The Truth About Basement Waterproofing
The Truth About Basement Waterproofing
The majority of waterproofing today is being performed by system companies. System companies may claim to offer different methods, but will always steer you to their method, which is usually an interior water control system. This one size fits all approach to basement waterproofing benefits the waterproofing company more often than the customer. I can think of no other industry that so predominantly utilizes a system approach as opposed to a problem solving approach.
There remains basically two options available to solve wet basement problems. Interior or exterior. Interior work utilizes drainage inside your basement to control the water that is entering and directs it to a sump pump. This method should never be called waterproofing, it should be referred to as water control. Water control systems allow the water in, in order to pump it back out. Waterproofing is accomplished only by exterior excavation to the bottom of the foundation, installing proper drainage, and treating the walls to prevent the water from entering. Let it in and pump it out, or keep it out all together. This is the main difference between waterproofing vs. water control.
Which method is best for your foundation? The overwhelming consensus among professionals outside of the industry, structural engineers, local building department officials, etc. is waterproofing is always the best choice. So why do so many companies in this industry propose water control approaches? The answer is because it is all they do. Water control systems are relatively easy to install. It requires very little in the way of equiptment or material. It is fast, and requires minimal labor skills. Water control systems do have their place, however if your basement walls show signs of damp spots, cracking, or shifting, than interior systems can possibly make your problem worse.
When evaluating your specific situation, take a problem solving approach as opposed to a system approach. An honest foundation expert will examine you basement or crawl space to determine the cause of your problem, in order to offer a solution, specific to your needs. A system company salesman is ultimately unconcerned with the cause of your problem because the solution he will present, is the same for everyone. You must be aware that a growing number of water control companies are beginning to propose some outside work, such as shallow outside drainage systems, or exploration trenches. This outside work benefits the customer very little and allows the system company to appear different, and drive up their price. Excavation outside is only effective if you dig to the bottom of the foundation.
Never fall for the discount you will be offered if you sign the contract today. Sign now discounts are nothing more than a sales tool to get you to sign on the spot. Do not make a same day decision, sleep on it. If you feel pressured, show the salesman the door. Shop around, do some research, take your time.
Finally, always investigate a companies Better Business Beaureu Report. Check with your states Attorney Generals Office for a listing of complaints. Angies list is a good source to find a good contractor. Remember a companies size is not always a good indicator of how reliable a company is.
If you have any questions or comments, I can be reached at www.integritywaterproofing.com
Thank you,
Steve Allen
Article from articlesbase.com
Categories: Basement Moisture Tags: About, Basement, Truth, Waterproofing
Waterproofing: An Essential Step In Basement Remodeling
Waterproofing: An Essential Step In Basement Remodeling
To maximize the use of every square footage, basement remodeling is truly a project worth looking into. Without having to demolish and build walls anew, you can afford the family that much needed living space in a practical and economic way. Thus this home improvement is ideal for New York homeowners that have long since been suffering from the housing crunch, made more taxing by the recent economic downfall. To enjoy all the rewards basement remodeling has got to offer in a long time, waterproofing is crucial whether you are in Long Island, Staten Island, Queens, Manhattan, or Brooklyn.
Why waterproof? Though the answer is quite obvious, many homeowners still overlook the importance of ensuring a waterproofed basement remodeling finish. By implementing proper measures of waterproofing, comfort is maximized and energy efficiency is enjoyed. These results to enhanced quality of indoor living as well as a good cutback on your monthly energy bills.
Water is among the most common problems when it comes to homes. What makes water dangerous is that it works its way in the most silent way and can unbelievably reach even the most remote areas in the house. Unless there are visible signs, damages are usually spotted when they have already escalated. With this, protection through waterproofing is really a must to enjoy whatever finish is planned in the longest time possible. Some signs that indicate water or moisture problems include:
watermarks
damp spots
deformed and rotting wood
rusted metals
flooding
molds and mildew
blistering and peeling paint
presence of white, chalky substance on walls
There are various waterproofing methods that can be implemented as a part of your basement remodeling and these are commonly done either from the outside or in the inside. What means you choose will depend on what moisture and water problems are faced and the extent of the issue. Other than being a solution, these methods can also be great investments as preventive measures. Here are some of the most common methods that you can consider:
Paints and Sealants
These waterproofing products are common and can easily be bought from your nearest home improvement store. This special type of paint can be applied to the interior walls to serve both as a finishing touch to the basement remodeling project while adding protection to the walls at the same time. When visible cracks are present, sealants can be used to fill these up from fine hairlines to larger crevices.
