Basement Waterproofing in West Virginia, Kentucky, Ohio | Push Pier & Helical Pier Company near Saint Albans, Charleston, Huntington

Basement Flooded? Here's What a Basement Waterproofing Company Would Do First

2026-07-29T00:00:00.05Z

First things first, a flooded basement needs more than water removal.

Whether you've experienced a flood, water intrusion, or a leak, if your basement is flooded, there are several steps involved to protect your home from moisture. Moisture will become a serious concern because it leads to mold, wood rot, and even structural damage if not resolved.

Step 1: Remove the Water

The first step after discovering your basement has flooded is to pump out the water and begin the drying process. If you're unable to do this step yourself, there are specialized water damage restoration companies that offer this service you should call.

While they'll help you get the water cleaned up, these types of companies typically don't protect your basement from future water incidents.

What's important to know is where the water got in, if the water impacted your foundation, if the air quality is OK, and how you can protect the value of your home for the long term.

Step 2: Address the Water and Moisture Problem at the Source

The second step after your basement floods is to call a basement waterproofing and foundation repair company.

Alford Foundation & Crawl Space Repair completed work on a basement in Letart, WV, after water intrusion left it moldy with sticky doors and unlevel floors. The homeowner had already worked with a water remediation company to remove the water and remediate the mold. But they wanted to address the future state of the home and get rid of those annoying sticky doors and sagging floors that caused a trip hazard!

That's where we came in.

A basement waterproofing company with expertise in foundation repair will address moisture at the source rather than only treating its symptoms.

For the Letart, WV home, we installed proper drainage along the interior perimeter to catch any intruding water before it could reach the basement floor. We covered the foundation walls in the CleanSpace vapor barrier, a highly durable antimicrobial liner that protects the entire basement from moisture and water seepage.

Step 3: Control the Basement Humidity Level

Again, one of the big misconceptions that we hear is that removing the standing water will solve the moisture problem. It won't. Even after the water is gone, you may see mold, rot, or experience smelly odors in your basement! And the humidity levels after an incident can be to blame.

In the Letart home, we installed a TripleSafe sump pump to collect and safely remove groundwater from the home. Water would be carried away from the foundation, a structural protection you couldn't get by only removing the water.

We placed a SaniDry Sedona, an extremely powerful dehumidifier, to continuously remove moisture from the air and regulate the humidity level. This would also make for a more energy-efficient space.

Step 4: Determine if Structural Damage Should Also Be Tackled

If you ever had any concerns about your foundation or structural elements like the joists, beams, floors upstairs, or framing, now would be a good time to have them inspected.

Why? Any moisture released in the air can eventually accelerate your basement's structural decay.

In the Letart home, the moisture problem had gotten so bad that they were noticing sticky doors and unlevel floors above- not in the basement, but in the upper levels of the home. We placed SmartJacks to fully lift and permanently stabilize the floor system.

Step 5: Make Sure You Have an Expert Team on Standby

If you've experienced a flood, water intrusion, or water leak of any kind, Alford is ready to help. We'll start by providing you with a free inspection to see what we find, where, and options for how we'll handle it. You're not alone!

Why Ignoring Mold Spores in Your Crawl Space Is a Bad Idea

2026-07-17T00:00:00.05Z

If you find mold spores or microbial growth in your crawl space, you should never ignore it. It's a sign you have a moisture problem and could be on the way to costly damage to both your home and your health if it's not handled quickly by a professional.

Mold Spores Are One of the First Signs You Have Moisture in Your Crawl Space

Your mold spores may look like:

Tiny white, gray, green, or even black dots spread across wooden elements
Powder-or-dust-like patches on the joists and beams
Discolored wood that's also fuzzy or blotchy
Stains that resemble dirt but don't wipe away easily

This is an early warning sign of moisture, meaning you can remove the mold spores, but if the moisture problem isn't addressed, the mold spores will return.

