Homeowners who wish to protect their basement from water damage need to make many decisions. In addition to choosing the right approach for their home’s specific water issues, they must also find a good waterproofing contractor who can perform the work effectively and within their budget.
What A Waterproofing Contractor Can Do
When hiring a waterproofing contractor, it is important to have a strong idea of what work you will need carried out. If your home has already sustained water damage, the services you need will be different from those you will require if your goals are solely preventive in nature. Not everyone who gets basement waterproofing is doing so because their basement already has water.
Waterproofing contractors can use a variety of approaches to protect your basement from water damage. Spray-on penetrating sealants, below-grade waterproofing systems and interior draining solutions are just some of the options available.
Qualities To Look For In A Professional Waterproofing Contractor
When choosing a waterproofing contractor, you will want someone who is professional, dependable and honest. This can be a costly undertaking, and contractors may need to enter your home to carry out some of the work. Therefore, it is important to take the time to research potential contractors to ensure you make the right choice.
Outlined below are the qualities you should seek in a professional waterproofing contractor.
A Waterproofing Contractor With A Good Reputation
It is essential to hire a waterproofing contractor who has a good reputation. Ideally, you will want to ask family and colleagues in your area if they can recommend a company with whom they have had positive experiences.
You should also research potential waterproofing contractors online and take a look at their reviews, particularly any trends you notice in comments about their services. It is also a good idea to check with governmental agencies to find out whether any judgments or complaints against the company you are considering have been filed.
You will want to make sure that the waterproofing contractor you hire is licensed, bonded and insured. In addition to asking about their status in this regard, you should verify the information they provide you. Properly waterproofing a foundation or basement is a major project that could have serious repercussions for the structure of your home, so you need to ensure you are hiring a true professional.
A Contractor That Can Tell The Signs Of Damage
Not all signs of water damage in your home are as obvious as puddles of water on your basement floor after a downpour. Some of the more common signs of water damage in your home include peeling paint, damp spots on your basement walls and rust on tools or appliances.
However, some of the less obvious signs may be harder to detect, such as cracking in basement walls, an unusual odor, or the presence of a chalky white substance on the walls.
You’ll want to choose a contractor who knows how to carefully inspect the entire basement area in order to address potential problems before they grow out of control in addition to correcting any existing issues.
A Contractor With A Clearly Outlined Estimate
Be sure to find out if the contractors you are considering are willing to stand behind their work. For example, one waterproofing contractor might suggest an inexpensive and quick fix, but if they are not willing to give a warranty, it may not be the best option. It is a good idea to get multiple quotes, but be sure to take quality into account when you are comparing prices.
A Waterproof Contractor With A Detailed Proposal And Contract
Your waterproofing contractor should provide you with a detailed proposal and contract that lists everything involved in the work in writing. Ensure you understand what is included or you could end up paying even more later. If any point of the contract is not detailed, be sure to ask for the specifics in writing. This can protect you if the work is not carried out as expected.
Questions To Ask A Waterproofing Contractor
Do not be afraid to ask prospective waterproofing contractors questions. In addition to inquiring about their licensing, insurance and warranties, ensure you understand how and when the work will be carried out, what you need to do to prepare and how long the work will take.
Make sure you ask what sort of protection the work will provide your basement and how long it is expected to last.
In addition, you should find out whether they specialize in waterproofing. It may be less expensive to choose a contractor who is more of a generalist, but waterproofing is a very specific skill, and someone without proper experience may not be able to successfully keep all water from entering your basement.
Talk With The Waterproofing Contractors At Waterproof Caulking & Restoration
If you are looking for contractors who specialize in waterproofing, get in touch with the experts at Waterproof Caulking & Restoration. They offer top-quality waterproofing services that can keep your home dry and your foundation healthy throughout the year.