The lifespan of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania houses varies with neighborhoods and how well homeowners maintain them. According to reports, nearly 60% of Pittsburgh residents live in single-family structures. And one in eight homes has severe basement waterproofing problems, which means out-of-pocket expenses.
Whether you live in Downtown, North Shore, or Manchester in Pittsburgh, PA, basement waterproofing services can help you keep your home safe. No matter your area – hillside, city, or green spaces – a strong basement protects the building structure.
Things To Ask Before Hiring A Basement Waterproofer In Pittsburgh
Not everyone who advertises themselves as the best basement waterproofing expert in Pittsburgh, PA, can handle all problems.
Some may be just starting their company or working out of a truck. They usually turn up after severe weather events like the recent storms in Allegheny and Lawrence counties. Others could cut corners to finish the work in the estimated time or offer massive discounts.
In either case, the job may not be done correctly. It leads to damages to the physical structure of your home and lightens your wallet. More than anything else, you have to schedule another appointment with a competent professional.
Avoid such repeat work by checking the below factors before you hire someone:
Knowledge About The Locality
Pittsburgh’s topography and climate are perhaps similar to some nearby areas. However, a basement waterproofing service provider based elsewhere may not be very knowledgeable about your home needs. That’s why it is essential to hire a locally-based Pittsburgh basement waterproofing contractor.
For instance, if your finished basement has seepage issues, it may need a minor alteration. Meaning, you need to apply for a basement renovation permit in Pittsburgh. Working with a professional from Knoxville, Point Breeze, or any other Pittsburg area makes the process hassle-free.
Years Of Experience
Installing basement waterproofing is a tricky task, and slight negligence can cause massive destruction in your home. So, choose a reliable contractor who is long-standing in Pittsburg, Erie, and surrounding areas. Narrow down your options based on the years of experience as the first consideration.
It is equally vital to ask for references in your immediate vicinity. Speaking to your contractor’s previous customers will help you understand the work quality. Learn what to expect from a particular team, such as their professionalism, transparency, post-service support, etc.
License And Insurance
A contractor can boast a long, proven track record only if the team has done everything. Ask if the technicians have experience handling every possible basement condition.
General contractors and home improvement contractors in Pittsburg have to register with the state. They should also comply with specific requirements, such as maintaining minimum insurance coverage. Besides, the license should be valid and current, renewed every 365 days from Pittsburg.
All these things increase credibility about a company and trustworthiness in customers. In addition, suppose there has been an unforeseen incident during the work, an insured and bonded contractor will be liable for the expenses, leaving you worry-free.
Training And Techniques
To keep your basement dry, there are some approved methods of waterproofing. For example, your contractor can waterproof the exteriors with foundation repair, use temporary sealants, or install interior drainage systems.
The best approach for a home depends on the kind of damage it shows. Only skilled contractors can differentiate between various basement moisture issues and pinpoint the water source. Such an understanding comes from adequate training and exposure.
Also, all construction activities in Pittsburg and the rest of the state should adhere to the Uniform Construction Code (UCC.) Your contractor must be well-versed with the City Ordinances and periodic amendments to stay updated.
Awards And Recognition
Finally, do not simply trust the references, but go to the contractor’s website for more details. Typically, any professional would be proud to display their achievements. These may include milestones they have reached, awards received, notable mentions in magazines, TV appearances, etc.
Browse home improvement and review sites like Angie’s List (Angi), Home Advisor, etc. Some of these operators also present annual awards to top talent in their respective fields. Find out if your shortlisted candidates were ever on those lists.
How To Tell If You Need Pittsburg Basement Waterproofing?
In most cases, you think it is a particular issue, but a professional inspection shows a different problem altogether.
Here are a few reasons for a damp basement:
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Wet Walls
Damp spots on the basement walls could indicate problems in the building foundation. Or, the paint is probably chipping away and causing discoloration. Either way, moisture has entered the basement.
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Rust
Although rusting doesn’t directly impact the health of the basement, it can result in hazards. Corroded metal like steel pipes can come in contact with air moisture, leading to material degradation.
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Basement Cracks
Any cracking in the basement implies some external force is acting on the walls, floor, and footer beneath the foundation. Pittsburg city’s old stormwater management system could be one reason for this water pressure.
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Musty Odors
Abnormal smells coming from the basement are a sure sign that you need to call the professionals. Dry rot, dead pests, mildew, and others cause foul odors, which can soon affect your health.
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Chalking Or Scaling
White, powdery substances or scales on the walls and floors indicate the presence of excess calcium. But, first, it comes out as a liquid, and when untreated, it leaves the structure weak and damaged.
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Ineffective Drains
Most homes are on sloping sites in areas on the plateau and valley, like Troy Hill and Spring Garden. Hence, the grade of the slope must direct stormwater runoff away from the house. If the gutters and downspouts are not effective, rainwater quickly seeps into the basement.
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Organic Matter
Mold, mildew, bugs, pests, rodents, and debris can gather and multiply in the basement. They spread through the house, release CO2, and cause health issues if undiagnosed.
Be Free Of Basement Leaks With The Right Waterproofing Company
With three big rivers, mountains, and a plateau, Pittsburgh’s unique geography causes varying home repair issues. And the solutions for basement moisture problems can go beyond waterproofing. So, pick an experienced Pittsburgh basement waterproofing company that provides overall basement strengthening services, including drain installation and foundation repair.
