waterproofing one 36 foot wall of basement, sump pump install
My basement leaked so bad we had to sing Anchors Aweigh every time we went down there. I got quotes from three basement waterproofers. All were within a few hundred dollars, but I went with Clarke because they were the only ones who did the inside basement waterproofing, and their price included a sump pump. They installed yesterday and it hasn't rained, so I can't comment on the effectiveness of their work. But I can give rave reviews to the way they did it. From the salesman to when the crew cleaned up - after themselves and after me - I have nothing but good things to say. When getting the quote, the system was explained throughly and in an understandable fashion. The prices were itemized in a way that made it easy for me to see how much I could save by scaling back certain options. I never felt the salesman was trying to sell me something I didn't need. He was very helpful in keeping me to my budget. And he thoroughly explained to me Toronto's sump pump rebate program, which I didn't even know existed. In the weeks leading up to my scheduled work, I had to call the office several times with dumb questions, as I was prepping the area myself (tearing down drywall, etc) in order to save money. I was never given a recording or the runaround. They always had the answer for me on the first call. Then, when Rob and his crew showed up - on time - they continued this policy of good and friendly and professional service. They were in and out of my house in eight hours, with minimum disruption. My basement is tiny, cramped and low-roofed, and frankly, I didn't do the best job of getting all the drywall out of the way or moving certain heavy objects. They never complained - they just did it themselves. They even hauled away the drywall I had taken down. And they didn't ding me with extra charges for any of it. They left my basement cleaner than they found it, and before they went, Rob took me through and explained the system to me patiently and thoroughly. I can't say enough good things about these guys. They were a pleasure to have in my house. If I'd known such a quality crew was coming, I'd have baked them a cake. I look forward to having them back one day to do the other walls of my basement.
- Approximate cost of services:
- $5,000.00
- What could this company do to improve their services?
- Nothing. They're great.
- Any advice to offer fellow homeowners facing a similar project?
- Believe the homestars reviews like I did, and hire this company. But be aware that inside waterproofing means you'll have to tear down some drywall or otherwise disrupt your basement, if you've been using the space down there. It's extra cost for you, and maybe more of a hassle than guys digging a trench in your driveway, but well worth it in the end. Especially as you will probably be getting rid of old hidden moldy stuff when you do it.