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THBS crew installing interior drainage in basement

Basement Waterproofing

Leaking and flooding basements can be a headache and lead to major home repairs. Don't risk it - protect your home.

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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.

READ MORE ABOUT THE STACK EFFECT >

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

Groundworks, LLC BBB Business Review
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Jess and Zach repaired our sidewalk and our driveway. They worked well past dark just to get the job done in one day. Well done!

Jess and Zach repaired our sidewalk and our driveway. They worked well past dark just to get the job done in one day. Well done!

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Thomas and Lewis provided great professional support and services. Explained the situation and how it was addressed.

Thomas and Lewis provided great professional support and services. Explained the situation and how it was addressed.

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Collin was my inspector. He was very helpful with our needs. The sales process was super easy. The install team was great. Stephon kept me…

Collin was my inspector. He was very helpful with our needs. The sales process was super easy. The install team was great. Stephon kept me informed each step of the way. Jorge, Jesus, and Joey were very friendly. They all cleaned up and left the yard tidy. It was a seamless process!

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Tar Heel Basement Systems came highly recommended and we were not disappointed. Jacob, David and Noah were efficient, professional and…

Tar Heel Basement Systems came highly recommended and we were not disappointed. Jacob, David and Noah were efficient, professional and great to work with. They communicated daily with us and did a fantastic job!

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Got a quote today by Tim and he was fabulous. Gave great detail about what needed to be done. Very professional and friendly.

Got a quote today by Tim and he was fabulous. Gave great detail about what needed to be done. Very professional and friendly.

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Very pleased with the work. Work done by Ken, Gerry and James P.

Very pleased with the work. Work done by Ken, Gerry and James P.

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From Brandon, the account manager/estimator to the crew on site (John, Edwin and Colin – I hope I got all their names correct). They were…

From Brandon, the account manager/estimator to the crew on site (John, Edwin and Colin – I hope I got all their names correct). They were awesome. Brandon was very informative and explained everything thoroughly during the estimate, he communicated through out and even answered a couple phone calls and text messages while he was out of town. The crew – John was the foreman and was super helpful. Called/texted each morning before they showed up, was professional and upbeat. This is not an easy job and they all were very professional. Would happily pay them for any future properties I may have. Sure fire example of, you pay for what you get. Professional, courteous, upbeat and communication was perfect. Thanks guys!

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Derek and Josue were on time, professional and very pleasant to deal with! It was a pleasure doing business with them and Kevin was great…

Derek and Josue were on time, professional and very pleasant to deal with! It was a pleasure doing business with them and Kevin was great as well. The job looks great and we are very pleased!

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Ian A, Ian B, Ethan and Justin arrived on time, for a same day service call. They diagnosed the failure of our sump pump (under warranty)…

Ian A, Ian B, Ethan and Justin arrived on time, for a same day service call. They diagnosed the failure of our sump pump (under warranty) and made arrangements to schedule a replacement. I could not have asked for better, more professional service. 5 stars without hesitation.

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Jess Williams was very courteous and professional and did a wonderful job!

Jess Williams was very courteous and professional and did a wonderful job!

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Jess W and Zach B did an amazing job on my driveway. They explained the process and eased my concerns. I highly recommend them and will use …

Jess W and Zach B did an amazing job on my driveway. They explained the process and eased my concerns. I highly recommend them and will use them in the future.

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Luke Evans, Jonathan Ruiz and Julian Bruno has worked on our home for the past few days and the work came out amazing m. Our foundation in…

Luke Evans, Jonathan Ruiz and Julian Bruno has worked on our home for the past few days and the work came out amazing m. Our foundation in the kitchen area was beginning to sink in. And the cracks has been filled in by getting the house lifted. Thank you for the great work.

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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!

