workers installing vapor barrier in basement

Basement Waterproofing

Not sure what’s causing your home’s wet basement? Let one of our experts take a look.

Basement Waterproofing Problem Signs

Any problem that you have in your basement, AFS Foundation & Waterproofing Specialists can solve fast and for good.

Efflorescence

Efflorescence is an indication of basement water. AFS has tailored waterproofing strategies to resolve the issue for good.

Water In Your Basement

Water in your basement can result in numerous complications such as mold, flooding, and damage to the structure. Let AFS help you!

Cracks in Basement Floor

Cracks in basement floors are not to be ignored. Discover their roots and guarantee your home's foundation with adept, enduring solutions from AFS.

Musty Basement Smell

AFS specializes in resolving moisture issues that cause musty basement odors, helping you avoid more severe, underlying damage.

Is your basement unusually damp? Do you hear water dripping, but can’t seem to find the source? What about unsightly cracks in the floor? If you replied “yes” to any of these questions, then you are most likely in need of basement waterproofing. Water is a powerful force and can easily leak in through the soil surrounding your basement. Water damage can ruin any personal possessions you may have stored in the basement. That is why it is important to hire those specialized in basement waterproofing, to keep your belongings and living environment free of unwanted moisture.

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Causes of a Wet Basement

Some of the most common causes of basement moisture problems:

Inadequate Grading

Ineffective grading causes unwanted water in the basement. If the ground around a foundation is level or slopes toward the house, water finds its way into the basement. Basement water issues become more complicated when too much water collects near the basement walls. Waterproofing contractors can assist customers in basement waterproofing solutions. As for landscaping, placing barriers, or adjusting the slope around the house can help reduce basement water issues.

Defective or Clogged Gutters and Downspouts

Clogged gutters and downspouts lead to the accumulation of rainwater around the foundation perimeter. Adding gutter extensions can help direct rain away from your basement walls. Additionally, be sure to check for any debris, such as leaves and twigs. Lastly, clear any material that collects in your downspouts over time.

Improper Drainage

Improper drainage in your basement or around your home can cause serious problems. Standing water can result in high humidity, condensation, mold growth, and wood rot. Our waterproofing contractors can provide the best advice and methods for moving water away from your basement.

Award-Winning Service

AFS installed a basement drainage system and sump pump for us. It’s allowed us peace of mind as we continue to finish out our space. Now…

Santiago Family

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AFS did an excellent job installing an crawl space drainage system at my house. They were timely and answered all of my questions. Jordan…

Crystal Lysinger

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Excellent service by Tyler Whitt. Very conscientious and knowledgeable. Careful to meet our needs fir two driveways and enlarging our front …

J. Elaine McGee

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Josh and his crew Justin and the other Josh very professional and knowledgeable. Also provided great information for our upcoming house…

Sheri Flynn

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Coming to the realization that a house I am wanting to remodel needed extreme measures taken to repair the foundation had me quite worried…

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Nick Bohal and Josh Bomar have been great workers! Very friendly and personable. They’ve also been very knowledgeable and I was confident…

austin wallace

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Review of AFS and Foreman Nick Bohal – The Best in Polyurethane Concrete Lifting I recently had the opportunity to work with AFS and their …

Andrew Bohal

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Wade Siler provided me and my client with exemplary inspection services today. His expertise coupled with AFS reputation is a winning…

Joyce Gambill

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I live in far Eastern Tennessee. Almost in North Carolina, and trying to get any home Repair is extremely difficult, so it was a blessing…

Rochelle Long

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Kyle did a thorough inspection of my foundation and answered all of my questions thoughtfully. He explained in detail what he is looking at …

Dalton Lamb

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So sorry for the late review guys but Josh B and Jacob were superb with getting the job complete and done in an efficient time. AFS is just …

Toni Parker

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Subject: Exceptional Encapsulation Work by Jackson, Micah, and DaveI recently had the pleasure of working with a fantastic team of…

