Basement Systems Toronto Q&A

Plastic sump pumps aren't inherently bad, but consider the following before choosing between plastic and cast iron:

Cost: Plastic sump pumps are cheaper upfront, but cast-iron pumps offer better value due to lower maintenance and replacement costs.

Longevity: Cast-iron pumps withstand wear and heat better, reducing the risk of motor breakdowns. They are also less susceptible to damage from debris like rocks.

Yes, a home can collapse from severe foundation issues. These problems can cause significant structural instability, leading to sagging floors, cracked walls, and misaligned doors and windows. If left unaddressed, the home's structural integrity can deteriorate to the point of collapse. It's essential to address foundation issues promptly to prevent such severe consequences. Consulting a foundation repair specialist can help diagnose and resolve problems before they cause catastrophic damage.

Yes, basement cracks can worsen significantly during the winter. As temperatures drop, water that seeps into existing cracks can freeze and expand, causing the cracks to widen. This freeze-thaw cycle can weaken the foundation over time, leading to water infiltration, structural instability, or even further damage when snow and ice begin to melt. Addressing cracks before winter sets in is crucial to preventing these issues. Professional repairs, such as crack sealing or foundation stabilization, can provide long-term protection and peace of mind.

Yes, encapsulating your crawl space can lead to substantial energy savings. By sealing off the crawl space and stopping air leaks, encapsulation helps regulate your home's temperature more effectively. This reduces the workload on your heating and cooling systems, making them operate more efficiently. Additionally, it prevents moisture buildup, lowering humidity levels and boosting overall energy efficiency in your home. Over time, these improvements can result in noticeable reductions in your energy bills.

When it rains heavily, especially over long periods of time, the soil around your home becomes soaked and heavy. That added water weight can put greater strain on your home's foundation walls. This can cause your foundation walls to crack, bow, tip in, or fail completely. There are many preventative measures you can take to strengthen your foundation before this happens. These include galvanized steel foundation push piers, helical pier systems, crawl space steel support beams, and foundation wall anchoring systems.

To determine if you need a sump pump, consider factors like having a basement or crawl space, geographical location (especially in flood-prone areas), history of water issues, and soil composition (if it doesn't drain well). Also, take into account home construction, local building codes, and the presence of radon gas. Consulting with professionals, such as basement waterproofing specialists, can help assess your situation and guide you based on local conditions and regulations. A home inspection when buying a property can also reveal if a sump pump is advisable based on its characteristics.

We offer various types of sump pumps designed to safeguard your basement in diverse conditions, including normal flow, rapid flow, high volume, and during electricity outages. Put your worries to rest – your basement is now permanently protected!

Insurance coverage for foundation repairs depends on factors like the cause of damage, your policy type, and any exclusions or limitations. Generally, sudden events like burst pipes or trees may be covered, while gradual wear and tear may not. Review your policy for specifics, including any exclusions like for damages caused by floods, earthquakes, or settling of the soil, coverage limits, or optional coverage. Regular maintenance can help prevent issues and improve coverage eligibility, as insurance companies typically do not cover damage resulting from lack of maintenance or negligence.

No, a crawl space does not need to be vented. In fact, crawl space vents can let in moisture, leading to mold, wood rot, and pest infestations. They can also reduce energy efficiency by allowing cold air in during winter and hot air in summer. Sealing and insulating the crawl space is a better approach to protect your home.

Signs of a mold issue in your home include visible patches on surfaces, a musty odor, evidence of water damage or leaks, allergic reactions such as sneezing or skin irritation, high humidity levels, condensation on windows or walls, and inadequate ventilation in moisture-prone areas. It's important to address mold promptly to prevent further damage and potential health risks. Consider professional mold remediation if the problem is extensive or if you have concerns about safely removing the mold. Learn more about mold problems by reading our blog here. Call us at 416-227-5455 or fill out our form to learn more about our mold solutions.

Cold temperatures during winter can cause the ground around your home to freeze and expand. This natural process, known as frost heave, puts significant pressure on your foundation, which can lead to cracks, structural damage, or leaks over time. Additionally, as snow and ice begin to melt, the excess water can seep into your basement or crawl space if it isn’t properly waterproofed. Without adequate protection, this can result in water damage, mold growth, and other costly issues. Preparing your basement or crawl space for winter is essential to avoid these problems and keep your home safe and dry.

