Basement Waterproofing & Drainage FAQs

Basement Waterproofing

• Will repairing cracks in my foundation also waterproof it?

  No.  These are two separate issues and need to be addressed with different solutions.

• I have water coming in through my window during storms. Can you fix that?

  There are ways to fix this.  You need to determine what the issue is.  If the issue is with the window itself, it will need to be repaired or replaced.  If the issue is with the window well, landscaping, or gutters, that issue will need addressed.  That is why it is important to consult a professional.

• What types of solutions do you recommend for sealing my basement?

  What we hear from homeowners is that they want a long-term warranty and peace of mind the
  issues will not happen again. That is why the best solution is an interior drainage system.

• To waterproof my foundation, do I need to seal my floors in addition to my walls?

  No. However, that is why it is best to consult with a waterproofing professional so that they can
  design the best solution for you based on the issues you are facing in your home.

• Once my basement is waterproofed, can I finish it?

  Yes. Again it is important to work with a professional so that you get a solution with a long-term
  warranty and a company that gives you the peace of mind that they will do the work right and
  stand behind it.

• How much does it cost to waterproof my basement?

  There is no one size fits all approach. The solution to waterproof your basement needs to be
  designed specifically to address your issues and to accomplish your goals. It could range from
  $1000-$20,000+ depending on the severity of the issue.

Basement Waterproofing & Drainage

• What is condensation and why is it happening in my basement?

  Basement condensation occurs when arm, moist air comes in contact with your cool basement walls and floor.  Since the basement is below grade, it is cooler than the outside air temperature in the warmer months of the year. Warm outside air is drawn into the basement like a vacuum and when it comes into contact with the cool, basement air, that is when condensation occurs.

• Is the SaniDry System portable if I ever choose to move?

  Yes, you can take it with you.  It is also very light weight

• What is this white chalky substance flaking off my basement walls?

  Efflorescence- it is a mineral deposit left behind after water or moisture was present

• My home was waterproofed by the builder just a few years ago. Why do I have a wet basement?

  New construction waterproofing is often completed with no or a minimal warranty.  There are different ways in which it can be waterproofed but the most common way is through a spray on sealant on the walls which can be damaged when the soil is backfilled around the house and/or can crack when the house moves or shifts.  Also, exterior drain tile is commonly installed.  Since the tile is sitting in the dirt, it can often become silted closed or damaged during the backfill process.

• I want to finish my basement. Is there a way to guarantee a dry basement all the time?

  Thrasher/Midwest provides solutions with long-term warranties.  Considerations include the type of waterproofing system you install and the type of sump system you install.  There are different options that offer different levels of protection.

• What steps should I take to best prepare my basement for flooding?

  If you think your basement is going to flood, you should remove any finished materials that you believe the water will come in contact with.  Also, make sure nothing is on the floor.

Interior Waterproofing Systems

• How can you tell if my basement is wet from an interior or exterior issue?

  This takes a professional to come in and do an inspection to determine an issue.  Most wet basements are caused by exterior issues.

• What are the types of interior waterproofing solutions you use?

  Depending on the severity of the problem, there a few systems available to solve a  leaking basement.  Sump pump systems, hydraway systems or edge drains are all systems used to fix water in a basement.

• Can you seal a basement from the inside?

  Yes. You can even use a sealant but often the moisture is still coming in through the concrete walls and floors which will eventually break the seal of the sealant material and water will get through again.  It is better to fix the problem by install drainage system.

• What’s the difference between interior drainage systems?

  There are lots of different types.  The main thing is where they are installed.  If installed next to or below the footing, the drainage system is in the dirt/mud and are more susceptible to clogging.  If installed on top of the footing, the system is out of the dirt and mud and will not clog.

• Is it better to waterproof a basement from the inside or outside?

  It depends on the what is causing the leak in your basement, there are both interior and exterior solutions. Basement drain systems will help prevent flooding and mold while basement wall options allow you to further protect your space.

• Is there a warranty for the interior waterproofing system I choose?

  Yes.  It depends on the company and product what the warranty is.  At the end of the day the warranty is only as good as the company that stands behind it.

• What kind of basement wall sealer do you use?

  We don’t use a “brush on” water sealer to stop water intrusion. Our system of waterproofing includes installation of a WaterGuard® interior drainage system and a TripleSafe Sump Pump system. If you want to restrict moisture and water vapors from entering your basement and add a layer of basement sealer to protect from mold at the same time, we install our CleanSpace® Basement Wall Vapor Barrier.

