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Keeping a basement dry is vital to the condition of a home and the health of the people inside. Wet basements can result in mold, which can cause serious health conditions—but moisture can also cause structural damage and result in property loss. For these reasons, dry basements are critical, even if they aren’t finished or habitable spaces. While keeping a basement dry might be tough, finding the best basement waterproofing company doesn’t need to be. This guide will walk homeowners through the points to consider when comparing waterproofing companies and highlight some of our favorite choices.
- BEST OVERALL: Basement Systems
- RUNNER-UP: B-Dry
- BEST AGGREGATOR: Angi
What to Consider When Choosing One of the Best Basement Waterproofing Companies
Whether it’s a storage space, a finished basement, or simply a room for mechanical systems like a water heater and furnace, a waterproofing company can handle the job of making a basement impervious to moisture. But there are a few things to know about these companies and their work before searching for “basement waterproofing near me.”
Service Area and Scheduling
Some basement waterproofing specialists have wide service areas, making finding contractors a breeze. Some waterproofing basement companies cover all 50 states, while others might work in specific regions. It’s best to contact companies or use search functions built into their websites to ensure they can service a customer’s home.
The company’s schedule is also an important consideration. In most cases, the company will need to assess the home to provide an accurate quote before starting the job, and this takes time to schedule and perform. The sooner a company can schedule an inspection, produce a quote, and get to the job, the better for the homeowner. Contacting the company directly or scheduling the job online can hasten the process. Keep in mind that waterproofing contractors working in flood-prone regions may have busier and slower times of the year based on environmental conditions.
Basement Inspection
Before a homeowner signs a contract to waterproof a basement, the company needs to provide an accurate quote. To do so, most companies send an inspector to the home to assess the basement. The inspector will look for serious issues like structural foundation cracks, leaks, and mold, and they should relay their findings to the homeowner in a report.
Knowing the basement condition before waterproofing will help the homeowner decide whether to proceed with waterproofing or focus their budget on repairs. In some cases, waterproofing efforts can go to waste if the homeowner doesn’t make repairs first.
Waterproofing Solutions
Like most things, there is more than one way to keep a basement dry, and most basement waterproofing companies should be adept at a few methods. Some of the best basement waterproofing methods include interior and exterior approaches.
- Interior waterproofing efforts include filling foundation cracks with concrete sealer, coating interior walls with waterproof epoxies and paints, or installing french drains around the basement perimeter.
- Exterior waterproofing methods may involve excavating along the exterior and installing drainage, installing gutters, adhering membranes to the exterior of the foundation, and more.
Also, the best basement waterproofing companies will be able to assist homeowners with dehumidification and sump pumps. Some companies even have patented systems or products that they use on every job.
Additional Repairs
Beyond the inspection and solutions, some basement waterproofing companies might even offer repair services. These companies are typically foundation specialists, and they’ll have the equipment to excavate and repair foundation walls and basement floors.
Also, mold is reasonably common in wet basements, but not all basement waterproofing companies are equipped to handle serious infestations. Suppose the inspection uncovers lots of mold and it’s beyond the company’s scope or capability. In that case, homeowners might need to handle remediation separately or hire a company to remove the mold and handle the waterproofing.
Warranty
Homeowners considering hiring a basement waterproofing company should compare warranties. Many of the best companies will offer long-running warranties that will protect a homeowner from faulty products or craftsmanship. Should there be a leak or moisture problem moving forward, the company will come back and readdress the issue.
Note that not all companies’ warranties are the same. Some might cover several years, while other companies might offer limited lifetime warranties. Some warranties might even be transferable, and this one point can add a few extra dollars to the sale price if the house goes on the market.
Also, when a company uses a specific product, it’s important that the homeowner finds out what the manufacturer’s warranty entails.
Customer Support
As with any investment in a product or service, homeowners should seek out companies with reputable and reliable customer service. The best basement waterproofing companies have customer service readily available. Company websites will include contact numbers and email addresses that homeowners can use to contact a person, not just contact forms on the company’s “About” page.
Our Top Picks
Even with a solid understanding on how to choose the best basement waterproofing company, shopping for this service can feel overwhelming. The following list consists of our favorite companies to call for the job.