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Christian was our salesperson and we had DeMartes, Remained B and Hayden C. Do the removal and the encapsulation. They worked very hard…

Christian was our salesperson and we had DeMartes, Remained B and Hayden C. Do the removal and the encapsulation. They worked very hard for 2 days and completed an excellent job. Christian was a great salesman and was very thorough. The estimates are free but make sure you ask for these 4 people. Can't say enough good about them.

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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.

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I was extremely satisfied with the professionalism and hard work that Adam Canter (lead), Tim Witherspoon and Ryan Oldman displayed. They…

I was extremely satisfied with the professionalism and hard work that Adam Canter (lead), Tim Witherspoon and Ryan Oldman displayed. They worked well together to complete the job on time and above expectations. I was impressed with the systems but even more impressed with the way it was installed, the efforts to control the dust and the cleanup that occurred throughout the job. I would suggest you ask for this crew by name. I had the work quoted by others but there was no warranty included. I think the extra money spent was well worth the quality, warranty and included follow-up inspections. The lifting peer systems installed closed the cracks in the brick veneer on the length of 3 sides of the house as planned. I observed the installation of the wall braces and could see the immediate reduction in bowing of wall. Very happy with results.

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I had my crawlspace encapsulated several years ago, along with adding a dehumidifier and a sump pump. It is such an improvement, I'm…

I had my crawlspace encapsulated several years ago, along with adding a dehumidifier and a sump pump. It is such an improvement, I'm always glad I had it done. At our recent annual inspection maintenance, our service technician Thomas Boswell was on time, polite and thorough in his work. Good job!

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Ian and Justin came out and worked quickly and efficiently to solve a major issue we've been having. Did the work, explained what they did, …

Ian and Justin came out and worked quickly and efficiently to solve a major issue we've been having. Did the work, explained what they did, cleaned up and all is well. A+

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Work at our house was outstanding.Jalynn BrownDominique BunchAlterek SmithAll very professional, on time, nice and polite, dedicated to job….

Work at our house was outstanding.Jalynn BrownDominique BunchAlterek SmithAll very professional, on time, nice and polite, dedicated to job. Would highly recommend to anyone.

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Garret Camron and Clemente did a fantastic job and truly appreciated their effort and communication

Garret Camron and Clemente did a fantastic job and truly appreciated their effort and communication

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Mike z.tae s.lawrence b they did a very good job

Mike z.tae s.lawrence b they did a very good job

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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. 

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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.

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This is the third project that Tarheel basement has done for us. As always,Austin and Chris were Great! They do the work well and quickly…

This is the third project that Tarheel basement has done for us. As always,Austin and Chris were Great! They do the work well and quickly with total professionalism at a fair price. TBS are a great resource which we highly appreciate. I give them a highest level endorsement! Very good people!!

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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.

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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.

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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.

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The Tar Heel Basement crew was very professional from beginning to end. The crew talked me through every step and even moved my date, for…

The Tar Heel Basement crew was very professional from beginning to end. The crew talked me through every step and even moved my date, for more convenience. The work done was top notch and completed in the time. I would highly recommend this company to anyone.

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I was very comfortable to work with Tar Heel Basement from the beginning to get the quotation until the work was done. The quotation…

I was very comfortable to work with Tar Heel Basement from the beginning to get the quotation until the work was done. The quotation process was very transparent and clear. Everything was clearly explained, questions were answered by the lead person before the work started. I felt this company is very transparent comparing with its famous competition in my area. The guy from the competition showed up to give me a quotation started his conversation, "how much you want to pay? How much my competition's quotation was? I can match to it" before asking me about the project.

Takashi “TK” Namba

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Ken, Stephen and Tim W were great! They communicated with me through the whole process, worked efficiently and were so professional. Glad…

Ken, Stephen and Tim W were great! They communicated with me through the whole process, worked efficiently and were so professional. Glad to have peace of mind knowing the job was done well and my home is protected with the crawl space encapsulation!

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Joel did a follow up to some structure support we had done a few years ago. He was a great communicator, very thorough and great to work….

