Basement waterproofing and crawl space repair in DE

From waterproofing to the classroom!

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 09:06:14 -0500

DryZone has always believed that an educated homeowner will make an educated decision. With this in mind Bill Anderson one of owners of DryZone and Jason Harmon our Commercial Accounts Specialist have teamed up to educate all real estate agents on Delmarva on how they can fix wet and damp crawlspaces, wet and flooded basements, and broken or failing faoundations.

Bill and Jason are teaching a class February 16 at the Kent County Association of Realtors building located on Walker Road in Dover, DE. This three hour presentation will give new and vetran agents an insight on how you can "Fix It Before You List It".

The agents who will attend this class will learn what to do in the event that one of their listing has issues in the crawlspace or basement as it pertains to water, mold, mildew, smells, high humidity, falling insulation and foundations cracks. The agents will also be given C.E. credits used for license renewals.

More and more DryZone is being asked to speak at events accross Delmarva, if you or someone in your organization would like to have a presentation performed call DryZone at 1-855-DRY-ZONE and ask to speak to Bill or Jason.

It's raining in Delmarva! Protect your Crawl Space now!

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 16:43:34 -0500

Well its about that time of year again! Springtime on Delmarva is a rollercoaster. I have seen it snow in April and right now in February it's 60 degrees! So as we prepare for the wet spring and the humidity one asks: "It's raining! Now what?" As the expert Crawl Space repair contractor in Delmarva, DryZone has the answer!

CleanSpace is more than a crawlspace vapor barrier! It seperates your home from the damp Earth.

Mold, mildew and all of the creepy crawlys under your home go away! I have some homeowners ask: "why should I install CleanSpace now?"

At DryZone, we understand that your home is your biggest investment, and we have the products to protect it. With an installation of the CleanSpace Vapor Barrier, and other products designed specifically for the crawl space, we can help control the humidity levels in your crawl space. With less humidity, you will see less mold, mildew and a better insulation between the damp dirt and your home. You don't want to wait until the high summer humidity becomes a problem in your crawl space to do something about it.

Let one of DryZone's highly trained staff come do a free inspection to the underside of your home.

Trust us! Your home will thank you for it.

New crawlspace entrance in Delmarva

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 10:55:19 -0500

When most homeowners on Delmarva go outside one thing they are sure to find is an old metal door attached to their foundation. for years this was the only meathod for taking care of our crawlspaces. DryZone the Shores authorized Basement Systems dealer has a new solution the "Turtl". this new product is water tight and will help in stopping all of those humididty problems we face on the Peninsula.

No this picture is not the crawlspace entrance, but a Smart Car DryZone won by installing the most Turtl's in a year! DryZone takes the car to most events we go to and homeshows.

Call DryZone for all of your crawlpsace and basement water problems, foundation settlement issues, and your complete bassement refinishing needs.

Your new crawlspace entrance could look like this!

DryZone's new System Designer to inspect Delmava Crawl spaces and Basements

Wed, 04 Jan 2012 08:12:50 -0500

DryZone's new addition has an interesting hobby. Dawn Thompson is the 2010 world champion "Punkin Chunker". For those unfamiliar with "Punkin Chunkin" its an annual event where teams and over 30 thousand fans merge in a cornfield in Sussex County Delaware and "Chunk" their punkins. These homemade contraptions have propelled pumkins over 3000 feet

Dawn was intervierwed by Tory Belleci from the national TV show Mythbusters, on her World Championship. Thompson started her own female team and outshot everyone. Thompson said:"I cant believe that this whole extravaganza started in my own backyard." Although Dawn is not native to Delmarva, she said this truly is her home.

Dawn is a welcome addition to DryZone. As a buisness owner for the last 25 years, Dawn will bring all that she knows about the water well industry to our company. Dawn will inspect crawlspaces and basement water problems for the entire state of Delaware and the Eastern Shore of Maryland.

New Opportunities at DryZone in 2011

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 09:15:10 -0500

DryZone of Delmarva created eight new positions in 2011, DryZone sponsored three job fairs in and on the Delmarva Peninsula. Co-Owner Gary Lawson said it has been great to watch our company grow, and with events like theses we really get to pick and choose the best talent out there!