Best Overall
Basement Systems
- Service area: 49 states; Washington, D.C.; and Canada
- Scheduling: Phone
- Waterproofing solutions: Drainage systems, sump pumps, dehumidifiers, crack repair, basement windows, downspout extensions, discharge line protection, basement insulation
- Warranty: Lifetime warranty
- Customer support: Phone
Pros
- Over 200 contractors available in 49 states; Washington, D.C.; and Canada
- Patented, award-winning waterproofing products used
- Comprehensive scope of repairs offered
- Trained and certified installers
Cons
- Some services may vary by location
Why It Made the Cut: Basement Systems offers nearly nationwide coverage, handles an array of waterproofing services, and offers a lifetime warranty on its services. Homeowners looking for an all-in-one basement waterproofing solution should give Basement Systems a call. Basement Systems holds over 30 patents and 19 awards for waterproofing innovations. Its network includes over 200 contractors in 49 states; Washington, D.C.; and Canada. Installers are trained and certified to complete repairs using Basement Systems methods and products. This company offers comprehensive repair services and installs drainage systems, sump pumps, dehumidifiers, and basement insulation. Customers can schedule or request customer service over the phone, although they should consider that services may vary by location. Luckily, Basement Systems offers a lifetime warranty on its completed repairs.
Runner-Up
B-Dry
- Service area: 14 states
- Scheduling: Phone
- Waterproofing solutions: B-Dry Drainage System, B-Dry Rigid Sealer, sump pumps
- Warranty: Lifetime warranty
- Customer support: Phone
Pros
- Proprietary, patented drainage system and rigid sealer used
- Wet basement analyzer tool identifies types of moisture problems
Cons
- Website is somewhat user-unfriendly
Why It Made the Cut: B-Dry offers a lifetime warranty, and customers can trust its long-standing reputation in the industry. Finding a waterproofing company with a trustworthy reputation can be difficult, but B-Dry’s 60 years in the industry should garner homeowners’ reassurance. B-Dry’s customer service and scheduling are easy to reach by phone—a good thing, considering the website is a bit dated. B-Dry offers patented moisture removal and prevention methods like drainage systems, sump pumps, and rigid sealers, which the company claims to be faster and more effective than other methods. Upon inspection, B-Dry technicians use an analyzer tool specifically designed to locate moisture problems, allowing them to highlight the most effective solutions and services. Also, B-Dry backs those services with a lifetime warranty.
Best Aggregator
Angi
- Service area: 50 states and Washington, D.C.
- Scheduling: Online
- Waterproofing solutions: Varies by provider
- Warranty: Varies by provider
- Customer support: Phone, email
- Customers can filter by project and choose from local professionals
- Customers can obtain quotes or bids within minutes
- Streamlined and user-friendly website and app
- Comprehensive resource center organized by project type
- Name, phone number, and email are required to browse local services
- Persistent follow-up emails and calls
Why It Made the Cut: Angi provides access to basement waterproofing contractors (and more) in all 50 states and Washington, D.C. To streamline the waterproofing contractor hiring process, head over to Angi. This contractor aggregator is a collection of trustworthy contractors in every industry, including basement waterproofing. Potential customers can easily filter results based on the project, and Angi will put them in contact with local professionals right away. Homeowners might find that a name, phone number, and email address are required to browse local services and contractors. Angi offers customers the ability to schedule their appointments online, and the website is streamlined and user-friendly. Also, homeowners can receive customer service over the phone or through email.
Our Verdict
Basement Systems should be one of the first stops for homeowners looking to seal off their basement from moisture and water, thanks to its lifetime warranty, widespread availability, and patented systems. B-Dry is another solid, trusted option customers can turn to.
How We Chose the Best Basement Waterproofing Companies
There are a lot of basement waterproofing companies in business, and choosing a collection of the best was no small task. We knew it was important to cover a wide range of repairs and services, and we took the job seriously.
First, we performed extensive research on numerous basement waterproofing companies to find some that offered comprehensive services. Then, we compared important considerations like customer service, warranty information, and reputation within the industry. All of that research narrowed the candidate pool to our list of the best basement waterproofing companies.