It's critical to identify a basement water leak as soon as possible to prevent major damage to your home. The following signs and techniques can assist you in spotting a potential water leak:

1. Moisture or mold stains: Examine the walls, floor, and ceiling of the basement for areas of discolouration, mold growth, or moisture stains. These indicators may be related to water infiltration.
2. Mildew odor: A persistent mildew odor in the basement may indicate moisture buildup, often caused by a water leak.
3. Increased humidity: If the feeling of humidity in the basement has increased significantly for no apparent reason, this may indicate a leak. To keep an eye on humidity levels, you can buy a moisture detector and put it in an at-risk location.
4. Water pool: Look for any places in the basement where water seems to pool, particularly close to the walls or corners. A small accumulation of water can clearly indicate a leak.
5. Paint or wallpaper peeling: Water seeping into walls can cause paint or wallpaper to peel. Check your wall surfaces closely for any irregularities.
6. Listen for the sound of water: When the basement is quiet, listen carefully for the sound of water, such as dripping or trickling.
7. Water meters: Turn off all water-using appliances, then monitor the water meter. Should the meter keep running, there might be a plumbing system leak.
8. Hire a Professional: If you suspect a leak but can't find any obvious signs, it could be wise to schedule an in-depth inspection with a waterproofing specialist.

It's crucial to take immediate action if you are unsure or notice any indications of a water leak. Leaks that go untreated can lead to major repair expenses, encourage the spread of mold, and cause structural damage.

The Basement Systems TripleSafe sump pump system is a top-tier solution that addresses common issues in other systems such as pump failure, insufficient pumping capacity, and power failure. It features three high-quality cast-iron pumps to handle various scenarios:

1. A primary pump operates under normal circumstances, set at the lowest level to handle regular pumping needs, up to 2,600 gallons of water per hour.
2. A secondary pump, set slightly higher, takes over if the primary pump fails or during heavy rain, ensuring efficient water removal up to 6,200 gallons of water per hour.
3. In case of a power outage, the third pumping system, an UltraSump battery-operated backup, activates automatically. This pump operates off a battery power supply, and an alarm alerts you to its operation.

The TripleSafe boasts outstanding features, including an accessible two-piece airtight lid that keeps out moisture, odors, and insects. It also has a specially designed floor drain to address plumbing leaks, preventing damp air from entering the basement. Additionally, a water watch alarm system alerts you before water rises above pump operating ranges, providing comprehensive protection.

The time you can wait to fix foundation problems depends on several factors:

Severity:

1. Minor Issues: Small cracks (less than 1/8 inch) can be monitored but should be checked regularly. Keep in mind that the problem is smaller, it will be easier and less expensive to fix.
2. Moderate Issues: Cracks between 1/8 and 1/4 inch or signs of water infiltration should be addressed as soon as possible to avoid the formation of mold.
3. Severe Issues: Large cracks (greater than 1/4 inch), significant settling, or structural shifts need immediate attention.

Type of Foundation:

1. Slab: Monitor cracks closely; act immediately if floors are uneven or doors/windows stick.
2. Basement: Repair water infiltration or large cracks promptly to prevent serious damage.
3. Crawl Space: Address sagging floors or moisture issues quickly to avoid further damage.

Environmental Conditions:

1. Soil: Expansive soils need timely repairs to prevent worsening damage.
2. Climate: Heavy rainfall or freeze-thaw cycles require prompt repairs.

Signs of Progression:

1. Changes: Widening cracks or new cracks forming indicate worsening problems. Immediate action is necessary.

Risks of Delaying Repairs

• Increased structural damage and repair costs.
• Safety hazards.
• Reduced resale value.

Actions

• Monitor: Regularly check for changes in minor cracks.
• Consult: Get a professional inspection to assess urgency.
• Repair: Plan and budget for repairs based on professional advice.

