Month: November 2023

As the “heart of the home,” homeowners want to ensure their new kitchen meets their needs for function and aesthetics while adding lasting value to their properties. Kitchen remodels are a popular renovation and can yield one of the best returns on investment compared to other home renovations. However, the key to a successful renovation is having a knowledgeable, experienced, and trustworthy kitchen remodel contractor on your team.

A RenovationFind Certified kitchen renovation company in St. Albert has cleared a stringent screening process. We run background checks on financial and legal history, business licensing, liability insurance, and WCB coverage. In addition, a third-party organization monitors the companies for customer complaints and to ensure they’re keeping up with our high standards.

In no particular order, here is a list of the best St. Albert kitchen remodel contractors:

Odin Renovations offers full-service residential and commercial construction and renovation services in Morinville, St. Albert, Edmonton, and the surrounding area. Over the years, they’ve developed a proven reputation for quality work, professionalism, responsibility, and reliability. They’ll offer fair, market-driven pricing and a communication-centric approach for your kitchen renovation in St. Albert. In addition, they bring their expert knowledge and management skills to your project, ensuring you’re more than satisfied with the results.

Furthermore, they offer many renovation services! Whether you’re embarking on a construction project, exterior renovation, plumbing or electrical upgrade, or a significant home renovation – Odin Renovations Inc. can help make your vision a reality. Head to their website to learn more.

Key Services & Features

– Kitchen renovation services
– Interior and exterior residential and commercial construction and renovation
– Custom cabinetry and carpentry
– Other services include flooring, HVAC, electrical, plumbing
– Exterior services include roofing, decks, windows, doors, siding, doors, soffits + fascia
– Free consultation and estimate

Customer Feedback

My wife and I were looking to redesign our master bathroom, kitchen, and stair railing. We had read online and spoke to people who all had great things to say about Curtis and Odin Renovations, and boy were they not wrong! We knew as soon as we met with Curtis that his company was the perfect fit for our renovation project and we are more than thrilled with the end result!

Odin Renovations made our experience from tear down to the final touches seamless and stress free. Our family, which includes three boys, stayed in the house during the entire renovation, and the Odin team were professional, polite and patient with us and our kids the entire time.

The Odin team are punctual, responsive, professional, knowledgeable, and well organized, but most importantly, they are honest! Curtis was always upfront with everything he did and was very transparent when providing quotes or additional items that were required throughout the renovation and handled everything with the utmost of integrity. Curtis was on site many times a day throughout the project to ensure things were moving along and to update us on the timelines of the project as it progressed. We had one minor issue near the end of the project that was no fault of Odin Renovations, but Curtis was at my house within 15 minutes of my call, and everything was taken care of that very day. You couldn’t have asked for a better response from Curtis and his team.

Odin Renovations transformed our house. We can’t thank enough Curtis and his elite team of Josh, Gus, Seamus, Aaron, Cassandra, and the rest of the trades that made our dreams a reality. For all of our future renovations, I will be using Odin Renovations and you should as well. You won’t be disappointed!

– Gene, Google

2. Kay2 Contracting Ltd.

Kay2 Contracting Ltd. is your premier renovation company specializing in residential renovations, custom luxury homes, and commercial construction and renovations. Their experienced team comprises expert designers, trades, and contractors who work with you throughout the project. You’ll benefit from detailed 3D renderings and sketches of your renovation to see precisely what it will look like upon completion. They can do this for home renovation, custom home building, or commercial construction projects.

Regarding kitchen renovations in St. Albert, you can trust that Kay2 Contracting will deliver outstanding results. You can expect accurate estimates, on-time completion, modern designs, high-quality materials, and smart technology. Moreover, Kay2 Contracting has more than 25 years of experience renovating kitchens. They look forward to designing and building the kitchen of your dreams.