Fountain Drain
Also referred to as French drains, this waterproofing tools are designed and installed to channel water away from the foundations of your home. The system prevents damages by preventing water from getting near and pooling around the house.
Hydroclay
This type of waterproofing compound works by filling in cracks along the foundation. When in contact with water, the Hydroclay expands thus creating a flexible membrane protecting your basement walls from water from the outside. Though commonly applied at construction stage, this can still be of great use to patch up holes or serve as preventive waterproof layer.
Eugene Makeev uses his skills and expertise to help home owners in Brooklyn, Long Island, Queens, Manhattan, and Staten Island avoid the common remodeling New York pitfalls by matching their needs with prescreened Basement Remodeling Contractors.
Feel free to use our Basement Remodeling Calculator
.
Article from articlesbase.com
Categories: Basement Moisture Tags: Basement, Essential, Remodeling, Step, Waterproofing
How to Shop for a Home Basement Dehumidifier
How to Shop for a Home Basement Dehumidifier
If your house air is stifling and you are looking for a home basement dehumidifier, then this article will show you the most importance facts to know before purchasing a home basement dehumidifier.
Fact number one is to know exactly what is considered to be High Humidity.
Think of humidity as a percentage of air that is moist relative to dry air. If the air is 30 to 50% relative humidity, then
it is considered safe. If the relative humidity is over 50% then germs and little creatures (microorganisms) that you cannot see start to grow.
A basement air dehumidifier eliminates too much moisture – over 50% relative humidity. Every house that has a basement should have a basement dehumidifier.
High humidity brings health problems with your respiratory system. Damp areas in your house then become the home of small bugs, fleas and moths. When allergies develop, your nose and throat areas are affected and you will feel discomfort. Next, your house walls, furniture, wood can start to deteriorate, decay and a musty smell is now in the air.
There a two types of dehumidifiers:
1. A heat pump dehumidifier pulls moist air over coils that are close to freezing, and the water vapor then condenses and removed via a drain system.
2. The second type is called a dessicant dehumidifer that has a chemical which absorbs humidity in the air.
Before shopping, consider these 3 major points that keep coming up in reviews of home basement dehumidifiers.
1. What is the noise level – quiet or noisy (like a refrigerator)
2. How is water drained? Is a drain hose used or do you have to empty a container. Most units have an automatic shut off when the container reaches a certain level of water.
3. What are the number of damage and return issues.
So how do you find a home basement dehumidifier at the lowest price?
Your best bet is to find somebody who knows about home basement dehumidifiers and/or find a large number of reviews online for a specific product.
Check out Soleus Dehumidifier for some more tips and great basement deals.
Monte Luxley writes on many health topics, specilizing on natural organic products and use of therapeutic essential oils.
Article from articlesbase.com
Related Basement Damp Articles
Categories: Basement Moisture Tags: Basement, Dehumidifier, Home, Shop
Removing Basement Mould
Removing Basement Mould
One of the most widespread problems householder face is the toxic black mould. It can grow almost in every place in a house where there is enough moisture. It is a challenge to get rid of black mould in a basement.
The first step in treating black mould growth is to eliminate dampness. It is quite difficult to do because usually the temperature in the basement is lower than this of the other part of the house. Another very important thing you should do to succeed in removing the mould is to make sure that no rainwater can come in the basement.
Once you have imposed a blockage to the outside of the house, you should dry the basement using fans or dehumidifiers. After that it is time to begin domestic cleaning and treating the growth of black mould. Domestic cleaning London recommends the area we are treating to be isolated because this will prevent spreading of the mould spores all over the basement. When you are removing mould you send some of these spores in the air and that makes mould really hard for taking away.
A basic mixture of water and borax is the first thing you need to start with. You should spray the area that is affected and score the mould. All materials which have mould on them should be put in a plastic bag for removal. The domestic cleaning continue with going again over the treated area with a solution of bleach water to make sure that there is no mould has survived.
You should dry again the whole basement so that you can eliminate the risk of renew spread of mould. All the materials that might consist mould should be also removed from the basement. Domestic cleaning London advice to check the basement in the next week so you will be sure that it will not be necessary to fight again against the tough black mould. Last but not least it is highly recommended to use painters masks when you treat mould because its spores can make you sick.
Alfred Halfnight is a London-based freelance journalist with a mission to make you a better, cleaner, happier human being. Drawing attention to the peculiarities of life in the modern age is all part of the package. Check out his other articles for everything you need to know about domestic cleaning London companies.