Address significant foundation problems promptly by contacting a qualified foundation repair professional to avoid further damage and increased costs. We offer free inspections to assist you with your foundation needs.

The timeframe for repairs varies based on the extent of the damage and the type of work needed. Minor repairs might take a few days, whereas larger projects could extend to several weeks. It's essential to consult a qualified professional for an accurate assessment of foundation settlement issues.

When properly installed and maintained, a high-quality basement waterproofing system can last for decades. Systems like the WaterGuard® Basement Drainage System are designed for durability and come with a lifetime warranty, ensuring long-term peace of mind.

When properly installed and maintained, crawl space encapsulation can last for decades, providing your home with long-term protection. By sealing out moisture and preventing mold growth, it helps safeguard the structural integrity of your home, improves air quality, and increases energy efficiency. Regular inspections and maintenance of your encapsulation system, such as checking the vapor barrier and dehumidifier, ensure it continues to perform effectively for many years.

The frequency of emptying your crawl space dehumidifier depends on factors like the unit's capacity, humidity levels, and the size of the space. Here are some guidelines:

• Capacity: Larger dehumidifiers collect more moisture before needing to be emptied.
• Humidity Levels: Higher humidity means more frequent emptying.
• Crawl Space Size: Bigger spaces may require more frequent attention.
• Continuous Drainage: Some models, like the SaniDry Sedona, offer automatic drainage, reducing the need for manual emptying.
• Monitoring: Regularly check the tank and empty it as needed, typically every 1 to 3 days.

Always refer to your dehumidifier's manual for specific guidance and consider addressing any persistent moisture issues directly.

Ineffective Solutions:

• Total foundation replacement
• Concrete underpinning
• Concrete piers

Effective Solutions:

Steel Push Piers:

• Made of steel and driven deep into the soil to bedrock
• Can be installed inside or outside the foundation
• Lifts the home back to its original position, closing cracks and improving door and window function

Installation Process:

1. Remove soil where the pier will be driven
2. Install a heavy-duty steel bracket below and against the foundation's footing
3. Hydraulically drive steel pier sections through the bracket to bedrock or stable soil
4. Transfer the weight of the home through the piers, lifting it back to its original position
5. Backfill the soil, permanently stabilizing the home

Helical Piers:

• Similar benefits to push piers
• Installed inside or outside the foundation
• Lifts the home and addresses issues caused by settlement

Installation Process:

1. Remove soil where the helical pier will be installed
2. Position heavy-duty foundation brackets below the footing
3. Transfer the weight of the home through the helical piers to stable soil
4. Lift the home back to its original position

Both systems ensure your home is permanently stabilized and address foundational issues effectively.

A foundation crack must be sealed with care to prevent it from reopening or crumbling due to soil or wall movements. Rigid sealants provide only temporary relief and fail to address the underlying issue.

Enter the FlexiSpan wall system, which effectively seals cracks while accommodating wall movements over time. Its rubbery, waterproof composition prevents future cracking by adjusting to wall and soil shifts. Made of durable, water-resistant materials, it also blocks water vapor and infiltration, ensuring long-term stability.

For cracks stemming from structural problems, turn to CarbonArmor or PowerBrace wall reinforcement systems. These solutions offer permanent stabilization, addressing the root cause of foundation issues once and for all.

To identify black mold in your home, look for dark greenish-black, slimy, or fuzzy spots, particularly in damp areas like bathrooms, basements, kitchens, or near leaky pipes and windows. Black mold often emits a strong, musty odor, most noticeable in moist environments. Symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, breathing difficulties, runny nose, red eyes, skin rashes, headaches, and fatigue can also indicate mold exposure. Physical signs include persistent dampness, water stains, peeling paint, or bubbling wallpaper. You can use home test kits to detect mold spores or hire a professional inspector for a definitive diagnosis. To prevent and remediate black mold, keep indoor humidity levels below 60%, fix leaks, ensure proper ventilation in damp areas, and regularly clean and disinfect areas prone to mold growth.

Yes, waterproofing is a wise preventive measure to protect against future water damage. Even if your basement hasn’t flooded before, changes in weather, soil saturation, or small cracks can eventually lead to issues. Waterproofing helps protect your foundation and maintains your home's structural integrity.

