Having a wet basement is a common problem for many homeowners. If left untreated, a wet basement can lead to mold, mildew, structural damage, and create an unhealthy living environment. To properly waterproof a basement and prevent future water problems, it’s important to hire qualified basement waterproofing contractors.
When looking for the best basement waterproofing companies, there are several key factors to consider:
Experience and Reputation
Look for an experienced company that has been providing basement waterproofing services for several years. They should have a solid reputation built on many satisfied customer reviews and referrals. An established company will have proven systems and methods for effectively waterproofing basements. Be wary of “pop-up” contractors with no online history or reviews.
Some of the most experienced and reputable basement waterproofing companies include:
- Basement Systems – Operating for over 35 years, this company has waterproofed over 200,000 basements across the United States and Canada. They use their patented WaterGuard drainage system and offer a lifetime warranty on many of their waterproofing solutions.
- EverDry Waterproofing – With over 30 years of experience, EverDry has waterproofed more than 800,000 structures. They use a combination of sealants and drainage to fix wet basement problems permanently.
- Groundworks – In business for over 50 years, Groundworks is a top foundation repair and waterproofing company on the East Coast. Their certified technicians can diagnose and fix any basement water issues.
Comprehensive Waterproofing Solutions
The best basement waterproofing contractors will offer multiple solutions to fix various water problems. Look for companies that provide interior and exterior waterproofing options to tackle seepage, cracking, heavy rains, and high groundwater levels. They should customize solutions based on the unique needs of your basement foundation.
Common waterproofing solutions include:
- Interior drainage systems – Drain tile, sump pumps, and dewatering systems help divert water away from the basement interior to prevent flooding and seepage through cracks.
- Exterior drainage – Weep holes, drainage pipes, and gravel help channel groundwater away from basement walls and foundations.
- Sealants – Polyurethane injections, coatings, and sealers help fill cracks and create a waterproof membrane on concrete walls and floors.
- Vapor barriers – Plastic liners and dehumidifiers prevent moisture in the air from condensing on cool basement surfaces.
- Foundation repair – Companies may need to repair cracks in walls or floors, reinforce walls with carbon fiber straps, and in some cases, underpin foundations for structural support.
Professional Technicians
Look for basement waterproofing companies that employ full-time professional technicians, not subcontractors. Their technicians should be thoroughly trained, certified, insured, and experienced performing all aspects of the job. Many reputable companies put their technicians through vigorous training programs to deliver quality services.
When technicians arrive, make sure they inspect the basement thoroughly before recommending waterproofing solutions. Reputable companies won’t try to sell you on unnecessary services. Their proposals should be based on fixing the specific problems observed in your basement.
Guarantees and Warranties
The best basement waterproofing contractors will guarantee their work and stand behind their waterproofing methods. Many companies offer transferable lifetime warranties against water seepage on interior drainage systems, exterior waterproofing, foundation repair, and mold remediation.
Be wary of contractors who don’t back up their work with strong guarantees. Look for waterproofing solutions guaranteed for the life of your home. Companies that warranty their work demonstrate confidence that their methods provide permanent dry basements.
Safety Certifications
Reputable companies follow strict safety standards and protocols. They should be certified by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Crews should always clean up the job site and leave your property in the same condition after the project.
Look for safety certifications like these:
- OSHA – Ensures proper work site safety training and compliance.
- SafeBasements – Certifies proper mold remediation and safe containment processes during waterproofing work.
- BASEMENT Health Association – Ensures healthy practices during basement repairs.
Customer Support
Choose a basement waterproofing company that provides exceptional customer service before, during, and after your project. They should be reachable for all questions and concerns via phone, email, and chat support. Many companies also have online customer portals for convenient access to your project status, schedules, and details.
Make sure the company follows up after the project to ensure you are fully satisfied with the basement waterproofing solutions. Reputable companies will also provide ongoing maintenance and service calls as needed down the road.
Financing Options
Since basement waterproofing can cost thousands depending on the size and scope of the job, many companies offer financing options. Look for contractors that accept major credit cards or offer third-party financing with low monthly payment plans, discounted financing fees, and zero percent APR options.
Reputable companies understand that most homeowners need flexible financing for expensive basement repairs and make paying for the services more affordable.
Get Multiple Estimates
Always get estimates from at least 3 of the best basement waterproofing contractors in your area. Compare the companies based on their experience, methods, materials, warranties, and overall value.
Beware of extremely low estimates that seem too good to be true. Very cheap quotes often mean poor quality materials, rushed jobs, and unqualified technicians. On the other hand, be wary of unreasonably high estimates as well.