Subject: Exceptional Encapsulation Work by Jackson, Micah, and DaveI recently had the pleasure of working with a fantastic team of technicians who encapsulated my home's crawlspace. Jackson, Micah, and Dave exceeded all my expectations, demonstrating outstanding workmanship, professionalism, and a remarkable commitment to finishing ahead of schedule.From the moment they arrived, it was clear that I was in capable hands. Their expertise and dedication to their craft shone through in every aspect of their work. Here are some key highlights that made my experience with them truly outstanding:* Exceptional Workmanship: Jackson, Micah, and Dave exhibited a level of craftsmanship that is truly rare. They paid meticulous attention to detail and ensured that every step of the encapsulation process was executed with precision. The result is a crawlspace that not only looks impeccable but also functions flawlessly.* Professionalism: Throughout the project, the team maintained the highest level of professionalism. They arrived on time, communicated effectively, and were respectful of my property. Their friendly and approachable demeanor made it a pleasure to work with them.* Efficiency and Timeliness: One of the most impressive aspects of this team was their ability to finish ahead of schedule. They worked diligently and efficiently without compromising on quality. Their commitment to meeting deadlines was truly commendable.* Clear Communication: They patiently answered all my questions and concerns, ensuring I had a complete understanding of the encapsulation process. Their transparency and willingness to explain each step put my mind at ease.In conclusion, I couldn't be happier with the service provided by Jackson, Micah, and Dave. They transformed what could have been a stressful project into a smooth and positive experience. My crawlspace now not only benefits from their top-tier encapsulation work but also from their professionalism and dedication to customer satisfaction.I highly recommend this outstanding team to anyone in need of crawlspace encapsulation. They have set the bar high, and I am truly grateful for their exceptional work. Thank you, Jackson, Micah, and Dave, for your outstanding service!

Andy Tuggey

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Todd was professional, knowledgeable and genuinely took the time to understand my goals. His honesty and clear explanations made the…

Lauren Wagoner

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Tyler Whitt came out to help with an ongoing basement issue. He was very helpful in identifying the issue and scheduling the repair, and we …

Patti Freeman

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The AFS workers,Kayote, Nolan and Tyler, came both days ready to do their job. They took pride in the work that they did and it shows in…

Jocelyn Garth

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I can’t say anything but great things about Gunter the technician that came to do my annual home inspection this year. He was very…

Cinda Lott

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Nick B and Josh B did an excellent job with our lift and stabilization. They were on time, their communication was great and they made sure …

jennifer sanford

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Parker and Jared M were great, very thorough. They showed me what was happening and how to fix it. Great quality

B R

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Shawn, Evan, and Taylor f. Did an absolutely amazing job. Very friendly and professional and really knew what they where talking about and…

aaron mcabee

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I would highly recommend AFS for all your foundation, basement and crawlspace needs. Sales rep, Rob Lenoir, did a great job of assessing…

Othersideist

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Basement Waterproofing Solutions

If you are experiencing any of the signs of a wet basement, you have found the right company for you. Whether it’s basement leaks or cracked floors, we have the equipment and waterproofing experts needed to properly repair your basement’s damage. Ignoring problems in your basement can be dangerous for your home and health, so it’s best to attend to any issue promptly.

BasementGutter™ Interior Drainage System

BasementGutter™ Internal Drainage is the remedy for your basement moisture dilemmas. Rely on AFS for your waterproofing requirements.

Basement Dehumidifier

AFS's basement dehumidifier is the optimal choice for mitigating humidity and maintaining a dry, pleasant household.

WallSeal™ Basement Wall Vapor Barrier

AFS is your trusted partner in basement moisture control. Discover how a wall vapor barrier can be the ultimate solution to your humid basement woes.

Basement Sump Pumps

Explore the AquaStop™ Sump Pumps from AFS. They help protect homes from water leaks in Southeast United States. Learn more!

Is Basement Waterproofing the Right Solution for Me?

Leaks in your basement can cause damage to your belongings, as well as issues within your living environment. Musty odors can quickly form when there is moisture in your basement. This can spread through your house causing an unpleasant smell to linger. Mold can also begin to grow, especially in a moist environment, which can potentially cause allergies and asthma to flare up. Any type of water in your basement should be caught and a solution should be found before further damage can occur.

If you notice moisture in your basement, contact our basement waterproofing experts at AFS to assess the problem. We have waterproofing systems that are proven to be effective at fixing wet basements. Regardless of if the water is coming down from your stairs or through cracks in the basement, we can figure out the best course of action. Please, don’t hesitate to reach out to our technicians if you’re experiencing water in your basement.

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FAQs

Can Basement Waterproofing Issues Cause Damage to My Home?

