Homeowners in Utah should ask several questions about a contractor’s service warranty, licensing, and rates before waterproofing their basements.
The average cost of waterproofing depends on where you live in the state, although it can be included as an extra cost for basement finishing. In Salt Lake City, you might need to spend around $1,460 for waterproofing a 215-square-foot basement or approximately $7.28 per square foot. The cost of labor for 16.4 hours of work can cost up to $880, while materials and supplies will account for roughly $580 of the total price.
2 Common Techniques
Basement waterproofing usually comprises interior- and exterior-based techniques. An interior waterproofing refers to the method of removing the water inside the basement. You should consider the internal method as a suitable alternative, especially when you want to save money. It costs between $4 per square foot and $8 per square foot to apply sealants. More expensive choices include drainage systems worth at least $1,500 or an epoxy injection that costs at least $1,400.
An exterior-based waterproofing technique requires a more complicated process, hence costing up to $80,000 when an excavation is necessary. Exterior waterproofing keeps water from entering the basement. The high cost often stems from the need to hire additional contractors for excavation work, aside from the job’s complexity.
Questions to Ask
A contractor might recommend that you seal your basement. When in doubt, ask for a second opinion since you might need to spend at least $10,000. Some problems can be only superficial and need simple repairs while other issues can be the result of a damaged foundation. You can have some assurance if the contractor offers a reasonable service warranty when they suggest additional work.
In case warranties are not provided, ask for references from their most recent clients. They shouldn’t hesitate to record documented feedback, which you can now easily find via social media and consumer review websites. If you decide to hire a general contractor, you need to know their procedure for subcontracting work.
Converting a Basement
Waterproofing a basement becomes more necessary when you plan to turn it into liveable space. New homeowners should be aware of this before they plan to rent out their basements. An average basement renovation costs $15,000, and it’s significantly cheaper than building a home extension.
Don’t get carried away with making design plans without insulating the basement beforehand. The risk of mold and mildew damage becomes greater for a basement with little to no insulation. Take your time to choose the right drywall and other necessary materials for a well-insulated basement. When done correctly, you can increase the value of your house by up to 70% of the renovation’s cost.
Once you decide on how much you’re willing to spend, it’s better to use your money wisely by choosing a licensed and insured contractor in Utah. Homeowners should consider hiring a qualified specialist, particularly when they plan to sell their house in the future. Consult at least three professionals for a better comparison of waterproofing rates.
