wet basement walls and worse.

Actual basement water leaks coming from down low / where the wall meets the floor, and your walls are dry, you have a ground water problem. This means water is building up around the foundation under heavier conditions and has no where to go other than into your basement.

For info on different basement systems such as exterior basement waterproofing and interior basement waterproofing to help guide your decision regarding waterproofing the basement, check out our basement solutions

Foundation repair methods for stabilization / reinforcement

ronleemail@yahoo.com (Ron Lee) — Fri, 07 Jan 2011 13:30:33 -0500 EST"

A common foundation problem is the presence of bowed basement walls and this issue is definitely not a one solution fits all problem. Let’s look at older solutions first which are wall anchors and steel beam reinforcement.

Basement wall anchors consist of metal plates inside on the basement walls with large diameter bolts running horizontally out into the soil outside. These bolts and plates are attached vertically placed components in the soil which creates a clamp. This clamp method uses the soil out side to hold the wall in place. Downsides are that soil expands and contracts to you must tighten the bolt occasionally. And since you have a bolt running through your foundation they are prone to leaks. Also, since the wall is held in place and tightened at the point of the plates it creates a wavy effect where the wall is pulled out at the plates and wavy in between. This technique is pretty much no longer used due to advances in the foundation repair industry.

Another older foundation repair technique is the steel beam, or “I” beam reinforcement. The steel beam is bolted to the structure above and cemented below into the floor. The steel beam is slightly pliable allowing for some give and take, but very little. Down side is that the beam is straight and the bowed basement walls are not, so the surface area being reinforced is small as in the wall anchor method. Steel beams are also very slightly and can deter potential buyers when the home is for sale. The straight beam against bowed basement walls really highlights the foundation problem. The “Pro” on this foundation fix is they require zero maintenance and very rarely fail.

Today’s current foundation repair technology is carbon fiber reinforcement. This foundation fix involves embedding carbon fiber & composite materials into the foundation wall in the basement with an industrial strength epoxy. Once applied the “straps” go from floor to top of wall and have 100% contact. They are placed about 4’ apart and create a web effect on the wall with zero deflection locking the wall in place for good. This method of repair is commonly used by road crews to reinforce old bridges and it is the strongest most effective method available. They blend into the basement walls, are pain-table and offer a lifetime guarantee.

Read more here or contact us today for a free estimate.

Basement waterproofing cost - Part 2

ronleemail@yahoo.com (Ron Lee) — Mon, 03 Jan 2011 10:17:51 -0500 EST"

I recently covered what to look for in basement waterproofing companies which will impact basement waterproofing cost. Here I will touch on basement waterproofing methods and the project cost.

Let’s start with "patented basement systems". These basement systems are intended to make it impossible for you to compare basement waterproofing solutions from company to company. It is a sales tactic. It is a sales tactic. Yes I know I repeated myself, just want to be sure you caught that. Any basement waterproofing contractor can have drainage pipe made a certain color or shape and or offer certain combinations of solutions and apply for a patent and call it "exclusive super duper drain king"...you get the point.

Okay, let’s take a look at exterior basement waterproofing methods. The basement waterproofing cost for this type of solution is always going to be the highest, sometimes triple the interior solutions. And don't forget to include replacing the sidewalk, deck, patio, landscaping etc. You should see a range of $100 to $150 per linear foot for exterior basement waterproofing solutions. Typically these contractors are more serious, less "dime a dozen" for those who actually do this type of work because there is much greater risk and overhead expense to be able to perform. Some waterproofing contractors will pose the solution as an option only to scare you into choosing the only one that actually install, watch for this tactic as well.

Interior basement waterproofing companies are a dime a dozen and a bit harder to compare. (Look at the Part 1 blog where I covered some things to look for in basement waterproofing companies that directly affect the cost.) Bob the Builder working out of his home and hiring subcontractors off the street will always be the low price winner. These are the companies you may have never heard of but ran across an ad in the yellow pages / local small paper or found their name online when doing a search. Obviously the companies with the most advertising, biggest facility, most employees will have the most overhead and the highest prices. Chances are the well marketed contractors are the companies you have heard of due to their extensive advertising campaigns.

Be certain to compare the actual work getting done very closely. Sounds simple but there are many ways to cut corners in basement waterproofing. Look at pictures of finished projects and check for a smooth concrete replacement. Be sure to compare actual footer drainage to "baseboard" type drains (even the ones that are in the concrete like water guard systems). Footer drains take a lot more work and should always cost more that the "on top the footer solutions", except for of course, the patented ones you cannot compare apples to apples to which will be pricey. You should see number between $35 and $45 per linear foot for the basics and add to that pump systems and any wall work.

