Complete Basement Systems Ready to Protect Denver Area Homeowners from Radon Gas

Aurora, CO – Homeowners in Colorado are exposed to some of the most dangerous levels of radon in the country and an expanding business is ready to keep people safe from this toxic gas. Employees of Complete Basement Systems have just completed expert-level training and are ready to take care of all of the area’s radon problems - a problem which kills more than 20,000 people every year.

 

A study by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) shows that Coloradoans are at a high risk when it comes to radon exposure.  Radon is an invisible, odorless gas that comes from the natural radioactive breakdown of uranium in soil, rock and water.  The danger occurs when high levels of radon become concentrated in a home. When radon is inhaled, radioactive particles become trapped in lungs and decay, damaging lung cells.  Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers.

That’s why Rod Martin, owner of Complete Basement Systems in Aurora, CO decided to add radon mitigation to his already basement systems business. Martin says, “Keeping families safe in their own homes isn’t just a business for me, it’s my passion. We are excited to be able to give homeowners some peace of mind and clean air to breathe.”

Complete Basement Systems offers a full range of radon services, including testing and radon mitigation systems in greater Denver.

View the study by the Environmental Protection Agency online for more information.

Tom DiGregorio on TrustDale

Home improvement tips by Tom DiGregorio, owner of AquaGuard Basement Systems, Atlanta’s premier Basement Waterproofing Contractor.  In this episode Tom explains how he managed to solve Dale’s own wet basement problem.

TDTV Sea 01 Ep 42 Airdate: 06/19/2011 Part 4 from TrustDale Team on Vimeo.

TrustDale Recommends AquaGuard for Wet Basement Repair in Atlanta, GA

Dale Cardwell, consumer protection advocate from TrustDale TV recommends AquaGuard Basement Systems for basement waterproofing, foundation repair and crawl space encapsulation in the Atlanta Metro area. Find out why AquaGuard is the best Atlanta Waterproofer!

Mold: Bad on bread and bad in crawlspaces but good on cheese...go figure

by: John Salmon

Let’s face it, mold is everywhere.  Bathrooms, kitchens, basements and crawlspaces--anywhere where there is a heavy concentration of heat and moisture--can become a breeding ground for airborne mold and mildew spores.  Even newly constructed homes are not immune to the threat of mold.  Some studies suggest that as many as 30% of newly built houses will have mold.  Settling into many common building materials such as plywood, drywall, and carpeting, mold spores will begin their growth within 24 hours to 10 days (given ideal growing conditions). 

Once firmly entrenched in the warm nooks and crannies of a house mold can, at high levels, begin to affect indoor air quality  and over time become a serious health risk to homeowners.  Health issues and conditions associated with the continuous inhalation of mold and mildew spores can range from the benignly irritating to the seriously hazardous; causing allergic reactions, asthma, eye, nose and throat irritation, and chronic respiratory problems like infection and bronchitis.  A joint study by the EPA and Berkeley National Laboratory fond that: “Of the 21.8 million people reported to have asthma in the U.S., approximately 4.6 million cases are estimated to be attributable to dampness and mold exposure in the home.”

 

Keep Radon on your radar....

 by: John Salmon

A naturally occurring gas that rises from the earth, radon, is one of the densest forms of gas found on the planet.  Completely colorless, odorless and tasteless radon can accumulate in small enclosed spaces (such as basements, attics, and crawlspaces) where, due to its extreme radioactivity, its long term presence can become a serious health hazard.  According to EPA studies (and warnings from the Surgeon General) radon can be linked to occurrences of lung cancer (in areas where radon concentration is high enough) with a fatality rate of 21,000 deaths per year in the US alone making it one of the worlds most hazardous indoor air contaminants second only to cigarette smoking.

Radon enters the home through the ground.  Released naturally from the soil it is drawn into the home through cracks in the foundation (and in some cases disperses through the water supply) where it proceeds to circulate throughout the house.  If you suspect your home has radon, or are thinking about selling your home and want to have it tested to avoid a complicated home sale, you simply need to contact a Radon Measurement Specialist.  These trained technicians will provide professional service and testing as well as a prompt report on the findings of the radon test (as well as a list of options on how best to remediate the problem.)

