Water seepage in your basement is a situation you don’t want. A damp basement can lead to a lot of problems, such as the growth of mold, mildew, and many harmful bacteria. 

A leaky basement calls for a waterproofing job. If it’s your first time to seek basement leak repair in Madison, WI, you should know what to expect from such a service. Read on to learn more.

Before

Prior to the actual waterproofing work, expect an initial visit from the waterproofing contractor. They’ll come and assess your basement to give you a proper evaluation and cost estimate. They’ll also figure out the project scope and level of expertise needed for the job.

If you have conducted an initial inspection of your basement, it would be helpful to relay the information you’ve gathered to the contractor and work together in coming up with the best procedure. This will ensure that you’re on the same page regarding the basement’s condition and the waterproofing service to be done.

During

While the process may vary depending on the particular basement’s issues, these are the usual steps undertaken during a basement waterproofing service:
Breaking the Concrete
This first step is important to make sure that the interior basement drainage system is designed properly. The concrete around the edge of the basement is broken, which will create a shallow ditch surrounding the interior walls. Then, they will dig through the ditch to make a deeper crevice where a corrugated pipe will be placed.
Covering the Crevice
After securing the corrugated pipe, the crevice will then be covered. Loose gravel will make up the first layer. This will be followed by a layer of new concrete to bring the area back to ground level—the same as the rest of the basement.
Installing a Sump Pump
Sump pumps regulate water drainage. When the water rises to a specific level, the pump turns on automatically to channel the water through the new pipes. These then direct the water away from your basement and to an external drainage system safely.
Installing a Vinyl Wall Cove Base
A vinyl cove base or plate is installed to cover the joints where the wall and floor meet, sealing them against water penetration. This will ensure that the basement’s interior is untouched.
Trust a Waterproofing Pro
A delicate job like basement waterproofing should only be entrusted to a skilled and professional contractor so that your expectations are properly met. If you’re looking to get quality basement leak repair in Madison, WI, turn to A+ Environmental, Inc. Contact us today to learn more.

Glass block windows, first used during the 1900s, are making a comeback. This design element is favored for its thickness and unique, attractive look that no other type of window has. Popularly used in bathrooms and foundation walls, they can now be seen in living rooms and bedrooms.

If you’re considering installing glass block windows on your property, it's a good idea to inform yourself first of what they have (and don’t have) in store for you. Read on to learn about the pros and cons of glass block windows.

Pros

Aside from their visual appeal, glass block windows have several other benefits. Here are some of them:

Energy-Efficient

More than simply allowing natural light into your space, glass block windows provide great thermal insulation values similar to double-pane windows. But since they are impenetrable and securely held in place by mortar, they prevent air from getting in, blocking drafts and dust and reducing noise from outdoors.

Privacy

Given their unique pattern, glass block windows ensure your privacy. For example, if you use them in your bathroom, you wouldn’t have to worry about being seen from the outside. You also get the most out of natural light without compromising privacy.

Very Low-Maintenance

Glass block windows require little to no maintenance. Pressure washing is enough to keep them in optimal condition. You also don’t need to worry about dirt buildup as these windows have no edges where dust or debris can accumulate.

Green Building Credits

Having glass block windows can qualify your home as LEED- (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and Energy Star-certified. These programs affirm the energy efficiency and environmental sustainability of properties. This can attract buyers if you ever plan to put your home for sale.

Cons

Like most architectural elements, glass block windows also have their share of disadvantages. Here are some examples:

No Natural Ventilation
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Because glass block windows are stationary and sealed in place, they don’t allow air to come in. You don’t have the option of opening them to let fumes out or fresh air in. You’ll have to rely on an air conditioner or other similar systems for indoor ventilation.

Significantly Heavy

Glass block windows are much heavier than other glass or window options. They need an especially sturdy foundation, which can limit the areas where they can be used in your property. They can also be tough to construct, and their installation may require increased professional support.

Now that you’re presented with the pros and cons of glass block windows, you can properly contemplate getting them installed in your home. For your glass block window concerns, turn to A+ Environmental, Inc. in Madison, WI. Contact us today to learn more.

Ensuring your basement is free of water is important in maintaining the overall condition of your home. And in doing so, you’ll need the help of a basement waterproofing professional.
 