Bill Anderson the other Owner of DryZone said that as our company increases in size every year it is important that we stay ahead of the competitors by searching out the most qualifies people out there. Since our begining DryZone was created to not only be the largest basement and crawlspace waterproofer, basement repair and basement finishing company in Delaware and the Eastern Shore of Maryland, but to become one of the best places to work on our community

DryZone LLC Raises Funds for Habitat for Humanity

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 10:51:47 -0500

The crew at DryZone LLC in Delaware has a goal of helping every Habitat for Humanity organization on the Delmarva peninsula. While they normally help out in the construction of the homes, this time they decided to go a different route. On October 25 they held a fundraiser at local restaurant Greene Turtle to raise money for Habitat for Humanity of Sussex County.

This is the first time DryZone held a fundraiser for the nonprofit group. For their first project with Habitat for Humanity of Worcester County they encapsulated a crawl space for the house. Working with Habitat seemed like a natural step for DryZone and now they help out a different county's branch every year.

"With us it just made sense," said Bill Anderson, owner of DryZone LLC. "We're builders, so we should do something for homes. We can make the most impact that way."

DryZone and Habitat for Humanity set up booths at the Greene Turtle collecting money from patrons. The restaurant also donated 10% of their profits for the day to the cause. Their radio station 101.7 The Duck was at the event as well, and all DryZone employees showed up throughout the day. DryZone and other local companies got together and matched the funds raised that day. In total, the event raised over $1,000 for Habitat for Humanity.

Adding to the turtle theme of the restaurant DryZone brought their "Turtl car" with them to park in front of the restaurant. DryZone won the decal-wrapped Smart Car at this year’s Basement Systems Convention in Connecticut because they sold the most Turtl crawl space entry systems in the entire Basement Systems network.

DryZone LLC specializes in basement waterproofing, crawl space repair, foundation repair, basement finishing and energy conservation for homeowners in Delaware and parts of Maryland. For more information about Delmarva crawl space repair or a free estimate, contact them today!

DryZone promotes logtime employee

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 09:27:47 -0500

December Burt Murray will take over the reins of Commercial Marketing Specialist. In Burts new role he will work closely with engineers and architects to find solutiuons for broken foundations on Delmarva. Burt grew up in New Castle County, and worked as a State Trooper for Delaware for 25 years. Two winters ago Burt had, like many other on Delmarva a wet basement. He hired DryZone to fix his new found water issues, Burt was so impressed with the company, that when he retired from law enforcement he sought a position. Murray began his new career working on the Total Basement Finishing division. With this new oppurtunity Burt will host webinars, and Lunch and learns for the engineering community in Delaware and the Maryland Eastern Shore.

DryZone Helps Extreme Makeover: Home Edition

Mon, 17 Oct 2011 15:08:59 -0400

Milton, DE – On October 3, Dry Zone LLC was asked if they would be able to volunteer their services to help renovate a nearby home the next morning for an episode of Extreme Makeover: Home Edition - an ABC hit show.

They arrived at the house at 6:00 a.m. and within 3 hours they were able to transform the crawl space into a healthy space. By installing drainage matting and CleanSpace they created a barrier between the house and the soil to reduce humidity levels, eliminate mold growth and ultimately create a healthier environment throughout the entire house, while also making it more energy efficient. They also donated a SaniDry CX dehumidifer to help keep the space dry and free from moisture.

The 80 year old house was in disrepair due to the lack of an “in ground foundation.” The house had sat directly on the ground causing the ceiling to sag and the walls to become unleveled. The house also had plumbing issues which lead to the lack of a working shower.

Only a few hours after DryZone had finished with the crawl space the "new" house was revealed to the family.

Owner Bill Anderson said, “My daughter, Grace, goes to school with the son of the recipient. It is great to give back to a community we are a part of.”

Extreme Makeover: Home Edition is a hit reality television show on ABC that provides home renovations to less fortunate families. The recipients go on vacation for one week as the renovators work on creating a new house for them upon their return.

DryZone LLC was started over 5 years ago and specializes in crawl space repair, basement water proofing and basement repair in Maryland and Delaware. Visit them online for a free basement waterproofing estimate.

Dry Zone LLC Wins Awards at International Convention in Connecticut

Thu, 22 Sep 2011 16:14:55 -0400

Milton, DE – Dry Zone LLC was recently honored at a meeting of over 600 guests from all over the United States and Canada at this year’s Team Basement Systems Convention. The annual convention is held each year between Seymour, Connecticut, (where the Basement Systems headquarters is located) and Hartford, Connecticut, and brings together dealerships of the international network for classes, seminars, training, parties and networking.

