Basement Waterproofing
Leaking and flooding basements can be a headache and lead to major home repairs. Don't risk it - protect your home.
Get Your Free EstimateBasement Waterproofing Problem Signs
Whether it finds its way in from plumbing leaks, windows or wall cracks, water in your basement means trouble.
Efflorescence
Efflorescence is a common basement moisture issue in North Carolina. Tar Heel Basement Systems' solutions tackle the core problem.
Basement Mold
Address basement moisture issues effectively with Tar Heel Basement Systems and say goodbye to your moldy basements.
Water in Your Basement
Water in your basement can lead to mold, flooding, foundation damage, and more. Let Tar Heel Basement Systems protect your home!
Wet Basement Walls
earn about wet basement walls, their causes, and effective solutions. Trust Tar Heel Basement Systems for comprehensive repairs.
Many homes in North Carolina and other areas in the southern United States are built without basements for a variety of reasons including inhospitable soil. However, if you do have a basement that is below grade or at least partially underground, it’s important to be aware of its condition. Have you noticed any water damage or musty odors in your basement? Do you see signs of leaking, cracking walls? These problems are common as well as dangerous for your home and your family. Having a reliable waterproofing system in place will help protect and restore your home’s health and safety.
The Causes of a Wet Basement
There are several reasons why you’ve got a wet basement on your hands, but one main culprit has to do with the ground your home was built on.
Crawl spaces and basements are well known for being damp, dank spaces. Even when your home has no groundwater flooding issues and has perfect plumbing, the spaces can be plagued by moisture issues. One major culprit for humidity in your home is a phenomenon called the “stack effect“.
The stack effect refers to the process in which hot air leaves the home through your attic and upper levels. As it does, a vacuum is created below, and new air is pulled upwards through the basement, crawl space, and lower levels.
A large hole had to be dug in the ground to make room for your house. After the foundation floor and walls were built, some of the excavated soil was replaced or “backfilled” to fill the gap between the walls and the existing earth. This soil is loose, fluffy, not as dense or tightly packed as undisturbed soil, and it tends to absorb more water. When water collects in the soil immediately surrounding the house, it creates a “clay bowl” and puts pressure on the walls, which leads to cracks and leaking water.
When the soil around your foundation becomes wet, it expands and puts pressure on the walls. This constant force exerted on the walls is known as hydrostatic pressure. When this force becomes more than the walls can handle, they will begin to crack and bow inwards. This affects the structural integrity of the walls. Water also will then work its way through any opening available, including cracks and openings around pipes or windows.
Mother Nature can be unpredictable, and North Carolina experiences its share of wild weather. Heavy rainstorms can dump a lot of water on the ground, and hurricanes bring floodwaters with nowhere to go. This water can then find its way inside through saturated soil and wall cracks.
A footing drain was installed outside the foundation walls of your home during its construction to help keep water away. But this drain can easily clog and allow water to collect by the walls. Preventing this is difficult, and so is cleaning and flushing the drains.
Clogged or above-ground exterior drainage pipes could allow water to puddle next to the home and find its way inside any cracks in the walls. It’s a good idea to place these lines in the ground and direct them far away from your house to prevent draining water from leaking inside. But you also need to make sure these lines are doing their job. If they crack, collapse, or clog, you could end up with water in your basement.
Sump pumps are needed to keep water out of the basement. Many systems installed in the floor have metal basins, lids that rest on top of the basin, and openings for discharge pipes. Some may not have lids at all. These are ineffective systems that will only cause more problems. Metal basins can easily rust and corrode, and partial or missing lids allow water to evaporate back into or flood the basement. This leads to unpleasant odors, moisture and other water issues that defeat the purpose of the sump pump in the first place. Debris and other items also can easily fall into the system and damage the pump if the sump pit is not completely covered.
Award-Winning Service
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Devin was very thorough during inspection of my crawl space waterproofing systems. I appreciate his thoughtful comments about future…
Devin was very thorough during inspection of my crawl space waterproofing systems. I appreciate his thoughtful comments about future improvements. Just great
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
TarHeel Basement Systems is your go to for crawlspace issues and foundation repairs. From ordering the free inspection all the way through…
TarHeel Basement Systems is your go to for crawlspace issues and foundation repairs. From ordering the free inspection all the way through the end of the job my experience was smooth. Their communication was on point and if I ever had questions throughout the process I was able to call and get piece of mind. They worked around my schedule and I even had to push back my install date for personal reasons, they worked with me through it all, no questions asked. Rob Philips was the inspector and gave me a very detailed report of what was going on and talked me through the best solutions. The job site crew, Ian A., Ian B., Ethan, and Justin were very efficient and personable. I couldn’t have asked for a better experience. They made a stressful situation for me and my family very smooth and I’m thankful for their work!
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Tim Martin was very professional and informative. He helped me understand the issue with my home and how to fix it.I highly recommend Tim…
Tim Martin was very professional and informative. He helped me understand the issue with my home and how to fix it.I highly recommend Tim for your crawlspace needs.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Joel Cocker was very friendly and helpful for my 2 year follow-up inspection.
Joel Cocker was very friendly and helpful for my 2 year follow-up inspection.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
John, Austin, and Chris did a great job. They worked very hard. They were professional and nice.
John, Austin, and Chris did a great job. They worked very hard. They were professional and nice.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Tim was great at educating me on everything! I did not feel pressured to make a commitment on the spot, we both worked with each others…
Tim was great at educating me on everything! I did not feel pressured to make a commitment on the spot, we both worked with each others schedules to make this appointment work.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Great experience! Both Ian and Daniel installed my Aquastop Gutter System. They arrived on time, very professional, kept me posted on the …
Great experience! Both Ian and Daniel installed my Aquastop Gutter System. They arrived on time, very professional, kept me posted on the daily progress and what it entailed. They completed the project as scheduled and cleaned up afterwards, I would recommend this to anyone with water penetrating problems. Thanks Ian and Daniel!
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Great job by Ken, Stephen, and Tyler B. You can tell they were prepared and had a ton of knowledge of these systems. Looks clean and helped …
Great job by Ken, Stephen, and Tyler B. You can tell they were prepared and had a ton of knowledge of these systems. Looks clean and helped out with moving some of the bigger stuff too. Well done all around and can finally finish our basement!
