This page is designed to answer some of the most commonly asked questions about the problems, applications and expectations regarding wet basements, waterproofing systems and foundation repair. Have a question? Ask our waterproofing experts!

Q. What do you charge to inspect the wet basement and foundation of my home?

A: Affordable Basement Waterproofing provides free professional on-site wet basement and foundation repair inspections, consultations and estimates to residential and commercial property owners, prospective property owners, realtors, local, state and federal property managers, home inspectors and other professionals requesting our services.

Q. Will painting my basement walls stop dampness and wetness?

A: Unfortunately, it simply isn’t effective. Don’t settle for hasty, inexpensive fixes which do not eliminate wet basement problems.  Painting does not address water trapped in the hollows of the basement wall.   Water seeks the least line of resistance to enter a home.  Therefore, painting the basement walls with special paints will not prevent other areas of entry such as the cove area, where the wall joins the floor or below the foundation.  If you are experiencing a wet, damp basement you should seek advice from a professional experienced in wet basements and foundation repair.  Reputable waterproofing companies will respond promptly, and provide a no-cost inspection.

Q. Is it necessary to excavate the outside foundation of my home?

A: We strongly recommend against it. More than likely waterproofing measures were taken when the home was built, but have failed. Outside excavation repair does not address the hydrostatic water enveloping the foundation or water already trapped within the basement walls.  It is extremely expensive, time consuming, and destructive to the landscaping and exterior structures such as the walkways, patio and driveway.  Our interior waterproofing system can be installed in a few days with considerable savings as compared to exterior waterproofing.   It is less disruptive to the home and household, and carries a transferable, life of the structure warranty.

Q. My basement doesn’t leak, but the walls are always damp, why?

A: Many times basement dampness is an indication of moisture trapped in the hollows of block walls.  Eventually lime will leach from the concrete mixture within the foundation creating a white, chalky substance called efflorescence which can be seen on unfinished basement walls. If the area is finished with drywall, paint or wallpaper, in addition to damp spots, you may notice mold and mildew.   Left unattended, the detioration will continue to progress eventually leading to structural damage necessitating foundation repair.  Always call for your free basement inspection.  Our waterproofing inspectors have years of experience in determining the sources of basement dampness.  They take great pride in sharing their waterproofing and foundation repair knowledge with you, at no cost, and will inform you of additional precautions you may take to avoid a wet basement.

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