• What causes cracks in my foundation walls?

  Cracks form in foundation walls for three main reasons; shrinkage cracks from curing concrete, cracks from foundation settlement and cracks caused by expansive soils. Foundation wall cracks vary in severity from a simple cosmetic issue to a major structural problem with your home. However, even serious foundation problems, when addressed early on, can be quickly and permanently fixed.

• Are there exterior options for waterproofing my basement walls?

  Exterior systems sound just like what they are – systems placed on the outside of your home in the hopes of diverting groundwater, rain and snowmelt away from your foundation. While great in theory, exterior systems definitely have their flaws. The most obvious problem with these types of solutions is that they require the outside of your home’s foundation to be accessible. This means bringing in heavy equipment to excavate space all around the affected area so that crews can access your foundation.

• Are there interior options for basement waterproofing?

  Yes, there are interior solutions. A drainage and sump pump system placed on the inside of your home to channel water up and out before it has a chance to accumulate. Sometimes called a French drain, these systems are installed below your basement’s concrete slab floor around the perimeter of the home. These drains rest against the inside of the foundation wall, collect any water that seeps in, and direct it to a sump pump pit where the water is then pumped up, out and away from your home.

• What does it cost to waterproof my basement walls?

  There are a lot of variables to consider when estimating a job. The good thing is that Thrasher offers a free inspection that culminates in a same-day quote with one of our basement waterproofing experts.

• Is there a warranty for the repairs made to waterproof my basement walls?

  At Thrasher, we pride ourselves on providing permanent solutions, and stand behind our work with industry-leading, fully transferable warranties and guarantees. Most of our foundation repair, basement waterproofing and crawl space repair work is backed by a 25-year warranty.

Sump Pump Installation & Replacement

• What kind of sump pump do you install?

  • TripleSafe™ Sump Pump System
  • SuperSump® Premier Pump System
  • SmartSump™ Crawl Space Sump Pump System

• What are the TripleSafeTM sump pump system features?

  Our most reliable basement sump pump system, the TripleSafe™ Sump Pump System, provides three levels of protection for your basement and your peace of mind.

  For normal functioning, the TripleSafe™ has a powerful, cast-iron Zoeller® ⅓ horsepower sump pump set at the lowest level. For heavy volumes of water, or in case of primary pump failure, a second, more powerful Zoeller ½ hp pump is placed slightly above the primary pump.

• Do you have a more economical sump pump option?

  For an effective and more economical solution, our SuperSump® Premier Pump System can help keep your basement dry. The SuperSump includes a powerful Zoeller ⅓ horsepower cast-iron sump pump, capable of pumping 2,220 gallons of water per hour out of your basement.

• What does it cost to install a sump pump?

  Give us a call at 1-800-827-0702 and we'll contact you directly to schedule a free inspection

• How is a sump pump installed?

  With specialized equipment by an experienced technician. Choosing the best sump pump for your needs is just as important as making sure it is installed properly.

• Are there any local rebates for installing a sump pump?

  No, there are not any local rebates. We offer free sump pump inspections to homeowners in our Nebraska, Kansas, Iowa and Missouri service area. Each inspection includes an on-site consultation, written price quote, and a copy of our 88-page waterproofing book “Dry Basement Science: What To Have Done…And WHY”.

• What kind of maintenance is required for a sump pump?

  Regular flood testing to determine all functions are operational is important to the pump. It’s a mechanical device and without regular testing you won’t know if it’s functional unless you have some sort of alarm system to notify you. The service tech will clean out discharge lines of mud and debris making sure the line is clear.

Sump Pump & French Drain Systems

• What is a French drain system?

  A French drain is a trench filled with a perforated pipe and gravel that allows water to drain naturally from your yard.  

• What is a sump pump?

  A sump pump is a pump used to remove water that has accumulated in a water-collecting sump basin, commonly found in the basements of homes.

• Does a sump pump need to be installed with a French drain?

  Not necessarily. Our experts can provide the best option(s) for your specific needs.

• What’s the cost of installing a sump pump and French drain system?

  Cost depends on many factors. Give us a call today to get your FREE estimate.

• What’s the installation process for a sump pump and a French drain?

  Installation is dependent on a multitude of factors. Our experts can provide the best option(s) for your specific needs.

• What’s the maintenance like for a sump pump and French drain system?

  Maintenance depends on things such as extent of the work done, etc. Our experts can provide the best option(s) for your specific needs.