Joel did a follow up to some structure support we had done a few years ago. He was a great communicator, very thorough and great to work. We appreciated his attention to detail and would love to work with him again.

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Justin S, Ian B, and Marty did an excellent job here at our home! Their professionalism, cleanliness and work ethic should be an example…

Justin S, Ian B, and Marty did an excellent job here at our home! Their professionalism, cleanliness and work ethic should be an example among many companies! If you’re looking for a solid company from the sales team down to the crew these are the guys 10/5.

Brian “GUNNY HAMMER” Highland

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The crew that did the work were exceptional. Aside from being friendly they were very professional. They kept me informed with each step…

The crew that did the work were exceptional. Aside from being friendly they were very professional. They kept me informed with each step they did along with sending me photos. When the work was completed, they showed me what each process did. The cleanup was exceptional. If you didn’t see the soil where the drain line went. You of never knew anyone was here. A plus service from the crew!!!

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We had the crawlspace sealed back in 2020. Recently we decided to complete the crawlspace project by having the insulation removed from the …

We had the crawlspace sealed back in 2020. Recently we decided to complete the crawlspace project by having the insulation removed from the floor joists as well as having insulation board installed on the concrete cinderblock, collectively known as "finishing the crawlspace". Well, I must say, Groundworks sent me the A-team: Sam, Josh and Kim. These folks were efficient, courteous and clearly knew what they were doing. They you guys and gal!!! It looks great!

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Devin was great! He went above and beyond and was very helpful with his explanations of everything.

Devin was great! He went above and beyond and was very helpful with his explanations of everything.

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Jess W and Zack were just great. Work completed was very good. Would highly recommend them.

Jess W and Zack were just great. Work completed was very good. Would highly recommend them.

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Devin was very pleasant and explained everything well.

Devin was very pleasant and explained everything well.

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Encapsalation

Encapsalation

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I had many apprehensions about the job wondering if I made the right choice of contractors but when Juan S. and Alex S. rolled up to my…

I had many apprehensions about the job wondering if I made the right choice of contractors but when Juan S. and Alex S. rolled up to my house I was immediately blown away by their openness and politeness. They were genuinely honest in their accessment and actually told me that the treatment might not work and gave me choices of one was " no charge" and left with a smile which in turn gave me a little bit more of faith in humanity. Would recommend this company to my friends as well as anyone else.

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We just had our crawlspace encapsulated by Tarheel Basements and are very pleased! Juan, Alex, and Hayden were great, very detailed and…

We just had our crawlspace encapsulated by Tarheel Basements and are very pleased! Juan, Alex, and Hayden were great, very detailed and thorough in completing the job as well as kind and professional.

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I went with Tarheel Basement Systems to have my crawlspace encapsulated. I liked the Sean Madden gave but I have to admit the follow up was …

I went with Tarheel Basement Systems to have my crawlspace encapsulated. I liked the Sean Madden gave but I have to admit the follow up was spotty. I was given dates work would be done but I had to call to find out exact times. I expected a little more communication but, in the end, Tarheel showed up when they said they would, and they did the work they promised. Macai and Fred did a great job encapsulating the crawlspace. I'm pretty picky and I went down and inspected things myself. There is no way I could have done a good a job as they did. The work these guys do is grueling in unsavory conditions. I had a small issue with the crawlspace door and dehumidifier pump, but both were fixed in short order. In the end I'm happy with how things turned out and I would recommend Tarheel to anyone looking to get their crawlspace encapsulated.

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Juan, Alex, and Hayden did an excellent job. They were timely, professional and courteous.

Juan, Alex, and Hayden did an excellent job. They were timely, professional and courteous.

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If you need foundation work done, do yourself a favor and request Jay Yount at Tar Heel Basements. I had several companies come out, and…

If you need foundation work done, do yourself a favor and request Jay Yount at Tar Heel Basements. I had several companies come out, and Jay was the only one who approached my sagging floor issues with real expertise and a no-nonsense attitude. He spent hours carefully analyzing the problem and provided an honest, straightforward assessment with zero pressure. It's clear he takes pride in his work and values doing things the right way. More companies need people like Jay, and if his management is smart, they'll make sure he's moving up.