This year Dry Zone LLC received four awards at the International Convention:

They ranked as the Top 7 CleanSpace Dealers, one of the Top 50 Basement Systems Dealers in the United States and Canada, and were awarded a five-year dealer award. Dry Zone LLC was also the Turtl Contest Winner of the Year, for selling the most Turtl Crawl Space Entry doorways.

The convention also featured guest speakers Krish Duhnam (of the Zig Ziglar corporation), and the “Pit bull of Personal Development” Larry Winget. A sports-themed party at the Connecticut Convention Center ended the convention week with music, food and performances by the Harlem Wizards and the New England Patriots Cheerleaders.

Dry Zone LLC is a certified Basement Systems dealer specializing in basement finishing, crawl space repair and wet basement problems in Parsonburg and other nearby cities. They have been waterproofing basements in Delaware and Maryland since 2006.

Basement Systems is an international network of basement waterproofing, crawl space repair and basement finishing contractors. The international headquarters, based in Seymour, Connecticut, also provides sales and service throughout Connecticut and Westchester County, NY. Larry Janesky's Basement Systems has been helping homeowners increase their usable living space for over 20 years across the United States, Canada, Ireland and the United Kingdom. They have 27 patented basement and crawl space products, designed to help homeowners get more out of their basements and increase their home's value.

Poured Concrete Foundations: Advantages, Limitations and Misconceptions about the Most Popular Base for a Building

Wed, 24 Aug 2011 11:58:49 -0400

Concrete is truly an amazing material. In terms of building foundations, it’s a vast improvement over the materials and methods that came before –like foundations made from stone, brick and cinder block. But there are some misconceptions about concrete that often confuse homeowners when they encounter foundation problems. Let’s try to clear up some of this confusion.

“Cement” isn’t the same as “concrete.”
These terms are often used interchangeably, even among building professionals. But concrete and cement are not the same thing. Cement –or to be more accurate, Portland cement-- is actually an ingredient in concrete. Although additives are sometimes used to alter handling, curing or strength characteristics, the basic ingredients of concrete never change:
   Concrete ingredients by volume:
   7%-15%    Portland cement
   8% or less   Air
   60%-75%   Coarse & fine aggregates (gravel & sand)
   14%-21%   Water

Reinforced concrete can still crack, crumble, shift and settle
Steel reinforcing bars (commonly known as “rebar”) are used to reinforce poured concrete footings and walls. Concrete slabs are reinforced with rebar and with welded wire mesh. Fibers are sometimes mixed into poured concrete to increase its strength as well. These reinforcement techniques are often required by code, and make poured concrete stronger than unreinforced concrete. But even reinforced concrete can crack, shift and settle if soil conditions impose lateral loads on walls and vertical loads on poorly supported slabs. Concrete has exceptional compressive strength but poor tensile strength. In other words, it can’t bend or stretch. If the soil beneath a concrete slab settles, creating a void, the slab can’t flex downward to follow the contour of the recess. Instead, a section of the slab is likely to crack and sink. Likewise, expansive soil that pushes in on a foundation wall can eventually cause the wall to crack, simply because the concrete can’t flex like a wood-framed wall can.

Concrete absorbs and releases moisture
A bowl, basement or swimming pool made from concrete will hold water, but that doesn’t make the concrete waterproof. In fact, concrete has a sponge-like ability to absorb and release water. As the soil outside a concrete foundation becomes more and more saturated with water, the foundation will also become saturated. Some of this moisture will make its way inside the foundation, either leaking in through cracks or simply making the basement or crawl space damp and humid. Proper waterproofing and (in some cases) dehumidification strategies are necessary to keep basements and crawl spaces dry.

Concrete crack repair isn’t effective if crack causes aren’t addressed
Modern epoxies and patching mortar compounds do an excellent job of filling and sealing cracks. But if the soil conditions that caused the concrete to crack in the first place aren’t corrected, even the best crack repair will eventually fail. That’s why it’s smart to have an experienced foundation repair contractor inspect a damaged foundation before going ahead with repair work. If cracks were caused by expansive soil, soil settlement or soil with poor load-bearing qualities, then these problems will need to be corrected in order to ensure a permanent repair.

Contact Foundation Supportworks by DryZone for a free estimate for foundation repair in Wilmington, DE and other nearby areas.

How Many Foundations Can One House Have?

Tue, 02 Aug 2011 04:51:50 -0400

When we talk about the structural elements in a typical house, it’s interesting to note that the house “foundation” is usually referred to in singular form. A closer look at how houses are built, and how they’re remodeled over time, reveals the fact that a typical house has more than one foundation. Unfortunately, multiple foundations can increase the likelihood of foundation problems.