Egress Windows

• Why do I need a window well for my egress window?

  In addition to adding a layer of protection against the elements, it adds a means of escape or access, into your basement.

• What size window well should I get for my basement windows?

  Horizontal dimensions should be large enough to allow the window or door to be fully opened.

• How is an egress window well installed?

  A hole is excavated next to the foundation large enough to accommodate the one-piece well. The window wells mount directly to the foundation wall. Proper drainage, if appropriate, is connected.

• What material is the window well made from?

  A great, modern option are molded composite egress window wells. They are a one-piece system that can better control the water if installed properly. It’s common for long-term warranties to accompany these one-piece window wells.

• Do I need a basement window well cover?

  Some homeowners choose to add a cover for additional safety so children, pets or other adults don’t fall into the open well. Egress window covers can also help protect against inclement weather – think hail, snow, fall leaves, and occasional wildlife.

• What kind of maintenance will I need to do for a window well?

  Routinely cleaning out any leaves or other windblown debris and checking to make sure the drain is open and functioning so water doesn’t collect in the well, is all that is needed.

• How does a window well keep my family safe?

  It gives you protection from the elements and it has a stair feature that makes it easier to escape or, for emergency personnel to enter the basement.

• Does the window well have a warranty?

  10-year product warranty and 5-year workmanship guarantee for added peace of mind.

• What is an egress window?

  An egress window is designed to provide an emergency means of leaving a basement or emergency personnel to enter a premises.

• What’s the installation process like for a basement egress system?

  • Protect basement from dust
  • Excavate hole for window well and to install window
  • Cut foundation to install window.
  • Install window
  • Install window well
  • Backfill soil

• Aren’t all egress windows the same?

  No.  You have options as far as size, quality, and cosmetics.

• What are common issues when installing a basement egress window?

  • Not taking into consideration drainage issues.
  • Not cutting the foundation properly.
  • Not controlling dust while cutting the installation
  • Not installing a deep enough window well.
  • Not understanding building code requirements.

• Can I rely on Thrasher to understand local building code requirements for egress windows?

  Yes, we have the experience in installing egress windows in the communities we serve for lots of years.

• What’s the cost to install an egress window?

  $3000-$7000 depending on the size of window and type of window well you choose.

• Are there drainage issues with egress windows?

  There can be.  That is why it is important to have it installed by a professional and a company who understands foundations and basement waterproofing.  You are cutting a large hole in the foundation which may allow lots of water into your home if not installed properly.

• How do I know if my old basement windows need to be replaced?

  Older basement windows are most often made out of steel or wood. As these materials age, they will begin to rust, corrode, and decay. Fortunately, basement window leaks can be fixed quickly and easily.

• What is the efficiency rating for the egress windows Thrasher uses?

  We’ve chosen industry-leading EnergyStar certified windows with a robust 3 ½” frame depth and heavy-duty hardware.

• What other benefits are there for replacing old basement windows?

  If you go with a true egress window solution by enlarging the window opening, you allow for more natural light and, satisfy newer building code requirements for an emergency escape route from your basement. This is in addition to any energy savings.

• Is a window well and cover included with the installation of an egress window?

  Yes, at the time of your quote, you will have the option to choose the features that fit your needs and budget.

• How much does it cost to replace old basement windows?

  We don’t offer standard basement window replacement, though we are happy to add value and safety by upgrading your home to egress windows.

• Is there a warranty for new basement egress windows installed by Thrasher?

  Thrasher offers a 10-year product warranty for our basement egress window installations, along with a 5-year workmanship guarantee to ensure your peace of mind. 

• Why should I install egress windows?

  Installing basement egress windows lets in natural light and provides an easy escape in case of emergency. 

• What other components are there to a fully functional egress window system?

  The two most critical components of an egress system are the egress window and window well. Optional items include a separate drainage system for your window will and a cover to keep out excessive rain and debris. 

• Is egress window installation something I can do myself?

  It’s not recommended without the proper training and tools.

• Can you replace small basement windows with larger egress windows?

  Yes but it is a very similar process to installing an egress window in a location where there is no window.

• Can you put in an egress window if no window was there prior?

  Yes, no problem at all.

• How is the egress window system installed?