Article from articlesbase.com
Categories: Basement Moisture Tags: Basement, Mould, removing
Wet Basements Need Water Damage Service
Wet Basements Need Water Damage Service
Wet basements are a very frequent grievance of homeowners. Leaks usually happen in homes that are much more than 10 years old. Up to sixty percent of homes see some kind of water damage. Though the proportion of lodgings touched by water damage in the basement seems overwhelming, it is good to know that these crises are most of the time not complicated to fix.
There are some easy things you can do to thwart a wet basement. The gutters demand to be cleaned out and any leaking in them should be patched up. It would be smart to get shields for the gutters which permit water to run in them but don’t let junk to accumulate in them. If water still pools around the foot of your house, you should do some landscaping around the grounds of the residence, being certain that the earth slopes out and down, off from the substructure. If there is an issue with dampness in the basement, putting in a dehumidifier can take care of the difficulty.
It is necessaryto repair the water damage that has been done and caused a wet basement quickly. The most likely cause of the damage are cracks in the walls of the foundation. These fissures are created by water oozing into the cement making it swell and then when the water dries, the cement contracts yielding crevices in the walls. These fractures require being restored.
There are sealing agents available to mend the cracks in the basement walls. These can be purchased at a hardware store. When you have the sealant product necessary to fix the fissures, commence by drying out the wet basement. Unfasten the windows, run a fan, and let everything dry completely. Apply the sealing agent and allow it to dry. These sealers go through deep into the crevices in the filler where they get bigger filling any splits or gaps entirely and for good.
Another cause of a wet basement can arise from leaking pipes. You should watch these often and make sure that any troubles are restored rapidly. This should prevent any water damage from spreading or turning into a flood situation.
If you see that your basement walls become wet after it precipitates or when the snowfall thaws, chances are you have a run off problem. This occurs as water seeps deeply into the topsoil and becomes caught by the firm compacted ground close to the base of the foundation around the house. Hydraulic pressure pushes water into the gaps and fractures of the substructure walls. This job is more complex as both the interior and outdoor walls of the foundation will need to be repaired. If this is a difficulty in your basement, you should phone a professional to remedy the condition as the outdoor restoration will require skilled abilities.
It is important that the substructure is remediated appropriately to make sure that structural alteration to your place is prevented. Always be certain that you use a licensed professional and that you check their credentials and talk with other customers to make sure they are honorable before you allow them to begin work on your location.
Osmund Aft is a writer of Water Damage stories for Amagansett Water Damage Service and Glen Cove, NY Water Damage Service
Article from articlesbase.com
Important Things to Remember in Basement Remodeling
Important Things to Remember in Basement Remodeling
Planning for a basement remodeling project presupposes that the basement space is already present. A remodeled basement can be a statement by itself- a modern and contemporary design yet still giving a welcoming and homey feeling to the occupants. To make your remodeled basement last and stand the test of time, here are some tips to remember.
The first step in basement remodeling is to assess the current condition of its foundation and walls. It is very important to detect and repair all sources of water entry such as pipe and ceiling leaks, defective plumbing and foundation cracks. This will include waterproofing the entire space. This preventive measure will protect your floor, furniture and equipments from problems such as molds and mildew later on. This can be quite an expensive and time-consuming undertaking but moisture problems which could arise by ignoring these concerns could cost you even more.
Next, pay a lot of attention to your walls. Aside from waterproofing them, insulation for walls traps heat inside during winter and expels it during the summer months. A cold, damp concrete slab for a wall is not very inviting, is it? Insulation will also keep your energy bills down, something everyone looks forward to.
Last but certainly just as essential in basement remodeling is the type of flooring you should have. This will depend largely on what you intend to use your basement for. Carpets are ideal for a basement bedroom while ceramic tiles or laminates would look good for an entertainment room or home office. Vinyls are cost-effective if you are working on a tight budget .The options are varied and the styles and designs are endless.
Ultimately, it is the quality of workmanship and design that determine the value of a basement remodeling product. If your basement is the place where you or your family like to spend a lot of time, then you know you have a valuable gem in your possession, both in the pleasure you get from it and the resale value of your house.
Looking for fresh basement ideas for home remodeling? Discover more basement remodeling ideas online.