Slabs, basements, crawl spaces and more…

The fact is, most houses have several foundations. In many northern states, a typical house will have a basement foundation beneath the main part of the house, and a slab foundation beneath the garage. But what if the house has a poured-concrete patio? That’s a slab foundation too. And in my house, our new kitchen is located on a slab foundation that was originally created to make a screened porch.

Let’s say that a growing family in a house with a basement foundation decides that they need some extra space. The contractor they hire to build their addition is likely to recommend a crawl space foundation for the new space rather than a full basement.

Compared to building a basement foundation, a crawl space foundation can be built more quickly, more affordably and with less damage and disruption to the property. This explains why many older homes that have been expanded and/or remodeled have basement as well as crawl space and slab foundations.

More foundations can mean a greater chance of foundation problems

Ideally, every foundation would be built by the same contractor, ensuring uniformity, quality control and provide a basic familiarity with local soil conditions and building code requirements. But an older house that has been remodeled or added onto probably has foundations that were built by numerous contractors.

Homeowners may have even decided to do some of the work themselves, completing a poured-concrete slab for a patio without a builder’s help, for example. With multiple builders adding foundations at different times, there’s a greater chance that problems may develop –slabs that crack because of inadequate reinforcement or missing control joints, crawl space walls that settle because of soft soils with poor load-bearing qualities, and so on.

Even with sound foundation construction practices are followed, there can be problems that develop over time. For example, consider the situation that occurs when a dirt-floored crawl space foundation is added onto an existing basement foundation. The basement may have been clean and dry before the addition, but that status will change as moisture from the new crawl space migrates into the basement area. Completing the crawl space without sealing out the moisture will introduce high humidity into both foundations, along with the strong likelihood that mold and insect damage will follow.

When an addition is built, a new roof typically joins an older one. Gutter and drainage issues must be addressed to avoid excessive storm runoff that can cause foundation problems due to hydrostatic pressure and erosion around a foundation.

Foundation repair specialists have the expertise to permanently fix foundation problems

For homeowners, the bottom line with any foundation problem is that it’s essential to call in a foundation repair specialist, rather than a general contractor. Especially in an older house that has been remodeled and expanded over the years, foundation problems can be difficult to diagnose. The good news is that foundation repair specialists have tools and materials to correct most problems quickly and affordably. Rarely is it necessary to demolish and replace a damaged foundation. Instead, an experienced foundation repair contractor can often install piers or wall anchors to stabilize a compromised foundation and restore settled slabs or bowed walls to their original positions. By correctly identifying and correcting the conditions that caused the foundation problem, these experts can make permanent repairs so that problems won’t recur in the future.

Contact the experts at Foundation Supportworks™ by DryZone today for a free estimate for foundation repair in Wilmington and all surrounding locations.

Choosing a Basement Expert

Fri, 04 Mar 2011 09:43:01 -0500

Are you currently striving for a clean, dry, mold free and odorless basement?

If you answered âyes,â here are a few questions to get you thinking:

Is your basement finished or unfinished? Does your basement need a little work or, possibly, a lot of work? Does your basement currently have leaks or cracks allowing water to seep through the walls of your basement? Is your basement prone to flooding?

Does a dry basement seem like an impossible task to achieve? Well, if you answered âyesâ to any of these questions, there is hope.

As a homeowner, thereâs a lot to consider when waterproofing a basement; mold, mildew, leaks, drips, cracking and shifting walls. You will, then, have the tough decision to tackle the project yourself or call upon a basement expert.

If youâre an experienced do-it-yourselfer, feel free to tackle the job yourself, but there are plenty of basement experts out there that are ready to help. A basement expert will evaluate your situation, provide his expert opinion and answer any questions or concerns you may have. He will also estimate how much time it will take to complete the project; start to finish. This will also allow you to achieve your goals; easily and successfully. But how do you know where and how to hire the right man/woman for the job?

Here are a few easy steps you can follow to find the right company that suits all of your needs:

Step One:

Educate yourself. There is a wealth of information on the world-wide-web regarding basement repairs. So itâs best to become familiar with methods of repairs. This will assure that you completely understand whatâs being proposed.

Step Two:

There are a lot of companies out there that claim to be professionals, but in reality, these statements are just claims. Itâs best to research each company individually to verify their statements. You can also ask your neighbors for a referral. Family, friends and co-workers are also good sources for referrals. Keep in mind, a referral should not be a âgreen lightâ for hiring, but merely a potentially worthwhile suggestion.