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
The Tar Heel crew Nick, Austin and JaVonna proved that being professional and providing great customer service still exist. They worked…
The Tar Heel crew Nick, Austin and JaVonna proved that being professional and providing great customer service still exist. They worked very efficiently and did it with a smile.Thanks L. Washington
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Good job completing our crawl space repair
Good job completing our crawl space repair
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Like to thanks Jalynn, Jeffrey and Robert for a outstanding job on my crawl space installation. They were very professional and precise on…
Like to thanks Jalynn, Jeffrey and Robert for a outstanding job on my crawl space installation. They were very professional and precise on all requirements of the job. Very please with the final resources. If you need any foundation work done call Tar Heel Basement System… They are the BEST!! Tony Bryant
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Tarheel Basements came out to level my driveway that sits over a 10’ retaining wall and had dropped up to 7”. Jess W and Zach B worked all…
Tarheel Basements came out to level my driveway that sits over a 10’ retaining wall and had dropped up to 7”. Jess W and Zach B worked all day and the results are amazing. Great communication throughout the process and excellent work. I would highly recommend that team and Tarheel Basements.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Juan,Alex and Quentin were very diligent and made sure the yard wasn’t trashed or damaged. They kept us abreast of the progress and shared…
Juan,Alex and Quentin were very diligent and made sure the yard wasn’t trashed or damaged. They kept us abreast of the progress and shared pictures. We were very pleased.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Devin was through, competent and personable. He explained everything he did in a detailed way. Great customer service!
Devin was through, competent and personable. He explained everything he did in a detailed way. Great customer service!
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
David P, James C and Tyler F were nothing shy of amazing! David runs a top notch crew, showing up and working diligently, with thorough…
David P, James C and Tyler F were nothing shy of amazing! David runs a top notch crew, showing up and working diligently, with thorough communication! A job well done and would highly recommend to anyone needing foundation support services and crawlspace attention!
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Jalynn brown, Dominique bunch , Omar cox these men did a great.
Jalynn brown, Dominique bunch , Omar cox these men did a great.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Dustin did an excellent job going over the details of my crawlspace. He was extremely thorough and very informative about all things…
Dustin did an excellent job going over the details of my crawlspace. He was extremely thorough and very informative about all things moisture.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Justin S, Ian B, and Demarte S were very excellent workers! They did extra stuff that was not sold and went above and beyond for me and my…
Justin S, Ian B, and Demarte S were very excellent workers! They did extra stuff that was not sold and went above and beyond for me and my home! They were extremely professional and friendly and were on time everyday of the project. Couldn’t not have asked Groundworks for a better team!
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Mike z colt and Austin l did a great job on my crawl space ty
Mike z colt and Austin l did a great job on my crawl space ty
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Outstanding quality or work, addressed all of our concerns and left the job site perfect. Jecelyn Williams and Zach were a pleasure to work …
Outstanding quality or work, addressed all of our concerns and left the job site perfect. Jecelyn Williams and Zach were a pleasure to work with and extremely professional. I highly recommend requesting them to complete your project.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
I was very pleased with the service inspection I got from Elton Marrow. He was very professional, on time, and very friendly and respectful.
I was very pleased with the service inspection I got from Elton Marrow. He was very professional, on time, and very friendly and respectful.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
It was a good experience. The representative who came first was knowledgeable and thorough and understood the problem the workmen were fast …
It was a good experience. The representative who came first was knowledgeable and thorough and understood the problem the workmen were fast and took care of the problem neatly . I’m very pleased with the result and the price.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
The crew was polite and respected my property. The worked steady in 90 plus degree weather. Any business would be happy to employ Kolin,…
The crew was polite and respected my property. The worked steady in 90 plus degree weather. Any business would be happy to employ Kolin, Quentin, Tremaine, and John. THANX
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
We had foundation issues and a sinking outdoor porch. Tar heel basement systems assessed the situation, created a plan to address the…
We had foundation issues and a sinking outdoor porch. Tar heel basement systems assessed the situation, created a plan to address the issues (Matt Cote & Steele Welch). The foundation crew (Jaun & Alex) and the "poly" crew (Andrew, Cody, Javi & Al) came out to our home and performed the necessary work to fix the problems. We could not be happier and would highly recommend this company and individuals. Wonderful communication and work was performed flawlessly.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Excellent service from start to finish. Michael did an awesome job on the front end diagnosing what was needed and Jalynn and his crew…
Excellent service from start to finish. Michael did an awesome job on the front end diagnosing what was needed and Jalynn and his crew were did a great job making the repairs. I cannot say enough good things about the whole experience.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
I would recommend requesting Chuck Potts for your consultation.. He is very knowledgeable and helped answer questions for our family. He …
I would recommend requesting Chuck Potts for your consultation.. He is very knowledgeable and helped answer questions for our family. He is a great resource.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
I would highly recommend Tarheel basement systems. They did an excellent job in our one hundred year-old house and waterproofing our…
I would highly recommend Tarheel basement systems. They did an excellent job in our one hundred year-old house and waterproofing our basement. Ken D and Stephan F were incredibly professional and had so much expertise. They were efficient and knowledgeable. I trusted them in our home and at the final walk through , not a single concern. highly recommend !
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Always completely satisfied with the quality of materials provided, workmanship, and professionalism of the crew servicing my home. My…
Always completely satisfied with the quality of materials provided, workmanship, and professionalism of the crew servicing my home. My last project was scheduled for 3/24 but was accelerated to 2/24 and the crew of Luke, Tim, and Kim were fantastic. They were quick, did an outstanding job, and left my encapsulated crawlspace spotless! 10 STARS!!
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Very well satisfied with encapsulation. Austin, Justin, and Taeveon worked hard the whole time. They also made sure we were satisfied until …
Very well satisfied with encapsulation. Austin, Justin, and Taeveon worked hard the whole time. They also made sure we were satisfied until the job was complete. We'll recommend Tarheel basement systems to anyone looking for future home repairs.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
We had a great experience with Tim Martin. He explained our crawl space problem to us and showed us pictures. He explained different…
We had a great experience with Tim Martin. He explained our crawl space problem to us and showed us pictures. He explained different options to us so that we could make an educated decision.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
My husband and I purchased a home only to find out after we closed that was literally falling down around us. After calling several…
My husband and I purchased a home only to find out after we closed that was literally falling down around us. After calling several companies and being told it was beyond the scope of what they could handle, we found Tar Heel. If I had only known then what I know now I would have saved myself so much time and stress and called Tar Heel FIRST. Paul, who came out originally, the Structural Engineer Bobbie and Ronnie the Project Manager were able to put a plan together to save our home. They genuinely treated our home like their own. The Foreman Gary Hacker and his Technicians Sam Jarvis and Dalton Brown who came out to do the work (along with Cory and Axel) were professional, kind, and extremely knowledgeable. My home will be able to stand for another hundred years because of their work. Thank you, Tar Heel.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Today Jackson from Elkin came to repair – finish an unfinished area on my cellar steps that had been left partially open / or came un-…
Today Jackson from Elkin came to repair – finish an unfinished area on my cellar steps that had been left partially open / or came un- sealed He did a magnificent job!!! Very neat, totally above my expectations I’m very happy. Thanks for sending him
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
My installers did an amazing job. They were punctual, neat, organized, and didn't leave until every last detail was finished. Their names…
My installers did an amazing job. They were punctual, neat, organized, and didn't leave until every last detail was finished. Their names were Ken, Stephen, David K and Dalton. I am so pleased with my new basement system!