Moisture in a crawl space is a significant problem to have because it can lead to rotting, smelly odors, health problems like respiratory aggravation, and, when left for extended periods of time, can even contribute to structural damage.

What Will Happen If I Don't Treat The Mold Spores?

These tiny specs, powdery patches, or stains may look harmless, but they will continue to spread and grow into mold over time.

Black mold is a bad problem to have. It will eventually contribute to wood deterioration, weakening the structural elements that support your home. If black mold is present, it also means you likely have high humidity levels, water somewhere in the crawl space, or trapped moisture. Other problems may exist, like condensation, failing insulation, and rust.

You may notice higher energy bills from poor energy efficiency as your HVAC system works harder to maintain a comfortable temperature.

It can also negatively affect the air quality throughout the entire home, not just the crawl space. Mold can release musty odors and release nasty particles into the air that may significantly impact friends and family with allergies, asthma, or respiratory illness.

How We Handled Mold Spores in a Belington, WV, Crawl Space

The Alford Foundation & Crawl Space Repair team found mold spores growing in this Belington, WV, crawl space. We completed a thorough inspection and then sent a crew to complete the repair.

What We Discovered During Inspection:

Excessive moisture and water on the ground and in the air
Old, torn vapor barrier failing to protect the space from moisture
Mold spores on the wood joists and early black mold
Rust on the pipes from condensation
Lack of drainage or a way for water to exit the home

How We Repaired the Crawl Space:

Placed a TripleSafe sump pump to remove water
Installed proper drainage to collect and redirect water
Replaced the old vapor barrier with CleanSpace for ultimate moisture protection
Added a SaniDry Sedona dehumidifier to extract moisture from the air 24/7

Together, this system worked to prevent moisture at the source. Mold no longer had a chance to survive!

Don't wait until mold spores become black mold and your moisture problem gets out of hand. Get a free crawl space repair inspection and see how Alford Foundation & Crawl Space Repair can help protect your home.

What's Causing My Crawl Space Joists to Rot?

2026-07-10T00:00:00.05Z

Why Are My Crawl Space Joists Starting to Rot?

You're checking out your crawl space, and you look up, only to find some discoloration- maybe white spots, damp spots, or dark stains. These are troubling signs that your wooden crawl space joists are in the early stages of weakening.

Here's why it's important to get ahead of weakening floor joists, what might be causing them to deteriorate, and solutions to getting them fixed.

What Are Crawl Space Joists and Why Are They Important to My Home?

Your crawl space joists, or floor joists, are the horizontal structural beams underneath your floors. They live between the larger support beams and foundation walls, supporting the floor load and anything sitting or moving on your floors, including you!

Crawl space joists are important because without strong, functional floor joists, your floors will become unstable. This keeps your upper levels stable and secure, capable of supporting your furniture and family. If your joists are showing signs of rot, it's time to get a professional inspection to get ahead of any costly structural issues.

What Causes My Crawl Space Joists To Rot?

Moisture leads to crawl space joist rotting. Even the smallest amount of water in a crawl space over time can lead to wood rot. Organic elements, like wood, are the most susceptible to rotting since water and moisture are absorbed directly.

As water and moisture continue to live in a crawl space untouched, humidity levels rise, and condensation builds, allowing for microbial growth that breaks down and softens the wood material.

Signs of Wood Rot

You may notice your crawl space joists beginning to rot if you see:

Wood discoloration
Microbial growth or mold
Softening wood
Flakes or crumbles
Cracks
Sagging or bowing

What Are The Warning Signs My Crawl Space Has a Moisture Problem?

Moisture in your crawl space can come from many sources. You'll know you have a moisture problem if you look in and around your crawl space and find any of the following:

Water wall seepage
Standing water
Condensation
High humidity in the air
Poor drainage around the foundation, often due to clogged gutters, short downspouts, or poor grading
Flood or leaking incidents
Pests like termites or carpenter ants may indicate there is water somewhere
Energy bills are going up without an explanation

What Happens If the Rotting Joists Aren't Fixed?