Careful consideration should be taken in choosing a contractor. You want to make sure they’re capable of providing you with only the best waterproofing services for your basement. In this blog, learn about the qualities of a trusted basement waterproofing contractor.
 
Years of Professional Experience
Basement waterproofing is no easy job, and still being in business after decades shows the hard work they put into what they do. It proves their reliability and credibility. Look into their work history through the years and see for yourself how capable your contractor is in securing basements against water.
 
Reliable Skills and Knowledge
You want to hire a contractor who can take one scan of your wet basement and pinpoint the problem. However complicated or specific the issue may be, they will know how to address it.
 
Excellent Reviews
In basement waterproofing, mistakes can be made, such as disregarding the surrounding soil or sealing cold joints. One of the easiest ways to know if a contractor knows the craft is to see what others have to say about their work. Having many positive reviews speaks volumes about what they can do.
 
Warranty
A trusted basement waterproofing specialist will offer a warranty for their service. This guarantees the quality of the work and the materials used in addressing your leaky basement issues.
 
Smooth and Open Communication
Trusted basement waterproofing pros prioritize their customers’ peace of mind. They will politely and patiently answer any questions you have. They’ll ensure that you’re up to date with everything and that you understand every bit of what’s going on in waterproofing your basement.
 
A reliable contractor will also be honest with you about any issues that may be encountered as the project progresses. Working closely with the customer in effectively securing basements against intruding water is always the goal.
 
Entrust Your Basement to a Trusted Contractor
Remember to hire professionals who really know basements to ensure the prevention of disasters brought about by basement leaks in the future. For a truly reliable basement waterproofing company, turn to A+ Environmental, Inc. in Madison, WI. Contact us today for more information.

​The winter season is an amazing time to relax, curl up in bed, read a book by the roaring fire, and bond with the family. However, forgetting to prepare your basement for the cold weather can easily put a damper on your holiday break. Waterproofing basement walls and window wells in time for winter can solve various issues including:
 
Melted Snow Seeping Into Your Basement
While the weather outside is freezing, the temperature in your basement is warm enough to melt snow and frozen soil. As such, moisture buildup is created on your basement walls. When this happens, water, mold, and mildew damage can occur in your basement. This is why consulting experts who understand how to waterproof your basement walls, floor, and window wells effectively should be your top priority.
 
Flooded Basements
If the ground surrounding your foundation is sloping toward your home, you are bound to find your basement flooded because of water runoff. Aside from waterproofing your basement, another way to fix this problem is by ensuring that your yard is graded properly. A landscaping company can help you ensure that the slope of the ground near your basement guides water away from your foundation wall.
 
Larger Cracks in Your Basement Wall
Freezing temperatures cause the ground to accumulate moisture. When soil freezes, frost heaves start to push against your foundation wall. This can make small foundation cracks grow larger, imposing a greater risk of further structural damage to your property. To prevent this from happening, seeking assistance from basement waterproofing specialists is the best course of action.
 
Water Seeping Into Window Wells
Windows provide your basement with much-needed ventilation. However, they can also let water runoff in if not properly sealed. Ensuring that your window wells can prevent water from leaking into your basement requires the expertise of professionals. Luckily, finding a team of experts who can help you meet your basement waterproofing needs is easy in Madison, WI.
 
Winterize Your Basement Today
At A+ Environmental, Inc., we put to work every resource available to help you prepare your basement for the cold weather. Backed by our extensive expertise in waterproofing basement walls, window wells, and floors, we have what it takes to deliver satisfactory results. Learn more by getting in touch with us.

Seeing your basement flooded is one of the most stressful things that can happen to you. Imagine the hassle of having to dry everything out and throwing away belongings damaged beyond repair. On top of that, you have to act fast if you want to avoid paying for water damage and mold remediation services. Luckily, there are many ways to prevent mold growth and water damage, such as the following:

Identify the Areas Prone to Mold in Your Home
Figuring out where mold growth starts in your home is the first step you should take. In doing so, you can prioritize the rooms that need urgent attention. These may include the basement, rooms with high humidity, and more.

Take Advantage of Waterproofing Services
By waterproofing your basement, floors, walls, and windows, you can stop mold and mildew growth before they even start. Taking this step also prevents water damage, thus helping you save on costly repairs in the long run.