See the links below to find out the radon levels in your area.

http://nc-radon.info/NC_counties.html

http://sc-radon.info/SC_counties.html

Humidity: Your Crawl Space's Worst Enemy

by: Zach Stachura 

 

Myrtle Beach, SC – When humidity finds its way into your crawl space it can cause numerous problems. Not only does it have the potential to destroy your crawl space but it also has the capability to spread these problems throughout your entire house.

Humidity enters your crawl space when the air outside is warmer than the air inside. This will then cause condensation on the floor joists, insulation, beams, floor and anything else stored in the space. When this happens it is the perfect environment for mold and rot to grow which produces a foul odor. The rotting wood will attract insects, such as termites. These insects will then attract rodents that will feed off of them. 

This humidity can have effects that go beyond the crawl space walls. Humidity can cause things like drywall cracks and uneven floors throughout your home. This is a common scenario we see, but luckily we have a solution for it. 

To solve your crawl space problems we use a 5 step process to permanently remove humidity from your crawl space and home. 

•    First, we install door and vent covers. This is to stop the cycle of humidity and moisture that has been entering your home in the past.

•    Second, we remove any standing water sources by installing a crawl space drain and sump pump system. 

•    Third we repair any sagging or areas damaged by mold and rot of the crawl space. This is the step in which we would install crawl space support jacks to restore the structure to its original position

•    Fourth, we encapsulate and insulate the crawl space. This stops the moisture from passing through the floors and concrete walls. We use a durable crawl space liner which will not only keep moisture out but will also be able to be used as storage space.

•    Our Fifth and final step is to install a dehumidifier. We install energy efficient, self draining crawl space dehumidifiers that will suck any remaining moisture out of the air. We also can install crawl space fans that vent air from your home into the crawl space. This will help keep crawl space humidity to a minimum.

CleanSpace of the Carolinas is a locally owned and operated contractor that has been serving the residents of North and South Carolina since 1962.  We specialize in basement waterproofing, crawl space repair and mold removal in Lancaster, SC and surrounding areas. Visit CleanSpace of the Carolinas online for a free basement waterproofing, crawl space repair, or mold removal estimate in SC.

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Basement Waterproofing: Is it for the Experts?

by: Donna Kshir

 

Most newly constructed homes come equipped with a finished basement and the benefits are quite rewarding to the homeowners. These homeowners have little issues with dampness, wetness, mold, mildew and foul smells. However, many people prefer the choice of an older home that offers the look and feel they desire, but a lot of older homes do not have a waterproofed or finished basement. A damp basement can be a nightmare, but a dry, clean basement is a homeowner’s dream; as it greatly increases the amount of storage and living space, and the value of a home.

Your basement can be used for storage and redesigned as a home office, bedroom, or family room or playroom for your children; but first it should be waterproofed.

Why is Basement Waterproofing Important?

Water leakage is a very common problem among homeowners, but this dilemma can be solved by hiring the right contractor and following a few easy steps.

Basement waterproofing is a positive measure used to prevent, and hopefully stop, water from entering into the basement of your home. In order for waterproofing to be successful, the space must be properly drained and sealed.

Although basement waterproofing is common, there are areas of your basement that are more prone to flooding than others, especially where there is a buildup of ground water. 

Can I Waterproof My Own Basement?

Many homeowners try to take matters into their own hands and try to solve their water issues, but many times these homeowners resort to over the counter waterproofing methods. Paints and sealants may be cheap, but their effect is very short term and end up costing the homeowner more time and money in the long run.

How Does a Leaky Pipe or Slow Drip Affect My Basement? 

A leaky pipe, big or small, or a slow but steady drip can and will rob your home of a comfortable, dry basement. Experts suggest performing monthly maintenance or regularly scheduled inspections, checking all areas of your home, especially those that are exposed to water; the kitchen, bathroom, laundry room, and basement. 

Keep in mind; even the smallest of leaks or drips has the tendency to create concrete-eroding puddles. These puddles can occur in a short amount of time with very little effort from the water source.

Make sure to fix all drips or leaks immediately. For those not familiar with plumbing, it is best to contact a professional plumber who can evaluate the situation, give his expert opinion and tell you the best method to take to prevent any structural damage to your foundation. It is best to fix the problem before it becomes too large and costly.