If your basement condensation constantly settles over your basement, it can start to affect other areas of your home as well. Because condensation issues are often the result of high humidity levels, you can bet that all that excess humidity can create other issues around the rest of your home, too.

The Stack Effect

The hotter the temperature, the more humidity there will be floating in the air. This is why you might notice your basement feeling a lot muggier in the summertime. Additionally, hot air tends to rise, which means that if you have a humidity problem in your basement, the humidity is likely to rise up to the upper levels of your home as well. You might find that your home is suddenly a lot hotter than it used to be, and crank up your air conditioner as a result.

Conversely, any cold air that manages to slip through any cracks can also cause issues. Cold air is far denser than hot air, which means it can displace any warm air from your heater and push it up and out of your home. You might then turn your heater up higher to compensate for this chill. Both of these can result in your energy bills skyrocketing.

Foundation Damage

These flooding issues can easily seep into your foundation as well. It is possible that the soil supporting your foundation has washed out due to the excess moisture, causing your foundation to settle. It is also possible that the constant flooding has created immense pressure on your foundation from all sides, causing cracks.

Conversely, a cracked basement floor may also lead to flooding. Thus, this damage works both ways, which is why you need to call a basement expert at AFS to inspect your basement annually and prevent it from worsening. Our experts can also implement quick repairs to both the basement and foundation to prevent any condensation issues from attacking your basement.

Can I Fix Basement Waterproofing Issues Myself?

When most homeowners notice issues within their homes, they will often try to fix them themselves. Basement waterproofing issues are not something just anyone should undertake, however. It is always best to leave any repairs you might need to the basement experts at AFS.

Why DIY Repairs Are Not Recommended

Your local home improvement store will likely sell a lot of different basement waterproofing solutions that they claim will get the job done. However, you might also find yourself applying the same solutions over and over to treat the same problem, which can cost you a lot more time and money in the long run. This is why you need to invest in a permanent solution that can protect your basement for years to come.

Additionally, any dehumidifiers you might find at a department store will also not be powerful enough to deal with the dense amount of humidity in your basement. Our dehumidifiers are not only capable of handling lots of humidity, but you can also adjust their settings to reach a humidity level you like. Our dehumidifiers can also filter out any mold or mildew spores that happen to infiltrate your basement as well.

If you like to DIY your home, ensure any repairs you do try to implement to not interfere with your foundation or other concrete structures much, if at all. If you accidentally damage your foundation while you work, this will only cost you even more in the future. You should always try to leave any necessary repairs to the experts at AFS if at all possible.

Calling the Basement Experts at AFS

The basement experts at AFS have plenty of experience installing and repairing any basement waterproofing repair solution that your home might need. We do it right the first time, so you can enjoy your home without any worries.

How Does Groundwater Get in My Basement?

Many homeowners get confused when they see standing water in their basement, especially after there hasn’t been a lot of rain. If you check your pipes, your washing machine, and other sources of water but there are no leaks, it’s possible that the water is coming in from the outside.

Your basement is partially underground, meaning that it’s surrounded by soil. As much as we would like it to be, that soil that surrounds your foundation isn’t dry, meaning that your basement has to constantly combat moisture.

Hydrostatic Pressure

Hydrostatic pressure refers to the accumulation of groundwater against your basement wall. Properties surrounded by expansive soils are the ones most likely to experience hydrostatic pressure since clay soils are excellent at retaining water. If the soil was sandy, the water would simply drain away.

The weight of the water causes your basement wall to bow inward. Eventually, when enough weight is up against the wall, cracks will begin to appear on the concrete as it weakens under the pressure of the water. These cracks make it easy for the water to simply seep through the wall and into your basement. A clear sign of hydrostatic pressure is bowing walls and water coming from where the wall and floor meet.

Rising Water Table

The water table is an invisible line that indicates where the zone of saturation begins. The zone of saturation is the area underground where the soil is perpetually saturated with groundwater. Water tables are as deep into the ground as you may think. Sometimes, basements will be built just above the water table.

If your basement floods only during the rainiest times of the year, it’s possible that groundwater is getting in due to the rising water table. As water drains down from the topsoil to the zone of saturation, it accumulates underground until there is enough to cover your basement. If there are any cracks in your foundation, the water will get through.

Why Aren’t Basements Waterproof from the Start?