For a basement waterproofing cost quote on your basement, contact us here

Basement waterproofing cost info - Part 1

ronleemail@yahoo.com (Ron Lee) — Mon, 03 Jan 2011 10:06:51 -0500 EST"

The basement waterproofing contractors may all look pretty similar in your area on the surface especially in today's world of the Internet. I can start up a business today and make it look like a 25 year old established and successful company very easily. Here are some things to compare when considering basement waterproofing companies that directly affect the basement waterproofing cost :

Years in business. New companies are looking for market share and often low ball pricing in order to get started. Statistic show however that over 80% of new small businesses fail within the first 2 years. That many again in the next five. Look at the Better Business Bureau's record for when the business was incorporated for a general idea. Beware of companies that advertise "years experience". This is a red flag for new in business otherwise they will state the year founded or "in business since".
Type of Labor force. Many if not most construction companies use subcontractors and most of those subs do not carry insurance because it is simply very expensive. Using subcontractors can mean inexperienced labor which leads to a lower quality project. No insurance means you are personally liable if anyone gets hurt in your home. Check Workers Compensation certificates! Cutting corners cuts cost which lowers the price but it is a gamble that many wish they had not taken.
Customer track record. Look at complaints filed with the Better Business Bureau. Do not simply look at the "grade". The BBB grading system allows for "A" even with a pattern of complaints if the complaints are responded to, even if the customer was not satisfied with the response. Get referrals. Ask for older installs as well as some more recent, make them dig for references rather than allow them to hand you the same three raving fans they give out all the time.
Take a look at Angie's List. This is a great way to prescreen contractors of any type. You will read actual customer feedback in their own words and see a grading scale that looks at several areas of product and service deliverables, including info on basement waterproofing cost.

For a free basement waterproofing cost quote on your basement, contact us here

Consider this before contracting a basement repair project

ronleemail@yahoo.com (Ron Lee) — Fri, 31 Dec 2010 16:07:46 -0500 EST"

Before contracting a basement repair project involving problems with basement water leaks or bowed basement walls, take a close look at the basement waterproofing contractors (and or) foundation repair contractors in your area.

You would be shocked to know how many basement waterproofing companies and foundation repair companies are not licensed, even 50 year old companies. Avoiding the licenses saves money for the contractor and also keeps them under the radar of the officials.

Take a close look at the BBB track record. Note: the Better Business Bureau has recently gone to an A, B, C, D, F rating scale which actually makes it a little tougher to identify bad contractors. Do not simply look at the grade and go on. Contractors who have multiple employees can have multiple complaints with the Bureau and still get an A+ rating. Dig into the complaint history and take a look at what the complaints were about.

An excellent referral source for finding all types of contractors including basement waterproofing contractors / foundation repair contractors is Angie's List. Here you will find actual customer testimonials with a grade card rating several areas such as promptness, sales process, price etc…

When researching your basement repair project, always go for the obvious, ask friends, family, co workers, people at church etc… for a recommendation first.

And beware of any basement repair contractor who offers a “today only” price. That is simply a sales pressure tactic that no matter how logical they make it appear, it is a gimmick to get a contract.

For more info contact us here

Foundation waterproofing solutions are not one size fits all

ronleemail@yahoo.com (Ron Lee) — Wed, 29 Dec 2010 12:20:13 -0500 EST"

When shopping for a solution that it may be difficult to know what type of foundation waterproofing makes sense because there are so many different opinions on what basement systems will work. Prospective customers often tell me that they get different solutions from contractors and they ask why don’t all waterproofing contractors see the problem the same way and recommend the same foundation waterproofing solution.

The answer lies in the fact that most basement waterproofing contractors focus on and only offer one solution, either offering exterior basement waterproofing or interior basement waterproofing and naturally they will only recommend what they sell. They often have convincing arguments for their solution which is what makes it so difficult to choose a foundation waterproofing solution.

To know what foundation waterproofing solution makes sense you should first identify the type of problem. Do you have wet basement walls that are wet up high to mid wall? Do you have wet basement walls only at the very bottom where the floor meets the wall? Do you not really have wet walls much or at all but have water in the basement on the floor?