Before You Hire One of the Best Basement Waterproofing Companies
More goes into hiring a company for waterproofing the basement than one might expect. Even with a trustworthy contractor, consider some factors before giving them the go-ahead.
- Contractors should offer free quotes. If not, move on to the next contractor.
- Be sure to ask for proof of insurance, business license, and trade license. Individual states have different requirements, so be sure to know which license your waterproofing contractor might need to carry.
- Ask for references. Basement companies with enough time in the industry should have a portfolio of projects they’ve finished and contact numbers of past customers.
- Ask for an in-depth description ahead of time of what the contractor will do. Folks who get multiple quotes will be able to compare these plans and possibly determine which of the contractors is the most qualified.
- Ensure any active leaks or ongoing water damage have been treated by one of the best water damage restoration services before beginning basement waterproofing.
The answers to these questions can go a long way to determining whether or not a particular basement waterproofing contractor is worth working with.
Cost of Hiring One of the Best Basement Waterproofing Companies
Basement waterproofing costs can vary depending on the size and method, but they generally range between $2,250 and $7,063, with the national average at about $4,539.
Larger basements or basements that will require excavation to keep the moisture and water at bay will be on the higher end of the scale. For more straightforward fixes like crack repairs and waterproof coatings, the cost of materials and labor is considerably less, landing the job on the lower end of the scale.
Also, it’s a good idea for homeowners to budget a bit of extra money for incidental expenses that come up along the way. For example, if a contractor digs around the foundation to install a drainage system and finds a structural issue, it will most certainly cost extra to make that repair.
The Advantages of Using One of the Best Basement Waterproofing Companies
The best basement waterproofing companies can give residents some peace of mind that their home is healthy and safe. Since these companies can help prevent mold and mildew, the folks living in the home will be able to breathe easier and may have fewer allergic reactions and long-term health concerns.
The companies at the top of the waterproofing game have seen it all. They know how to handle almost any water or moisture issue, and they have the equipment to do so.
Homeowners who are reluctant to invest in expensive waterproofing solutions might find it easier to cut the check knowing there’s a warranty. Some of the best waterproofing companies offer lifetime warranties on their proprietary products and services, meaning they’ll cover issues that pop up down the road.
- Basement waterproofing allows for a healthier environment for residents.
- The best companies have extensive experience and know-how to handle almost any moisture issue.
- In some cases, the best basement waterproofing companies offer lifetime warranties.
FAQs
That’s a solid foundation on the best basement waterproofing companies, but even so, there might still be some cracks or questions. The following includes some of the most common questions asked about this industry, so be sure to check for an answer to your question listed below.
Q. How much does basement waterproofing cost?
Basement waterproofing typically costs between $2,250 and $7,063, with a national average of around $4,539. The size of the basement, the severity of the issues, the repairs required, and the method of waterproofing will determine the cost.
Q. Do basement waterproofing companies offer a guarantee?
Many waterproofing companies offer a warranty on their products used and the labor involved.
Q. How long does basement waterproofing take?
Typically, basement waterproofing takes about 3 days. Projects requiring more extensive repairs will take longer, and more straightforward jobs (particularly in new construction scenarios) can take less time.
Q. How long does basement waterproofing last?
The average basement waterproofing job lasts about 10 years before requiring attention, a new coating, or replacing the drainage system.
Q. Can I waterproof my basement on my own?
There are waterproofing methods that DIYers can use, such as applying concrete sealer, epoxy paints, and crack repair sealants. However, these are best as preventive measures, where actual causes might require a professional’s attention.
Q. Why does my basement leak when it rains?
There are a few reasons a basement might take on water during a rainstorm. First, if the gutters aren’t draining well, water will overrun the edge and fall next to the foundation, allowing it to seep through the porous concrete. Also, areas with high water tables exert a lot of hydrostatic pressure on foundations, squeezing water through the basement’s foundation and cracks.
Q. Do I get a free inspection when I hire a basement waterproofing company?
Most companies do offer free inspections and quotes, allowing users to shop several contractors before making a decision on which company to choose.
