B.K. Roofing & Remodeling

If you’ve found your dream home but it has one worrying issue – a wet basement – it’s important to know exactly what you need to do to fix it up, protect your investment and enjoy your home. Here are some insights from our  basement waterproofing team in Essex County, NJ. Get an Inspection Before You Buy  Before you make one of the biggest commitments of your life, you need to know what you’re in for. First, speak to the property owner about any underlying issues that might be behind the moisture seepage and leaks. By law, the seller has to disclose this honestly to the buyer and give you a full report. However, it is also a good idea to spend a little extra cash and have the house professionally inspected – you can even make this a condition of the sale. Not only will they be able to uncover any other issues the homeowner may be unaware of, they’ll also be able to evaluate the full extent of all the property’s problems to uncover structural issues so that you can wor...

Although we often think of the rainy season as the biggest strain on our basements and foundations, basement leaks are pretty common in the cold winter months. Our  basement waterproofing team in Staten Island, NY  explores the 3 most common reasons for this to happen. #1 Melting Surrounding Snow We like to keep our homes warm in the winter and your basement is a lot warmer than the environment outside. This radiating heat can reach up to 8 inches around your home, melting the snow and causing water to accumulate in the surrounding soil. This build-up of moisture puts pressure on your basement walls when it gets trapped between the basement and the frozen soil, causing cracks and leaks. #2 Soil That Doesn’t Drain Well Soil that doesn’t allow water to drain away quickly can be behind your leaky basement. When the soil soaks up water, it expands, and this puts pressure on your basement walls and floor. It’s a good idea to replace the soil around the foundation of yo...

With the festive season around the corner and the icy weather setting in, the last thing you want to deal with is a leaking basement! Here are some of the reasons your basement may flood in the winter (and what to do if it does) from the specialists in basement waterproofing, Rockland County, NY. Reasons Why Your Basement Can Flood In Winter  Radiating Heat: Your basement is significantly warmer than the weather outside. Therefore, if it is not properly insulated, this heat can leak out of the building where it warms up the surrounding ground, melting the snow. This water is trapped between the basement and the frozen ground, which raises the hydrostatic pressure, causing the water to push the through little cracks in your basement wall, causing leaks. It is important to properly waterproof and insulate your basement to prevent this issue. Gutters And Downspouts Too Close To Your Structure: Gutters and downspouts form a system that is supposed to move water...

Moisture in the crawl space of your home can lead to serious problems including mold, pests and even structural issues in your foundations and basement. Here are some of the most common crawl space problems that require professional solutions, from the specialists in basement waterproofing, Bergen County, NJ: Spray Foam Insulation: Spray foam insulation is a great product, but only if it is applied correctly in the right areas of a building. Unfortunately, if it is applied in a crawl space, all it does is trap moisture between the wall and the foam, causing the wood to rot and other moisture-related issues. Fiberglass Insulation: You may think that fiberglass insulation would be a great alternative to spray foam, but it has a similar effect. When exposed to moisture, the fiberglass soaks it all up, making your moisture problem even worse by attracting mold and pests. Fortunately, there is a solution in the form of high-quality crawl space vapor barriers. Poor Draina...

Working in  basement waterproofing in Monmouth County, NJ , our team often comes across water-related basement issues that are caused by one simple, but often overlooked household problem – clogged gutters. Since we are already well into Fall, and leaves are littering our gardens and roofs, we thought we’d share some insights into this seasonal challenge, the damage it can cause to your basement, and offer some solutions. The Role of Gutters for Your Home Gutter systems are designed to catch rainwater and snowmelt from your rooftop and channel it to a downspout which directs it away from your home’s foundations – either into your yard or into drains. This keeps excess water away from the base of your home. When gutters become clogged, they can’t channel this water properly and it often overflows off your roof where it pools against your home. Over time, this leads to increased hydrostatic pressure against your home’s foundation and walls, causing: Cracked or bowed w...

Basement waterproofing  is one of the single most important investments for homeowners to keep their house dry, structurally sound and mold-free. Not only is your basement a useful and potentially value-adding space in your home, it is also one home to one of the most important structures that keep your home standing – your foundation. Signs That Your Home Needs Basement Waterproofing Warning signs that homeowners should be aware of include: Cracks in your basement walls and floor Leaks in the basement Mold or musty unpleasant smells that indicate mold growth Peeling of your basement wall or floor paint Shifting of your basement wall or floors It is also important to have your basement professionally waterproofed if you are planning to furnish the space in order to keep it dry and safe to use. Basements are a fantastic opportunity for creating office space, additional living space, laundry and storage rooms, crafting rooms, workshops or even creating a living q...