With the first scenario wet basement walls will most likely mean the original seal of the foundation is bad and needs replaced...if accessible (that is key). This means you have surface water issues that need to be looked at and solved with exterior basement waterproofing or other solutions such as new gutters and downspout lines.

With the other scenarios there may be simple ground water build up under the foundation which is best solve with interior basement waterproofing solutions. You may even have a combination of issues and need a combination solution.

The point is you should look for basement waterproofing contractors who are truly full service offering all types of foundation waterproofing solutions. And of course look at their record with the BBB and Angie’s list as well as ask them for references to call, some newer and some older.

For a free estimate or simply to gather more info on Pioneer, fill out the contact form here

How to know if you are a candidate for foundation repair or not

ronleemail@yahoo.com (Ron Lee) — Mon, 27 Dec 2010 11:46:05 -0500 EST"

I have literally looked at thousands and thousands of basements, called out for info on foundation repair. Many times the issues are beyond repair and there are some guidelines that I follow to determine what level the foundation damage is.

For the record we are talking about structural issues here. Basement waterproofing is certainly a type of foundation repair but in a different category.

There are several basement solutions available from minor stabilization to major stabilization to partial rebuilding and complete rebuilding. A lot of the decision on which way to go is based on the type of basement damage.

Vertical cracks in the basement foundation are almost always not a structural threat. They are definitely big leakers and can cause a lot of problems that way, but structurally not a concern.

Horizontal cracking in your foundation is bad news. This means the weight of the home is no longer evenly distributed on the foundation wall and there is a lot of pressure on the outside / soil side. Many stabilization techniques are available for that and some offer a lifetime guarantee, without digging the exterior.

If the horizontal crack is at the bottom course of block and the wall has slid off of the bottom course, you most likely need a rebuild or replacement. This is called a "shear".

Step cracking is a settling issue and there can be different causes and solutions for that. Quite common is a downspout disconnected causing a temporary issue that will stop when the issue is solved. If that is not the case there may be a soil issue which can lead to the necessity for sub foundation stabilization.

For more info call us at 1-877-321-4889 or contact us here

Different basement systems for foundation repair to consider

ronleemail@yahoo.com (Ron Lee) — Thu, 23 Dec 2010 12:23:50 -0500 EST"

There are a few different basement systems for foundation repair and basement waterproofing to consider. The best approach when doing research on these options is to carefully consider what the causes of the foundation problem are and the desired use of the basement space.
Many people think of exterior basement waterproofing as the traditional method and interior basement waterproofing as the easy way out of a wet basement problem; however, again these are two different basement systems or solutions that each solve specific problems. Wet basement walls up high or even mid level may mean there is surface water getting into the wall and exterior basement waterproofing may be the best solution. Water seepage through the wall and floor seam may mean there is a ground water problem and interior basement waterproofing may be the best solution there.
For bowing basement walls or cracks in the foundation there are different solutions for foundation repair as well. At the top of the list, as far as extreme measures, there is a foundation rebuild. This may be necessary if the walls are bowed beyond stabilization, or if a row of block is sliding off of the footing.
The best way to find the best fix for your specific issues is to consult professional foundation repair experts. Interview companies who offer all solutions and methods and have a clean record with the Better Business Bureau and Angie’s list.
For more info or to schedule a free consultation contact us

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Basement Systems

ronleemail@yahoo.com (Ron Lee) — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 15:14:05 -0500 EST"

It can be pretty tough to know how to choose a basement waterproofing solution because there are so many companies that want to sell their basement systems rather than taking the approach of a full service true diagnosis.

Companies that repeatedly sell the same basement systems typically have trained sales people who give the exact same sales presentation to every “prospect” they encounter.

Your best bet is to find a well established reputable basement waterproofing contractor who not only offers but actually installs all basement solutions. This type of basement contractor will diagnose your specific problem and review all of your options so that you can make an informed and wise decision about the waterproofing solution that makes the most sense in your case.

So avoid those companies that sell the same one size fits all basement systems to every customer and look for a basement waterproofing contractor who installs all solutions.

Call us today at 1-877-321-4889 for a free consultation.

Prevent Sick House Syndrome

ronleemail@yahoo.com (Ron Lee) — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 13:22:40 -0500 EST"

The EPA informs us that six out of 10 homes and buildings are “sick” meaning they are hazardous to your health to occupy as a result of airborne pollutants.