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Jess and Josiah came out to lift some sunken concrete and fill some voids that developed under my garage and slab. They did an awesome job! …
Jess and Josiah came out to lift some sunken concrete and fill some voids that developed under my garage and slab. They did an awesome job! Everything looks great and I feel much better about how stable everything is.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
JONATHAN, Brandoni,Givanni,did a wonderful job.I rate them 100 percent on their work performance
JONATHAN, Brandoni,Givanni,did a wonderful job.I rate them 100 percent on their work performance
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Miles has come out to check on our pump a couple of times, and the last time found out what the issue was and corrected it. He explained…
Miles has come out to check on our pump a couple of times, and the last time found out what the issue was and corrected it. He explained the problem and how he corrected it.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
First I met with Jeff about Crawlspace encapsulation. He discovered 2 rotten floor Joice. Replacement of those as well as encapsulation…
First I met with Jeff about Crawlspace encapsulation. He discovered 2 rotten floor Joice. Replacement of those as well as encapsulation was very reasonable. They sent out Andy and Elijah who were very efficient and considerate. The other half of the space was an open basement area. The main front wall was so wet mortar was easing out. Jeff recommended a french drain with a pump. Edward and Jeremy were not only respectful but explained every step . Thank you Tarheel Basement Crew !!
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Tarheel Basement is a very professional company with employees who are knowledgeable, communicative, and efficient. Tyler and Noah were…
Tarheel Basement is a very professional company with employees who are knowledgeable, communicative, and efficient. Tyler and Noah were thorough and meticulous in their inspection and work on our basement installation. I highly recommend Tarheel Basement for anyone needing basement/foundation work.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Thank you to Aiden and his crew and Justin and his crew. The communication with all of the Tar Heel teams from beginning to end was…
Thank you to Aiden and his crew and Justin and his crew. The communication with all of the Tar Heel teams from beginning to end was exceptional. The project was completed ahead of schedule and the work site is clean. The results are positively noticeable. I appreciate all of their efforts.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
David P, James C & Michael were wonderful! we are so pleased with our work and craftsmanship. We would highly recommend them to anyone.
David P, James C & Michael were wonderful! we are so pleased with our work and craftsmanship. We would highly recommend them to anyone.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Jared and Mike went above and beyond with our crawl space encapsulation! They installed a sump pump and dehumidifier, tackling a…
Jared and Mike went above and beyond with our crawl space encapsulation! They installed a sump pump and dehumidifier, tackling a labor-intensive job with incredible patience and zero complaints. When they finished, I could hardly believe it was the same crawl space—it looked amazing! The project took about four days, with a long commute each way, yet their dedication never wavered. They even came back to install another door, working quickly and efficiently while delivering top-notch results once again. If you need any basement system work done, I can’t recommend Jared and Mike enough. Truly outstanding service—thank you both! ❤️
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Justin, Gerritt and Cameron came out to do an encapsulation for us and it exceeded our expectations! Cameron was super thorough and walked…
Justin, Gerritt and Cameron came out to do an encapsulation for us and it exceeded our expectations! Cameron was super thorough and walked us through the process and provided plenty of updates along the way. Could not have asked for more. When you’re spending such a big amount on something like that it is comforting to know they’re making sure it’s just right. Thank you all so much!! Also shoutout to Matt for our consult! Literally the coolest dude. Lastly, you can’t beat the price for the quality and service. Thank you all!
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
I contacted Tar Heel Basement Systems the other day and real person answered the phone and quickly arranged to meet me the same day. Jason…
I contacted Tar Heel Basement Systems the other day and real person answered the phone and quickly arranged to meet me the same day. Jason showed up on time and was polite, professional and took time to review my situation and answer all my questions. He was not pushy rather he was consultative and I really appreciate that. I recommend them based on my experience.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Jalynn Brown ensured great communication during the process. He and his crew, Trenton Evans and Jahi Atkinson, did a great job.
Jalynn Brown ensured great communication during the process. He and his crew, Trenton Evans and Jahi Atkinson, did a great job.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
We have a house that was built in the 50s that was needing some basement work. I contacted Tarheel Basements systems Rob the estimator…
We have a house that was built in the 50s that was needing some basement work. I contacted Tarheel Basements systems Rob the estimator crawled under the house. Did a very thorough inspection. A total encapsulation was performed and a dehumidifier was installed by Tae, Edwin and James.  we are very happy with all the work performed and would highly recommend Tarheel Basements systems. 
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Thomas and Devin were fantastic! They showed up on time and were very informative. They walked me through the process and made sure I was…
Thomas and Devin were fantastic! They showed up on time and were very informative. They walked me through the process and made sure I was aware of all the work completed. Highly recommend!
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Best company ever. So conscientious. They understand your home is your biggest asset and any problems with it can induce great anxiety….
Best company ever. So conscientious. They understand your home is your biggest asset and any problems with it can induce great anxiety. Tyler was my technician at my annual inspection last week. He was on time (on the dot!) and very, very thorough. I appreciate this company that saw me through an extremely trying process in the best of times. At the time of the original basement restoration (2021), I was in the midst of terrible person trouble and they stuck with me until the end of the project. KUDOS to THBS and Tyler! Cannot recommend them enough and frequently do recommend them to anyone who needs this type of work.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Very pleased with the work that was completed in our crawlspace and John, Austin, & Chris were very professional, kind, and did an amazing…
Very pleased with the work that was completed in our crawlspace and John, Austin, & Chris were very professional, kind, and did an amazing job! Thank you!
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Ian and Justin did a great job installing a sump pump system for us. Communication in advance of the job was great and they were true to…
Ian and Justin did a great job installing a sump pump system for us. Communication in advance of the job was great and they were true to the arrival times promised. They kept us up to date on the work in progress and gave a thorough walk-through afterwards to make sure everything was to our satisfaction and that we understood the system.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Jess and Zac did a great job. Explained everything, quick work and left the area very clean
Jess and Zac did a great job. Explained everything, quick work and left the area very clean
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Our house had been settling over the past couple decades. Our swing thru kitchen door wouldn’t “swing through” the doorway anymore and the …
Our house had been settling over the past couple decades. Our swing thru kitchen door wouldn’t “swing through” the doorway anymore and the floor in the middle of the house was bowed. Austin G, Tremaine and Chris O. came out, added 4 permanent jacks under the house and made a significant difference to our home in about 4 hours time! The kitchen door swings through the frame again. All three guys were very nice and fun to work with as we helped watch each jack level portions of the floor. I was a bit nervous before the job began but very happy we did it now!