Article from articlesbase.com
Related Basement Damp Articles
Categories: Basement Moisture Tags: Basement, Important, remember, Remodeling, Things
Square Footage Can Be Maximized and Heat Escaped bt Remodeling the Basement
Square Footage Can Be Maximized and Heat Escaped bt Remodeling the Basement
Copyright (c) 2010 Gerry Stringer
The bad news is real estate is down an average of 24.5 percent from only a year ago. Even worse, real estate values are almost 30 percent off, which means those who bought a home relatively recently at 10 percent down are already about 20 percent up side down.
So the question for those homeowners who aren’t ready to fold and want to hold onto their credit ratings and real property until the economy recovers is whether to remodel.
The basement is, of course, the natural place to deploy smart expansion. Interestingly, the appreciation in a home’s value by remodeling or finishing the basement can offer energy savings vs. the expense that automatically accompanies popping the top (adding a second level) or enlarging the home’s footprint.
How’s that?
Well, a basement with exposed ducts allows valuable heat to be lost. The R-value of concrete’s measurement is as low as 0.08/inch. Multiply that times the standard eight-foot height of a basement and there’s savings to be had by simply furring out the walls and filling in with insulation and drywall. Uncovered heat ducts in an unfinished basement are the worst energy abuser, the heat dissipating into the cold basement through conduction.
Even the youngest baby boomers may not be old enough to remember potato cellars. But those come from America’s Midwest will recall the cool dampness of the cellar and the function of that cool temperature to preserve food (okay, potatoes) that otherwise would go bad sooner than later. That same cool can be turned into a welcome summer retreat when used as an entertainment room, in-home theater, a peaceful corner of the house for homework or even a home office. Sans cold potatoes.
Besides rooms in which to live, homeowners are in dire need of storage space in 2010. One in 10 U, Wikipedia states.S. households rent a self-storage unit in the year 2010. On average, a household spends ,200 a year on a modest-sized storage unit, a cost that is repeated annually for many. You could fill an 18-foot long wall with 6-foot high Metro shelving for ,200 and pay it completely off in a year with the money spared in storage costs.
And when it comes to rooms that can enhance the value of one’s home from a 2010 economic perspective, top on the list is the home office. Now what does that tell you about employment trends? Remote workplace opportunities are growing as well as the number of full-time self-employed people and individuals with two jobs, one by day and a second venture/hobby/second income operating out of home base.
Truly functional square footage is all about quality finishes. By the same token, basement space that would otherwise go unused can be converted into luxury square footage by a professional basement remodeling company.
Gerry Stringer’s career is buying, selling and remodeling homes. His vast experience has led him to Chase Custom Homes for all of his home building needs in Colorado and his basement remodeling services throughout the Denver metro area. http://denvercustomhomebuilder.com/
Article from articlesbase.com
Categories: Basement Moisture Tags: Basement, Escaped, Footage, heat, Maximized, Remodeling, Square
Making Full Use of What is at Hand through Basement Refinishing
Making Full Use of What is at Hand through Basement Refinishing
With the long-running New York housing crunch, moving out or taking on a home addition can pose a lot of inconveniences and difficulties. Taking advantage of one of the most underutilized areas in your New York home could be just the perfect solution you have been longing for, to answer to the family’s growing needs. Maximizing the use of space through basement refinishing is ideal whether you are in Manhattan, Long Island, Staten Island, Brooklyn or Queens.
Basement refinishing is truly your most space-efficient and cost-effective option which can not only heighten the quality of living for the family but can also give a good boost to home value. And being in an out-of-the-way location, the remodeling works will pose fewer disturbances to the household, letting them continue on to their daily routine. But before anything else, you have to understand the challenges and what it takes for the project to be a success.
Basement Refinishing Challenges
This type of home improvement is not your average remodeling job. The typical characteristics and features of a basement make up for more challenges and this includes:
. Support columns,
. Visible ductworks,
. HVAC system(s),
. Inadequate lighting,
. Inefficient heating and air-conditioning,
. And insufficient ventilation.
These should all be addressed in your basement refinishing project. Discuss with your hired qualified contractor what your options are and which can best serve as the solution without breaking the bank. For visible ductworks and support columns, demolition and relocation is possible but can very expensive. By creatively integrating those into the design, unnecessary costs and hassles are avoided.
Waterproofing
Being prone to water and moisture problems, proper and enough waterproofing should be ensured to turn the basement refinishing result into a comfortable and dry room, ideal for whatever activity it is set for. The measures and systems to be used will greatly depend on the extent of water problems ranging from molds and mildew, condensation, damaged drywall, plumbing leaks, structural cracks and flooding.
