Basements are one of those spaces in the home that are underestimated and whose potential is often unused. If you’re one of those homeowners who has realized the potential of their basement and wants to take advantage of it, good for you. You may however, be searching for ways to cut down on costs in finishing your basement. It can be tempting to use DIY basement systems. However, these will only cost you more than you will save using them and here’s why.
- Not long term
Many DIY basement systems are designed for use by individuals with little or no knowledge of how foundations work. They are also designed to be used without specialized equipment. They are therefore most likely going to be simple solutions to what may seem like a simple problem. However, as any contractor will tell you, there are no simple problems in regards to foundations.
Foundation cracks, bowing walls, and other foundation problems are often a sign of a much deeper problem that needs attention. You could be dealing with high hydrostatic pressure, poor backfilling, poor construction methods and much more. Fixing the crack by applying a seal will not solve the underlying problem but only make it worse. You will end up spending more on repairing even worse damage down the line.
- Don’t provide high quality materials
In many instances, the materials used for DIY basement systems aren’t high quality materials. Manufacturers are willing to cut corners so as to make these systems affordable to the DIYer. They won’t include professional grade materials that will give better results long term.
Professional contractors can easily identify high quality materials. They also know where to source the best materials for your basement project. You will therefore be able to enjoy the benefits of the professional system for much longer.
- Doesn’t cover all aspects of the project
There are various aspects of any basement repair or finishing project that need to be considered and addressed. For example, repairing cracks in foundation walls may require the repair of gutters and downspouts to prevent dumping of runoff at the foundation and therefore ease hydrostatic pressure against the walls. An inexperienced homeowner who has invested in a DIY system may only pay attention to the problem that the system addresses and not to other contributing factors.
Get in touch with a professional basement contractor whenever you want to undertake a project to ensure the best results possible.
Ohio State Waterproofing has provided quality service with over 80,000 successful waterproofing and foundation repair installations and satisfied customers since our inception in 1978.
Ohio State Waterproofing’s philosophy for success is to provide honest, courteous and guaranteed service to every customer. Our reputation reflects this. Our well-trained waterproofing technicians are dedicated to complete customer satisfaction. This is achieved through fast, efficient processes as well as teamwork throughout this organization. You will always find a friendly representative willing to meet your needs at Ohio State Waterproofing.
We are a full service company that handles problems ranging from patching cracks to rebuilding basements. In addition, we hold three patents related to waterproofing that make us unique in the industry. These patents and our experience allow us to be able to do what every other waterproofer can do, but no one else can do what we do.
We are actively involved in the industry and community, including the National Association of Waterproofing Contractors, BHA, NARI, NAHB, NHIA, the BIA, the FHA and a number of consumer advocacy groups, as well as playing leading roles in a number of charitable functions.
But, most importantly, our highest degree of praise comes from the thousands of referrals we get from satisfied customers. Together they’ve made us a leader in the basement waterproofing and foundation repair industry.