Once you learn that the only way to keep your basement healthy is by waterproofing it, it really makes you wonder: Why aren’t basements waterproof from the start? If keeping water out is so important, they should be built with that idea in mind, right? To answer that question, we have to define what basements are used for. Basements are used as utility spaces where the plumbing, boiler, HVAC unit, breaker panel, and other items are stored away. Even though many homeowners are converting their basements into a livable area, they were never meant to be used that way.

Things like proper insulation and a proper drainage system were typically never installed because all a basement needs to do is function properly as a foundation and an underground storage space. As long as it’s all built up to code, there’s no reason as to why it should have to be waterproof unless the owner of the property specifically asks for it. Some construction crews may not be proactive enough to put any waterproofing methods in place, even when they know it will harm the house in the future. Sticking to tradition can also be the reason why these construction crews refuse to build things differently. Other times, the crew simply doesn’t have the experience or the tools to do the waterproofing work.

How updated state codes are is another big reason why basements are built the way they are. If the state codes have yet to catch up to the latest building trends and ways of doing things, there’s nothing the contractors can do to make things different. Sometimes, getting the necessary paperwork to do things differently is so troublesome due to outdated codes that the contractors don’t bother and stick to doing things the old-fashioned way.

How Can I Minimize The Risk Of Efflorescence Formation In My Basement?

Prevention is always the best course of action. Fortunately, there are some things homeowners can do, right in the comfort of their own homes, to ensure they minimize efflorescence formation. However, this is not a substitute for professional help.

What You Can Do at Home

Because water and moisture are the primary issues surrounding efflorescence formation, you want to ensure you are controlling the amount of water that is absorbed into the ground. This could mean regularly controlling yard sprinklers and watering plants only when necessary. Furthermore, homeowners should take the time to inspect their own drainage systems, such as their downspouts. You want to ensure that they are functioning properly because they are the backbone of home maintenance. Ensuring proper airflow in your basement will also help to minimize humidity.

Be wary of DIY repairs or methods. If you find that your drainage system or a pipe has become damaged, it is incredibly tempting to fix it yourself to save money. However, more often than not, this can worsen the issue and may be more expensive in the long run.

When To Rely on the Experts

It is important to know when to rely on the experts in order to help you. They possess the proper knowledge and skills to teach you how to prevent efflorescence and to install the appropriate tools.

AFS contractors can help you select from the numerous preventative options offered. This can include:

Sump pumps
Drainage systems
Waterproof basement wall panels or liners
Dehumidifiers

What Should I Do If My Basement is Flooded?

The Biloxi–Gulfport–Pascagoula area is no stranger to flooding. Not only is this region facing the Gulf of Mexico, but it’s also located in a state that experiences frequent flooding and hurricanes. Given the climate, homeowners of the Biloxi–Gulfport–Pascagoula area are very familiar with flooded basements. Still, if you’ve never experienced a flooded basement before, it’s important that you know what you have to do. How fast you act will determine the extent of the damage and how quickly other problems will arise from the flooding.

The first thing you need to do is get the water out as fast as possible. If there’s a lot, get a bucket and start collecting the water, but if there’s only a few inches, get a wet vacuum and some towels. Once all the standing water has been dried, get fans and dehumidifiers to soak up all the excess moisture for at least a few days, depending on how much water there was. After you’ve saved anything of value, try to look around the basement to see what the source of the flooding was. If you’re not sure what to look for or can’t figure out what went wrong, contact a professional.

During the next few days, you need to take a close look at your basement concrete, drywall, and wood to make sure that no mold has begun to grow. If you notice after the initial flood that leaks are becoming frequent or that cracks have now appeared along the walls and floor, contact your local foundation repair expert and then think about waterproofing your basement. Even if you manage to avoid disaster the first time you experience a flood, there’s always a chance that the basement gets too water-damaged and begins to deteriorate. A deteriorating structure isn’t as easily fixed as a flooded basement, so don’t wait on calling a professional.

Resources

basement guide for real estate agents Illustrated Featured Image

Realtors: 6 Steps to Identify Basement Issues in Alabama and Tennessee

Can a Dehumidifier Keep Your Basement Dry?

3 Easy Steps to Get Rid of Mold in Your Basement

Are Basement Leaks Covered by Home Insurance?