Step Three:

Always be sure to meet with the basement expert one-on-one to discuss his or her experience. Always look for someone who has done this type of work before. A licensed professional should have no problem sharing his or her credentials with you. By consulting with a basement expert it will make you fully aware of any existing structural problems or concerns, your basement may have, prior to the launch of the project. And itâs always worthwhile, as a precaution, just to have an evaluation-- even if youâve never experienced any water damage, leaks or seepage concerns in the past.

Step Four:

Always check to make sure your basement expert is insured. Although the expert you choose may have met all the qualifications youâre looking for, they may not be insured. Youâre definitely going to want coverage in the event there is an accident-- for your protection and that of the contractor.

Total Basement Finishing by DryZone is the trustworthy basement finishing contractor in MD. Contact them today for a free basement finishing estimate.

The Added Benefits of a Finished Basement

Wed, 02 Mar 2011 03:46:23 -0500

Are you looking to add more usable living space or value to your home's equity? If so, then itâs a good idea to consider finishing your basement. Thereâs a lot to consider when tossing around the idea of a basement upgrade, but the benefits will be very rewarding.

As homeowners, we tend to overlook our basements as being a suitable, valuable or available living space. In most cases, a basement can become a bedroom, game room, home office or a family room-- what a valuable asset!

Creating the perfect living space in your basement can become vital to the success of you and your familyâs work life and playtime. Who wouldnât want the bonus of added living space to us to live, work and play in? And it comes at a much more affordable price than adding an additional living space onto the upper level!

Here are a few factors to consider when planning a basement upgrade to increase the living space in your home:

Remove All Moisture Before Remodeling

The most important step before beginning any basement upgrade is ensuring that all basement moisture problems are being resolved or are already resolved. If your basement appears to be wet, damp, or prone to flooding then itâs a good idea to contact a waterproofing contractor to come and evaluate the space.

Basements that are damp, wet and humid can house several residual problems. For example, mold and mildew thrive in dark, damp, wet areas. Moisture can cause paint to chip and peel, walls to warp, wood to decay, and the overall structure can weaken.

These problems can all be avoided by waterproofing your basement. This process must be done properly. So, do-it-yourselfers, itâs best to avoid using waterproof paints and internal sealants, as these products usually donât withstand hydrostatic pressure or time.

A wet basement can be very unhealthy to you and your family, and over time it can spread foul odors throughout your home. Such smells are the result of mold and mildew and can cause health issues. In most cases, people who already have asthma, respiratory issues and breathing difficulties, are more susceptible than those who donât.

An Unfinished Basementâs Comfortable Temperature Battle

Itâs difficult to regulate the temperature in an unfinished basement, for this very reason, many homeowners worry if their basement will ever be comfortable.

A moist basement isnât exactly a surprise, and neither is the discomfort homeowners express. In fact, moist air can be very difficult to cool or heat and can be quite costly on your energy bills. If youâre getting tired of paying too much to heat your basement in the winter and cool it during the summer, and youâd like to walk barefoot without freezing your toesâit might be time to upgrade! When you modernize, consider all of your options very carefully and then make the decision that works best for you.

Design Your New Space

Once your new space is dry and its new wiring has been installed, itâs time to consider the other aspects of the room: walls; drywall or paneling, flooring; carpet, tiles, hardwood flooring, or sub flooring, ceiling; drop ceiling, tiles, drywall or panel boards, and, finally; lighting.

There are a lot of available choices, but each should be selected to meet your particular needs or style.

Itâs always best not to try and tackle this entire project by yourself. Instead, call on a professional. An expert will have all the necessary tools, expertise to evaluate the space, determine the pros and cons, and recommend the best options to suit your specific needs. Contact Total Basement Finishing by DryZone today for a free estimate for basement remodeling in Maryland.

It Could Be Time to Finish A Delaware Basement

Fri, 18 Feb 2011 03:04:43 -0500

Milton, DE â While the weather is beginning to warm up, homeowners may want to consider finishing their basementâone local expert suggests basement remodeling to increase home value, and forget about mold during the humid summers.

Total Basement Finishing by DryZone, LLC has seen homeowners choose to finish their basement using other finishing systems, and still have problems with mold and moisture damage. Since the weather is just now beginning to increase in temperature, DryZone, LLC hopes homeowners take advantage of the good weather to have their basement finished.