Key Services & Features

– Kitchen renovation services
– Interior and exterior home construction and renovation
– Custom luxury homes
– Commercial renovations
– Professional architectural design services (interior design)
– Other services include electrical, plumbing, home additions, landscaping
– Exterior services: roofing, siding, masonry, stucco soffits + fascia
– Financing options are available

Customer Feedback

Hired Kay2 to do a second floor addition in Terwilliger area. Moe and his team ensured that the construction period went as smoothly as possible since we lived in the basement. Moe was super helpful during the presentation and design. The outcome surely passed our expectations. We highly recommend this company for an excellent service and peace of mind

– Daryn, Google

3. Lambert Brothers Construction

Lambert Brothers Construction for exceptional construction and renovation services since 2006. They are a family-owned business serving the greater Edmonton area that puts relationships first. No matter the size of your home upgrade or renovation, they promise to treat you with honesty, respect, and integrity.

Furthermore, working with an in-house team is a critical part of their quality control and reliable service. Most renovation companies often use subcontractors. However, Lambert Brothers Construction does 90% of all work in-house. As a result, you can trust that everyone who steps foot in your home is highly trained and vetted by Lambert Brothers Construction. They are so confident in their services that they have a 2-year warranty on all workmanship.

Key Services & Features

– Kitchen renovation services
– Interior and exterior home construction and renovation
– Consultation with their design team
– Other services include decks, pergolas, fences, home additions
– 90% of work done in-house
– 2-year warranty on workmanship

Customer Feedback

The Lambert Brothers did a large renovation in our home which included two bathrooms and some work installing a hood fan in our Kitchen. Throughout the entire process both the on site and management team were extremely responsive and professional. They stuck to the original budget even though there were slight changes found during the demolition process and the manager always provided clear and concise updates. The on-site team was also very respectful and would always clean up the work site after each day leaving the space livable throughout. The renovation was completed about a year ago now and the quality and durability of the work completed is wonderful. I would highly recommend Lambert Brothers to anyone looking to do home renovations.

– Kevin, Google

4. Peak Improvements Ltd.

Peak Improvements Ltd. built its business on a commitment to honesty and transparency. That means a guaranteed price and no surprise charges when you get your bill. This company offers full-scale, luxury renovation services, including kitchen renovations in St. Albert, home additions, and whole-home remodels. Moreover, they operate on a design-build process. After you discuss the project’s scope with their designers, they’ll create a 3D preview of your dream space before the work begins. Construction only begins when you’re satisfied with the plan and their one-of-a-kind, fixed-price contract has been delivered.

Furthermore, Peak Improvements is dedicated to giving you exactly what you want- beautiful, quality workmanship that matches your vision and fits your budget! Peak Improvements uses a trusted network of subcontractors for absolute quality control and a lifetime warranty on materials and work.

Key Services & Features

– Kitchen renovation services
– Interior and exterior home construction and renovation
– Consultation with their in-house design team
– Other services include 3D renderings, cabinetry, finishing
– Home additions and secondary suites
– Non-transferable, limited lifetime warranty on materials and workmanship
– Guaranteed price – no surprise costs

Customer Feedback

I recently had my kitchen remodeled, and the service I received from Peak Improvements was phenomenal and stressLESS. Everyone was professional, I was always kept in the loop about the process of the work, there were no hidden costs, I knew what I was paying and when I was paying. The project manager was wonderful and I always knew who was coming and going out of my home. I always felt supported with my questions. I would highly recommend their services and will use them again in the future.

– Anastasia, Google

 

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5. M.O.D. Kitchens

M.O.D. Kitchens specializes in kitchen renovations in St. Albert, Fort Saskatchewan, Edmonton and the surrounding areas. If you’re looking for inspiration, you’ll find it at their showroom in Fort Saskatchewan. Additionally, you’ll receive a complimentary estimate and professional consultation.