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
I have done business with Tarheel Basement/Groundworks for years now. Always excellent service. Daniel Pike was the technician that…
I have done business with Tarheel Basement/Groundworks for years now. Always excellent service. Daniel Pike was the technician that serviced the system last week. Best service yet! Highly recommend.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Just finished the insulation on my crawl space, look really good thanks Mike Jones, Stephon H. and Cody. Great Job !
Just finished the insulation on my crawl space, look really good thanks Mike Jones, Stephon H. and Cody. Great Job !
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
We used Tarheel to address our foundation issues with the installation of several vertical piers. I cannot say enough good things about my…
We used Tarheel to address our foundation issues with the installation of several vertical piers. I cannot say enough good things about my experience with them, start to finish. The sales process was super transparent, and prices came in MUCH lower than other providers. Other providers had made recommendations that really weren't necessary, and we really appreciated our rep, Clint, explaining everything to us in a detailed, consultive manner. Even after the sale and the work was done, he still took the time to get back to me very quickly with a couple of final questions. Our install crew, led by Josiah, I believe his name was, was fantastic. Showed up when they said they would, went over the game plan, answered all my questions, and got everything done in one day. The office staff were also very helpful and even reached out to make sure we were completely happy. I wish all of the contractors we have for home projects could operate at this level! Great work!
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
I had a crawl space encapsulation done by TarHeel/Groundwork. Tim provided the estimate and clearly explained the process and next steps. …
I had a crawl space encapsulation done by TarHeel/Groundwork. Tim provided the estimate and clearly explained the process and next steps. Brian, Tyler, and Roy arrived on time, kept me posted on what they were doing each day. I started with a mess and am pleased with the results.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Maurie is super professional, friendly, thoughtful. He spent about 2 hours with us, did all the feasible foundation and structural tests…
Maurie is super professional, friendly, thoughtful. He spent about 2 hours with us, did all the feasible foundation and structural tests for the property we are buying. He found no major concerns, explained to us patiently using the plain words, but accurately. We are really so happy for his free estimation service, strongly recommend this company to the customers in need of the foundation, basement, crawl space services. All the best, Eric
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
I would Definitely recommend Tarheel basement systems to anyone. We had issues under our house that needed major attention. The team we had …
I would Definitely recommend Tarheel basement systems to anyone. We had issues under our house that needed major attention. The team we had was Cameron, Nyjae, Hayden and Justin. They were amazing in that they kept us informed on everything they were doing and took time to explain to me any questions I had . They were very friendly and polite.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
The friendliest and most engaging workers we've had at our home. I highly recommend this company and, more specially, the two young men who …
The friendliest and most engaging workers we've had at our home. I highly recommend this company and, more specially, the two young men who completed the work.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
We want to give a Thank You for the great experience during our crawl space encapsulation by Tar Heel/Groundworks. The crew led by Justin…
We want to give a Thank You for the great experience during our crawl space encapsulation by Tar Heel/Groundworks. The crew led by Justin S. & included Jaiquan W., Ian B., Maison S., & Kane B. were professional, competent, efficient & serious regarding their work . The price was also fair for the amount of work & materials involved..We recommend this company. Jan & Kevin, St James…
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Josiah, Gustavo and Rodrigo did an outstanding job at our house. Very nice polite, professional young men. Talked us through everything…
Josiah, Gustavo and Rodrigo did an outstanding job at our house. Very nice polite, professional young men. Talked us through everything they were doing and always took time to answer questions we had. Cleaned up very well and left project looking great. Would recommend to anyone needing their house lifted.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Jonathan and his team was very honest, knowledgeable, and thorough! Jonathan took the time to explain the solution options to me. He was…
Jonathan and his team was very honest, knowledgeable, and thorough! Jonathan took the time to explain the solution options to me. He was always pleasant and friendly even though I may have needed more attention to understand the solution options. When we found the source of my basement leak, it turned out that I only needed a simple repair! He even helped me to move forward with it! I highly recommend Jonathan, his team, and Tar Heel Basement Systems! Thank you!
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Awesome job from the first sit down with Nathan, honest and open, answered all our questions and then some days after, over the phone. Ray…
Awesome job from the first sit down with Nathan, honest and open, answered all our questions and then some days after, over the phone. Ray & Greg came out to do the work, man great workers and great guys, personable and reliable, did an awesome job. We were very pleased with Greg and Ray, and Nathan sitting down with us in the beginning . Thank you Tar Heel and all you guys Linda & Dwayne Miller Pictures attached: 400 square foot bedroom after TarHeel was done, we're putting flooring back down.. 2nd picture, the dehumidifier, the rap under the 🏠 house
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Our house was settling and we had to have steel piers placed underneath in the back corner. Austin explained in detail the process it will…
Our house was settling and we had to have steel piers placed underneath in the back corner. Austin explained in detail the process it will take to repair the situation and answered any questions and concerns we had. Our workers Juan, Alex, Justin, and Hayden did an outstanding job fixing our problem and cleaning up the area good as new. I highly recommend Tar Hell Basements!
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
From start to finish, everything went great. Jay was thorough and answered ALL of our questions. He even reviewed the competition's…
From start to finish, everything went great. Jay was thorough and answered ALL of our questions. He even reviewed the competition's proposal! The communication was fantastic every step of the way. The installation was a complicated one being that we have a 100+ year old farmhouse. Tyrese and Stephen had quite the challenge! They did a phenomenal job and really went above and beyond. They worked so hard and did an excellent job of explaining things. Five stars all day
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Great service and guarantees.
Great service and guarantees.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Stephan, Ken, Terrance, David P, did a great job on my crawlspace encapsulation.
Stephan, Ken, Terrance, David P, did a great job on my crawlspace encapsulation.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
I called Tar Heel to repair my crawl space door. Tae S. Edwin C. and Sam P. responded. They arrived quickly checked out the problem and…
I called Tar Heel to repair my crawl space door. Tae S. Edwin C. and Sam P. responded. They arrived quickly checked out the problem and professionally made the repairs. I will definitely use them again if needed.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Jess W, and Zach B. Did an excellent job on a somewhat unique issue with the drainage t of my walkway and patio. They were very…
Jess W, and Zach B. Did an excellent job on a somewhat unique issue with the drainage t of my walkway and patio. They were very professional and explained the procedure thoroughly. I felt comfortable with them at home.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
JAMES JOSH AND JACK WERE GREAT! Highly recommended!
JAMES JOSH AND JACK WERE GREAT! Highly recommended!