Not only does a finished basement cost less money than an addition, it increases a homeâs value. In addition, the Total Basement Finishing system utilizes mold resistant and water damage resistant products. If a water heater leaks or there is a plumbing leak, the basement will not be destroyed. In addition, the moisture and humidity will not create mold in this system, protecting your family from reacting to allergens and keeping your basement healthy and dry.

Contact Total Basement Finishing by DryZone, LLC today to schedule a free estimate for basement finishing in Delaware or Maryland.

Why is My Basement Ruined From Just Some Rain

Thu, 16 Dec 2010 01:58:57 -0500

There's usually one person in the office that's had a wet basement. Better luck next time. But how is that possible if nothing changes? If only there were something that the unfortunate homeowner could do to prevent water damage from precipitation. There is!

Year-round, we experience lots of moisture and precipitation -- some places more than others -- but nonetheless it's everywhere! Within Delaware, there's a bit of a rise in the level of precipitation, and there's a larger gap between it and the U.S. average. As for its total snowfall? Some areas, specifically Wilmington, have a higher snowfall mainly in the chilly months of January through March.

The Effects of Precipitation

When it rains or snows, the ground gets moist and your basement can get very wet. No one likes a wet basement -- especially when the water damages furniture, flooring, wall paneling, and other items.

If you live in an area where it rains in the spring and fall and snows all winter (as it does in the northeast) then the ground tends to hold a lot of moisture, making your foundation easily susceptible to water damage. If there's snow on the ground and the weather begins to warm up, that snow melts and the ground fills with water. This water will rise and enter your basement -- if your basement doesn't have a sump pump or water drainage system.

The Aftermath

Water doesn't just enter the basement and evaporate. Oh no -- water sticks around even after you've thought it's been dried and removed. If water has entered your home from outside and you have some leftover moisture in the space, it very well could create mold.

All mold needs to grow is some moisture. It just needs some organic material to eat, such as carpet or some wood, and then a nice and comfy environment. If you smell something musty, then you've got some mold. It's never a good idea to allow mold to continue growing in your basement or crawl space. It can cause some serious allergic reactions and it actually eats away whatever organic material it grows on.

How to Prevent Damage

A water drainage system is the best way to protect your home from water damage from rain, snow or unexpected plumbing leaks. This system is made to catch the water right where it collects, at the wall-floor joint. Once the water has been collected, it then is redirected away from your basement, toward the sump pump and pushed out and away from your foundation.

Not every basement waterproofer is the same. Thankfully there are plenty of highly trained and qualified experts in the Delaware area so that you don't have to sit and wonder about whether your basement will ever be dry. Sure, Delaware has some pretty wet seasons and statistics, but with the right basement waterproofing system and products, you'll be sure to have a drier basement in no time.

It takes more than just a drainage system to have a dry basement. Although there will be those unexpected plumbing leaks and residual water entering from the upper levels, but with water damage resistant products you can feel more confident that your basement will be safe from the water.

As a member of the Foundation Supportworks network, DryZone, LLC has access to many patented products and the support of an entire network of industry leaders. Contact DryZone today for foundation/ crawl space repair, basement finishing, and basement waterproofing in Wilmington, DE.

The Crawl Space that Went Bogus

Thu, 16 Dec 2010 01:54:13 -0500

It's not everyday that a crawlspace loses its marbles and goes completely bogus-- it's at least whenever it rains. You assume it could be more often, but you don't want to dare to enter that mythical dungeon every day. From the creepy crawlers to the smells and water, there's enough "gross" down there to keep your distance.

Have you heard the story about the crawl space that went bogus? It all started when the first daring homeowner decided it was time to make the trek into the uncharted depths of the house. It was then that the homeowner debunked the myth that the crawl space was just a worthless area just taking up space. It was also the moment crawl spaces lost their innocence and became a feared adversary of every homeowner.

What Constitutes Bogus Behavior?

No one wants an imposter and we all know that crawl spaces can in fact be very useful. When not acting bogus they're actually quite convenient for some electricians and other contractors. It's when a crawl space decides to play around with other things that it becomes a bit bogus.

For example, no one likes a wet crawl space. The space is tight enough as is and to add water is uncalled for and just rude. Once the water comes in it totally takes over the place destroying whatever your crawl space may have been and turning it into a murky hole of mold.

The Mold and Must is a Bust

A crawl space can begin on its way toward Bogus Ville once the moisture takes its toll on the environment. The best way to keep an eye on pesky mold growth is by performing periodic inspections. No one wants to, but someone has got to! Otherwise the quality of your crawlspace will deplete only making for a more difficult problem further down the road.