You can schedule a design meeting if you’re ready to move forward with your kitchen renovation. There, the professional design team creates a custom design plan based on your wishlist. Then, after an in-home visit, they present 3D renderings and your quote for your renovation. Moreover, M.O.D. Kitchens understand that beautiful cabinets are an essential part of every kitchen remodel. Thus, they offer custom cabinetry from Columbia Cabinets, Cuisine Ideale, and Euro-Rite. There is a cabinet option for every kitchen or bathroom style, including contemporary, modern, and traditional. Additionally, M.O.D. Kitchens also provides custom closet renovations and storage solutions

Key Services & Features

– Kitchen renovation services
– Contemporary, modern, or traditional kitchens
– Bathroom and closet renovation
– Consultation with their design team
– Other services include custom cabinets
– Showroom in Fort Saskatchewan, AB
– Financing options are available
– Free quotes

Customer Feedback

We were very, very happy with the work done by MOD Kitchens in renovating our kitchen and replacing the vanities in our 3 bathrooms. Right from the first day we met with Sheila to start the process until the last day when the job was completed, they were very professional and eager to help us achieve and recreate our ideal kitchen. Everything was done according to a schedule and they were on time overall with following this schedule. They, also, finished on time other than a few minor cosmetic items that had to be completed later. Ken and his staff were very accommodating and approachable with any questions or concerns we had. We highly recommend using MOD Kitchens.

– Christina, Google

6. SCL Millwork & Cabinets Inc.

At SCL Millwork & Cabinets Inc. started providing exceptional kitchen cabinets and kitchen renovations in St. Albert and surrounding areas in 2018. They have a proven track record for beautiful and durable cabinets, woodworking and fine finishes. In addition, you can expect a high level of customer service, whether the job is big or small.

Furthermore, SCL Millwork & Cabinets Inc. strives to get to know and build customer relationships. This way, they can better meet your unique needs. This company also understands that access to affordable products can make all the difference. That’s why it is so important to them to offer competitive pricing on all their offerings.

Key Services & Features

– Kitchen renovation services
– Interior home construction and renovation
– Custom cabinetry and woodworking
-CNC wood sign carving
– Basement development and remodels
– Construction management

Customer Feedback

Water penetrating foundation walls is a leading cause of property damage. The foundation itself can weaken and crack if continuously exposed to water. And once the water penetrates your foundation, mold and mildew can ruin a basement and whatever is inside.

To keep your home dry and mold-free, you need to have your foundation properly waterproofed, ideally before damage happens.

My home is new. Do I still need waterproofing?

Unless you specifically requested full waterproofing on a new-construction home, its unlikely that your foundation is waterproof.

If you are lucky, there might be tar dampproofing, but exterior foundation waterproofing is not standard, even in areas with soggy clay soils and high water tables.

Black Tar Won’t Cut It

Waterproofing tar is the old-school way to keep a basement dry. Years ago most builders didn’t even think about “waterproofing” a foundation. In the last few decades, many builders in wet areas started slapping foundation tar onto poured concrete walls and calling it waterproofing. It’s better than nothing–but not by much.  

Foundation tar is only good as dampproofing. It’s a tough barrier that makes it harder for moisture in damp soil to seep through your foundation.

Once water has pooled up around your foundation, the asphalt is useless against water pressure. It also won’t stop damage from expansive soils, like the clay commonly found across New Jersey and Southeast Pennsylvania.

Get Technical

Construction technology has come a long way in the past thirty years. Technologies like carbon fiber and breathable polymer coatings were once limited to research labs and operating rooms. Now, they can be found at the local hardware store.

While there are a variety of products that can do the job, it is important that a waterproof foundation uses a membrane which actually forms a seal against water. Slapping black goo on your walls won’t do much more than bare concrete or a coat of housepaint to prevent long-term water damage.

Triple Protection

Best practices for waterproofing a foundation draw on three types of protection to keep your foundation as dry and mold-free as possible.

• An exterior foundation sealer is applied to block moisture and standing water.
• A french drain is installed to carry excess moisture away from the home.
• The trench for the french drain and vapor barrier is filled with gravel to promote drainage and keep expansive soil away from your home.

