Questions to ask when researching Waterproofing companies

Not all renovation projects are aesthetic. Some are necessary just to keep your home dry. Is your basement or crawl space damp, musty or moldy? Then you need to find a waterproofing company that can solve the water problem.

A basement waterproofing company can ensure that is the case through a variety of solutions. Selecting the right company can seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be difficult. As long as you talk to several waterproofing companies, ask the right questions to the experts. 

Reputation is key with a waterproofing company. Any work that may involve your foundation will need someone who knows exactly what they’re doing.

Here are 10 questions you should ask when researching waterproofing contractors.

How long have you been in business?

Waterproofing Contractor who has been in business for a long time is likely to be an experienced, trusted professional. Also, ask how long the waterproofing company has used the solution recommended for your home. A system that has been used successfully for many years is one that has good long-term value.

Are you licensed and insured?

Different states have different laws, but trade licenses, general liability insurance, and workers’ compensation insurance provide legal and financial protection just in case something goes wrong.

What kinds of solutions do you offer?

Waterproofing companies use a variety of tools and techniques to address water problems, such as interior waterproofing, exterior waterproofing, crawl space encapsulation, sump pumps, egress windows, braces for bowed walls, wall rebuilds, poly-lifting, and crack and structural repair. Whether your basement is flooded, or your crawl space is smelly, you want to hire a company that offers the solutions you need.

What is actually causing the water problem?

Water problems may be caused by hydrostatic pressure, negative grading, poorly situated sump pump discharge pipes, high water tables, and so on. A waterproofing company’s proposed solution should address the source of your home’s water problem.

What solution do you recommend?

Find out what each waterproofing contractor recommends solving your home’s water problem. Ask what the solution includes and why they think it will completely protect your home from future water problems. You want to be sure that the recommended solution will solve your water problem for good.

What kind of warranty do you offer?

Warranties may cover materials, labor, or both. Ask what the warranties cover, how long they’ll last, and whether they’re transferable to the next homeowner.

How will the work affect my home?

Waterproofing repairs can be messy. Make sure the waterproofing company tells you exactly what the company will do to your home or yard when installing the recommended solution.

Interior solution. A drainage system around the interior of the foundation’s perimeter will require cutting into concrete slab floors and may call for drilling into cinder block walls. In a finished basement, which means several inches of drywall just above the floor will be cut out and tile, carpet or sheet flooring may be cut or removed, too. You’ll have to replace the drywall and repaint it, and you might need to repair or replace the floor covering.

Exterior solution. A wall and footing drainage system around the below-grade exterior foundation will require excavation and should include the application of a waterproofing sealant to the exterior face of the foundation walls. That means you’ll need to redo your landscaping, and you may have to repaint or replace the siding.

What is your price estimate?

Ask for an estimate to be presented within three business days maximum. Be sure to ask what the price includes. You can also ask about the types of accepted payments and whether financing is available.

Are there additional costs?

Waterproofing costs: may extend beyond repairs, so don’t be surprised if the actual cost is higher than the estimate. Look into these possible additional expenses:

Moving: You may need to move furniture, fitness equipment, toys, lawn furniture, and more.

Electrical: f you’re getting a new sump pump, you’ll need to hire an electrician to install a dedicated outlet.

Drywall, painting, and flooring: If you’re having an interior drainage system installed in a finished basement, you may have to hire someone to repair drywall, repaint and repair or replace floor covering.

Landscaping and siding: If you’re having an exterior drainage system installed, you may need to hire someone to redo your landscaping or repaint or replace siding.

Look for honest answers that might acknowledge past failure, but also a way forward to ensure it doesn’t happen again. Experience shines through in some of the more detailed questions, even if you’re not a waterproofing expert yourself.

Can I see customer reviews?

A waterproofing contractor with an extensive list of satisfied customers is a plus. Look at reviews on sites like Angie’s List, BBB, Google, and Yelp to find out if customers recommend the company you’re considering. Note the ratio of positive to negative reviews; a waterproofing company with a high percentage of good reviews and a low percentage of poor reviews is generally a good bet.

Also, check to see if and how the contractor replies to criticism.

Even the best contractors aren’t perfect, but a waterproofing company that responds appropriately to a valid complaint clearly values good customer service.

Selecting the right waterproofing contractor doesn’t have to be hard. Just ask the waterproofing company these 10 questions and you’ll find a company that will solve your water problems so you can relax and enjoy your home.

Here at BAM Basements and Masons of Des Moines we pride ourselves on delivering every consideration to total customer satisfaction with the highest quality workmanship, and limited lifetime warranties, having over 100 years combined of expertise on waterproofing, we are locally founded, owned, and operated.

Call us for all your waterproofing needs and we will find a customized solution to fit your home’s needs.

BAM Basements and Masons of Des Moines is your premier basement egress window company serving the Des Moines, Iowa area. If you’re located in Des Moines, Ankeny, Bondurant, Altoona, Pleasant Hill, Ames, Adel, Waukee, Indianola, Grimes, Urbandale, Johnston, West Des Moines, or the surrounding areas, we’re the place to call.