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Jordan Bumpers, Ethan Romero, Zamiri Merrick and the rest of the crew were wonderful. They are such hardworking guys. Couldn’t be any…
Jordan Bumpers, Ethan Romero, Zamiri Merrick and the rest of the crew were wonderful. They are such hardworking guys. Couldn’t be any happier with the crawl space encapsulation and installation of a dehumidifier. Polite and conscientious crew. Great team!
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
The team that showed up to do the work were courteous and professional. Nate Griffin was the team leader and was very knowledgeable and…
The team that showed up to do the work were courteous and professional. Nate Griffin was the team leader and was very knowledgeable and explained the system in words I could understand. Roy Ruiz and Gavin Grigsby were efficient workers. They completed the job in around 4 hours and cleaned up the mess before leaving.
- 4/
- 4/
- 4/
- 4/
- 4/
After having some questions on work that was done here at my home Montrell and Victor came out and answered all my questions and even…
After having some questions on work that was done here at my home Montrell and Victor came out and answered all my questions and even looked deeper into the issue. Could not have been more professional when they were here.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Our technician was Devin Hunt. He listened to our concerns and then went about his inspection with the utmost attention to detail and our…
Our technician was Devin Hunt. He listened to our concerns and then went about his inspection with the utmost attention to detail and our concerns. When he was finished, he walked us through everything he did with accompanying photos. He was very thorough and professional. We were very pleased with his service today.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Austin, Justin and Tae were outstanding! TarHeel Basement Systems is a great company. Wonderful job and thank you!
Austin, Justin and Tae were outstanding! TarHeel Basement Systems is a great company. Wonderful job and thank you!
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Had Jeremy and Joseph come out and lift concrete around our pool and we couldn’t be happier. They were very professional and did a great…
Had Jeremy and Joseph come out and lift concrete around our pool and we couldn’t be happier. They were very professional and did a great job explaining the process before they started and made sure we were satisfied before they left. Great crew!!
- 4/
- 4/
- 4/
- 4/
- 4/
John, Austin, and Chris of Tar Heel Basement Systems did an awesome job on lifting our house, they were quick and professional an very nice …
John, Austin, and Chris of Tar Heel Basement Systems did an awesome job on lifting our house, they were quick and professional an very nice guys. The one star is not on them it's from their office's communication with us, we couldn't contact the office and the office wouldn't contact us.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
This company did a great job. The team of Matthew Mounts, Stephen Farrington, and Mathias Limas are great workers. They are very nice and …
This company did a great job. The team of Matthew Mounts, Stephen Farrington, and Mathias Limas are great workers. They are very nice and extremely efficient.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
From the annual inspection, Nick suggested we consider adding foundation wall insulation in the crawlspace as we did not have any under the …
From the annual inspection, Nick suggested we consider adding foundation wall insulation in the crawlspace as we did not have any under the flooring and we did have this on our list to check into. He was professional and thorough. Now the hard part, the install…team was lead by Nestor Bautista and they were on time, explained/showed exactly what they would do and how. They were all friendly, professional, cleaned up completely and finished a bit quicker than expected. Nestor then walked us through the install and provided pictures of all the crawl space areas. Now the payoff, felt almost immediately warmer in den area and am sure this will provide more efficient HVAC for us. We are a Tarheel customer for over 8 years now, from Stephen Peterson to their regular service techs, Nick Harmon, to their install teams…we will be a customer for life.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Good work and communication from Josue M and Tito C.
Good work and communication from Josue M and Tito C.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Thank you Tar Heel Basement for your work. I feel very good about your work and my home is safe and structurally sound.
Thank you Tar Heel Basement for your work. I feel very good about your work and my home is safe and structurally sound.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
We had 2 segments of work done: (1) adding piers to the front foundation of our house, and (2) adding a beam and some piers in the…
We had 2 segments of work done: (1) adding piers to the front foundation of our house, and (2) adding a beam and some piers in the crawlspace to a center section of the house to better support some interior walls. We were very impressed by everyone at Tar Heel Basement Systems from beginning to end – from the initial analysis and proposal to the actual work to follow-up. John Reavis was very professional, thorough, and knowledgeable when he performed the initial site visit and put together a proposal for us. He was also very good about following up and communicating in general. Both crews who did the work were very confident, professional, and courteous. They really seemed like they knew what they were doing and took their time to make sure it was done right. They also were very good about communicating arrival times and progress on the 2 projects. Everyone we spoke with at the office was very helpful during the whole process. In particular, we had multiple interactions with Morgan about scheduling, arranging payment, and follow-up paperwork. We had some bad weather when the work was originally scheduled to be done, but everyone stayed in touch with us and made rescheduling easy. Tar Heel might be more expensive than some other options, but this is a case where you truly get what you pay for. We can't imagine anyone doing a better job.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Great experience with the crew, Austin G, Justin H, and Austin L, who came to level my floors. They were knowledgeable and friendly….
Great experience with the crew, Austin G, Justin H, and Austin L, who came to level my floors. They were knowledgeable and friendly. Completed the job, thoroughly, within the time that they said they would.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Colt and Mike worked to solve the foundation problems on my home. Excellent workers and completed job in timely manner.
Colt and Mike worked to solve the foundation problems on my home. Excellent workers and completed job in timely manner.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Had driveway lifted in areas where the concrete had sunk and cracked. They levelled everything nicely and did quick work. Price right and…
Had driveway lifted in areas where the concrete had sunk and cracked. They levelled everything nicely and did quick work. Price right and crew was professional. Would recommend Groundwork’s to others.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Thank you Seth Brown for your professionalism, for REALLY listening to my needs, and for taking the time to educate me on the issues with …
Thank you Seth Brown for your professionalism, for REALLY listening to my needs, and for taking the time to educate me on the issues with my house. I feel Tar Heel Basement has "old fashion" values that I prize with honesty, integrity and standing behind their work. Thanks again Seth for your exceptional customer service.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Spoke with Jay Yount in Winston Salem, he gave us a very thorough evaluation of the areas of concern in our home. While we did not go with…
Spoke with Jay Yount in Winston Salem, he gave us a very thorough evaluation of the areas of concern in our home. While we did not go with Tar Heel basement it had nothing to do with the service we were given and will use them in the future for our basement needs
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Philip was my inspector that came out to check out my crawlspace Got scheduled for an encapsulation Within 2 weeks Mike, colt and Lee came…
Philip was my inspector that came out to check out my crawlspace Got scheduled for an encapsulation Within 2 weeks Mike, colt and Lee came out. They got right down to buisness and just worked for 2 days all were respectful and hard workers. Will update and revise review as yearly Inspections and future work is done.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
The site admin Kim is the best!! Such a wonderful lady to work with.