Moisture Barriers

Whether you live in an expensive city like Chicago, or in a suburban home in New Jersey, the most important part of a foundation waterproofing project is a barrier that surrounds a basement and prevents groundwater from reaching the porous concrete or cinderblock walls.

Contractors have quite a few options to create this barrier.

Spreadable Coatings

There are several brands of spreadable asphalt coatings which can be used as waterproofing membranes. Unlike older tar coatings, these newer coatings are flexible and won’t crack under water pressure. As rubber-based products they are also self-healing, so minor tears or damage from freezing and thawing soils will not compromise the protection of your waterproofing.

Sprayable Coatings

Several companies offer polymer-based coatings that can be sprayed on with a paint gun. Very similar to the undercoating on a 4×4 truck, these barriers form a gapless seal around your foundation walls. 

Contractors have to pay special attention to places where pipes penetrate the foundation and any joints or cracks in the poured foundation walls.  

These spots are the most likely place for water to penetrate, and the easiest to overlook

A contractor will need to totally seal around any pipes or outlets. After spraying the first layer, the contractor should stop and spot-fill any gaps or spots where the coating measures too thin. The gap where a basement floor slab meets the foundation wall should also be filled with a compatible sealant.

Plastic Sheeting

A cheaper alternative to a spray coating is the application of thick vapor barrier sheets against the foundation walls. These self-adhesive sheets require the foundation to be primed and any large cracks to be filled before they can go up.

Once in place, they provide a strong, waterproof barrier between the ground and your wall.

Drainage Mat and Gravel Fill

After the waterproof coating has been applied, waterproofing best practice is to apply a drainage board in front of it. This board will keep fill soil from resting against your walls, channel moisture to the french drain, and protect the vapor barrier from abrasion and burrowing animals. Some installation will mount this mat to foam insulation sheets before attaching it to the foundation walls.

A layer of gravel will be filled in around your drainage mat to protect it from clay soils.

French Drain

A french drain is a sloped trench with a pipe that carries water away from your foundation. Farmers have been using the technique for centuries with clay pipes, but modern french drains use PVC pipes and mesh debris guards to stay clear and effective for years. 

The french drain will work with a drainage mat to keep water from building up agianst your house. By backfilling the trench with rocks, the waterproofing company creates a sort of natural aquifer that will keep the space around your foundation relatively dry under normal conditions.

This is the best way to prevent mold and a cracked foundation because even a perfect waterproof membrane is not meant to act like the hull of a ship all the time. Water might not get through the barrier, but it can still put pressure on the poured concrete and eventually crack the foundation.

Picking the Right Contractor

A full waterproofing project is far beyond the scope of DIY. You need to excavate large sections of earth, precisely apply specialty coatings, and fill the whole project with tons of gravel.

It’s important to work with someone you can trust. It’s also important to make sure the contractor is providing quality work.

Ask what materials the contractor is using. Think twice about inferior foundation tar coatings–saving a few hundred dollars won’t mean much if your foundation springs a leak six months later.

Dry Basement Solutions is a family run company with over 20 years in the industry. To schedule a consultation call  201-258-4540 or visit their website.

Doesn’t the mere mention of arcades transport you back to simpler times? The vibrant glow of the game screens, the unmistakable game sounds, chatter, and laughter are cherished memories many of us hold close to. Why let it be a memory when you can bring that entire experience to your home? A touch of inspiration and thoughtful basement renovations can help you recreate that classic arcade aura.

Unlocking Your Basement’s Potential

Before starting this thrilling journey, you need to assess what you’re working with. Your basement, often an underutilized space, holds immense potential. Consider the total area, existing setups, and the challenges—like dampness or architectural quirks. Once you’ve mapped out the space and its challenges, you can envision how your vintage game room would fit. Remember, like any great endeavor, a fantastic game room requires a strong foundation.

Now, it’s tempting to don the DIY hat and take charge; however, for basement renovations of this magnitude, seeking expert advice might just be the wisest move. Firms like the Basement Finishing Company are masters in unlocking the true potential of basements. As you craft the dreamy details of game night, they can ensure your dream space is both secure and functional.

