September 2016 - MitchCo Foundation Repair

The Basement Waterproofing Process

Of all the rooms in your home, the basement is easily the most vulnerable to flooding. If your gutters are in poor shape, or if you have inadequate drainage around your property, there’s a good chance you’ll see some moisture in your basement before too long. You’re best off preempting this problem by hiring waterproofing experts in San Antonio .

Waterproofing is a multifaceted process. First, it’s important to ensure that you have adequate drainage all-around your house. If water is pooling around your home, then you have a problem. After addressing the drainage issue, your waterproofing experts may determine that an interior or “negative side” waterproofing strategy is best. A special sealant can help keep the moisture outside and prevent mold from taking hold in your basement. In certain circumstances, it may be necessary to excavate portions around your home in order to waterproof your basement from the exterior. If the moisture around your home is persistent, you may need to take several basement waterproofing measures, including installing a sump pump, which pumps water safely away from your basement.

- September 23, 2016
The Benefits of Installing a Concrete Patio

A patio is a delightful addition to any home. Whether you’re interested in installing an outdoor kitchen or a simple seating area for your guests, you’ll find that a well-constructed patio can boost your property value and your overall opinion of your home. When it comes to building materials, you have a lot of options to choose from; however, it’s hard to deny the benefits of concrete. Here are just a few of the benefits that a concrete contractor in San Antonio can provide for your patio project.

Impressive Durability

Wood decks were very popular for a long time; however, more and more decks are needing to be replaced after years of warping, rotting, and wear and tear. Concrete, on the other hand, is as durable as they come. If installed correctly, your concreate patio should stand up to decades of foot traffic, rain, hail, yard debris, and anything else that may come along. Your concrete patio won’t even crack as long as your contractor reinforces it with rebar.

Stylistic Versatility

Natural stone is often an elegant choice for patios, but what you see is what you get. Unlike natural stone, concrete can be molded into whatever shape, color, or texture you desire, allowing you to achieve precisely the aesthetic you’re looking for. Do you want a patio shaped like the State of Texas? Concrete can get it done. You’d be amazed to see what an experienced concrete contractor can put together.

Simple Maintenance

A patio should be enjoyed, not toiled over. Once your concrete patio is installed, you’ll find that it’s exceedingly easy to maintain. Since it’s a solid surface, you won’t have to worry about annoying pieces of debris falling between the cracks. There’s no need to seal or stain your concrete patio—all you have to do to keep it clean is give it a good sweep every once in a while. You might also power wash it once every few years to really make it shine.

- September 16, 2016
How to Choose a Foundation Repair Contractor

Like many homeowners, you likely enjoy doing work on your home whenever possible. However, there are times when it’s not practical or safe to perform jobs yourself. Foundation repair, for example, is a complex job that requires a professional touch. That said, you don’t want just anyone working on your foundation. Here are a few suggestions to help you find the right foundation contractor in San Antonio.

Look for Experience

As with virtually every other field, experience is key. If a foundation repair contractor has more than 30 years of experience in the business, then they’ll likely do a great job for you. Also, you might dig a little deeper to determine which foundation jobs a given contractor has done the most. If you need a pier and beam foundation repaired, for example, you should go with a contractor that’s very comfortable with that type of repair job.

Verify Credentials

Not just anyone can repair a foundation. Before you settle on a contractor, make sure they’re completely above board in terms of licensure and insurance. If you go with an uninsured contractor, you could be held liable for damage or injury incurred on the job. Also, trained and licensed employees will simply do better work than untrained and unlicensed workers.

Check Out Awards and Reviews

It’s a good idea to check out reviews online before getting too cozy with a foundation contractor. Past clients will give you the best insight into what a particular contractor is like to work with. You should also see what kind of recognition the contractor has garnered, such as an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau or an Elite Service Professional designation from Home Advisor.

Ask for a Free Estimate

The free estimate is an essential part of the homeowner-contractor relationship. If a contractor offers you a free estimate, you know they’re serious about pursuing your business. A reasonable estimate is of course ideal, but you should be wary of an estimate that’s too low—it could just be dishonesty on the part of the contractor.

- September 9, 2016
Preventing Foundation Damage

The foundation is one of the most important parts of your home. Though it’s made of strong concrete, there’s still a possibility that it could incur some damage over time. One common culprit is an improper lawn grade. If you suspect that your foundation has been damaged in any way, contact a foundation repair company in San Antonio.

This video offers a few pieces of advice on how to protect your foundation. If your lawn happens to be above your foundation, then there’s a chance that moisture from the grass can seep into the house, causing rot and other problems. Generally speaking, it’s a good idea to keep your lawn at least two inches below your home foundation. You might also consider installing an impermeable barrier around your foundation to make double sure that no moisture gets in.

- September 2, 2016