Why Basement Waterproofing is Necessary

Personal Property Damage

Damage to personal belonging is one major reason why waterproofing your home is necessary. Most homeowners use their basement to store possessions, such as family albums, holiday decorations, and out-of-season clothes. When moisture enters your basement, it can quickly ruin anything that is not stored in a waterproof, sealed container. Leaks can come from your basement’s floors and even through leaks down the stairwell, so even items stored off the floor can be ruined. If you have renovated your basement, then expensive items – such as televisions, gaming systems, and other electronics – can be destroyed. To prevent any damage to your personal possessions, look to our waterproofing experts for help.

Mold

Mold naturally forms in dark, damp environments, making your basement a prime target. It’s important to have your basement assessed, especially if you are already noticing mold in your basement. Mold and mildew can quickly ruin fabrics and wooden furniture. In addition to ruining your personal belongings, mold and mildew can affect those that suffer from allergies and asthma, and may even cause others to become sensitive to the mold spores. If you would like to keep your home free of mold, then you must seek out technicians that are skilled at tackling what is causing the mold. We have the crew to effectively waterproof your basement, cutting off the source of the mold.

Musty Odors

No one wants a home that smells bad, which is why waterproofing your basement is so important. As mentioned above, a moist basement can cause mold and mildew to form. Once formed, mold and mildew give off distinct odors that cause your home to smell musty. Unpleasant odors are not only embarrassing when you have guests, but it is also annoying for you, as it is affecting your living environment. Musty odors can also be caused by humidity from moisture that forms during hot summer months. Humid air can make musty odors much worse. That is why it is so important to find a crew like ours, who are equipped with the best waterproofing solutions.

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Common Basement Waterproofing Tips & Mistakes

3 Helpful Tips For Waterproofing Your Basement

Check your basement for any cracks in the floor or walls. These are typically the sources of a leaky basement. Since your home may settle over the years, cracks may form as the foundation shifts. That is why any signs of cracks mean you should consult with a waterproofing expert.
Plumbing issues can also cause water to leak into your basement. So, it is important to make sure that your plumbing is up to shape. Have any pipes leading to and inside of your basement properly inspected and serviced. Having a plumber check your home’s pipes when any issue arises is extremely important.
If you have windows or other outer openings leading to your basement, ensure those are also properly sealed. This will prevent water from leaking into your basement. This is especially important if you live in an area that experiences periods of heavy rainfall.

3 Mistakes to Avoid When Waterproofing Your Basement

Ignoring any moisture in your basement can be a big and costly mistake. Homeowners that ignore water leakage in their basement often run into more problems than just water. Both possessions stored in your basement, as well as your living environment, can be greatly affected by basement leaks.
Cracks in your basement’s walls and floor are not only a cosmetic issue, they are also signs that water leaking is imminent. Our basement crack repair services can help seal off the source of any leaks, while our sump pumps can remove any water that has managed to pass through any cracks.
Choosing the wrong waterproofing professionals can also cause you more problems over time. That is why we are equipped with skilled technicians and innovative waterproofing solutions to ensure that any basement leaks are fixed properly and permanently.

Providing Expert Basement Waterproofing in Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, Florida, and Tennessee

Customers across Alabama, Tennessee, Georgia, Kentucky and Florida trust AFS Foundation & Waterproofing Specialists for reliable crawl space, foundation, basement waterproofing, and concrete repair services. Contact us for a free inspection!

Basement Waterproofing

Basement Waterproofing Problem Signs

Efflorescence

Water In Your Basement

Cracks in Basement Floor

Musty Basement Smell

Don't see your water problem?

Causes of a Wet Basement

Award-Winning Service

Basement Waterproofing Solutions

BasementGutter™ Interior Drainage System

Basement Dehumidifier

WallSeal™ Basement Wall Vapor Barrier

Basement Sump Pumps

Which options are best for repairing my basement?

Is Basement Waterproofing the Right Solution for Me?

FAQs

Resources

Realtors: 6 Steps to Identify Basement Issues in Alabama and Tennessee

Can a Dehumidifier Keep Your Basement Dry?

3 Easy Steps to Get Rid of Mold in Your Basement

Are Basement Leaks Covered by Home Insurance?

Why Basement Waterproofing is Necessary

Personal Property Damage

Mold

Musty Odors

Common Basement Waterproofing Tips & Mistakes

3 Helpful Tips For Waterproofing Your Basement

3 Mistakes to Avoid When Waterproofing Your Basement

Providing Expert Basement Waterproofing in Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, Florida, and Tennessee

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