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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.

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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.

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I recently had the pleasure of working with Tar Heel Basement Systems, and I’m happy to say the experience was outstanding. From the very…

I recently had the pleasure of working with Tar Heel Basement Systems, and I’m happy to say the experience was outstanding. From the very first meeting with Steele, who took the time to listen to my concerns and needs, to the thoughtful plan they developed, I felt well taken care of every step of the way. The team—Juan, Alex, and Hayden—did an exceptional job. They were not only professional, but also knowledgeable, efficient, and punctual. The crew arrived on time and immediately got to work. Throughout the day, Juan was incredibly responsive to my questions, keeping me informed and ensuring my concerns were addressed, which helped put my mind at ease. I’m extremely satisfied with the results and highly recommend Tar Heel Basement Systems for any foundation or crawlspace needs. A big thank you to the team—your work truly exceeded expectations!

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Life happens and yes we had a hiccup. The first assessmenlt of the problem wasn't quite right. GM Montrell sent Michael, a field…

Life happens and yes we had a hiccup. The first assessmenlt of the problem wasn't quite right. GM Montrell sent Michael, a field inspector, for a reassessment and we figured it out. I greatly appreciated Montrells responsiveness and Michael's thoroughness. The two work crews were both outstanding with their site work. THANKS Ian, Justin and Clemente for the redo and your thoroughness and pleasantries in making sure the jobl was done right.

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We are very happy we had our encapsulation performed by Tar Heel Basement Systems. They were professional and did a great job, cleaned up…

We are very happy we had our encapsulation performed by Tar Heel Basement Systems. They were professional and did a great job, cleaned up after the job was completed. John, Chris, Justin, Cam and Gerridt are hard workers are extremely polite

Carlton Albritton Jr.

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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.

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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.

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Great job with Crawlspace encapsulation!

Great job with Crawlspace encapsulation!

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Nathan Addington just left my Mom's house after a routine service inspection. He was so nice and very thorough! Thanks to him, we found…

Nathan Addington just left my Mom's house after a routine service inspection. He was so nice and very thorough! Thanks to him, we found out the gutter downspouts are in need of repair and some need replacing. We ordered from him right then and there! He even told us we qualified for an extended warranty for a very special price. I have been very satisfied with Tarheel Basement over the years and they continue to provide quality personnel and support! Thank you, Nathan, for being so sweet to us old folks!

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Cannot recommend more highly. Tim Martin came out and knew immediately what to do. Professional crew created new drainage trough and…

Cannot recommend more highly. Tim Martin came out and knew immediately what to do. Professional crew created new drainage trough and installed a newer, more effective sump pump. Great communicators, prompt and swift service and fully warranted service. Exactly the kind of company I like doing business with. Would not hesitate to call them for help again and again (but, hope I don't have to…hah!!). Well done Tim Martin!

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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!

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Great experience crew was knowledgeable and explained process as it proceeded. The crew was Mike, Colt and Lee. Our sales person was…

Great experience crew was knowledgeable and explained process as it proceeded. The crew was Mike, Colt and Lee. Our sales person was Matthew Cote very knowledgeable and patient with all our questions.

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John, Chris, Taylor did a great job with their install I am glad I called Tarhreel Basement Systems

John, Chris, Taylor did a great job with their install I am glad I called Tarhreel Basement Systems

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We recently had work completed by Tarheels Basement systems . They installed floor supports and an I beam under our home that we purchased …

We recently had work completed by Tarheels Basement systems . They installed floor supports and an I beam under our home that we purchased and discovered did not have proper supports on a load bearing area of our home. Justin H , Demarte, and Quentin were punctual, professional, and polite . They were attentive to detail and preserving our property. Justin communicated their eta and they arrived right on time . He greeted me with a smile and walked me through the install information clearly . They took care to prevent any damage during the lift process. His crew worked cohesively and quickly and were very informative. He made some solid recommendations to help prevent additional issues in the future .We would definitely work with this company in the future if needed .