Basement Remodeling Contractor
A qualified contractor to handle your basement refinishing is one of the keys to its successful, timely and cost-efficient completion. As was said, this type of project is not an average remodeling job, and experience and expertise are a must to transform that musty and damp basement into a functional extension of your living space. A qualified contractor who has already had some fruitful years in the industry will be already well-versed with the building codes on insulation, barriers and other items needed to avoid future construction problems. Working on basement refinishing will also require subcontractors working on specialized areas. With your contractor’s established connections with other professionals, every detail of the project is given efficient attention.
Eugene Makeev uses his skills and expertise to help home owners in Brooklyn, Long Island, Queens, Manhattan, and Staten Island avoid pitfalls by matching their needs with prescreened Contractors Manhattan.
Avail of our free construction ballpark estimates.
Article from articlesbase.com
Related Basement Damp Articles
Categories: Basement Moisture Tags: Basement, Full, Hand, making, Refinishing, through
Basement Space ? Residential and Commercial Property is in Demand Suddenly
Basement Space ? Residential and Commercial Property is in Demand Suddenly
Basement space – residential and commercial property in india is in demand suddenly, but there are a number of things you should keep in mind before buying one.
Want you own place in a smart locality but put off by the prohibitive cost? Wait, there’s still hope for you – if you’re willing to go underground and into a basement. Space below the ground floor usually goes cheaper – and is preferred by professionals and those who under civic laws are permitted to carry out commercial activity there
In fact, basements, which till some years back were seen as a dumping space for useless furniture, etc, are slowly becoming hot properties in India. There are several reasons for this – the first and foremost being costs. When it comes to a building, the basement cost is lowest compared to the other floors – almost 50 per cent less than first floor prices, depending on area and space.
The ground floor or what’s referred to, as ‘showroom space’ in commercial areas is the most expensive, followed by the first floor and then other floors. The top floor of a building – if built keeping luxury in mind and with added facilities, can also fetch a good price, though the American penthouse has yet to gain popularity in India as premium property.
Another plus for basements both for self use and investment is that under the new Master Plan it an be used for select professional activity by doctors, lawyers, architects, chartered accountants, company secretaries, cost and works accountants, engineers, town planners, media professionals and documentary filmmakers. However, one should note that the Master Plan matter is pending decision in the courts, its provisions applicability subject to court scrutiny.
Earlier, legally speaking, basement use by law was restricted to storage space or parking and though they were aware of the fact people used it for commercial purposes – knowing well that the authorities could take action against misuse of property and seal the place.
Another great advantage a basement has in a city like Delhi, where temperatures remain high for about eight months, is that it’s relatively cooler when compared to other floors. Also, largely due to its proximity to the ground level, most basements have hindrance-free access. Many also have large entry doors and are relatively free of disturbances – doors banging, people coming and going as they please
However, basements have their negative points. The biggest disadvantage of living or working in one is that a basement by law cannot have a bathroom or kitchen. If you do have one you’ll face the problem of water flowing back as there’s no provision here for letting water flow down.
Water seepage is another problem – especially during the monsoons, leaving the place damp, with flaking walls and impossibly smelly. If you are buying such a property make sure the walls have been waterproofed. This treatment can be very expensive so make sure it’s done before you buy or you’ll be saddled with additional expenses.
Also, check if there’s provision for a basement in the sanctioned building plans, and the specified size. If the builder has created additional space then it’s unauthorized.
For the rest, stick to routine scrutiny of title deed, fully payment of electricity, water bills and property tax.
Kamaldeep writes on behalf of Real Estate India Portal, which is a real estate portal and meet every aspect of the consumers needs in the real estate industry. It is a property website where buyers, sellers & brokers can post the property information. Kamaldeep is writing for other big portals as well i.e. Dwarka Property and Health and Beauty Secret.
Article from articlesbase.com
Categories: Basement Moisture Tags: Basement, Commercial, Demand, Property, Residential, space, Suddenly
3 Essentials To A Successful Basement Remodeling
3 Essentials To A Successful Basement Remodeling
In New York, where the housing crunch runs decades back, extending living space can be a real luxury. One practical way that many homeowners miss to consider is basement remodeling. Undertaking such a project saves your house from the unnecessary breaking down of walls and your pocketbook from the financial burden that a home addition poses. When done right, this would surely prove beneficial by affording you and the family more living area to make everyday life simply more enjoyable as well as increasing the value of the property letting you enjoy a recoup on your remodeling investment. So whether you are in Staten Island, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Long Island, or Queens; ensure these 3 essentials to a successful basement remodeling.