The site admin Kim is the best!! Such a wonderful lady to work with.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Friendly crew of three got the job done in a single day. Clearly explained the process and documented their work with photos. They were…
Friendly crew of three got the job done in a single day. Clearly explained the process and documented their work with photos. They were the most costly of the 3 contractors I got estimates from, but I appreciated their professionalism and the quality of products used.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
It was great!! From the assessment to the finished product Austin L is an amazing communicator and my 88 year old mom adored him if I…
It was great!! From the assessment to the finished product Austin L is an amazing communicator and my 88 year old mom adored him if I didn’t know would have not guessed he was in training He’s ready Take it from someone who spent 35 years in corporate Mike Z ( great trainer obviously)and Lee (wing man 😂) where great as well Friendly easy to be with Love the conversation and information Highly recommended Crawl encapsulation 🤗
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
We needed our front stoop to be lifted. So I found Tar Heel Basement Systems online and read many positive reviews. We were not…
We needed our front stoop to be lifted. So I found Tar Heel Basement Systems online and read many positive reviews. We were not disappointed! John Knight spent almost 2 hours with us. We ended up getting our back patio and driveway lifted as well as the stoop. We are pleased with the work that was completed at our house. John Knight and Jeremy were both a pleasure to work with. We recommend Tar Heel Basement Systems (Groundworks)!
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
The crew from Tarheel were professional in every way. Justin, Demarte, and Harry worked long hours to get the job done and done correctly. …
The crew from Tarheel were professional in every way. Justin, Demarte, and Harry worked long hours to get the job done and done correctly. As with most older homes, all the little issues that popped up were dealt with in a timely and efficient manner. Justin explained everything they were doing and sent pictures of all of it. Great job.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
James W and Matt D came out to work on the foundation and install some jacks for sagging joists. They were courteous and quick. THBS is…
James W and Matt D came out to work on the foundation and install some jacks for sagging joists. They were courteous and quick. THBS is definitely not the cheapest shop in town, but they stand behind their work and I prefer to have folks that know what they're doing operating on the most important aspects of my home. Thanks again!
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Praises to David P., James C. and Cris P for a job well done. They worked hard, answered any question we had about the installation, and…
Praises to David P., James C. and Cris P for a job well done. They worked hard, answered any question we had about the installation, and explained what policy benefits we could expect in the future. Couldn't have asked for a better crew.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Devin was extremely thorough and made sure that I understood every part of the maintenance and service visit. He answered all of my…
Devin was extremely thorough and made sure that I understood every part of the maintenance and service visit. He answered all of my questions and addressed every concern with solutions. Technicians like Devin make you glad to be a permanent customer of Tarheel Basement Systems.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Jonathan and his crew did a great job repairing and improving our crawl space. He kept us informed every step of the process. We appreciate …
Jonathan and his crew did a great job repairing and improving our crawl space. He kept us informed every step of the process. We appreciate the hard work they did to get it all done in a timely manner and would definitely recommend them to anyone who needs crawlspace work done.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Mike Z and the crew were right on time, very courteous, friendly, and above all – VERY PROFESSIONAL! Excellent service from an excellent…
Mike Z and the crew were right on time, very courteous, friendly, and above all – VERY PROFESSIONAL! Excellent service from an excellent provider. Thanks Guys!
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Brian C and John C did a great job my crawlspace very happy I hope TarHeel Basement to work on my crawlspace and foundation. Tarheel is an …
Brian C and John C did a great job my crawlspace very happy I hope TarHeel Basement to work on my crawlspace and foundation. Tarheel is an honest and good company that stands behind their work and always seeks to please the customer and put them first.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Devin arrived on time (1200 noon) just like he said would. I was pleasantly surprised that the inspection included inside and around the…
Devin arrived on time (1200 noon) just like he said would. I was pleasantly surprised that the inspection included inside and around the outside of the home, as well as the crawl space. I'm glad that no major issues were found . I was impressed with his level of professionalism, as he went as far as to literally record his findings into a slide presentation. He even went as far as to seal around the door to the crawl space in an effort to ensure the possibility of water no longer pooling by the door. I'm very pleased that the encapsulation done by Tarheel Basement Systems is still holding firm. Devin showed me what Tarheel Basement Systems can do for me regarding insulation. Though I'm not ready to make this move now, Devin has given something me to think about.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Just had my second service performed and both experiences have been excellent. Special commendation to the installers, Matthew Mounts,…
Just had my second service performed and both experiences have been excellent. Special commendation to the installers, Matthew Mounts, Taylor Dennis and Nathan Griffin. These guys were very professional and efficient! All of the processes were explained thoroughly, the work was completed quickly and the area was left clean. Highly recommend!
Basement Waterproofing Solutions
Basement leaks can be a challenge to remedy, but you can feel confident in knowing these and other basement problems will be properly handled by the best in the business. Our comprehensive waterproofing system – including interior drainage, a sump pump, a vapor barrier, and a dehumidifier – can handle the toughest leaks and permanently waterproof your home.
AquaStop™ Basement Sump Pumps
AquaStop™ Sump Pumps effectively remove basement water, ensuring a dry space. Trust Tar Heel Basement Systems for expert installation.
Basement Dehumidifier
Tar Heel Basement Systems offers state-of-the-art AquaStop™ Air Systems, ensuring a dry, comfortable, and healthier environment.
WallSeal™ Basement Wall Vapor Barrier
Tar Heel Basement Systems is at the forefront of controlling basement moisture. Discover how a wall vapor barrier can help.
BasementGutter™ Interior Drainage System Installation
Trust the BasementGutter™ interior foundation drainage system to effectively and reliably address your basement water issues.
Is Basement Waterproofing the Right Solution for me?
Basements can be damp, dark, smelly, and saturated with water. Many homeowners avoid their basements and think of them as “out of sight and out of mind” for those reasons. But this can put your health and your family’s well-being in danger.
Wet basements are the perfect homes for pests, mold, and musty odors, which can be detrimental to anyone in the house with asthma, allergies, and other breathing problems. Why put your loved ones’ safety at risk and waste a perfectly good space? Properly waterproofed basements can be used for secure storage, a movie or game room, extra living space, and much more.
Before moving in the comfy couches, big TVs, or storage bins, make sure these items will not sustain water damage or other ill fates by protecting the area with quality waterproofing solutions. The products we offer at Tar Heel Basement Systems include an interior drainage system to intercept any leaking water from the walls and floor, a sump pump to remove this water from the basement, a vapor barrier to prevent moisture and vapor intrusion from the walls, and a dehumidifier to control humidity. All these solutions work together to keep your home safe and dry, and everything can be customized to meet your specific waterproofing needs.
FAQs
We’ve saved the best concern for last. This is one of the most commonly asked questions we hear from homeowners. And rightly so. Your home is the most significant investment you’ll ever make, and you want to be sure you’re using quality solutions to protect it.
