Philadelphia is one of the most flood-prone cities in the United States. According to studies, 32% of all properties in the city have a 26% chance of suffering severe effects of flooding in the next thirty years.
Not only can flooding affect the structural integrity of Philadelphia’s homes. It could also deal a massive blow to the city’s economy, particularly its transportation sector.
People who are marooned in floods are often unable to get to work in time. They may also be unable to access emergency services, including services intended for the flood victims, such as evacuation.
But while flooding is primarily an act of God, beyond our human control, we can take specific proactive measures to mitigate its effects. One such intervention is waterproofing our homes.
In this article, we look at what property waterproofing entails, focusing on the key factors to consider when looking for a waterproofing company in Philadelphia.
What Is Waterproofing?
Philadelphian properties may be susceptible to water damage due to the city’s relatively high risk of flooding. But it’s relieving to know that you can alleviate the effects of water damage by waterproofing your home. Even more reassuring is that there are numerous waterproofing companies Philadelphia that guarantee high-end, professional services.
But before you go scouting for a Philadelphia waterproofing contractor, you’re probably wondering what it means to waterproof a property.
Now, waterproofing is a process of making a structure or object resistant to or unaffected by water ingress. Commonly waterproofed objects include buildings, clothing, watches, boots, gloves, and umbrellas. However, the term is often applied concerning preventing water ingress to buildings, especially during severe flooding or high precipitation.
What Do Philadelphia Waterproofing Companies Do?
Ideally, waterproofing companies install water-resistant barriers or additional layers over a property to guard against water penetration.
The barriers are typically installed over the foundations. But depending on your property’s features, a waterproofing company in Philadelphia may also install a water-resistant layer over your wall and roofing structure.
How Do You Find A Waterproofing Company In Philadelphia?
1. Act on Referrals from Family or Friends
There could be someone in your social circle who has had to deal with water damage in Philadelphia. If the person somewhat managed to get the problem fixed, simply ask them who they hired.
Remember to inquire about specific details, such as the waterproofing problems the person sought help for, the quote received from the contractor, and overall customer experience. You can then contact the recommended company for better information.
2. Search Online
One of the many perks of the internet is democratizing access to essential home renovation services like waterproofing. It’s easy to locate a waterproofing company in Philadelphia by simply searching them online.
This option offers several benefits over word-of-mouth referrals. Most notably, you can quickly compare quotes across multiple contractors before picking one that suits your budget.
3. Check Reviews
Waterproofing is one of the most capital-intensive home renovation projects. As such, you need a contractor who’s truly worth their salt.
It’s possible to find high-end waterproofing services from a company that’s barely a week old. However, it’s probably better to err on the side of caution by choosing a contractor with a reasonably long industry presence.
Most importantly, read online reviews for a sneak preview of the company’s user experience. Needless to say, it would be best if such reviews appear on independent websites and not those affiliated with the contractor you’re considering hiring.
4. Inquire About Waterproofing Methods
Even after finding what appears to be a reliable waterproofing company in Philadelphia, do not engage the contractor until you understand their waterproofing techniques. As you might have guessed, these methods differ in efficacy, longevity, and the specific areas of water damage targeted.
Cementitious waterproofing is the most common and easiest waterproofing method. It utilizes cement and typically targets internal wet areas.
Other common waterproofing techniques include liquid waterproofing membranes, bituminous waterproofing, and polyurethane liquid membranes.
Note that the technician shouldn’t just mention their preferred method. They should also explain how it works and why they deem it fit for your property.
5. Ask About Work Methodology
Waterproofing doesn’t only entail sealing the areas of water ingress. There are several other critical steps before and after applying the waterproof material.
For instance, a contractor may need to inspect your home before recommending the right waterproofing technique. And after sealing all cracks, there may be some repainting to do.
Ensure the prospective contractor brings you up to speed on their work methodology. It’s one of the surest ways to gauge their experience levels.
6. Don’t Forget License, Insurance, and Warranty
The worst mistake you can make with any home renovation project is to hire an unlicensed and uninsured contractor.
Licenses and permits let you know you’re dealing with an accredited waterproofing contractor. And insurance, preferably liability insurance and workers’ compensation, eliminates liability for any property damage or injuries incurred during the waterproofing procedure.
As you check for license and insurance, be sure to also ask for a warranty. Waterproofing companies that provide warranties offer better services than those that don’t.
Summary
Water damage can gradually diminish your property’s structural integrity if it goes unaddressed for long. The fact that Philadelphia is a flood-prone city makes it particularly important to waterproof your residential home or commercial complexes. We hope you can use this guide to find a reliable waterproofing contractor in The City of Brotherly Love.