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Jess and Zach did great

Jess and Zach did great

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Zach Wallace came for my first annual inspection for the crawl space work completed in 2025. He was thorough in checking that all of the…

Zach Wallace came for my first annual inspection for the crawl space work completed in 2025. He was thorough in checking that all of the work was functioning as it should. He took pictures to show me the updated inprovements. He answered all my questions clearly. He presented options for additional services without pressuring or trying to alarm me to make a hasty decision. I would be happy for him to continue to do my annual inspection.

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Excellent work by JamesW, Walter S and RJ. They explained everything and transformed my crawl space to a line new space. Thank you!

Excellent work by JamesW, Walter S and RJ. They explained everything and transformed my crawl space to a line new space. Thank you!

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David P and James C encapsulated our crawl space They had great teamwork, were hardworking, professional, courteous and knowledgable…

David P and James C encapsulated our crawl space They had great teamwork, were hardworking, professional, courteous and knowledgable answering any questions we had We will recommend them they are an asset to TarHeel Basement

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The service was great and the crew was polite and worked at a great place..i recommend Ken, Gerry and James P for your basement needs.

The service was great and the crew was polite and worked at a great place..i recommend Ken, Gerry and James P for your basement needs.

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We recently had an encapsulation of our crawlspace. We called Tarheel Basement and John Reavis came out to assess our needs. John was…

We recently had an encapsulation of our crawlspace. We called Tarheel Basement and John Reavis came out to assess our needs. John was professional, knowledgeable and thorough. He offered solutions to our problem without any pressure to buy. After meeting with John we knew that this was the company that we wanted to do business with. Brian Carey along with Leo and Stephon were scheduled to do our crawlspace encapsulation. They showed up on time and Brian went over the work details for each day. These hardworking guys did a great job for us. We couldn’t be happier with the results. It looks amazing. Eric Townsend also came out to go over the installed equipment. These were a great group of people who provided excellent customer service. We are so glad that we chose Tarheel Basement of Winston Salem.

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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.

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Very efficient and professional! Jess W. Zack

Very efficient and professional! Jess W. Zack

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Great team , knowledgeable, courteous and professional. Justin , Devon & Blayk were magnificent, communicated respectfully and excelled…

Great team , knowledgeable, courteous and professional. Justin , Devon & Blayk were magnificent, communicated respectfully and excelled skillfully to complete the job . A definite go to contractor.

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Very professional.Jess has excellent communication skills!

Very professional.Jess has excellent communication skills!

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Juan and Alex provided exceptional service as they repaired my driveway. They were very courteous and kind, going the extra mile to explain …

Juan and Alex provided exceptional service as they repaired my driveway. They were very courteous and kind, going the extra mile to explain and show their progress as they worked.

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Jess Zach

Jess Zach

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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 🤗

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Great! Communicated well! On time and polite …and patient with question. Great work as well!

Great! Communicated well! On time and polite …and patient with question. Great work as well!

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I had a great experience with Tar Heel Basement Systems. Christopher and his crew were punctual and pleasant. Pete did a nice job walking…

I had a great experience with Tar Heel Basement Systems. Christopher and his crew were punctual and pleasant. Pete did a nice job walking me through the process. I’d recommend Tar Heel Basement Systems

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Juan S, Alex S, Rob P, did a great job on my crawl space! Juan and his guys were very professional, did an awesome job, in a timely manner…

Juan S, Alex S, Rob P, did a great job on my crawl space! Juan and his guys were very professional, did an awesome job, in a timely manner and had excellent communication skills. I'm not sure what their Christmas bonus was last year but it should double this year! Tar Heel Basement has an awesome crew in these guys. Dawn Dise

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I was very pleased with all my work they did.Kevin came out and explained in detail the process of all that would be done. Kevin and the…

I was very pleased with all my work they did.Kevin came out and explained in detail the process of all that would be done. Kevin and the whole staff were very friendly. Thanks!