Picking Your Games

Your game room’s heart and soul will be, well, the games! While the classics like Pac-Man, Space Invaders, and Donkey Kong are non-negotiable, dig a little deeper. Every one of us had that one game we secretly loved, even if it wasn’t a chart-topper. Rediscover those hidden gems and give them a place of honor. While collecting, ensure they’re in tip-top shape. If you’re not tech-savvy, sourcing from a trustworthy dealer might save you future hassles.

Setting the Mood Right

While games are essential, they aren’t the sole components. The ambiance—created by neon lights, vintage posters, and perhaps a jukebox—plays an equally significant role. Comfort is paramount, so invest in plush seating options. And for that extra mile in authenticity, why not set up a corner with classic sodas or time-honored snacks? These personal touches elevate the fun quotient and provide the nostalgic feel that basement renovations of this kind promise.

Safety First, Always

It’s vital to remember that while we’re recreating the past, we should adhere to today’s safety norms. Ensure all game setups are electrically grounded and adhere to modern safety protocols. Regular maintenance can keep unexpected glitches at bay. Also, cleanliness is paramount. Those vintage machines might be robust, but dust and neglect compromise their longevity.

Calling Over Fellow Gamers

The pie’s cherry? The moments you’re about to create. Once you are done setting up, how about a launch party? Bring in friends, challenge them to a game, relive old rivalries, and let the next-gen experience the magic of classic gaming. Your revamped basement finishing won’t merely be a personal sanctuary; it will become the neighborhood’s favorite hangout spot.

Crafting a vintage game room goes beyond revamping a space; it’s about reigniting old joys, preparing new memories, and cherishing every moment. With a blend of your creative vision and the expertise of professionals like the Basement Finishing Company, you’re on track to create a room and a time capsule. So, ready to press ‘Start’?

Our team partnered with the Sims family to bring their unique vision to life- from design through construction- with a home elevator at the heart of it all.

Whole Home Remodel & Addition

Home renovations are often born out of necessity or opportunity. For Jamie and Evelyn Sims, their extraordinary Barrington home remodel and 3-story addition project was a little bit of both.

The Elevator

Planning the 3-story home elevator that they needed to make navigating their home easier yielded the perfect opportunity to completely redesign the first and second floors of their home to match the character of their basement, which was remodeled by Advance Design Studio in 2019. 

The most suitable location for the elevator was at the center of the home, where the original dining space was. To maintain a dining room and create space for the entering the elevator on the main and basement levels of the home, a 3-story addition was designed and built by the ADS team.

3-Story Addition

The addition is located off the back of the home and gave the Sims family a spacious dining room off the kitchen and an en suite master sitting room on the second floor. Both spaces are surrounded by windows, painting picturesque backyard views.

They love sharing meals in the new dining room and unwinding in their peaceful sitting room. The sitting room, located in the master suite, offers a serene escape for Evelyn and Jamie.

“It’s an amazing sitting room,” says Jamie. “I’ve never seen one better. We really use the space a lot, my wife and I. The cathedral ceiling adds a lot of volume to the room, and the space gets so much light, you feel like you’re in a treehouse.”

See more of the addition here.

An Industrial, Modern, Whole Home Remodel

Besides the elevator and 3-story addition, this project included a whole home remodel as well. The Sims wanted their home to feel airy and modern, yet inviting and classic. See the full video home tour here.

Several natural elements are incorporated amongst the modern details, including stacked stone fireplaces on each floor of the home, pebble accents in the bathrooms and entryway, and an ingenuitive plant nook with grow lights. 

The exposed cedar beams throughout the home were inspired by a trip Jamie took to Sweden and are one of his favorite design elements. The couple also partnered with local Barrington artist Edyta Szlezak to create custom wall pieces for their home that further elevate their new spaces.

The Kitchen

The custom kitchen features an oversized island with ample storage space. Cashew and white cabinetry is paired with veined Cambria quartz counters that continue up the walls as backsplash.