Most people spend well over 90% of their time indoors. In which case, indoor air is going to impact our health far more than outdoor air. According to Scientific American, a baby crawling on the floor inhales the equivalent of four cigarettes a day, and is exposed to a multitude of pollutants, as a result of the out gassing of carpets, molds, mildews, fungi, dust mites, etc. Sick House Syndrome occurs in homes with excess moisture and lack of ventilation. Cold damp basements and crawl spaces nurture mold and contaminants which work their way into the upper levels of the home.

Humidex controls moisture and creates ventilation in both basements and crawl spaces. Humidex will create a healthier home environment by improving indoor air quality by expelling gases, toxins, VOC’s and odors. Stagnant air will be replaced by fresh air creating a healthy home and maintain the structural integrity of the home.

Humidex is energy efficient and cost less than $5 per month on your utility bill and is maintenance free.

Call Pioneer Basement Solutions today at 330-773-0109 or toll free 1-877-321-4889 for free a consultation.

Basement Waterproofing

ronleemail@yahoo.com (Ron Lee) — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 10:29:06 -0500 EST"

Basement waterproofing problems easily can be one of the most frustrating a homeowner can have. Wet spots on the basement walls, mold and or mildew growth, cracks and actual water seepage in the basement are common basement waterproofing symptoms that there is a problem that needs to be solved.

Basement waterproofing solutions are limited to exterior or interior making choosing a solution a fairly easy task. Wet basement walls need and exterior basement waterproofing method of correction. This method is commonly referred to as excavation. Water coming up through the floor or only seeping through the wall/ floor seams is a ground water issue which can best be solved with an interior basement waterproofing method. Sometimes a combination approach makes the best sense.

For more information on what basement waterproofing solution best fits your problems, call us for a free estimate at 1-877-321-4889.

Pioneer Basement Solutions is a basement waterproofing company in business for over 30 years serving northeast Ohio.

Basement Wall Cracks

ronleemail@yahoo.com (Ron Lee) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 10:40:47 -0500 EST"

Basement wall cracks are most commonly cosmetic and some are structural. Typically if it is a vertical crack, it is not a structural concern. Vertical cracks are more prone to leak however and may require digging out on the outside to seal off the leak.

Step cracks are those basement wall cracks that step down and follow the mortar joints of the wall, these are common settling cracks. All homes settle and usually produce some step cracking. The common tolerance or acceptable level of basement wall cracking is up to 1/8". If your step cracks are 1/2" or more you may need what is called underpinning or peiring to support the foundation from underneath and bring it back up to its original position.

Horizontal basement wall cracks are potentially the most concerning and can lead to your basement walls bowing in. If the basement wall has bowed in 4 inches or more it should be replaced. So if you have one or more basement wall cracks that are horizontal and you see bowing, take action as soon as possible to stabilize it preventing any further movement.

Call us today for a free inspection at 1-877-321-4889 toll free

Akron 330-773-0109

Cuyahoga Falls 330-923-0109

Kent/ Ravenna 330-676-3280

Canton 330-454-8066

Basement Waterproofing Paint

ronleemail@yahoo.com (Ron Lee) — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 13:07:44 -0500 EST"

Waterproofing a basement with basement waterproofing paint on the interior of the walls is the most popular method used by do it yourselfers. Basement waterproofing paint can be a good solution for some, but not for others. Let's look at when it is probably not a good solution for you first.

1. If your walls are already painted. Basement waterproofing paint works by soaking into the porous cement block material. Applying waterproofing paint on top of other paint will lead to big bubbles, flaking and loose chunks falling off because the waterproofing paint could not bond into the wall.
2. If your walls are not cement block. Basement waterproofing paint is designed for cement block. All other foundations, such a clay tile, will not take the paint correctly.
3. If you have actual water seepage problems. Basement waterproofing paint works by creating a "dam" and can allow water to stack up in your block walls. This can cause rot and decay that will lead to major problems later. Actual water seepage should be dealt with utilizing professional repair and solutions.

So in essence basement waterproofing paint only works well for minor dampness issues that occur in cement block walls that are not previously painted. If your basement does not fit this profile, call Pioneer Basement Solutions today for a free inspection and no obligation estimate at 1-877-321-4889. Or visit the website at www.pioneerbasementsolutions.com and be sure to check out our current sale!

Wet Basement After A Snow Melt

ronleemail@yahoo.com (Ron Lee) — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 12:25:15 -0500 EST"

I have received quite a few calls recently about wet basements after a snow melt. Many people say, "I never had a leak before now, why is is it leaking now?" Honestly each situation needs specific assessment to determine the source of the basement leak, there are a few common causes.

