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TBS Basement Waterproofing: Finding Solutions

by Lindsey Getz
TBS Basement Waterproofing keeps basements dry.

If you had mold growing in your shower, you’d notice it right away and take care of it. But oftentimes homeowners let mold go in less noticeable places, like the basement. You may not realize it’s even there since you’re not seeing it on a daily basis, ignoring what may be some of the most dangerous molds in your home.

Your senses can alert you to the first signs of mold damage, so follow your nose. If you can see or smell mold, a health risk may be present. “Mold can be very harmful,” says Donny Weiner, owner of TBS (Total Basement Solutions) Basement Water­proofing. “We can come in and do mold remediation and also fix the water problem.”

Homeowners who have had any type of water problem—from a flooded basement to a dryer’s humidity buildup—are at risk for mold problems. Even something as ordinary as rainfall can begin to cause a water buildup problem under your home’s foundation. Having your basement properly waterproofed can help you avoid these problems completely.

Mold can certainly go unnoticed for longer periods of time in a basement, and that’s hazardous. The basement is particularly bad for mold, Weiner says, because it can originate there but travel throughout the home. “When the homeowners turn on the air conditioning, it comes up through the vents and ductwork,” he explains. “Also, because mold is a living and breathing organism, it needs a food source, and the rafters in a basement are an excellent source for mold because they’re wood and organic. Those rafters are right below your first floor. It’s a dangerous place for mold to start growing.”

Beyond being an unsightly problem, mold poses potential dangers to homeowners’ health. The highest risk occurs from inhaling airborne mold spores. Of all the molds found in a home, a toxic mold called Stachybotrys—a black, greenish mold that looks like thick tar or black paint—is believed to be the most dangerous and needs to be remediated immediately. Consistent exposure to this mold can lead to serious health risks, including chronic cough, asthma and fatigue. Special safety precautions will need to be taken during the removal process.

But even everyday molds can pose health risks. “The most common indoor mold is Penicillium, which can also cause problems,” adds Weiner. “Many people are allergic to Penicillium, yet they’re living with this mold in their house and wondering why their allergies are bothering them so much.”

Fixing the Problem—and Preventing Future Ones
When it comes to mold remediation, the experts at TBS are well-trained with health and safety tips to getting a basement rid of this potentially hazardous organism. In extreme cases, homeowners may be asked to leave the home for their safety during the remediation process. In these cases, the team will be sent in with the proper breathing equipment and Tyvek suits designed to protect against mold exposure. TBS believes strongly in the importance of safety.

In addition to handling mold remediation, TBS also offers waterproofing. All homes are at risk, as a water table gradually forms underneath a home over time and after many rainfalls. But TBS can do a full assessment on the home and seek out both existing and future water troubles. A certified technician from the company will go over the numerous options available to prevent the situation from getting any worse.

“What we do is really unprecedented because we set up all the equipment and fully contain the basement. Then we do the mold remediation while also waterproofing the basement against future problems,” explains Weiner. “It’s really a two-in-one deal. We’re not just looking to put a Band-Aid over a problem that will come back. We’re coming up with a long-term solution.”

Customers Come First
In the world of homecare, the health and satisfaction of their customers is what makes TBS stand out above the rest. “We’re a family-owned business and just a good group of people,” says Weiner. “It may sound like a cliché, but we really do care about our customers. We want to get the job done right for them. In many cases, this is a matter of their health and safety and we take that seriously.

“We’re not salespeople looking to sell you something you don’t need,” says Weiner. “We are a no-pressure company and we try to make things as simple as possible for our customers. Our focus is on getting the job done right.”

Published (and copyrighted) in Suburban Family Magazine, Volume 3, Issue 1 (March, 2012).
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