If your home's basement has moisture problems, it may be time to call a waterproofing contractor to address the issue. It's important to understand that no level of moisture getting into your basement is "normal", and these are generally not problems that will resolve themselves over time. As you begin consulting with waterproofing contractors in your area, there are a few important questions you should ask to get a better feel for which one most deserves your business.

What Type of System Do You Recommend For My Home?

Start by making sure that the contractor is willing to come out to your home to provide a free evaluation and recommendation. Any contractor that wants to recommend a specific waterproofing system without setting foot on your property should be overlooked. When you receive a specific recommendation from a contractor (sump pump, level-footer system, etc.), be sure to ask for an explanation as to why this is the best solution for your home's waterproofing needs.

Have You Ever Experienced a Waterproofing Failure?

Any honest waterproofing contractor who has been in business for more than a couple of years has likely experienced a waterproofing system failure at some point. Any contractor who claims otherwise is either not telling the truth or they haven't done very many waterproofing projects. The key is to find a contractor who can pinpoint exactly what caused the failure, what steps he or she took to resolve the issue for the customer, and what the contractor has done to make sure the issue doesn't occur again in the future.

How Will Waterproofing Affect the Look of My Home?

Different waterproofing systems will have a different affect on your home's appearance. A sump pump, for example, will take up some space in your basement and could be an eyesore if you don't have it walled off or otherwise separated. Try to find a contractor who is willing to work with you and come up with a solution that will have minimal impact on your home's appearance--especially if you have a finished basement that you use for entertaining.

These are just a few of the most important questions worth asking as you search for a basement waterproofing contractor. By taking the time to ask these questions, you can ultimately find the waterproofing contractor who is best suited for your project. From there, you can prevent future moisture problems in your basement!