Ask contractors plenty of questions about the specifics of their quotes to understand exactly what you’re paying for. Make sure you’re doing an apples-to-apples comparison between estimates.
Frequently Asked Questions About Basement Waterproofing Companies
Q: What are signs that I need professional basement waterproofing services?
There are a few clear signs that indicate you need basement waterproofing:
- Visible water or dampness – Water seeping in through cracks in walls or floors after heavy rains. Dark spots or musty, damp smells.
- Mold or mildew growth – This indicates excess moisture. Mold can quickly spread across basement surfaces.
- Cracked walls/floors – Gaps, fractures, and cracks that leak water into the basement. These worsen over time if left untreated.
- Foundation settling/shifting – Doors jamming, drywall cracks, and uneven floors suggest foundation problems that require repair.
If you notice any of these issues, contact basement waterproofing contractors immediately before permanent damage occurs.
Q: How much does it cost to waterproof a basement?
Basement waterproofing costs range from $2,500 to over $20,000 depending on the size of the basement, the severity of water issues, and the types of solutions needed. The national average cost is around $5,000.
Key factors impacting waterproofing costs:
- Basement size – Larger basements require more materials and longer labor hours to waterproof.
- Interior vs. exterior solutions – Exterior waterproofing costs more than interior due to excavation needs.
- Severity of water damage – Minor vs. major leaks and flooding issues affect the repair work required.
- Foundation repair needs – Stabilizing sinking walls or floors adds costs.
- Mold remediation – Removing mold and sealing air quality adds $1,000 or more.
- Drainage system – Complex drainage pumps and sump systems costs more than basic drainage tile.
To get accurate estimates, have contractors inspect your specific basement first. Beware of quotes given without seeing your basement first-hand.
Q: Does homeowners insurance cover basement waterproofing?
Unfortunately, most standard home insurance policies do not cover basement waterproofing or foundation repair. Insurance is designed to cover sudden water damage events, not gradual seepage or flooding due to home construction flaws, aging, groundwater, heavy rains, etc.
However, your policy may help pay for repairs needed due to water damage like drywall, insulation, and flooring replacement. But the underlying basement waterproofing will not be covered. That’s why it’s so important for homeowners to invest in permanent basement waterproofing solutions themselves.
Q: How long does basement waterproofing take?
Most basement waterproofing projects take 2 to 5 days to complete. However, larger projects with extensive excavation, foundation repair, drainage system installation, and mold remediation may take 1 to 2 weeks.
The specific stages include:
- 1 day for initial assessment and planning
- 1-2 days for excavation and exposing the foundation walls (exterior waterproofing)
- 1-2 days to repair foundation cracks and install sealants, drains, pumps etc.
- 1 day for installing vapor barriers, backfilling, and cleanup
Crews often work in sections to waterproof foundations little by little, which extends timelines by a few extra days typically.
Q: Should I finish my basement after waterproofing?
Yes, you should have your basement professionally finished after waterproofing whenever feasible. Unfinished basements with exposed foundations are more prone to moisture issues over time. Having your basement properly framed, insulated, and drywalled after waterproofing locks in the dry, healthy environment.
Professional basement finishing typically costs around $25 per square foot. This investment prevents expensive water damage and gives you valuable new living space. Make sure to waterproof first, then finish for best results.
Q: How long do basement waterproofing solutions last?
When properly installed by an experienced contractor, most basement waterproofing solutions last indefinitely:
- Interior drainage systems should last a lifetime if properly maintained. Sump pumps wear out every 5-15 years.
- Exterior sealants and waterproof coatings last 10-15 years or more before needing renewal.
- Polyurethane injection cracks repairs last 10 years or longer before potentially needing re-injection.
- Foundation repairs like carbon fiber strengthening, wall anchors, and underpinning permanently stabilize foundations against settling if done right.
Look for lifetime warranties from contractors to ensure long-lasting dry basements. An annual maintenance checkup helps keep systems working optimally for decades.
Conclusion
Dealing with wet basement problems requires hiring one of the best basement waterproofing contractors in your area. Choose an experienced company with proven systems, strong warranties, certified technicians, and excellent custom service across the entire process.
Investing in comprehensive basement waterproofing solutions like interior and exterior drainage, foundation repair, and mold remediation provides permanent protection from moisture damage. Though an expensive project, properly waterproofing your basement adds tremendous value and peace of mind.
With the right contractor, you can confidently transform your wet basement into a dry, healthy living space protected from water damage. Carefully compare estimates and credentials to find the ideal partners for your basement waterproofing project.