The combination of the handcrafted stainless steel range hood and piercing blue and gold La Cornue stove is one of Evelyn’s favorite moments. Steps away is a built-in coffee bar and second sitting room. See the full project portfolio and before photos here.

A Positive Experience

Like many Advance Design clients before them, this Barrington family is thrilled with the outcome of such an extensive home overhaul. Remodels of this scale and scope take time to design and construct, and we’re thankful to Jamie and Evelyn for partnering with us on their remodel. Each unique space in their home authentically reflects their style and accommodates their everyday needs.

We’re ready to help you make the most of your home by creating spaces that suit your needs and reflect your style too! Speak with a designer today to help you break down the steps needed to complete your specific remodel and answer your questions regarding investment ranges, layout ideas, timeframes, and more!

Nowadays, sustainability is top of mind for families looking to build a home addition or custom home. As a result, customers are looking for contractors who offer excellent building services and pay close attention to environmental impact.

In this article, O’Brien Contracting Ltd. in Vancouver shares why they keep Net-Zero building at the forefront of their work. They also share the three pillars they structure their business around.

Pillar One: Green

The first of O’Brien Contracting’s pillars is Green. This represents their company’s commitment to sustainable building practices. For O’Brien Contracting, this means always being aware of their carbon footprint and ensuring their building projects maintain Net-Zero standards.

O’Brien Contracting Ltd. achieves these standards by sourcing only the most sustainable building materials and products. Moreover, their company also uses brand new building materials for the main structures of their additions and custom builds. This is just one of the many features they can offer their clients so that their new homes and additions can be as energy-efficient as possible, even once the building is complete.

O’Brien Contracting’s Net-Zero practices are not only what makes this company unique — Net-Zero is also their passion!

Pillar Two: Family

For O’Brien Contracting Ltd., family comes first. That’s why they chose family as the second pillar in their company’s business practices. As families continue to become more environmentally conscious, they are also becoming more health conscious. O’Brien Contracting Ltd. understands this. And as a result, it’s why they remain dedicated to building homes that are as healthy as possible for the people living there.

O’Brien Contracting Ltd. makes it their mission to ensure their families’ homes work for them. That means energy-efficient new builds that will help families reduce electricity and HVAC costs. Again, they can make this happen with O’Brien Contracting’s Net-Zero building practices.

Pillar Three: Luxury

For many, the word luxury brings the idea of opulence and wealth. Yet, O’Brien Contracting Ltd. understands that luxury can mean different things to different people. If you’re a family looking for high-end luxury products in your home, O’Brien Contracting is here to help! On the other hand, luxury may simply come down to functionality for some families. Here, O’Brien Contracting Ltd. lets you decide. Whether you’re looking to build a generational home to accommodate multiple family members or want an addition for a party room or expanded kitchen, O’Brien Contracting Ltd. is here to cater to your specific needs.

Home Builders in Vancouver

O’Brien Contracting Ltd. is a family-run business owned and operated by a husband and wife team. Lane O’Brien, co-owner and operator, is a Net-Zero-trained builder. He is also a Red Seal Journeyman Carpenter. Lane decided he wanted to begin his own company after working for other construction companies and witnessing the amount of waste they could produce. Today, he’s committed to building Net-Zero, healthy homes for families. Kylie O’Brien, co-owner and design team, boasts Interior Design Certification through the Interior Design Institute. She and Lane work closely to ensure they go above and beyond for every client. Currently, O’Brien Contracting Ltd. offers services in Vancouver. However, they are also expanding into Kelowna and Victoria!

Call O’Brien Contracting Ltd. today!

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More than an online directory, we are Western Canada’s fastest-growing marketing platform for promoting and connecting the best trades, services, and home improvement companies to homeowners.

Common reasons for basement leaks and how to stop them.

A wet basement can be a nightmare. Water can lead to mold, efflorescence, and structural damage. This guide will show you common reasons for basement leaks and seepage, and how to fix them.