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I am The Buildings and Grounds Coordinator of The Boys And Girls Clubs of The Greater Triad. we recently needed work completed to our pool, …

I am The Buildings and Grounds Coordinator of The Boys And Girls Clubs of The Greater Triad. we recently needed work completed to our pool, Groundworks completed the project. from the beginning the customer service was impeccable and top notch. I delt with Arron during the estimate and lead up to the project, he was informative knowledgeable and helpful, he stayed in constant contact with me up until the project date. during the Project Jeremy and crew were exceptionally nice and informative on the procedure and complete professionals i was impressed with the whole process. I would highly recommend Groundsworks for any future projects that you may have.

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Jared, Mike and Shy did excellent work. They advised me when they were enroute to my house and kept me informed on the progress of my crawl …

Jared, Mike and Shy did excellent work. They advised me when they were enroute to my house and kept me informed on the progress of my crawl space encapsulation. I cant tell you how happy I am to get dirty nasty space looking so spiffy clean and hope to reap utility rewrds during peak cold and hot seasons. Thank you so much and I would definitely recommend thes guys !!

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Jay Yount was great salesperson. Foreman David and crew mates Nestor and James C were knowledgeable and efficient. Got the job done in two…

Jay Yount was great salesperson. Foreman David and crew mates Nestor and James C were knowledgeable and efficient. Got the job done in two days. All my expectations were at least met. Would definitely recommend Tar Heel to friends and family.

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I had a sump pump installed by Josue and Dom who were both very professional and courteous. I was called ahead of time and upon arrival…

I had a sump pump installed by Josue and Dom who were both very professional and courteous. I was called ahead of time and upon arrival everything was explained in detail. They did a great job ensuring the pipe and drain looked nice and everything was returned as they found it. Josue showed me photos at completion of the job and answered all of my questions.

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Winston Salem Nc basement systems employees David P, James C and Michael J did a very professional job on our home. Was very knowledgeable,…

Winston Salem Nc basement systems employees David P, James C and Michael J did a very professional job on our home. Was very knowledgeable, polite and helpful .

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Good job completing our crawl space repair

Good job completing our crawl space repair

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We had an awesome experience. The people who did the work: Jonathan Ruiz, Roy Ruiz, and Julian Bruno Bernal were superlative. I recommend…

We had an awesome experience. The people who did the work: Jonathan Ruiz, Roy Ruiz, and Julian Bruno Bernal were superlative. I recommend them.

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I went into this basement project a little nervous, it seemed like a big commitment to put this amount of trust into Tar Heel Basement…

I went into this basement project a little nervous, it seemed like a big commitment to put this amount of trust into Tar Heel Basement Systems. We had a long term problem with water ponding in the crawl space underneath our home anytime it rained. We had multiple people come out to try and diagnose the source of the leak, but none of them were 100% certain. Tar Heel Basement Systems blew me away immediately. The inspector, Dave Brereton, came out and within 15 minutes had identified the root cause as well as a plan to fix it. A few weeks later, the crew came out and completed the job in under two days. The difference is unbelievable. From Dave to the install crew, this company knows their stuff and conducts themselves professionally. A great experience, and I encourage anyone with similar problems to give them a chance. Thank you Dave and crew!

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Great job by Austin Moody, Jesus Villagomes and John Noyola. We had the crawl space encapsulated. Very professional team.

Great job by Austin Moody, Jesus Villagomes and John Noyola. We had the crawl space encapsulated. Very professional team.

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Very professional experience with Ken, Stephen Foster and Michael T. There was a great deal of work to do and they accomplished it promptly,…

Very professional experience with Ken, Stephen Foster and Michael T. There was a great deal of work to do and they accomplished it promptly, carefully and with minimal disturbance to our enjoyment of the rest of the house. We haven't had enough rain to verify that the issue is solved but so far we are very satisfied.

