Bruce James asked:

Nov 17, 2015
I have cracks in my basement concrete. What type of expert can tell me if the problem is serious? How do I find someone who can give me an unbiased appraisal?
Nov 24, 2015

Hire a structural engineer to determine if there is a problem that needs fixing.  If there is he will give you a report and or drawing detailing what to do.  Then call 2 or 3 Class A Building Contractors who are in good standing with BBB, DPOR, have sent you certificates of insurance and current references have checked out. Give them each a copy of the engineers report so they know how to qoute the work and go with the one you feel most comfortable with.  

Bruce James asked:

Nov 17, 2015
I have cracks in my basement concrete. What type of expert can tell me if the problem is serious? How do I find someone who can give me an unbiased appraisal?

Jeffery Monti answered:

Nov 22, 2015

I jsut had a new house built and the concrete foundation had a settling crack that ran from the casement window to the floor.  THe only way we resolved it was to hire a local basement waterproofing company (Crack-X - Natick, MA.) who utilized polyurethane injection to seal/fill the crack from the floor up to the window.  It was rouhgly $700.00 for the job.  Some DIY Kit info I found useful can be found at website:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dggJsJ2f1dU

Hope this is useful.

Thanks.

-- Jeff

Bruce James asked:

Nov 17, 2015
I have cracks in my basement concrete. What type of expert can tell me if the problem is serious? How do I find someone who can give me an unbiased appraisal?
Nov 19, 2015

All concrete has cracks. The difference is if it leaking or getting worse. Call the local wterproofing or mudd jacking contractor for a site visit.

Nov 16, 2015
The roof and foundation of my house needs to be fixed. If I get the roof done first because it is leaking, will it be affected when the foundation is fixed?

Michael Friedlander of Dr. Roof PRO answered:

Nov 18, 2015

We suggest addressing your foundation issues first. Everything rests on your foundation. Even the slightest movement may affect everything above. Before you invest in a new roof, be sure your foundation is corrected.

Nov 16, 2015
The roof and foundation of my house needs to be fixed. If I get the roof done first because it is leaking, will it be affected when the foundation is fixed?

Shannon Alberts answered:

Nov 16, 2015

Roof first, then foundation. (not saying that just because I'm a roofer :)
Gutters are likely involved too.

Fixing the foundation should not undo any efforts spent on the roof and gutters.

Aug 7, 2015
I had to have foundation repair done about 10 years ago. They gave me a lifetime warantee but they are no longer in business. What can I do to fix a problem?
Aug 7, 2015

Unfortunaely when a company goes out of business you no longer have a warranty. I suggest contacting a structural engineer in your area to assess the foundation situation and make recommendations of contractors who can make the necessary repairs

Dennis Gehman

Gehman Design Remodeling

www.gehmanremodeling.com

C E asked:

Jul 16, 2015
The base of my downspout where it meets the ground has a piece of ceramic broken away. What type of contractor do I call?

A good quality roofer, exterior remodeler, plumber or landscaper.

C E asked:

Jul 16, 2015
The base of my downspout where it meets the ground has a piece of ceramic broken away. What type of contractor do I call?
Jul 22, 2015

Looks like you could use help of a good plumber or handy man who knows how to work with PVC piping. It's not complicated job, but there are few technics to it. Hope it helps. 

Feb 7, 2015
How often do I need to have my "new" home sprayed for termites? I live in Charlotte, NC. Thank you, Joe

Linda Vassilion answered:

Mar 11, 2015

As a 69-yr old homeowner, you must establish a contract with a local pest control company.  I pay $99 per year for mine but...if any termites appear...they treat it for free!   Also...when you sell your home and the buyer's inspector comes out and finds you have termites...it will cost you hundreds or thousands of dollars to have them exterminated AND you cannot close until that it resolved.  So, I suggest you find a reliable, established pest control co., and get them to keep a year-round inspection program with you before it's too late! 

Feb 7, 2015
How often do I need to have my "new" home sprayed for termites? I live in Charlotte, NC. Thank you, Joe
Feb 8, 2015

To Spray or Trap? treatment for termitets

Joe, the question you ask is a question to a deeper need in home ownership. Ask not how many times you should have your home sprayed for termites... ask what your warranty company should do for you to stay active and in place. Many home owners know about the termites that are active in the lands in our regions although the bond or warranty is more important at the end of the day. Make sure your home is protected and has a company that can stand behind thier treatment both active and passive. Check what type of system they use and chemicals. Most importantly read the warranty or Bond. At Gavigan we use a  wood treatment during construction and a Taexx pest control wall sytem. If your home is built already do not worry about what was done before its more important to ensure what is current. bait traps, tests, and a good company will have a plan. Great Question...

Inspect and Validate

Billy Gavigan

Gavigan

Dan Vorona asked:

May 21, 2014
Water is coming in through new overhead sewer conversion...how?
Jun 2, 2014

not sure about the product used in your home. we usually pack the joint with oakum. then we use hydrolic cement (water plug). followed by tar on the outside. hope this helps. email with any questions. kevin@mrplumbing.com

Dan Vorona asked:

May 21, 2014
Water is coming in through new overhead sewer conversion...how?

Rob Owens of VTS Homes, Inc. PRO answered:

Jun 1, 2014

You definitely should not have any leaking.  I suggest you call a plumber to come look at the issue.