Yes, you can safely use your crawl space for storage if it has been properly encapsulated and waterproofed. Encapsulation shields the space from moisture, mold, pests, and temperature changes, creating a more stable and cleaner environment. Without encapsulation, items stored there may be exposed to humidity, mold, and potential pest problems. For optimal storage conditions, it’s recommended to install an encapsulation system and possibly a dehumidifier to keep the space dry and clean.

Replacing a sagging foundation might seem like a solution, but it doesn't address the root cause—unstable soil beneath it. Without stabilizing the soil, the new foundation will likely sag again. Techniques like piering target the underlying issue, providing long-term stability and preventing future movement, making them a more effective solution than replacement alone.

DIY crawl space encapsulation presents significant risks due to the complexity of the process, which involves multiple steps requiring specific skills. Mistakes made during DIY attempts can compromise the effectiveness of encapsulation, potentially leading to costly repairs or the need for professional intervention later on. Additionally, crawl spaces often harbor mold, mildew, pests, and other contaminants, posing health hazards to DIYers who may lack the proper equipment and expertise to work safely in such environments. Furthermore, DIY work may inadvertently void warranties on equipment or flooring, and homeowners may underestimate the time and effort required for the project, leading to frustration and delays. Inadequate installation may also fail to deliver the long-term benefits expected from encapsulation and may not comply with local building codes or regulations, causing issues when selling the home in the future. Hiring a professional encapsulation company ensures expertise, compliance, and long-term effectiveness, ultimately saving homeowners time, money, and hassle.

What causes foundation settlement?

Foundation settlement occurs when the ground beneath a house can no longer support it. This can happen due to several reasons, including changes in soil conditions such as drying, shrinking, wetting, and softening. Poorly backfilled soil, droughts, floods, inadequate drainage, and construction practices also contribute to foundation settlement.

Indicators of Foundation Settlement

To determine if your house's foundation is settling, look for the following signs:

Outside:

• Stair-step cracks in brickwork
• Chimneys separating from the house
• Cracks extending from the corners of doors and windows
• Separation of doors or windows from their frames or exterior finishes
• Doors and windows out of square
• Newly applied caulking around doors and windows

Inside:

• Stair-step cracks in concrete walls
• Vertical cracks in poured concrete walls
• Cracks in the concrete slab
• Cracks in the drywall, especially upstairs

Solution

To address foundation settlement, it's crucial to install a permanent solution that adapts to soil changes over time. Our push piers system provides a lasting fix, ensuring stability and giving you the peace of mind you deserve.

You might need basement waterproofing if you notice:

• Damp or wet walls and floors
• Musty odors
• Visible mold or mildew
• Water stains or discoloration
• Efflorescence (white, chalky residue)
• Cracks in the foundation or walls
• Standing water or puddles

If you observe any of these signs, it’s time to consider waterproofing solutions from a reliable contractor. We offer free quotes and inspections.

Signs that your crawl space needs repair include standing water, mold, mildew, wood rot, and sagging floors. Other indicators are cracks in walls, pest infestations, deteriorating insulation, musty odors, increased allergy symptoms, high indoor humidity, and rising energy bills. Prompt repairs can prevent further damage and keep your home healthy.

Sagging floors can be attributed to three primary factors:

1. Insufficient spacing between existing columns: When columns within the crawl space are positioned too far apart, the beam may experience an excessive load, resulting in sagging between the columns.
2. Deterioration of floor joists and beams: Due to the lack of sealing in crawl spaces, elevated moisture levels contribute to the formation of mold and compromise the structural integrity of floor joists and beams, causing them to weaken.
3. Settlement of existing columns: The presence of weak soil beneath the house can lead to the settling of existing columns, causing a gap to form between the top of the column and the bottom of the beam it was originally supporting.

Even if you rarely venture into your crawl space, it significantly influences the conditions inside your home. Excessive humidity in the crawl space can lead to severe issues such as deteriorating floorboards, unstable support beams, uneven floors, and the potential for hazardous mold spores to infiltrate your living areas.