Homeowners can expect to spend an average of $4,000 on basement waterproofing, with different projects ranging from $2,000 to $10,000. And the return on investment from basement waterproofing is estimated to be around 30 percent. But when you think about it, the health and structural and safety benefits, as well as peace of mind you’re investing in, are priceless.
Every home is different, and every project calls for different solutions. That is why we cannot offer you a ballpark estimate over the phone. It’s important for one of our inspectors to physically visit your house to better understand what is going on. We are able to customize solutions specific to your repair needs. Your inspector will take into consideration your repair goals, the severity of damage or problem areas, square footage, and your budget. It’s not just a “one size fits all” fix.
Contacting us for an expert opinion is your best way to go. We will not try to throw bandages on the problems, push you to buy unnecessary products, or provide sub-standard quick fixes.
We install only the very best solutions that are proven to permanently address your wet, leaking basement once and for all. It’s our commitment to you and your family. The products we use are manufactured in the USA and are designed to work together to give your basement complete protection.
Our professional team will work with you every step of the way to design the best basement waterproofing system to perfectly fit your home’s repair needs.
These are the solutions and how they work:
- Interior Drainage System – The best way to waterproof a basement involves interior drainage channels. To collect seeping water from your walls and floor, we’ll place BasementGutter™ in the sub-floor throughout the basement’s perimeter. We also can place grated drainpipes in the floor in front of stairs and walk-out access points and tie these sections into the rest of the BasementGutter™ system. Water that is collected by these specially designed systems is then directed to a sump pump system. We also can use grated drainage
- Sump Pump System – Once the leaking water is collected, it needs somewhere to go other than back onto your floor. Our interior drainage systems discretely direct this water to a reliable sump pump system to be pumped out of the basement and away from the house. We have a variety of SafeDri™ sump pump systems to meet your waterproofing needs – the SafeDri ™ Pro X Premier Sump Pump System, SafeDri ™ Battery Backup System, SafeDri ™ TripleSump ™ Pump System, and SafeDri ™ Pro Crawl Space Sump Pump System.
- Dehumidifier – For a truly safe, dry, and healthy space, you also need to condition the air. Our powerful dehumidifier unit is energy-efficient in cleaning and filtering the air, controlling moisture and humidity, eliminating odors, and reducing potential mold growth. Unlike convention dehumidifiers, our unit is self-draining and can be directed to perimeter drainage or sump pump systems so there are no buckets to have to worry about emptying.
- Frozen Discharge Line Prevention – Water being pumped out of a basement by way of a sump pump system exits through discharge lines. The lines outside the house could potentially freeze or become blocked, and this allows water to flow back into the basement. To prevent this from happening, we can attach the FreezeGuard™ outlet to the exterior sump pump discharge line.
- Crack Repairs – We can seal and repair any wall cracks to prevent water intrusion. Our foundation repair solutions may also be needed for significant cracking and wall movement.
Now are you ready to take back your home and make it a better place for your family to live and grow? As you start to plan for your repairs, you might be eager to run out to your neighborhood home improvement store to gather supplies. You may be very handy and capable of fixing different things around your home, but waterproofing a basement is not something you and a friend can tackle in a weekend. These types of repairs are serious work and are best left to professional contractors.
There’s nothing to stop you from applying something like a sealant or paint to your walls, but these materials are only temporary quick fixes that will not permanently solve your leaking water issue. Sealants and paints will pop and flake, indicating a lingering moisture problem. Water also can find another way in because it follows the path of least resistance.
Instead of wasting money on fast fixes that you’ll only have to spend more time and money reapplying, fix your wet basement the right way the first time around with trusted solutions from a reliable contractor.
We know it can be intimidating working with someone you don’t know, and you’ve probably heard stories from friends and family members who had awful experiences with contractors. So, it’s understandable that you’d feel wary of working with a contractor yourself. But don’t let that totally influence your decision.
Before hiring a contractor, make sure you do your homework and are comfortable with who you bring into your home. Ask for reviews; references; proof of insurance, licenses, and other certifications; a written contract; and examples of work that has been completed.
Now that you’ve read about potential problems in your basement and how they got there, aren’t you ready to get rid of them? Why would you want to live in a wet, uncomfortable house and subject your family to harmful conditions? There are so many ways you and your family can benefit from wet basement repair. Here are just a few of the perks:
- Better Health & Quality of Life
Mold loves nothing more than wet, damp, and dark areas like basements. So, if you’ve got any kind of leaking or standing water in your basement, chances are you’ve got mold growing there, too. Half of the air you breathe comes from below-grade areas like basements and crawl spaces. So, if there’s mold in these areas, it’s also circulating in the air throughout the rest of the house and affecting you. This can lead to and worsen health problems like asthma, allergies and respiratory issues. By having a properly waterproofed basement, you are eliminating the chance for mold to thrive and investing in the health and safety of everyone in the home. Having a trusted dehumidifier installed also helps control moisture and humidity, as well as improve overall air quality.
- Enhanced Structural Stability
Leaking water also affects your home’s structural integrity. If you have block foundation walls, water can easily saturate and seep through the porous material and find its way inside through any crack or gap. If water has nowhere to go, it starts building up inside the walls. Coupled with hydrostatic pressure, this results in an unsafe mess. Another issue we’ve run into is wooden floors and supports affected by dry rot. Don’t subject your loved ones to an environment that could cave in at any time. When you have your basement properly waterproofed, you also are ensuring a longer lifetime for your home.
- Improved Energy Efficiency
Below-grade areas like basements are naturally cooler, but any leaking water also can cause more of a temperature drop. This will lead to more running time for your furnace, and higher heating bills. And during warmer, humid days, the air conditioner will be over-worked as you try to keep your house cool. Having reliable waterproofing and dehumidification solutions to protect your home also will protect your wallet by lowering your energy bills.
- Increased Real Estate Value
Many different factors can affect a home’s real estate/resale value, but it’s important for you to be aware of the condition of your home regardless. This includes any issues with water seepage, dampness or standing water in the basement, drainage on the property, and flood hazard. Homeowners in North Carolina who are selling their house are required to complete the State of North Carolina Residential Property and Owners’ Association Disclosure Statement to the best of their ability. Being honest about any known issues when it comes to leaks and waterproofing sets clear expectations regarding the quality and condition of the home. Buyers expect a dry basement.
An unpleasant smell in your basement makes your home less comfortable to live in. That doesn’t mean that your home’s unlivable, though. How can a musty smell in your basement impact the stability of the rest of your home?
Musty Smells and Greater Water Damage
Musty smells aren’t pleasant to deal with, it’s true. They can prematurely age your home and make your entertaining areas less pleasant to spend time in. Mustiness tends to indicate more than just your home’s age. It also serves as an indicator of greater damage throughout your home.