Basement Remodeling Plan
No matter what project you decide to take on, big or small, it is the plan that lays out success from the very beginning. This comes especially important with basement remodeling. Why? It does not qualify for your average renovation work and the job presents a set of unique challenges. With this said, your best and safest way to go about the project is through hiring a qualified contractor unless you are one yourself. With one, you will be giving the most value for your money with a completion that is within budget as well as timeframe. Your specification plan should cover everything from the major steps to the littlest of details. Take note of both your needs and wants and discuss with your contractor the best possible ways to achieve them considering your budget and what your basement can accommodate.
Basement Finish Idea
When it comes to ideas, there are a good number of options that you can explore. But whichever finish you opt to pursue, it is important that the result would complement well with the family’s lifestyle and that the idea will make the best use of the area. One great tip though that may come in handy is that you could take advantage of the ready access to plumbing by adding another bathroom or kitchenette in the plan. Aside from being practical, this an also add more value to your home.
Waterproofing
Originally constructed to not serve as a living area, there are factors that you should look into first to be able to maximize functionality and comfort. It would be best to let your hired contractor or other qualified professionals evaluate the area first to know the extent of problems and the appropriate solutions to implement.
When it comes to any basement, water and moisture issues can be considered a universal issue faced by homeowners. Other than the obvious signs such as flooding, here are other indications to be wary of:
damp spots
chalky white residues on your walls
rust on metal surfaces and dry rot on wood
peeling or blistering paint
mold and mildew, from obvious growth to moldy odor
Varying levels of moisture or water problems will require different methods of repair and waterproofing. But even if no signs have been spotted, preventive waterproofing should still be in place to ensure a long-lasting basement remodeling finish.
Eugene Makeev uses his skills and expertise to help home owners in Brooklyn, Long Island, Queens, Manhattan, and Staten Island avoid the common remodeling New York pitfalls by matching their needs with prescreened contractors NYC.
Visit us for more on remodeling ideas.
Article from articlesbase.com
Categories: Basement Moisture Tags: Basement, Essentials, Remodeling, Successful
Safety in Basement Remodels
Safety in Basement Remodels
One factor that should not be overlooked in basement remodels is safety. The homeowner’s protection is of paramount importance when planning basement renovations. Safety guidelines are also incorporated in local building codes and following them will also prevent unnecessary revisions.
Basement windows, window wells and covers have a double purpose. They serve as emergency egress in case of fire and other calamities (this is a major requirement in all local building codes) and also allow entry for natural light. Basement bedrooms require windows with lower ledges measuring not more than 44 inches from the floor and at least 5.7 square feet of clear opening space. Window wells are formed by digging out the ground in the area around basement windows to allow for the construction of larger windows. Window well covers are then fastened to its tops to keep debris or animals from falling.
Waterproofing before proceeding with basement remodels is a health and safety concern especially for children and elderly people since these age groups are very susceptible to diseases. Waterproofing includes repairing all defective plumbing and cracks on floors and walls which add to the dampness and humidity in the basement since this is fertile ground for molds. Molds can cause many diseases, common among them skin rashes, dermatoses and allergies, asthma and other respiratory illnesses and even eye problems.
Alarms and detectors should be an integral part of basement remodels for them to be considered safe. Since fire can be caused by carelessness or faulty wiring installations and accidents in basements are less likely to be detected immediately than in the main house, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors will do the job.
Renovating the basement must be a carefully planned project to ensure the homeowner’s safety and well-being. In making the egress openings, the structural integrity of the whole house must be protected as well. Hiring the services of an architect will eliminate future problems in safety compliance. Basement remodels, if done according to safety precautions and superior construction and design, will certainly give you the best value for your money.
Find out how simple basement remodeling ideas can turn your old basement into lovely living spaces. Check out the latest basement remodeling ideas online.
Article from articlesbase.com
Related Basement Damp Articles
Categories: Basement Moisture Tags: Basement, Remodels, Safety
What You Need to Know About Basement Subfloor
What You Need to Know About Basement Subfloor
A basement subfloor is any material that is installed below the floor. Basement floors are usually concrete slabs and these should have a subfloor to provide a good foundation for expensive floor finishes and lengthen its life.