Unless you’ve dealt with foundation repairs before, it’s unlikely that you’ve come across foundation piers. Here is a quick guide to this foundation stabilization solution from our  basement waterproofing team in Essex County, NJ. What is Foundation Piering?  This is a process where sections of steel pipe or concrete pilings (known as foundation piers) are driven into the ground underneath a foundation to stabilize the ground and prevent movement that can damage or compromise the structure of a home or building. Using a hydraulic pump, these foundation piers are positioned directly under the center of the foundation wall until they hit bedrock or stable ground, forming a solid, stable support point for the foundation. There are two general types of foundation piers: Push piers – These are pipes made of galvanized or coated steel that are installed using a hydraulic ram. Helical piers – These are screw piles with steel shafts that are screwed into the ground usin...

Our homes are often our biggest investment and it can feel overwhelming when you’re facing problems with your home’s foundations. However, in the hands of  basement repair specialists in Staten Island, NY , this process is far less daunting. Here are some insights into how it works. Signs That Your Basement Wall Needs Replacing  There are several very effective methods and products for repairing a damaged or leaking basement wall, which is why it’s essential to contact basement waterproofing companies as soon as you notice any issues. However, some walls are just too damaged to repair, making replacement the more effective and lasting solution. Signs to indicate that a basement wall may need replacing include: Rotting, crumbing mortar. Foundation blocks pulling away from each other. Rows of foundation blocks sliding off lower rows of blocks. Partial collapse of the basement wall. What Happens Next? Firstly, your home is completely stabilized so that it is...

Professional basement waterproofing is key to keeping your home warm, dry and structurally sound – but only if you hire the right team. Here are some signs that the company you’re interviewing isn’t up to the job, from our team of specialists in  basement waterproofing in Rockland County, NY . No proof of being bonded, licensed or insured in your state:   Being bonded, licensed and insured properly is essential not just for the proper management of a waterproofing company, but also to protect the consumer. Without this documentation, you could easily be left having to pay for poor quality or unfinished work. No guarantees:  If a basement waterproofing company won’t guarantee their work, that’s a clear warning sign that you shouldn’t hire them. The best companies in the business are proud of their warranties on the products and labor they supply, often offering a structure lifetime transferable warranty. Free water egress analysis and no-obligation quote: ...

Water damage is a common household problem that almost every homeowner has faced, but many people don’t understand the considerable risks that it presents to their health and the safety of their property. Here are some insights from the specialists in  basement waterproofing in Bergen County, NJ . Clean water damage:  This is water damage that results from excess water that is potable and safe for household use. This includes leaks from faucets, water pipes, washing machines, dishwashers and other appliances. Because the water is clean, a leak like this doesn’t initially put your health at risk but – over time – it can support mold and mildew growth. This means it’s important to resolve the leak quickly. Dirty water damage:  This water damage is a result of the structure being contaminated by water that is not fit for consumption and may contain hazardous materials. This includes flood water and sump pump overflows. It is important not to come into contact with t...

Sump pumps spend a lot of time idle, waiting for basement flooding to hit – but when it does, you need it to be in perfect working order to properly protect your home and belongings. Here’s how to test your sump pump, from our  basement waterproofing team in Monmouth County NJ. Do a visual inspection of the pipe:  Look for the pipe that transports the water from the pump to the outside outlet and check it for clogging, dirt, debris and damage. You can clear debris by hosing water through the pipe, but any damage means it should be replaced. Check the electrical supply:  Your sump pump will have two plugs into the outlet. The pump cord plugs into the back of the float cord plug. Simply remove both plugs and plug only the pump cord back in. This should cause the pump to start running, which is exactly the result you want. Don’t forget to put both plugs back into their original position. Check the sump pump operation:  Just because the sump pump runs, doesn’t ...

Heavy rains and strong storms put our homes and businesses at risk each year – here are some tips from our  basement waterproofing team in Morris County NJ  on how to prepare for flooding and stay safe. What to do Before the Storm  Before storm season, have your basement evaluated for seepage and structural issues to reduce the risk of flooding and water damage. Clear gutters and downspouts and cut tree branches away from your roof and walls. Call your insurers and make sure that your policy covers flood and storm damage sufficiently. Test your sump pump to ensure it is in good working order and install a back-up source of energy to run it if the mains go down. Stay tuned to your local news broadcaster to get up-to-date information on storm and flood activity in your area. Pack a bag with all your essentials. Along with warm clothes, remember to pack medication, important documents, a first aid kit and bottled water. Ensure that your documents are in a wate...