The longer you allow mustiness to reside in your basement, the more likely it is that your basement is going to take on structural damage. That mustiness, as mentioned, is moisture. That moisture can get absorbed into your home’s structural supports, where it can weaken them or otherwise contribute to the hydrostatic pressure in your basement. The longer this kind of damage sits, the worse it gets. If you choose to forgo essential repairs, then you may find yourself several months down the line dealing with a cracking chimney or even a sinking foundation.
Unpleasant Smells and the Value of Your Home
It isn’t impossible to sell a home with basement damage. It’s not even impossible to sell a home with a musty smell. It is, however, much more difficult to do this kind of work. For starters, you’re going to have to list any damage your home’s taken on in your home’s listing. There’s no hiding basement damage, no matter how inconsequential you may think it is.
Not only will word of a damaged basement make your home more difficult to sell, but it will also reduce the overall value of your home. While you can sell a home with persistent musty smells, you’re going to have to convince future buyers to take on the challenge of repairs. To do so, you risk losing up to 30 percent of your home’s market value to what are effectively reparations. If your primary concerns lay with the cost of repairs, it’s important to compare and contrast what you might spend on said repairs versus what you might lose when you eventually go to sell your property.
A sump pump is a kind of drainage system that collects water into a pit and then pumps it out of and away from the foundation. It’s a perfect device for homeowners who have basement flooding problems and need to keep that part of the house as dry as possible. If you already have a sump pump in your basement, you should know that it may not be enough to have just one.
Living in Northern North Carolina means that your property probably sees a lot of water. It would be worth investing in a second or even a third pump for your sump pump in order to keep up with the incredible amounts of water that flows around your foundation. If your sump pump gets overworked because of all the water it has to continuously pump, it will have a shorter lifespan and malfunction sooner than it should. When this happens, your basement will quickly flood, and the structural damages as a result of that failure will cost more than a second pump. All of the sump pumps in our SafeDri™ series can all be installed with a backup battery system that will guarantee a dry basement at all times.
If you’re unsure if you need another pump, simply observe your sump pump during the summer. Summer is the rainiest season in North Carolina, so watching the sump pump when it’s at its most active will give you all the information you need. If the water is flowing into the pit at an excessive rate, you need to invest in another pump. Doing so will ensure that the device functions for years without failure.
Why is Basement Waterproofing Needed?
Basement waterproofing is a necessity in any home built in areas with high humidity and frequent rain. This helps your home stand up to wet weather and protect it from water and vapor intrusion. Here are some common reasons why your home may need a quality waterproofing system.
Environmental Factors
North Carolina is known for its red clay soil, but it wreaks havoc on homes. Clay is an expansive soil that becomes easily saturated and holds onto water. Since areas like Raleigh and Winston-Salem experience frequent rain year-round, this adds fuel to the fire. Overly saturated soil creates hydrostatic pressure that is exerted on foundation walls and leads to cracks and leaks, and even basement flooding and wall collapse.
Real Estate Value
A wet, moldy basement can impact the sale and overall value of your home. Many buyers in today’s competitive market want turnkey houses free of problems, and a nasty basement can be an instant turnoff. If you don’t want to deal with a water-damaged basement, why would potential buyers? It’s best to have the basement properly waterproofed to protect and even boost your home’s value.
Air Quality Throughout Your Home
Because of the stack effect – the movement of air in your home from bottom to top – about half of the air you are breathing in your house comes from the basement. If your basement has high humidity, musty odors, mold, and pest droppings, all those things are circulating in the air throughout the rest of your home. Not only is this unnerving to think about, but these hazards can be dangerous for anyone in the household, especially those with breathing problems.
Common Basement Waterproofing Tips & Mistakes
In our almost 20 years in the basement waterproofing and foundation repair industry, we have heard and seen it all. But we are committed to educating homeowners just like you, as well as providing exceptional service and trusted waterproofing solutions.
Helpful Basement Waterproofing Tips:
- Invest in a Quality Dehumidifier: Homes in areas like Stokes County and coastal Wilmington are no stranger to humidity. Having a reliable dehumidifier to control moisture and humidity in your basement is essential. Conventional units are not built for larger areas like basements. But at Tar Heel Basement Systems, our energy-efficient, self-draining dehumidifier can stand up to the challenge without breaking the bank or negatively impacting your energy consumption.
- Monitor Exterior Drainage Systems: While the waterproofing system we offer is installed inside your basement, it’s important to keep an eye out for your exterior systems. This includes your gutters and downspouts. If either of these pieces is clogged, damaged, or allows water to collect near your foundation, basement leaking and damage can quickly develop. Make sure you check and clean your gutters and downspouts at least twice a year, and angle downspout extensions and landscaping away from the house.
- Trust Local Waterproofing Experts: Our professional team has years of experience in the industry, and we know exactly what challenges North Carolina basements face and how to fix them. Our specialists will complete a thorough inspection inside and outside your home, recommend the best solutions tailored to your home’s unique repair needs, and treat your home as their own as they install these products to keep your home protected.
Mistakes to Avoid When Waterproofing Your Basement:
- Installing DIY Solutions: There are many areas of your home that can benefit from DIY projects, but your basement is a delicate, tricky area. Many repairs like “waterproof” paints and sealants available at big box stores are only temporary patches and do not address the root of your basement problems.
- Not Investing in a Comprehensive Waterproofing System: While every basement is different with their own requirements, only having one piece of the waterproofing puzzle is not going to keep your home dry. Sump pumps are a great solution for many homes, but they also must be coupled with an interior drainage system to be fully effective. Moisture may still be an issue, so it’s important to have a reliable dehumidifier and even a vapor barrier installed as well.
- Hiring a General Contractor Instead of a Waterproofing Expert: Your home might need various projects to keep it in tip-top shape and hiring a general contractor to complete all the work is an option. However, while general contractors are “jacks of all trades,” they may not be certified professionals who specialize in basement waterproofing. For help with problems like a wet basement and musty odors, it’s important to select local waterproofing experts like our team at Tar Heel Basement Systems who are knowledgeable about everything related to basements.
Providing Expert Basement Waterproofing in North Carolina
Pennsylvania trusts Tar Heel Basement Systems for reliable basement waterproofing, crawl space, foundation, and concrete repair services. Contact us for a free inspection!
Top Cities We Serve
Our Locations
3400 Walsh Pky, Suite 220
Fayetteville, NC 28311
611 Summit Ave, Suite 5
Greensboro, NC 27405
8005 Knightdale Blvd
Knightdale, NC 27545
2155 Enterprise Dr. NE
Leland, NC 28451
2910 Griffith Rd
Winston-Salem, NC 27103