Modern developments in home construction is to install subfloors to raise the value of the home for future reselling, convert the basement into a living space and add extra insulation to provide warmth, dryness and soundproofing. It also provides protection to the basement flooring material against high humidity by allowing the passage of air beneath the floor. Traditional functions of a basement subfloor are to protect flooring materials from moisture damage and give an even surface to the floor.
A quality basement subfloor material, whether it is made of polyethylene film, mastic, cement-based compounds or lumber must have features such as drainage capability, anti-leak to prevent discharge of moisture onto the flooring material. It should also give warmth to the floor by up to 30% and increase foot fall absorption. Conventional basement subfloor materials are hardwood and plywood panels.
The most important thing to keep in mind when installing basement subfloor is to ensure a firm, flat surface. Prior to installation, it should be ascertained that there is no structural damage and that all angles are square and joists in good condition. The selected subfloor must be suitable for the chosen flooring. It should also be strong enough to hold the type of flooring material and the furniture that will occupy the room. If in doubt, it would be wise to bring in a contractor for his professional advice and supervision.
Some subfloor panels may contract or swell when exposed to changing temperatures and humidity. Therefore it is advisable to keep them in the basement for 24 hours or longer and out of their packaging to let them get acclimatized to the basement atmosphere. They will then shrink or swell to the size they will maintain.
A basement subfloor will be a good investment in the long run. It can turn a cold, damp room into a warm and cozy living area.
Need fresh basement design ideas for home remodeling? Discover more basement remodeling ideas online.
Article from articlesbase.com
Basement Finishing Ideas
Basement Finishing Ideas
Looking for space to put an exercise room, entertainment center or playroom? Go underground! If your home has an unfinished basement, remodeling might be a great way to transform this commonly under-used space.
When considering a basement remodeling, start by making a floor plan. As you do, be sure to mark the location of your furnace, washer and dryer, and any other large appliances. Take notes on:
access to the basement from upstairs and outside
where plumbing is already located if you want an additional bathroom
where vertical support columns are located
location of windows and doors
floor, ceiling, wall materials
With constant contact with the earth, basements are vulnerable to dampness, making basement remodeling a bit more complex than first meets the eye. We’ll help you take appropriate measures to ensure a room free from moisture.
Most basements have low ceilings and few windows. But this doesn’t have to limit you. There are many creative ways to make your basement light and airy. Talk to us about the variety of wall and ceiling lighting options available. Synergy Builders will help you make sure that appropriate electrical lines and outlets are provided from the beginning.
Here are some tricks-of-the-trade in making your underground space first class:
Stay away from dark wood paneling and instead consider drywall painted in light tones to make the room brighter. Semi-gloss paint will gently reflect even more light into the room.
Open up the visual space. Double doors—even glass double interior doors—take away the typical cubicle look. Or, how about a rounded archway or pass-through area from one room into another.
Check to see if existing windows can be enlarged. Or, consider installing a small boxed window for a mini-garden to grow herbs or start plant seedlings. This will greatly increase the amount of light coming into the basement and provide a view to the great outdoors.
Built-in bookcases and entertainment units add a richness and depth to a room. Light them with either interior lights or from the top to cast light upwards.
Disguise vertical support beams, and horizontal ceiling pipes or floor joists by boxing them in. Or, you might decide to actually use pipes and beams as interesting accents by painting them with bold colors or with subtle earth tones.
An unfinished basement is much like a diamond in the rough—unexplored and awaiting your discovery! If you have any questions about basement finishing, don’t hesitate to talk to one of our designers at our Synergy Builders showroom.
To date, John has overseen the development and completion of over 3000 remodeling projects. As an eighth generation master builder, John’s passion in construction started at a young age. To further his education John served a formal 6-year apprenticeship and extended his education with 3 years at UBC School of Construction Management.
Article from articlesbase.com
Related Basement Damp Articles
Categories: Basement Moisture Tags: Basement, finishing, Ideas
Basement Waterproofing Can Help You Reclaim More Space From Your Home
Basement Waterproofing Can Help You Reclaim More Space From Your Home
Is your basement one of the most neglected sections of your home? You are not alone in this. Many homeowners in the US do not even realize what a treasure trove they are sitting on. The wastage is even more readily apparent if you live in Washington DC area, where houses are typically larger than in other regions in the US. Basement waterproofing in Washington DC can help you reclaim a lot of space that you can use for a wide variety of purposes. Whether you need to stow away additional furniture, build a personalized man cave for yourself, or simply need additional living space, a well-maintained basement can be a true asset for you.
