DIY Bowed Basement Walls Repair Do’s and Don’ts Bergenfield, NJ
Do you have bowed basement walls? Many homeowners are tempted to go the DIY route when it comes to foundation repair. This is because the information is now more widely available. However, this doesn’t mean that repairing your foundation is a job that you can handle on your own. If you insist on going the DIY route, here are some Do’s and Don’ts to keep in mind.
Do’s
- Inspect your property to determine the source of moisture
When you notice bowed basement walls, it is a good idea to try and determine the source of moisture. This will ensure that you can tackle the root cause of the bowing and protect your basement from further damage. Take a walk around your foundation. Inspect your downspouts, and gutters and look for signs of plumbing leaks.
- Have your basement inspected
It is important to have your basement inspected by a professional contractor. Bowed basement walls can be accompanied by other structural damage in your home. An inspection will reveal the cause of the bowing as well as the extent of the damage.
- Address obvious moisture sources
Are there sources of moisture that you can address before foundation repair? For example, you may want to consider cutting down shrubs that grow near your foundation wall or transplanting your garden to another location away from the foundation wall.
Don’ts
- Buy a DIY repair kit
DIY repair kits are cheap and easy to use. However, they won’t provide you with a long-term solution. Chances are that you will be experiencing more severe bowing in time. DIY kits don’t offer a comprehensive solution to bowing. They only address the symptoms and not the disease. They are not worth spending your money or time on.
- Ignore the bowing
It’s tempting to want to ignore your bowed basement walls. However, this won’t make the problem go away. The bowing will only become worse. You may even experience more damage including cracking and water seepage. It is, therefore, best to address the problem as soon as possible. This will help you avoid expensive repairs.
- Don’t go with the first solution you come across
It’s easy to be convinced by a contractor to use the method they recommend to repair your walls. However, there are several solutions available in the market. Take the time to explore different options to ensure that you choose a solution that best meets your needs.
Repairing bowed basement walls isn’t a DIY job. You should look for a professional with experience to help ensure you can enjoy the benefits of repair for the long term.
Contact the Professionals at A-1 Basement Solutions Today! 908-322-1313