Improve Your Home’s Ventilation
Rooms with high levels of moisture and humidity are the perfect breeding grounds for mold and mildew. Ensuring that your home is well-ventilated helps in preventing moisture from being trapped indoors.

Stop Mold From Growing in Your Houseplants
While houseplants can be great decorative pieces for your room, they can also promote mold growth. Since mold thrives in moist environments, you should avoid overwatering your plants. You should also remove any organic debris, such as dead leaves, from your vase or pot.

Make Sure Your Yard Is Sloped Away From Basement Windows
When sloped incorrectly, the ground near your window wells directs water towards your basement. The water seeping into your walls can create larger cracks in your foundation wall, which can lead to further property damage. As such, you have to ensure that your yard is sloped properly.

Say Goodbye to Exorbitant Water and Mold Damage Restoration Fees
A+ Environmental, Inc. provides you with reliable waterproofing services. By stopping mold growth and water damage before they even start, we can help you avoid spending a fortune on mold and water damage repairs. For additional information, get in touch with us.

Foundation damage is one of the most common reasons homes deteriorate. When it occurs, you’ll see your walls bowing or buckling. Mold and mildew may also be present because of water seeping into the ground surrounding your foundation.
 
One way to protect your home from these issues is through wall bracing. By taking advantage of high-quality wall braces, you can keep your property in good shape while saving on costly repairs.
 
What Is Wall Bracing?
Wall bracing is a process that reinforces load-bearing structures. This is typically done with sturdy materials such as wood or steel beams. This method can immediately fix a failing supporting structure in your home, keeping it from causing irreparable damage to your property.
 
Using wall braces is one of the most effective ways to fix a settling foundation. It can address cracked, leaning, and bowing walls, among many other issues. The process can be applied to reinforce the load-bearing parts of your home and minimize further structural damage.
 
Prevent Costly Repairs
A leaning or bowing wall can lead to severe structural failure. If this issue is not addressed immediately, it may lead to your property being damaged beyond repair. You may end up having to rebuild your foundation or, if worse comes to worst, your entire home. These scenarios can cost you a fortune, which is why preventing them from happening by installing quality wall bracing should be your top priority.
 
Keep Your Home in Good Shape
Your house is your biggest investment, which is why it is crucial to take the necessary steps to protect it from structural damage. Earthquakes and floods, for example, are inevitable, but you can minimize their impact by reinforcing your home. Take advantage of wall bracing to ensure that your foundation can withstand storms, tremors, and more.
 
Get Wall Bracing Services Today
The safest and most effective way to have wall braces installed in your home is consulting a professional. Luckily, A+ Environmental, Inc. in Madison, WI has a dynamic team of wall bracing experts dedicated to assisting you. For additional information about our services, get in touch with us.

Gardening is a hobby that has become more popular in light of the current state of the world. While there are people who are innately good at taking care of plants, most novice gardeners need some assistance. Luckily, taking advantage of landscaping services in Madison is quick and easy. By consulting a landscaping professional, those who are new to gardening can get the help they need to turn their yard into a beautiful green space.

What Can a Landscaping Expert Do
As with every process, landscaping involves several steps you have to follow. A landscaping expert can guide you from start to finish. First, they will help you identify your wants and needs. This step is important because it establishes your goals, making it easier to plan and gather everything needed for your garden.

Once a goal is set, a landscaping professional will assess your yard. In doing so, they can identify the best spots for trees, recreational areas, and plant beds. After evaluating your lawn, they can start creating a landscape design that works best for you. They will then handle the hardscaping, till the soil, and install the plants.

Benefits of Landscaping
Landscaping is the process of transforming a yard into a more attractive piece of land by altering the existing design, planting flora, and adding ornamental features. Whether you are a residential or commercial client, there are many reasons why using landscaping services is in your best interest. The benefits you can get from a beautifully designed lawn include the following:

Increase the Value of Your Property
Landscaping is one of the home improvements you can do to boost the value of your property. It is a great investment since as time passes by, the plants and trees in your yard grow more robust and further increase property value.

Boost Your Mental Health
Seeing a well-manicured lawn and a thriving garden that you tended to can reduce anxiety and stress. Simply staying in a green space that you have created is beneficial to your mental well-being.