  • Before the job, our logistics team pulls permits and has utility lines marked. 
  • On the day of your egress window installation, we’ll begin with digging. We lay plywood to prevent track marks in your yard and haul away the extra dirt. 
  • We cut into your foundation using specialized saws that cut all the way through in one pass for a seamless cut that doesn’t compromise the foundation’s integrity. 
  • During the framing process and after the window is placed, we use a silicone-based caulk to seal the seams, preventing water issues and creating a clean, finished look. 
  • With every install, we include a sump basket inside the window well. If water issues occur down the line, this makes it easier to control and redirect to an interior drainage system and sump pump. 
  • When we’re done, we tamp down the surrounding dirt and do our best to leave a small footprint and make the area look as close to the way it looked when we arrived as possible. 

• What’s the egress window well made from?

  One-piece, heavy-duty composite construction, UV-stable and resistant to rot, rust and extreme temperatures. Rigid, one-piece design won’t warp, corrode or leak over time 

• How long does it take to install an egress window system?

  We can install most egress window and window wells in just one day.  

• What kind of maintenance does this egress window system require?

  Not much at all. Making sure the drain at the bottom of your window well stays clear, is about all there is. 

Basement Flooding Repair

• What are common basement waterproofing issues?

  Flooded basements can come from many different areas. The solution to your flooded basement depends entirely on what’s causing the flood in the first place. Some of the most common sources of basement water damage include leaky basement walls, basement drains, foundation wall cracks, leaky egress windows, and faulty or damaged basement sump pumps.

• What kinds of damage should I look out for after my basement flooded?

  Aside from structural damage or damage to electric appliances, the number one danger is mold. Black mold is particularly dangerous because of its severe health risks including breathing problems, fatigue and depression.

• What kinds of flooded basement repairs do you specialize in?

  With 45 years in business it sounds cliché to say that we’ve seen it all. We specialize in all basement and foundation solutions to meet nearly any problem we encounter. As, since we offer a free inspection and same-day quote of what Thrasher can do to stop mold before it starts, you have everything to gain.

• How long should I wait after repairs are completed to replace my basement carpet?

  Allow 2 – 3 weeks for the concrete to properly cure before you move forward with laying carpet. We provide our customers with a comprehensive leave-behind that addresses this and other questions.

• Is there a warranty for the repairs completed to fix my leaky basement?

  At Thrasher, we pride ourselves on providing permanent solutions, and stand behind our work with industry-leading, fully transferable warranties and guarantees. Most of our foundation repair, basement waterproofing and crawl space repair work is backed by a 25-year warranty. Our concrete repair work is guaranteed for 5 years, and egress windows for 10.

• What kind of maintenance is required to make sure repairs are still functioning properly?

  Regular maintenance of your system can greatly reduce the need for service calls, ensure your system performs efficiently and increase the life of the repair. Thrasher Care Club offers an annual maintenance program that includes 5% off future services and priority scheduling. Every annual maintenance includes a full inspection and complimentary basement protection evaluation.

Wet Basement Repair

• Why should I invest in a basement waterproofing system?

  Recurring leaks in your basement walls, floors, or ceiling are a hassle to clean up and create a damp environment that serves as a breeding ground for mold and wood rot. Mold growth can seriously damage your basement walls, your possessions, and even your indoor air quality. Not to mention, a home with a wet basement becomes much more difficult to sell. In fact, a wet basement is one of the most serious “red flags” that deters buyers and lowers your home’s value.

• My basement smells mildewy. Could this be a sign of water?

  More than likely, it’s a sign of mold. Mold can grow anywhere where there’s air, moisture and organic material to feed. It’s particularly likely to flourish in damp, humid areas of the home. It’s no surprise that basement mold is a common problem for homeowners.

• What kind of wet basement repairs do you specialize in?

  With 45 years in the business, we have seen it all and we have fixed it all. Our patented system that includes a non-clogging WaterGuard® interior drainage system, our TripleSafe Sump Pump System plus, a layer of basement sealer to protect from mold at the same time with our CleanSpace® Basement Wall Vapor Barrier will eliminate the worry of a wet basement.

• I have cracks in my basement concrete floor. Could water seep in through these?

   Water can enter your home wherever there is an opening in the foundation. This includes cracks in the walls and floors, as well as openings around pipe conduits. Cracks in the basement walls and floors signal potentially serious damage to your foundation and can lead to additional issues.

• My basement windows let in water if it rains. Is there a way to fix this?

  We fix leaking basement windows with the WellDuct® Basement Window System to redirect flooding to a perimeter drain or drywell.

• Is your team knowledgeable about local building codes?

  Yes, we pull any permits and observe all codes in the areas where we perform the work.