Even More Benefits

A waterproofed basement prevents water damage, bad smells and odors, and mold and mildew. A wet basement can cause side effects and health issues; breathing difficulties, topical skin irritations, and allergies in some adults and children.

Solution

A good waterproofing expert will examine your basement and recommend the best and most cost efficient way to solve the problem. Some waterproofing contractors give a free estimate, discuss your options, and give plenty of time to make the best decision.

The experts at Basement Systems Vancouver are the specialist for you! They offer free estimates for basement waterproofing in Vancouver BC and nearby!

Crawl Space Vapor Barrier 101

 

 

A crawl space vapor barrier is an effective system that resists the diffusion of moisture through crawl space walls, floors, and ceilings. A certified crawl space vapor barrier contractor can take the following five actions to prevent moisture buildup, flooding, and mold growth in your crawl space. Doing so will create a healthier environment and potentially save you thousands of dollars in water damage or flood repairs!

•    Seal the Space from the Outdoors: The first step in creating a crawl space vapor barrier system is to thoroughly seal your crawl space vents and doors from outdoor air. A crawl space that is unsealed from the outdoors has zero protection from Mother Nature, including humidity, cold winter temperatures, and flooding. That's why the first step in crawl space vapor barrier installation is sealing the space.

•    Fix Sources of Moisture Buildup: The next step in installing a crawl space vapor barrier system is to remove or repair sources of moisture buildup. A certified crawl space vapor barrier contractor can do this by installing a crawl space drainage and sump pump system. Combined, these moisture removal systems will expel excess water from the inside of your crawl space to the outdoors, away from your home. This is a great way to protect your home from flooding and mold growth.

•    Support the Structure: Many homeowners neglect their crawl space, either because they're afraid of what they'll find or because they don't have the money available to complete the necessary repairs. However, this hesitation only worsens a damaged, wet, or rotting crawl space—costing you more money in the long run. It could even cause permanent structural damage to your home. If your crawl space is sagging or rotting due to moisture and mold, a certified crawl space vapor barrier contractor can install crawl space support jacks to restore the structure. You'll notice an immediate difference both in your crawl space and in the stability of the floors upstairs!

•    Encapsulate the Crawl Space: One of the best ways to prevent moisture from entering your crawl space through floors and walls is to encapsulate the area with a crawl space liner. This will not only act as a crawl space vapor barrier, it will also make the space usable for storage! If your crawl space isn’t insulated, speak with a vapor barrier contractor about crawl space insulation as well. Installing crawl space insulation will help keep your home cozier during the winter and also reduce your heating bills!

•    Install a Self-Draining Dehumidifier: Installing an eco-friendly, self-draining crawl space dehumidifier is a great way to keep the area dry and insect-free. Depending on your climate, a crawl space dehumidifier is not only recommended, but necessary, to prevent mold and mildew growth.

The benefits of crawl space vapor barrier systems are far-reaching. It helps reduce the effects of mold, moisture, and more.

Mold growth can lead to such health issues as asthma, allergies, skin and eye irritation, headaches, and fatigue. And moisture buildup in the crawl space can lead to serious (and costly) structural damage. To repair your crawl space and make it a safer and healthier space, contact an experienced, certified crawl space vapor barrier contractor today!

Contact the Foothills CleanSpace® Crawl Space Specialists® today for a free estimate to install a crawl space vapor barrier in South Carolina.

Crawl Space Vapor Barrier 101

 

 

A crawl space vapor barrier is an effective system that resists the diffusion of moisture through crawl space walls, floors, and ceilings. A certified crawl space vapor barrier contractor can take the following five actions to prevent moisture buildup, flooding, and mold growth in your crawl space. Doing so will create a healthier environment and potentially save you thousands of dollars in water damage or flood repairs!

•    Seal the Space from the Outdoors: The first step in creating a crawl space vapor barrier system is to thoroughly seal your crawl space vents and doors from outdoor air. A crawl space that is unsealed from the outdoors has zero protection from Mother Nature, including humidity, cold winter temperatures, and flooding. That's why the first step in crawl space vapor barrier installation is sealing the space.

•    Fix Sources of Moisture Buildup: The next step in installing a crawl space vapor barrier system is to remove or repair sources of moisture buildup. A certified crawl space vapor barrier contractor can do this by installing a crawl space drainage and sump pump system. Combined, these moisture removal systems will expel excess water from the inside of your crawl space to the outdoors, away from your home. This is a great way to protect your home from flooding and mold growth.