Contribute to a Healthier Environment
There are many environmental benefits to maintaining a well-designed landscape. Since both grass and trees break down carbon dioxide and produce oxygen, planting them in your yard helps improve air quality. They are also great for reducing temperatures.

Grass is also excellent at capturing various pollutants, such as dust and smoke particles. They can also slow down and absorb surface runoff, preventing contaminants from filtering into your area’s water supply.

Let a Landscaping Company Help You
If you are looking to grow a garden in your yard, taking advantage of landscaping services in Madison is a wise choice. By doing so, you can be sure that your vision will come to fruition. This step also ensures that you will be keeping the negative environmental impact of gardening at a minimum. To learn more about how landscaping services can improve your lawn, get in touch with A+ Environmental, Inc.

The foundation is a crucial part of the house that should be checked when doing regular maintenance. Any issue with it may compromise the building’s structural integrity and make it unstable during earthquakes, floods, and other natural calamities. The problem may also cost expensive repair bills if it isn’t resolved while it’s still minor.

So, it’s important to be on the lookout for signs of damage. Call a foundation specialist in Madison, WI if you find any, like these common ones:

Broken surfaces along the building’s walls and floors are the most common indicators of a damaged foundation. They typically occur when the soil around the foundation shifts with temperamental changes. In extremely cold weather, groundwater freezes and expands, pushing slabs in its way. And upon thawing, the soil shrinks, causing the concrete blocks to reposition. The excessive pressure and constant movement eventually result in cracks in the structure.
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Mature trees around the area may also cause cracking. Their roots can creep into and penetrate the base of the building, leaving gaps and fissures.

Weather fluctuations can also lead to foundation settling or sinking. It usually occurs in a small area of the house at first then gradually affects other parts of the building. If you experience this issue, you may notice that the floors inside your home are uneven. The ceilings may also look warped if the problem is severe.

​Do you find closing your door or opening your window a tricky task? If they don’t fit snugly into their frame, you may have a foundation problem. Moisture may have seeped into the gaps at the base and become frozen, causing the structure to move upward and make the floor uneven.

​Addressing problems as soon as possible is the key to avoid incurring serious consequences. If you suspect damage in your floors and pillars, get in touch with A+ Environmental, Inc. for foundation repair services. Our team of experts can safely lift settling concrete back into place and brace buckling walls. Contact us today to learn about our rates.

Storms and heavy rainfalls are among the major causes of structural and water damage in homes. Foundations with holes and poor bracing can be penetrated by water and ruined by falling debris. So, homeowners should take precautionary measures, such as getting basement waterproofing services in Madison, WI, to protect their houses. Below are a few tips that will help you prepare for hurricanes:

Remove Surrounding Items That May Damage Your House
Clean your yard to prevent objects outside from hitting your house. Sweep out debris and place lawn equipment and other stuff that may get blown away inside your garage. You should also trim dead or drooping tree branches.

Secure Your Roof
Ensure your ceiling is leak-proof by fixing tears and cracks on your roof and replacing missing shingles with new ones. Stabilize loose parts, too, by applying an appropriate sealant or adhesive underneath them. Lastly, clean your gutters and downspouts for proper drainage for rainwater.

Brace Your Windows and Doors
Reduce impact from strong winds by sealing and bracing your windows and doors. Repair broken parts first, and then install protective hardware, such as hurricane films and storm shutters. If you don’t have enough time left, you may opt to place plywood panels around the exterior edges.

Reinforce Your Walls and Foundation
Walk around your house and check for damage along the interior and exterior surfaces. If you notice dents or gaps on your walls, call a professional and have them repaired right away. This will prevent water from entering and flooding your home.

If you have a basement, seek help from a professional for basement waterproofing services in Madison, WI to ensure that the structure is equipped with a sturdy waterproofing system. The drainage and sump pump should be in good working order to keep the area dry and free of leakage. Inspect the foundation as well for signs of bowing or buckling. To stabilize it, get in touch with a company that offers foundation repair and wall bracing services.
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Find a Waterproofing Company in Madison, WI
These are just a few tips that will help you stormproof your house. To further prevent damage, hire a trusted waterproofing company from Madison, WI. A+ Environmental, Inc. offers services such as basement maintenance, foundation repair, and wall sealing that are essential for your home’s protection from storms. Contact our team today to get started.