Mold thrives in a comfortable environment where there's moisture and organic material. So do you see how your crawl space can become quickly transformed into a mold bust? If the source of moisture isn't discovered and eliminated then it creates mold and the mold creates allergy symptoms and that pesky musty smell.

The conditions will continue to worsen until the source of the moisture is removed. A crawl space repair expert is the perfect person to consult when you've become a homeowner with a bogus crawl space. A specialist can evaluate where the moisture enters and can provide the appropriate remedy.

Crawl spaces don't need fans or windows, but what they need is a vapor barrier, sump pump and dehumidifier. These are some of the best ways to prevent moisture issues and fight against the moisture.

Contact DryZone today for basement waterproofing, basement finishing, foundation repair and crawl space repair in Delaware.

Delaware Foundation Repair Contractor Receives 2010 Excellence Awards

Tue, 30 Nov 2010 09:19:10 -0500

Milton, DE - Local DryZone, LLC has received Delaware's 2010 Excellence awards for the foundation repairs conducted on a local homeowner's house utilizing Foundation Supportworks' wall anchor system.

The Excellence Awards are given out each year according to the caliber of work, skill, and integrity of the construction contractors in consideration. DryZone, LLC has proudly accepted this award on account of the "Wall Anchor" project at the Gzym residence in 2009.

The Gzym's basement had horizontal wall cracking on all but one wall and severely bowing walls. Due to the landscaping and presence of a pool in the backyard, the family wanted to hire an exceptional contractor who would focus on being as un-invasive as possible.

After the installation of 32 Foundation Supportworks wall anchors, the Gzyms foundation has been on the verge of re-stabilization without any damage to the landscaping or pool.

The awards were given to DryZone, LLC by the State of Delaware's Office of Management and Budget and the Delaware Contractors Association on October 27, 2010 at the Chase Center on Wilmington Riverfront. The speaker at the event was Nick Buoniconti, star linebacker at the University of Notre Dame and a member of the 1972 undefeated Super Bowl Champions-- the Miami Dolphins.

Contact DryZone, LLC today for a free estimate for foundation repair in Delaware. As a member of the Foundation Supportworks network, DryZone has access to many patented products and the support of an entire network of industry leaders. Contact DryZone today for foundation/ crawl space repair, basement waterproofing, and basement finishing in Delaware.

DryZone of Delaware Earned a Top Ranking In International Network

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 10:56:50 -0400

Milton, DE - As Delaware's crawl space, basement, and foundation repair expert, DryZone LLC has proven its expertise at the annual Basement Systems annual convention where they were awarded as the number nine CleanSpace dealer and number 19 Basement Systems dealer. The convention was held in Connecticut from August 18-20.

The 2010 Basement Systems Convention included all-day training on Wednesday and Friday at the headquarters in Seymour, Conn. There was an award ceremony held at the Bushnell Theater in Hartford, Conn. on Thursday evening where all those in attendance heard from guest speaker, Liz Murray who is the face to the Lifetime Emmy nominated movie, "Homeless to Harvard: The Liz Murray Story."

DryZone LLC offers basement waterproofing/finishing, and crawl space/foundation repair to residents in Maryland and Delaware. They're a certified crawl space expert that is ready to help!

The Basement Systems, Inc. network is an international network of the world's finest basement waterproofing experts. The network is an industry leader with 300 contractors that specialize in basement and crawl space waterproofing, 25 patented products, and 22 quality and innovative prizes.

For basement waterproofing in Delaware contact DryZone LLC today, at 1-800-564-3515. They're highly trained and certified basement environment experts ready and willing to serve you.

The Word Is Spreading About The Expansion of Delaware's Largest Waterproofer!

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 01:48:56 -0400

Milton, DE - The certification of Total Basement Finishing by DryZone is only one of DryZone's exciting changes it's implementing for local Delaware and Maryland homeowners, according to Friday July 9th's issue of the Cape Gazette.

TBF by DryZone is a newly certified basement finishing contractor in the Delaware and Maryland areas. They are a part of the locally trusted DryZone, LLC brand that repairs crawlspaces and foundations, as well as waterproofs basements.

DryZone is making great headway in achieving its goals of becoming more involved in beach home improvements, partnerships, and its TBF dealer growth.

With Delaware and Maryland's beach front properties comes ocean moisture issues and damage from rain. DryZone wants to assist homeowners in their battle against the elements. In addition, they are working toward a partnership with a local theater system business to offer discounts for installing home entertainment.