The rainy season is here and the last thing any homeowner wants is their  sump pump  to start failing. Here are some common causes behind a sump pump’s failure – and what to do about them – from our basement waterproofing team in Essex County, NJ. Power failure:  An electrical power outage will stop your sump pump in its tracks – but it’s a fairly easy issue to prevent, either by installing a back-up battery or a generator that will provide a reliable source of energy. Power outages can also mean power surges, which can damage some components of your sump pump, so it’s a good idea to also install a service entrance surge protection device. Old age:  Like any piece of equipment, the chances of failure increase with age. The lifespan of a sump pump is around 10 years, so if yours is over this limit, it’s probably a good time for an upgrade. Incorrect size:  A sump pump that’s too big or small for your home’s size will be under a lot of strain, which can ...

Storm season starts in June, with peak hurricane and tropical storm weather usually hitting around August to September, so now is the perfect time to prepare your home and property. Here are some tips from our  basement waterproofing team  in Staten Island, NY. Secure Your Property  Invest in permanent storm shutters of 5/8 inch marine plywood that is cut to fit for boarding up windows. Check your roof straps and clips and replace any worn items. Clear out gutters and downspouts to ensure water can run off your roof easily. Trim back trees and shrubs away from your roof and walls, and remove dead branches from other trees in your backyard. Ensure your basement is in good repair with no leaks or weaknesses in your basement walls and floor. Get your sump pump serviced and tested to ensure it’s in good working order, and install a back-up battery if you don’t have one to ensure it keeps working even in a blackout. Check Your Insurance  Speak to your in...

We spend a lot of time indoors enjoying our homes, relaxing and raising families –but the truth is that your home could be making you sick. Here are some insights from our basement repair team in Rockland County, NJ about Sick Building Syndrome and what to do about it. What is Sick Building Syndrome?  This issue is all about indoor air quality. Our homes are often reliant on heating and cooling systems to manage the quality and flow of air indoors in order to maintain comfortable temperatures and humidity levels. However, these systems and your home itself can develop air quality problems that can affect your health and wellbeing when inside the building, and this is known as Sick Building Syndrome. Common symptoms include headaches, eye/nose/throat irritation, fatigue, dizziness and even nausea, and the symptoms worsen while in the building and lessen when time is spent away from it. While this is often caused by poorly maintained HVAC systems, there are other factors t...

When you suffer from seasonal allergies, spring is less about the return of wonderful warm weather and more about dealing with constant, debilitating symptoms. Here at our basement waterproofing company in Bergen County, NJ, we’ve put together some useful tips that will help make your home a more comfortable, allergen-free space. What Causes Allergies?  Spring allergies cause a range of symptoms, including a runny nose, watery eyes, sneezing, coughing, itching eyes and sinus complaints – but what is the cause behind these symptoms and why do only some people suffer from it? The answer is that spores, pollen, dust and other tiny particles are released into the air in high volumes in the spring. These particles are recognized by the body, which responds by releasing defensive chemicals called histamines. It’s these histamines that cause your symptoms. It’s all down to how our individual immune systems respond to allergens, unfortunately, and there’s no cure. There are ...

Crawlspaces are dark, damp and warm, making them the ideal environment for mold growth. They are not easily accessible, so homeowners rarely check these areas for problems, and many people are unaware that their home, health and air quality are at risk. Here are some insights from our basement waterproofing team in Monmouth County, NJ. Identifying Types Of Mold  When it comes to homes, there isn’t a good type of mold, but there are molds that are worse than others. All  mold  should be identified quickly and removed by professionals who will also deal with the underlying issue that is causing the mold growth in the first place. If you notice mold in your home, the best and safest thing to do is call in a mold remediation team. Here is a quick guide to different types of mold: Allergenic molds:  These are considered the least dangerous, although they are able to trigger allergic reactions and respiratory issues like asthma, especially in people who are i...

Water is the enemy of basements and foundations everywhere, and one of the most popular ways of preventing structural damage and basement leaks is installing a French drain. So, is this the right solution for your home or property? Our  basement waterproofing team  for Morris County, NJ has these insights. What Is A French Drain?  Despite its name, a French drain doesn’t have anything to do with the country of France. It is actually named after a judge and farmer from Concord, MA called Henry French. The drain consists of a sloped trench filled with gravel with a pipe running through it. The water flows into the trench, filters through the gravel and flows down the pipe where it is released a safe distance from your building’s foundations, or to a municipal drain. Three Reasons To Install A French Drain  Here are the best reasons for installing a French drain: Hydrostatic pressure:  If ground water is putting pressure on your basement walls and f...