According to the recommendations from the government of Canada, maintaining relative humidity levels (RH) between 30% and 50% is crucial for a healthy home environment.

Ensure your home's well-being by monitoring relative humidity. A hygrometer can be purchased to measure the water vapor content in the air. Alternatively, take advantage of our complimentary inspection service, where we employ advanced tools to assess humidity levels and provide a free estimate for effective solutions. Prioritize your home's health today.

A damp crawl space can have several negative effects on your home. Excess moisture encourages mold growth, which not only leads to unpleasant odors but can also spread into your living spaces, affecting the air quality. Prolonged exposure to mold can cause health problems, especially for those with allergies or respiratory issues. Additionally, the moisture can cause wood rot, weakening the structural integrity of your home's foundation, floors, and support beams. Over time, this can result in costly repairs and even compromise the stability of your home. Preventing moisture in the crawl space is essential to maintaining a healthy, durable, and safe home environment.

The water table is like an invisible line beneath the ground where the soil is soaked with water. It represents the upper level of groundwater within an area. It can fluctuate due to factors such as precipitation, local drainage systems, and human activities like groundwater extraction for drinking water, agriculture, and industrial use, as well as human-made structures like dams, reservoirs, and canals that divert water from certain areas.

Understanding the water table is crucial in hydrogeology, the study of subsurface water movement. In regions with high precipitation or significant water input into the soil, the water table may rise, approaching the surface. Conversely, during dry periods or extensive groundwater usage, it may recede.

The depth of the water table impacts factors such as groundwater availability for wells, ecosystem health, and structural stability. This knowledge is vital for land use planning and environmental conservation, as alterations in the water table can affect both natural and human-made systems. For instance, it can lead to water seepage in basements and foundation issues.

Experiencing water-related concerns in your basement, crawl space, or foundation? Reach out to us at (416) 227-5455 for a complimentary inspection and estimate, or click here for assistance.

Crawl space encapsulation is the process of sealing and insulating the space beneath a house, known as a crawl space. This is done by installing moisture barriers, sealing openings, and using insulation. This method aims to create a controlled environment, limiting humidity and preventing various problems such as mold, wood degradation and structural damage. In short, crawl space encapsulation helps maintain a dry, clean, and stable space, improving quality of life and preserving the structure of the home.

IceGuard is a specially designed anti-freeze system for sump pump discharge lines. It features perforations that allow water to escape safely even if the discharge line becomes blocked or frozen due to ice buildup. This prevents water from backing up into your basement, which could otherwise cause flooding and water damage during freezing temperatures. By ensuring your sump pump continues to function effectively, IceGuard provides an extra layer of protection for your home, making it an essential safeguard during harsh Canadian winters.

Various molds pose health risks, with Stachybotrys chartarum, commonly known as "black mold," being a well-known producer of harmful mycotoxins. These toxins can lead to respiratory issues, allergies, and skin irritations. However, not all molds that appear black are Stachybotrys, and not all molds producing mycotoxins are black. Other molds like Aspergillus, Penicillium, and Cladosporium can also be harmful, especially to those with allergies, asthma, or weakened immune systems. Severity of health risks depends on factors like mold type, exposure duration, and individual sensitivity. If you suspect mold in your home, prompt professional assessment and treatment are crucial, especially for extensive growth or potentially dangerous molds. Always seek expert guidance for a safe and effective solution.

Common pests that can infiltrate crawl spaces or basements include rodents (such as rats and mice), insects (like ants, cockroaches, and termites), spiders, silverfish, earwigs, centipedes, millipedes, mold, squirrels, raccoons, and occasionally snakes. To prevent these, you should seal entry points, reduce moisture, and maintain your basement or crawl space regularly. For a free quote & inspection, fill out our form or call us at (416) 227-5455

Dirt crawl spaces can lead to various problems, including:

1. Moisture Issues: Dirt crawl spaces are prone to moisture buildup from the ground, leading to dampness, mold, and mildew growth. This can affect indoor air quality and contribute to respiratory problems.
2. Pest Infestation: Open dirt crawl spaces provide easy access for pests like rodents, insects, and termites. These pests can cause damage to the structure of the home and pose health risks to occupants.
3. Structural Damage: Moisture in dirt crawl spaces can lead to wood rot and structural damage to floor joists, beams, and support columns. Over time, this can compromise the integrity of the entire structure.
4. Energy Loss: Uninsulated dirt crawl spaces can result in energy loss as cold air enters the home through the floor. This can lead to higher heating bills and discomfort for occupants.
5. Poor Indoor Air Quality: Mold, mildew, and pest droppings in dirt crawl spaces can release harmful allergens and pollutants into the air, leading to poor indoor air quality and potential health issues for occupants.
6. Odors: Moisture and mold growth in dirt crawl spaces can produce musty odors that can permeate the home, making it unpleasant to live in.
7. Radon Gas: Dirt crawl spaces can be a source of radon gas, a radioactive gas that can seep into the home through cracks and openings in the foundation. Radon exposure is associated with an increased risk of lung cancer.

Addressing these issues typically involves encapsulating the crawl space with vapor barriers, installing proper drainage systems, insulating the space, and ensuring adequate ventilation with dehumidifiers to prevent moisture buildup and improve indoor air quality. Contact us for more information about our crawl space services.

When signs of foundation settling appear in a house, it's crucial to promptly seek the expertise of a qualified professional. Warning signs can include visible cracks in interior or exterior walls, doors, and windows not closing properly, sagging floors, or detached chimneys.

Acting quickly helps minimize existing damage and prevents further deterioration of the house's structure, which could otherwise lead to more complex and expensive repairs.

In Ontario, sump pumps are not universally mandated by law. However, the Ontario Building Code requires their installation in situations where gravity drainage is not feasible. This means that if a property cannot use natural gravity to manage water drainage, a sump pump system must be installed to discharge water into a sewer, drainage ditch, or dry well. Additionally, sump pumps are recommended for homes with water issues, particularly in flood-prone areas or those with high water tables.

A musty smell in your basement usually indicates an excess of moisture or humidity, fostering the development of mold and mildew. Various factors can contribute to a musty odor in basements:

Insufficient Ventilation: Inadequate airflow within the basement allows for the accumulation of moisture, encouraging the proliferation of mold and mildew.

Leaks or Water Infiltration: Water seepage from pipes, walls, or the foundation can introduce moisture to the basement, creating an optimal environment for the growth of mold and mildew.

Elevated Humidity Levels: Basements, being situated below ground, are predisposed to heightened humidity levels. Without proper humidity control, this can result in the manifestation of musty odors.

Dampness: Basements may naturally harbor damp conditions, particularly when not adequately sealed or when there is inadequate drainage around the foundation. Even wet clothes left in the basement can cause the growth of mold and mildew.

Absence of Sunlight: Mold and mildew flourish in dim and damp settings. The lack of natural light in your basement may contribute to the proliferation of these organisms.

Mold can grow anywhere, releasing harmful white, green, or black spores. In its initial phase, referred to as mildew, it presents a powdery appearance and thrives on exposed surfaces, causing damage to materials. Given the substantial adverse effects mold and mildew can have on both your health and home, it is crucial to tackle these issues quickly.

Your sump pump plays a critical role in protecting your basement from water damage, especially during late winter and early spring when snow and ice begin to melt. If the pump isn’t in proper working condition, it may fail when you need it most, leading to basement flooding and costly repairs. Regularly inspecting and testing your sump pump before winter ensures it’s ready to handle the increased water flow from snowmelt. Additionally, installing a backup system, such as a battery-powered backup pump, provides extra peace of mind by keeping your basement protected during power outages or pump malfunctions.

Foundation problems are not only frustrating, but also worsen over time. Permanently fixing a failing foundation significantly enhances your property value, improves your quality of life, and provides peace of mind. Temporary solutions like patching drywall or tuck pointing cracks and mortar joints are ineffective because they only cover up the damage instead of addressing the root cause. Additionally, these band-aid fixes require repeated efforts, leading to wasted time and money, and resulting in unsightly, short-lived repairs. Consequently, homes with foundation issues often sell at a discount. In the long run, it's more cost-effective to fix the issue permanently than to avoid it.