DryZone's ambition and success has been passed onto its TBF dealer, who is a Better Business Bureau accredited business, as well as a part of the Total Basement Finishing network. This is a network of contractors across the U.S. and in Canada.

To read more about DryZone in the Cape Gazette, click here.

For your free quote for basement finishing in Delaware or Maryland, contact TBF by DryZone at 1-800-564-3515.

Energy Star Rebate in Delaware for Dehumidifiers

Mon, 09 Nov 2009 03:43:27 -0500

Did you know that Energize Delaware is giving $25 rebates on dehumidifiers that are purchased between September 1, 2009 and February 28, 2010?

What a perfect time it is to get rid of that one room dehumidifier in your crawlspace or basement. Check out our SaniDry CSB or the Upright Basement Model.

Call us today!

DryZone Donated to Habitat for Humanity

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 05:06:54 -0400

September 14, 2009~ DryZone, your complete source for crawlspace encapsulation, basement waterproofing, and foundation repair, donated an entire CleanSpace Encapsulation System to Worchester County Habitat for Humanity. The project is on Flower Street in Berlin, Maryland. A ground breaking ceremony for the house was held on June 20, 2009.

When DryZone was contacted, Gary Lawson and Bill Anderson were more than happy to supply all of the materials to fully encapsulate and condition the crawlspace. Their employees even decided to donate their time on the project. DryZone has committed to one Habitat Home in each county that it serves, which includes all of Delaware and the Eastern Shore of Maryland.

DryZone, the largest waterproofer in Delaware, has over 30 years experience in the water industry. The company based out of Milton, has won several awards and ranked internationally for their work with crawlspaces & basements. They are also a member of the Visionary Club for Foundation Supportworks.

Vapor barrier do's and dont's

Wed, 14 Jan 2009 12:52:20 -0500

Think of your house as a living organism. Like your own body.

It is a big system, comprised of smaller systems that must all function properly and work together, or the consequences can be devastating.

If it makes sense to consult a specialist, rather than your primary care doctor to solve a problem with a specific system, it makes sense to seek the help of a specialist rather than a general contractor when a specific area of your home is at risk.

That couldn't be truer than when the problem area is the crawl space.
General contractors, some home inspectors and your neighborhood handy man will most likely recommend the same treatment for the crawl space: generic 6 mil poly sheet covering the ground to prevent evaporation, and open vents to allow air in the craw space.

Yet, everyday, we at DryZone, LLC, and the crews of hundreds of dealers in the Basement Systems Network pull out miles of filthy and shredded 6 mil sheets out of moldy decaying vented crawl spaces all across America.

The evidence that vented crawl spaces combined with ground vapor barriers are a bad idea but, it seems to happen almost everywhere. The picture in this post illustrates the results of this treatment: moisture buildup on top of the barrier, moldy insulation falling off the ceiling.

Generic 6 mil ground vapor barriers do nothing, or very little to control crawl space moisture, because moisture doesn't come just from the ground immediately underneath your crawl space. It comes from the air and the soil outside as well.

It is simple science. If you let air in, and if there is any moisture in it, differences of temperature between the outside and the crawl space will cause the moisture to condense over every surface.

The only proven way to protect your crawl space is by encapsulating and conditioning it with a system like our CleanSpace, installed by knowledgeable professionals.

The CleanSpace System is proven to control crawl space moisture, and make your home healthier and more energy efficient.

Contact us for a free estimate and you will find out it is also affordable!

Expanding Your Home The Green Way

Tue, 11 Nov 2008 11:09:55 -0500

Protect yourself against Home Improvement Scams in Delaware

Tue, 11 Nov 2008 10:39:45 -0500

This week, yet another so-called contractor, was indicted for home improvement scams and tax fraud in Wilmington, DE. For us, as it happens with every honest professional and company in the home improvement industry, such news can be dreadful.

There are a lot of reliable, experienced and trustworthy contractors out there, but the dishonest ones are the ones who always end up in the news, giving us all a bad name.

Homeowners get scared, overly suspicious, and many times postpone indefinitely much needed home repairs so that will not have to deal with the hassle of finding and hiring a good professional.

Who can blame them?

However, there are ways in which homeowners can protect themselves, when hiring contractors.

State and federal laws and regulations exist to protect them against scams and home owners need to know them and know how to put themselves in a position in which the law will be able to protect them.

All they need to do is to take the necessary steps to guarantee that they will be hiring the best possible professional for the job.

In addition, gather all the necessary documentation to legally pursue the matter if anything goes wrong.