The unprecedented snowfall last month left grocery shelves bare and homeowners with aching backs. Can’t wait for this winter to end? Luckily, you don’t have too long to wait. But beware: Just when you thought it was safe to box up your waterproof boots, you may find that Old Man Winter has left you something to remember him by.
We sat down with Carl Reppert, owner of Healthy Homes Systems, Inc., a Bucks County-based waterproofing company, to help you avoid a meltdown when the meltdown occurs.
Don’t be Fooled
Snow can be deceiving. While fluffy and pretty to look at, it’s pretty wet stuff. “People don’t realize that 10 inches of snow equals one inch of water,” explains Reppert. To protect yourself from the near 40 inches of snow already fallen this record season and the saturated soil that goes with it, be mindful of the key entry points water may find its way into your home.
Window wells should never have water spilling over the edge – and possibly into your home – and downspouts should always be directed away from the house. In addition, make sure your sump pump is functioning properly by testing it first. Simply pour a few buckets of water in and watch to make sure it goes through the necessary pipes. Once water finds a pathway into your home, it will damage your foundation and, most likely, your personal property.
Check Your Sources
It’s nice to know what you’re dealing with when it comes to any kind of water-related problems. If you ever find water stains in your basement, crawl space or attic, make certain you find the source. Signs can be anything from strange odors or growing mold to peeling paint. And by having your home inspected now, it could prevent a catastrophe in the future.
“Knowing what is causing a problem is better than ignoring the problem,” says Reppert. “We offer a free evaluation that can reveal all you need is a minor repair and not a major surgery.”
And while minor repairs can range from applying epoxy to a pipe penetration to repairing a wall or floor crack, replacing a submersible pump to installing an interior or exterior drainage system, immediate action will pay future dividends. Like most things, ignoring potential drainage problems will only make them worse over time.
Ask the Experts
If you find yourself with a drainage issue this spring, look to the people who work with water problems – and solutions – for a living. With over 25 years experience and membership in the National Association of Waterproofing and Structural Repair Contractors and the Better Business Bureau, Reppert and his team at Healthy Homes Systems, Inc. is qualified to do structural repairs and provides engineering certifications and permit documentation, complying with all required building codes.
Even the “do-it-yourself” crowd can benefit from Reppert’s expertise. “We gets calls every day, and we’re happy to tell people how to do minor repairs,” say Reppert. “We can provide a material list, and we’re thrilled when they call back to tell us our solution was successful.”
And if you’re not feeling particularly handy, Reppert has you covered as well. “We provide an affordable, no-pressure approach,” he says. “We do free estimates, realtor evaluations and will always provide a written scope of the work to eliminate any water-seepage problems permanently. Making your home healthy is our top priority.”
For more information, go online at www.fixmybasement.com or call 215-453-1201.