•    Support the Structure: Many homeowners neglect their crawl space, either because they're afraid of what they'll find or because they don't have the money available to complete the necessary repairs. However, this hesitation only worsens a damaged, wet, or rotting crawl space—costing you more money in the long run. It could even cause permanent structural damage to your home. If your crawl space is sagging or rotting due to moisture and mold, a certified crawl space vapor barrier contractor can install crawl space support jacks to restore the structure. You'll notice an immediate difference both in your crawl space and in the stability of the floors upstairs!

•    Encapsulate the Crawl Space: One of the best ways to prevent moisture from entering your crawl space through floors and walls is to encapsulate the area with a crawl space liner. This will not only act as a crawl space vapor barrier, it will also make the space usable for storage! If your crawl space isn’t insulated, speak with a vapor barrier contractor about crawl space insulation as well. Installing crawl space insulation will help keep your home cozier during the winter and also reduce your heating bills!

•    Install a Self-Draining Dehumidifier: Installing an eco-friendly, self-draining crawl space dehumidifier is a great way to keep the area dry and insect-free. Depending on your climate, a crawl space dehumidifier is not only recommended, but necessary, to prevent mold and mildew growth.

The benefits of crawl space vapor barrier systems are far-reaching. It helps reduce the effects of mold, moisture, and more.

Mold growth can lead to such health issues as asthma, allergies, skin and eye irritation, headaches, and fatigue. And moisture buildup in the crawl space can lead to serious (and costly) structural damage. To repair your crawl space and make it a safer and healthier space, contact an experienced, certified crawl space vapor barrier contractor today!

Contact the Foothills CleanSpace® Crawl Space Specialists® today for a free estimate to install a crawl space vapor barrier in South Carolina.

 

How to Find a Smart and Experienced Crawl Space Contractor

Anytime someone is working in or on your home, it's important to establish a trusting relationship. You -- the homeowner -- want to feel like you're getting quality products and/or services at a reasonable price. You also want to feel as though the contractor is 100% honest with you and not simply out to "make a quick buck."

A good crawl space contractor should be up-front with you about your home's needs, whether flood protection, mold mitigation, structural repairs, or insulation installation—he or she should find a workable solution within your budget. He/she should always answer your questions honestly so that you can be fully informed. A good crawl space contractor should also be certified, possess invaluable knowledge and experience, and recommend ways to maintain and prevent future damage to your crawl space so that you can avoid problems and expenses in the years ahead.

What a Good Crawl Space Contractor Can Offer You

There are countless crawl space services and repairs available for homeowners like you, but let's face it: not everyone has a budget large enough to tackle every problem in their home. That's why it's important to prioritize your home's crawl space needs. Continue reading to learn five services a good crawl space contractor should offer in order to ensure a healthy, safe, and dry crawl space environment.

1. Remove standing water and prevent flooding. If your crawl space has standing water or is experiencing flooding of any kind, a good crawl space contractor will remove the standing water immediately and repair/seal any sources through which water can enter the area.
2. Repair and support a sagging crawl space. A crawl space contractor should take immediate action if a crawl space is sagging or rotting. He/she must work promptly so-as to maintain your home’s stability. 
3. Encapsulate the crawl space. Encapsulating a crawl space means installing a moisture-resistant, plastic vapor barrier along the crawl space walls and floors. This will not only protect your crawl space from mold and mildew growth; it will also protect the structure from rot and termite infestation.
4. Prevent air leakage. Just like any part of your home, it's important to seal cracks and open spaces to prevent outdoor air from leaking inside. Ensuring that a crawl space is properly sealed will reduce drafts, make your entire home warmer during the winter, lower heating bills, and protect the home from flooding.
5. Install a self-draining dehumidifier. A self-draining, energy-efficient dehumidifier is a great way to reduce humidity and dampness in your crawl space and eliminate the possibilitcy of mold and mildew growth.

Contact a Certified Crawl Space Contractor Today!

As with most home repairs, the sooner you address the issue(s), the better. If your crawl space is rotting, moldy, damp, or uninsulated, take the first step in solving the problem by contacting a crawl space contractor today!