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Tae.s Edwin.c Sam.p Great job for me.

Tae.s Edwin.c Sam.p Great job for me.

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The service performed was encapsulation to my home crawl space. This crew Nick Perfetti,Jabril McDougald and Grace Holderby are a great…

The service performed was encapsulation to my home crawl space. This crew Nick Perfetti,Jabril McDougald and Grace Holderby are a great team and their work is incredible and professionally done and complete.All points of installation was performed as previously discussed.I am 100% satisfied with this project.

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Dan Cookingham came to inspect crawlspace for termite damage. He was extremely thorough and knowledgeable, provided tons of photographs,…

Dan Cookingham came to inspect crawlspace for termite damage. He was extremely thorough and knowledgeable, provided tons of photographs, explained them to me, and didn't try to sell me something I didn't need! Couldn't be happier, highly recommend!!

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The team worked diligently at my mom’s house. I highly recommend their services.

The team worked diligently at my mom’s house. I highly recommend their services.

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We had Robert Penny, Service Technician, to inspect our under house dehumidifier (we had TarHeel Basement perform a complete encapsulation…

We had Robert Penny, Service Technician, to inspect our under house dehumidifier (we had TarHeel Basement perform a complete encapsulation several years ago). He was very thorough with his diagnosis and replaced the clogged filter with a new one. Robert was very competent and conscientious with his work – he wanted to make sure we were completely satisfied with his service call before leaving. Robert is the best technician we’ve had from Groundworks for the contracted warranty service we have. Just a GREAT COMPANY for encapsulation and warranty maintenance!

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Ken, Stephen and Michael were great. Very knowledgeable, professional and proficient. Highly recommend.

Ken, Stephen and Michael were great. Very knowledgeable, professional and proficient. Highly recommend.

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They did a great job would recommend to anyone

They did a great job would recommend to anyone

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Devin Hunt was very Proffesional and knowledgeable….will recommend Tarheel basement to friends and family

Devin Hunt was very Proffesional and knowledgeable….will recommend Tarheel basement to friends and family

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They came in did a great job in a short amount of time. Very friendly and willing to help able.

They came in did a great job in a short amount of time. Very friendly and willing to help able.

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Gerrit, Justin, and Cameron were a pleasure to have out working on our house.They were prompt and thorough. I would highly recommend them.

Gerrit, Justin, and Cameron were a pleasure to have out working on our house.They were prompt and thorough. I would highly recommend them.

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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.

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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.

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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!

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Austin, John and the other John did good work and cleaned up afterward. They were polite and easy to talk to. Explained everything before…

Austin, John and the other John did good work and cleaned up afterward. They were polite and easy to talk to. Explained everything before doing the job.

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From the start of the initial estimate Tarheel was easy to work with. Ian and Daniel were the two guys who came to work on my crawl space…

From the start of the initial estimate Tarheel was easy to work with. Ian and Daniel were the two guys who came to work on my crawl space and they were amazing. They both went above and beyond in what they had to do and went as far as helping with things that wasn’t their responsibility. I would recommend Tarheel to anyone.

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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.

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.

The red clay cliff, crowned with lush green vegetation, stands resilient like expertly applied basement waterproofing against the forces of nature.

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.

For Sale sign outside of home.

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


TarHeel Basement Systems Service Map

Our Locations

Fayetteville Location

3400 Walsh Pky, Suite 220
Fayetteville, NC 28311

Greensboro Location

611 Summit Ave, Suite 5
Greensboro, NC 27405

Raleigh / Durham / Chapel Hill Location

8005 Knightdale Blvd
Knightdale, NC 27545

Wilmington Location

2155 Enterprise Dr. NE
Leland, NC 28451

Winston - Salem / High Point Location

2910 Griffith Rd
Winston-Salem, NC 27103