B.K. Roofing & Remodeling

French drains are also known as rubble drains or sub-surface drains, and weren’t invented by the French – instead, they were the brainchild of Henry French of Massachusetts. These drains are used outdoors in yards and agricultural spaces to help water flow properly and prevent soggy ground. Why do homes need French drains? If your home is on clay soil and you find that rainwater tends to pool in the yard or against your walls, a  French drain  is a must-have feature. Pooled water doesn’t just mean lots of mud for the dogs to track in – it means high hydro static pressure against your foundation and basement walls, which can lead to cracks, sinking, leaks and serious structural damage over time. It’s a good idea to consider a French drain if you have a problem with surface water, your driveway is getting washed out, your basement is getting wet or if you are building a retaining wall into a hillside. How do French drains work?  These drains are low-tech and sim...

Have you ever looked at your basement walls or floor and noticed a white, dusty substance? This is efflorescence. It’s not dangerous in itself, in fact, it’s composed of the minerals found in concrete, soil and water – but it is the sign of a basement leak, and that is a serious problem. Essentially, water leaks through from the soil outside your home, bringing in minerals with it. This water then moves through your concrete basement foundation or walls, picking up more minerals as it goes. Once it leaks out into your basement, it evaporates and leaves behind this mineral residue. The crystals will continue to grow while the leak remains, and while they often are seen on the outside of the wall or floor, they can form inside the structure as well. This often results in something called spalling, which can be seen when the surface starts to peel, crumble and flake as the crystals grow and push through. How to clean off and prevent efflorescence Cleaning efflorescence off you...