If you have a water problem in your basement and want it fixed quickly and professionally, contact the folks at Dry Basement Solutions for a consultation at 201-258-4540.

Problem: Poor Drainage

If water pools around the walls of your basement, it is only a matter of time until moisture starts seeping through. Groundwater leaking into your basement is often a problem with the area around your foundation, not the walls themselves. Expansive clay soils, common in NJ and southern Pennsylvania, retain water and press against your foundation.

Water follows gravity to the lowest point it can reach. Builders can take advantage of this to keep the ground around their construction as dry as possible.

From backfilling with porous soils and rock to installing drainage systems, water should not be allowed to pool up around a home’s foundation.

Properties at the bottom of hills or built on clay soils can complicate drainage problems.

Concrete walls are fine for resisting moist soil and rainfall, but they aren’t meant to act like the hull of a boat.  If you notice swamped soil or standing water around the perimeter of your house and the basement is damp after a rainstorm, you might have a drainage problem.

Solution: French Drains and Sump Pumps

French Drains

A french drain is a system that carries water away from your foundation.

To create a french drain, workers dig a trench parallel to your foundation. A perforated pipe sloping away from your house is sunken into this trench, and the pipe is covered with gravel to create a trap for groundwater.

A soil barrier is laid down atop the trench to keep the system from clogging, then the trench is filled in and the area can be landscaped like any other part of your property.

Once complete, a French Drain is a reliable way to keep your basement dry. It uses gravity and is not prone to breakdowns or vulnerable to power outages.

Sump Pumps

Sometimes passive solutions like a vapor barrier or a french drain are not enough to control poor drainage. A sump pump is an active solution. An electric water pump is installed to drain a small interior well (the sump) that collects moisture from your basement. The pump kicks on automatically as the sump fills with water.

Sump Pumps are a common feature of newer construction homes with finished basements, but unfinished basements and older construction often lack even basic waterproofing.

If you have a sump pump but water is still leaking into your house from outside, it might be damaged or not have the capacity to handle your drainage situation.

Sump pumps also have a fairly short lifespan, with most models designed for ten years under normal use, and less under heavy use.

Problem: Cracked Walls and Bad Cove Joints

Poured concrete and brick and mortar walls are both prone to develop minor cracks and leaks, in different places.

Concrete walls are vulnerable to small cracks and fissures as the foundation of a homes settles. These cracks are normally harmless, but expanding soils and water pressure can force water to seep through into your basement.

Brick foundation walls weakest point for water infiltration are the courses of grout that hold the bricks together. As water and pressure wear the grout away, water can begin draining into your basement.

Even if your walls are not cracked, there are small gaps where poured concrete walls meet the foundation slab, known as cove joints.  These joints don’t normally leak, but when the water table is high or expansive soils exert hydrostatic pressure against the foundation, water can be forced through these small joints and cause leaks or seepage at the bottom of your walls.

Solution: Repair Cracks and Install Moisture Barriers

Cracks on the inside of your basement walls can be repaired easily as long as the damage is cosmetic and the wall is structurally sound.

Structural damage can be reinforced with carbon fiber strips or steel beams.

If water is leaking in at multiple points on the wall, a polymer moisture barrier product can be applied to seal out the masonry.  

These techniques can be applied to exterior cracks as well, but the repair team will need to excavate around your foundation first. A moisture barrier system around vulnerable foundations can be combined with a french drain system and backfilling with non-expansive soils solve more difficult basement leaks.

Problem: Water Leaking from a Basement Ceiling

Water follows gravity, so it will never leak up your wall. If water is coming through your foundation from outside, it will be entering at ground level or below. Basement leaks above ground level are probably coming from somewhere else. This could include damaged siding, leaking pipes, or damaged caulk around showers, tubs, and sinks.

Solution: Check for leaking pipes.

Water is probably draining from a leak directly above the wet patch on your ceiling. If there is a fixture like a sink above that point, it is probably the culprit. It could also be a leaking interior pipe. Either way, leaks in your basement ceiling are more likely plumbing problems than basement waterproofing ones.