Foothills CleanSpace® Crawl Space Specialists® are your trusted South Carolina crawl space company.

It's National Radon Awareness Week!

 



Thrasher Basement Systems understands the importance of helping homeowners understand radon, and hope you’ll join them this week in raising awareness to the effects of radon exposure!

In recognition of the estimated 21,000 victims of the fatal effects of radon exposure, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Surgeon General have declared this week as National Radon Awareness Week. 

Radon testing can be done at home where test results are then sent and diagnosed at a lab. There are short-term and long-term tests available. We also offer radon testing in Nebraska.

Be sure to check out our special offer going on during National Radon Awareness Week! We're offering the Continuous Radon Monitor Test for $55-- a regular price of $129! Learn more about this radon testing offer.

Radon is the number one in-home killer in the United States claiming 21,000 lives of unsuspecting homeowners to lung cancer—most of whom have never even smoked. Though unnoticeable to human senses, we perform radon testing and mitigation to reduce homes to levels below the action level of 4.0 picocuries per liter. Read more about National Radon Awareness Week from National Radon Defense.

Insulating Your Crawl Space: Dos and Don'ts

If you have a home sitting on a dirt, vented crawl space, you probably felt some of the effects. Cold drafts coming up through the floor in winter time, musty smells year round, humidity and mold appearing around the house, even some chronic allergies. 

 

Yet one of the biggest effects of a vented crawl space is felt where you least expect: your wallet. 

 

A vented, dirt crawl space is a huge energy waster. Energy losses are so significant that, according to many building scientists,  you might as well forget about any other attempts to make your home more energy efficient until you fix your crawl space. 

 

This is why crawl space insulation is so important. But beware! If you do it the wrong way, or use the wrong materials, you are setting yourself up for some serious problems. 

There is a lot of misinformation concerning the proper way to treat crawl spaces, so please, do your homework. Start by looking at this Crawl Space Insulation Dos and Don'ts  article.

 

 

3 Top Reasons to Encapsulate your Crawl Space

1 - Saving energy, year round.

A vented, dirt-floored crawl space is a huge energy waster. According to Advanced Energy, an nonprofit agency focused on green energy technology and issues, energy losses through a vented crawl space are so significant that you might as well forget all other attempts to improve your home's energy efficiency, until you have your crawl space fixed.

Proper crawl space insulation includes air sealing work that dramatically reduces energy-wasting air infiltration that is typically triggered or induced by the Stack Effect.  This occurs as the warmest air in the house rises naturally by convection and escapes through upper level leaks. The escaping air creates a low pressure area at the bottom of the structure, causing unconditioned outside air to be sucked in from your crawl space or basement.

Crawl space insulation and air sealing will slow down the effect, keeping the air you pay to cool and heat where it belongs: inside your home. Your HVAC system works less, lowering your energy bills an average of about 18%. Even greater savings are possible if you have ductwork running through the crawl space.

2 - Preventing mold and structural decay

Crawl space encapsulation allows for effective moisture control and dehumidification in the crawl space. A low moisture level not only inhibits mold growth and prevents dry rot - it also makes your crawl space less inviting to termites and carpenter ants, which are attracted by soft, moist wood.

As an added benefit, a sealed, insulated crawl space will also keep wild animals from seeking shelter under your home.

3 - Improving indoor air quality 

The air that leaks from the crawl space into your living area, is bringing with it all the pollutants commonly found in an unimproved crawl space. There are dust mite pellets, mold spores and a myriad of foul smells that can range from the typical musty odor, to animal waste and decomposing carcasses. Your family is breathing that air. You might not even realize it, but it is certainly taking its toll your their health. 

Encapsulation is to date, the most effective technology to control moisture in the crawl space, being recommended by the most reputable building scientists, and by the U.S. Department of Energy, in its Building America Best Practices series. 

If you live in  in Greater Olympia, Port Angeles, and Bainbridge Island, WA, CleanSpace Northwest is your local crawl space environment experts, providing crawl space encapsulation and insulationsolutions, from the company that pioneered this technology in the U.S. 

You don't have to endure the discomfort and pay for the high energy bills because of your vented crawl space. Let the crawl space encapsulation experts at CleanSpace Northwest show you how to protect your property, your health, and save money on heating and cooling.