Water is one of the most powerful forces in nature and even a small trickle can result in serious structural damage if left untreated and on top of that, each home has its own needs and challenges. That’s why basement waterproofing is such a complex job – and one best left to the professionals. Here are some products you shouldn’t use to waterproof your basement, from our  basement waterproofing team in Essex County, NJ . Waterproof paint:  Waterproof paint seems like a quick, easy and affordable solution to covering your basement walls and preventing leaks – and it’s also easy to apply yourself. However, it can end up costing you much more in the long run. The lime in the concrete of your basement walls will grow efflorescence, a mineral deposit, between the walls and the paint. This will cause the paint to bubble and flake, letting moisture back into your space. It also does nothing to prevent moisture from entering the walls on the outside your basement, leading to ...

One of the most problematic areas of a home is a basement because they are so prone to water leaks and moisture build-up as well as flooding. The most effective way to transform your basement into an area that adds practical space and value to your home is through a comprehensive waterproofing solution. Although there’s no one-size-fits all solution to a wet basement, there are three basic approaches that basement waterproofing pros in Staten Island, NY use to make these spaces warm and dry. The Three Basic Methods of Waterproofing A Basement  In addition to repairing the source of a leak and damage to the  basement and foundations , waterproofing teams can advise any of the following waterproofing solutions. Interior sealant:  This will be applied to the interior of your basement walls and foundation to prevent moisture from seeping through from the outside, or from being absorbed into the structure from the inside. It isn’t advisable to use these products on ...

Even though buying a home is one of the biggest purchases we can make in our lives, the truth is that few homes are perfect. Some problems we can live with, or even improve as we go along to add to the value of the property – others, however, can mean disaster for your budget. Here are some home inspection tips that will help you make a solid purchasing decision, from our basement waterproofing company in Rockland County, NJ. Rust:  Take a close look at the HVAC system and large appliances to check for rusting. Rust not only affects the performance of this equipment and can incur steep repair and replacement costs, it also indicates the level of maintenance for the property. These appliances should be maintained on a yearly basis. Roof:  Often, we forget to look up when we look at a property, but a roof in poor condition can be very expensive to repair. Take a close look at the roof for indicators like curling/missing shingles, broken tiles, heavy moss growth and peel...

A finished basement is a fantastic asset for any home, whether you’re planning to use the space to extend your home, create a media or game room, or even turn it into an income-generating apartment. Getting the best results from your basement means getting certain crucial aspects done right – and this includes your flooring. Here is a quick guide to the best flooring options for basements, from our basement waterproofing company in Bergen County, NJ. Carpet tiles:  Easy to clean and available in a huge range of different style options, floor tiles are hygienic, durable and affordable. For basements, it’s important to use a floor tile that includes its own vapor barrier, as this raises the tile off the basement surface slightly, allowing the concrete beneath to breathe – preventing moisture issues. Floating floors:  This is another kind of slightly raised flooring that allows you to install a moisture barrier between your basement slab and the floor itself, preventing ...

A finished basement adds a huge amount of valuable and useful square footage to a home! If you’re looking for some inspiration for your home remodel, check out these great ideas from our basement waterproofing team in Monmouth County, NJ. Play area:  Basements make for the perfect den or play area for kids, and you can really go wild with different themes in this space! Fun murals on the wall keep it light and bright, there’s enough space to store all the toys, and you can even install a proper playhouse! Wine cellar dining area:  If you have a love for wine,  transform your basement  into your own space for enjoying and appreciating it! Transform your basement into a classy wine bar, with bare stone walls lined with bottles, comfortable seating and a bar for all your paraphernalia. Entertainment center:  You won’t get glare on your TV screen when you have an entertainment center in your basement! Create your own cinema with comfortable seating, a big ...

2018 has just begun, and is the perfect opportunity to make positive changes in your home! Here are some great New Year’s resolutions for keeping your basement in great shape and adding value to your home, from our  basement waterproofing team in Morris County, NJ . Ensure water is flowing away from your home:  Landscaping plays an important role in keeping water away from your foundation and basement walls, and making a few changes around the outside of your home can be an effective solution to your problems. Water should be able to flow away from your home’s walls without forming puddles. Installing a French drain and moving flower beds away from your home is highly recommended. Invest in metal window wells for your basement:  Basement windows can become traps for water if they are not constructed properly. We recommend metal window wells that are covered with gravel or pebbles, so water can drain away easily rather than seeping into your basement. Ensure appl...