However, basement waterproofing is a challenging task, and if you do not have any prior experience of carrying out tasks of this kind, then you should definitely enlist the services of a professional. Here are some tasks that you need to ask the professional to carry out:
1.Inspecting gutters and downspouts: The rainwater collected on your roof always travels down to basement through gutters and downspouts. In some cases, this water may collect at certain spots right outside your foundation, causing dampness through the basement. Ideally, the gutters should deposit the water at least 5 feet away from the foundation of your home.
2.Checking for plants growing too close to your home: Do you have a garden, or have shrubs and trees growing too close to the foundation of your home? Watch out, those roots can burrow under the foundation, creating pathways for water to get collected right under your basement. Ideally, plants should be growing at least a foot away from the foundation.
3.Inspecting walls and floor for cracks: This is a no-brainer, but you should make sure the professional does this anyway. Cracks are sure shot ways of inviting lots and lots of moisture in your basement, so you should get those filled up with waterproofing materials that naturally absorb moisture.
4.Installing a sump: If you already have a lot of water seeping into your basement, then waterproofing alone may not solve the problem. What you need is a sump installed in your basement, preferably at the lowest point, where water naturally flows to and collects.
Basement waterproofing Rockville – RJY Waterproofing is the premier basement waterproofing company in Rockville and Washington DC.
Article from articlesbase.com
Related Basement Damp Articles
Categories: Basement Moisture Tags: Basement, From, Help, Home, More, Reclaim, space, Waterproofing
Basement Remodeling: Realizing Your Dream of Added Living Space
Basement Remodeling: Realizing Your Dream of Added Living Space
More living space is a luxury that many homeowners long for. A practical and great way to achieve this without having to break down walls and the bank is seeing and using the potential of your basement. Other than providing for a priced extension to your New York home making up for better everyday life and enjoyment for the household, it can also be your ticket to added home value. If done right, a good amount of your investment can be recouped. Here are crucial basement remodeling tips to realize your dream of an appealing and functional living space ideal whether you are in Queens, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Staten Island or Long Island.
Evaluate and Correct
Being partially or entirely underground and not having been originally constructed to serve as a living space, there are essential issues that should be attended to first to maximize comfort and functionality in your basement remodeling finish. A thorough evaluation is crucial to know the extent of problems and what methods of repair should be undertaken.
Waterproofing. Moisture and water problems are common in basements. There are obvious signs of such problems such as flooding but there are also those that are unnoticeable until you take a long, hard look. Here are additional signs that you should be wary about:
Dry rot on wood and rust on metal Damp spots Water marks Mold and mildew Peeling paint White chalky stains on walls
Different waterproofing methods apply for specific issues and these can range from simply coating concrete sealers, rerouting gutters and downspouts, to using sump pumps for excessive entry of water.
Foundation and Soil Condition. Securing that your foundation and soil are sound and in good condition will rule out chances of unexpected damages and repairs that might waste basement remodeling efforts and budget. Some of the most common soil and foundation issues include:
Uneven settlement Warped foundation walls Cracks in walls, footings or slabs Unpleasant odors or poor indoor air quality (IAQ) in general Pest infestation Radon infiltration Crumbling concrete or mortar
Insulation and Ventilation. Basements are generally constructed in concrete slabs which are among the greatest sources of moisture. To prevent problems with moisture, proper insulation and ventilation should be ensured.
Basement Finish
There are many valuable resources that you can brose through for basement remodeling ideas. But when thinking out what finish to aspire, you have to consider the needs and lifestyle of the family to land with a practical and often used extension of your home’s living space. One tip would be taking advantage of the ready access to plumbing which makes an added kitchenette or bathroom ideal.
Basement Remodeling Plan
Working on recreating your basement into added living space is not your average renovation job. Basement remodeling poses a lot more challenges. So if you are not confident that you can handle the work efficiently, then one excellent step to add into your plan is finding and hiring a qualified contractor to give the most value for your money. With your hired contractor, discuss your plan specifications, budget, and the possible options for you to take to achieve goals without busting the budget. The key to save some is to work creatively with the challenges and integrating them into the design.
Eugene Makeev uses his skills and expertise to help home owners in Brooklyn, Long Island, Queens, Manhattan, and Staten Island avoid pitfalls by matching their needs with prescreened basement contractors.
Visit us for more on basement finishing articles.
Article from articlesbase.com
Categories: Basement Moisture Tags: added, Basement, Dream, living, Realizing, Remodeling, space