How to tell where water is coming in from:

• Take a walk around the outside of your home and look at the foundation for any visible cracks. You’re looking for narrow vertical cracks, probably less than 1/8th of an inch across.  It’s normal to see uniform form lines from the wood frame used to pour the foundation.
• If you don’t find cracks in the foundation, look inside for discolored rings on drywall, efflorescence on masonry or concrete, or areas that have mold or mildew. These are all signs of the general area of the leak.
• If stains, leaks, or seepage are in the center of a ceiling, there is probably a pipe or sink leaking above it, not the foundation itself.
• High humidity can also cause effects similar to a basement leak. If things are generally damp without signs of a distinct leak, your basement may need a dehumidifier to control moisture. Cooler surfaces that appear to “sweat” in the summer, like glass and exposed metal, are sure indicators of humidity. There are also some DIY options you can try before purchasing a humidifier. 

Basement Waterproofing Problems?

If you are struggling with water leaking through walls in your basement, contact the professionals at Dry Basement Solutions for a consultation. Their experienced teams know how to stop basement leaks and seepage for good!

Call 201-258-4540 for a consultation.

One of the most exciting parts of embarking on basement renovations is visualizing the final design. From chic tiles to elegant faucets, every element needs careful consideration. However, two crucial aspects that often get overlooked in the grand scheme of basement transformations are proper ventilation and lighting. These are particularly significant for basement bathrooms in Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), given our specific climate and architectural nuances.

Why Ventilation Matters in Basement Bathrooms

Ventilation plays a pivotal role in maintaining the health and durability of your newly renovated space. Bathrooms are inherently humid, and this moisture can lead to mold and mildew if not addressed. Basements, by their nature, often have more humidity than other areas in a home. Ensuring good ventilation helps circulate fresh air, lowers the risk of mold development, and keeps the air quality inside at its best.

The Basement Finishing Company emphasizes the importance of integrating effective ventilation systems during all their basement finishing projects. Here’s a quick guide to ensuring optimal air circulation: 

1. Install an Exhaust Fan: Position it near the shower or bathtub for best results. Make sure it vents outside and not just into another room or the attic.

2. Consider a Dehumidifier: If you’ve noticed your basement feeling a bit damp, especially after showers, a dehumidifier can really help balance out the humidity.
3. Window Options: If your basement design allows, installing small windows can offer an added layer of ventilation. Make sure they are sealed correctly to prevent drafts and moisture infiltration.

Brightening Up Your Basement Bathroom

A well-lit bathroom not only appears more spacious and welcoming but also ensures safety and functionality. Given that basements often lack natural light, optimizing artificial lighting becomes essential.

1. Layered Lighting: Combine ambient, task, and accent lighting. For instance, while ceiling lights offer overall illumination, sconces or vanity lights can assist in tasks like shaving or applying makeup.
2. LED Lights: Energy-efficient and long-lasting, LED lights are perfect for basement bathrooms. They emit less heat and offer a wide range of color temperatures to suit your design.

3. Consider a Light Tube or Egress Window: These are fantastic ways to channel natural light into basements. Light tubes can funnel daylight from the exterior directly into your basement bathroom.

Local Touch for Toronto and GTA Residents

Toronto and the GTA have a unique blend of historic homes and modern architecture. This diversity means that every basement renovation has its challenges and solutions. Engaging experts like the Basement Finishing Company can make this journey smoother. Their understanding of local building codes, climate-related requirements, and design sensibilities ensures that your basement bathroom is not just aesthetically pleasing but also functionally sound. 

While aesthetic elements might be the most exciting part of basement renovations, the importance of proper ventilation and lighting in basement bathrooms cannot be understated. Especially in Toronto and the GTA, where the architectural landscape is so varied, entrusting your basement finishing to seasoned professionals like the Basement Finishing Company ensures that every detail, big or small, is catered to. Your dream basement bathroom deserves nothing less!