When the snow really piles up like it did recently, it has a lot of potential to saturate the ground around your home. When there is a fast snow melt, the original waterproofing system can get overwhelmed and the water simply has nowhere to go. This creates a water table around your foundation that can create a lot of "hydrostatic pressure". Water simply pushes all around your basement walls and floor, like trying to push a bowl down into a sink of water, you can feel the water pressure push on the bowl and if you let go, the bowl will pop out of the water. Obviously your basement is not going to pop out of the ground. So water forces its way into paths of least resistance, usually the seam where the wall meets the floor and then you get a wet basement.

It simply could be bad timing. At some point, all basements are going to leak. Your waterproofing system will most likely fail eventually because it is out in the elements. It could be that the heavy snow melt was the final straw that broke the proverbial camel's back in your case.

I would be happy to visit your home for a no obligation free evaluation. I will prepare a free estimate if you need repairs. Call me at 1-877-321-4889 or visit us online at www.pioneerbasementsolutions.com

Wet Basement? Look Up!

ronleemail@yahoo.com (Ron Lee) — Fri, 26 Dec 2008 16:22:08 -0500 EST"

Wet basements can be very frustrating. How about when you are out shopping, or even worse out of town, and you know there is a deluge that is probably wreaking havoc on your basement. Thinking about what must be going on can consume a person, and then finally you head down the stairs to see what could be bad as you hope for the best.

One common cause for wet basements is actually your roof water. Yeah, roof water management is more important than most people think. Overflowing gutters can pelt water right close to your foundation at a very heavy rate. Downspouts that are disconnected from extensions that lead the water away underground or away from the home on the surface can have the effect of a couple garden hoses running wide open right down your foundation walls.

There are a few common signs that I look for that relate to roof water when I inspect foundations for water seepage sources. First, if your mulch or the dirt around your home is impressed or eroded away in a straight line parallel to the foundation, look up. This is a typical sign of gutters overflowing. Also look to see if there is a lot of gravel or pebbles along the ground close to the foundation that have washed up to the surface in those areas. If so that could mean the problem has been going on for a while. You may be able to simply clean out your gutters and be fine. Watch after the next heavy rain, if you still have cascading water off of the roof you may need to go to an oversized gutter. Or it could be the downspout drain.

Another sign I look for is mulch or dirt that has sunken and or eroded away around the downspout. This could mean the drain is clogged underground and is backing up, causing the water to wash away the soil around the drain. Cleaning underground downspout lines is very important and often overlooked. Have your underground downspout lines checked or cleaned by a drain professional every year or two to prevent that water back up and keep it out of your basement.

If your downspouts are simply running out on the surface, five to six feet away from the foundation to an area where the water will run off and away on to your lawn or landscape should do fine. You want to get at least four feet out to get past the "soft zone" which was created when the home was built. This is where soil from construction is mixed up and was back filled around the home. This soil will stay soft for many many years. It's pretty shocking how easy it is to dig by hand all the way down a sixty year old foundation. Try that out in the middle of the lawn and you are lucky to get past 18 inches!

If your roof water is well managed you will greatly reduce your chances of a leaky basement. If all is well and you still have a leak, call a waterproofing professional!

The #1 myth about what causes a wet basement

ronleemail@yahoo.com (Ron Lee) — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 15:09:24 -0500 EST"

The number one thing most people are told to do, think they should do and try to do to stop their basements from getting water is a result of the #1 myth about what causes a wet basement. That is "the dirt around my house isn't sloped enough".

Over the past fifteen years I have probably visited around 5,000 homes and I must say, over 90% of them have an "OK" grade, or slope around the house and the problem they are having in their basement has nothing to do with the slope of the dirt around their foundation.

If the dirt has any slope to it at all it is most likely good, even if it is flat is it probably fine. Only severely negative slopes toward the house that extend far enough away from the house to grab rain water that flows on the surface is actually a problem.

Piling dirt up too high can actually create worse issues. If you do not raise the level of the waterproof coating on your foundation first, stacking dirt up can allow some moisture to wick through the wall and cause problems in your basement.

If you do have a problem with the slope of the dirt around your home you will see signs up high on your basement wall (where the water that runs on the surface toward the foundation enters your basement wall). Those signs will appear right at the "grade" or dirt level and trail down from there. These signs are typically damp spots, mold and or mildew, peeling paint or actual water that trails down on your basement wall.