Without repair, the rotting joists will continue to break down and weaken. This can lead to a host of problems that impact the structural stability of your home. We see this every day as we work on understructure and foundation projects.

Without taking care of the moisture problem, you may notice your floors becoming unlevel and causing your family to trip. Other structural components in the crawl space may be impacted, like the main support beam, rim joists, or subflooring. Mold can spread throughout the home, not just the crawl space, becoming a health hazard. You may notice more pest infestations, like termites. Together, these problems become costly to address and lower your home's value.

The rot isn't the source of the problem; the moisture is. Both need to be addressed.

How Does Alford Address Rotting Joists in a Crawl Space?

Alford Foundation & Crawl Space Repair handles rotting crawl space joists by addressing the moisture at the source. We know that if you've found wood rot, you've already got a moisture problem, and with that comes mold and health concerns like allergies and asthma. We don't want you and your family to deal with that.

First, we fix the groundwater leakage. We find the standing water, leak, or seepage that's in your crawl space and install proper drainage and a sump pump if necessary; water is redirected away from your foundation.
Second, we completely seal your crawl space with a vapor barrier. This is where we completely protect your crawl space from moisture, while brightening and cleaning it up. It's also the step we add wall insulation to save energy and reflect heat.
Third, we seal your crawl space from the inside out, preventing the humid outside air from getting in.
Lastly, we use a powerful dehumidifier to keep the crawl space dry at all times without any action required of you.

Altogether, these steps protect your structural elements from moisture, including your crawl space joists.

Here's an example of a home our crew worked on in Mount Lookout, WV. Give us a call for a free inspection of your crawl space joists if you suspect you have a moisture and rot problem!

Before with Water Intrusion

Before with Discolored Wooden Joists

After with Crawl Space Encapsulation

What Happens If I Don't Seal My Concrete Driveway?

2026-06-17T00:00:00.05Z

From our experience working in concrete repair, if you don't seal your driveway or sidewalk in West Virginia, Ohio, or Kentucky, this is one of the quickest ways to cause cracks and surface damage.

Did you know that your concrete is part of your home's foundation? It's true. And even beyond your driveway and sidewalk, you should always consider sealing your patio, pool deck, steps, porch, and garage floor. Without the seal, it's exposed to harsh weather that leads to water intrusion and soil erosion, creating sinking, uneven concrete with cracks that will expand and worsen over time.

With our freeze-thaw cycles and heavy rain and flooding in the Ohio Valley, it's important that we proactively protect the concrete and provide the right protection early.

Why Should I Seal My Concrete Driveway?

You may notice little things: a few small cracks, unevenness, or some chipped pieces. These don't get better over time; they get worse and more costly to fix. Not only that, they affect the safety of you, your family, and your home. If you're concerned about tripping over your driveway or sidewalk, slipping on ice formed by pooled water, or, even worse, settled concrete directing water into your basement or crawl space, it's worth investing now.

What Damage Should I Look For In My Unsealed Concrete?

Initial observations may point to:

• Settled or sinking concrete

• Softening or eroding soil beneath the concrete slabs

• Uneven concrete

• Cracked concrete

• Pitting, flaking, or deteriorating concrete surfaces

How Does The Tri-State Climate Impact My Concrete Driveway?

Since the tri-state region experiences heavy rainfall and flooding annually, you may notice more cracks and settling in your driveway due to water saturation and soil erosion, especially if your concrete isn't sealed.

We also have significant freeze-thaw cycles throughout the fall and winter, which allows the concrete to expand and contract. When it's warm, the heat causes the joints and cracks to widen, collect debris, and then, once it cools down, the concrete contracts, but the incompressible material is still there. The concrete grows a little each time. This can also happen on your street or curb, pushing it into your home's driveway!

Finally, the hot summers lead to UV exposure, which breaks down the concrete surface, causing flaking and deterioration over time.

How Would a Concrete Repair Specialist Fix My Driveway?

If your concrete driveway hasn't been sealed, it can be repaired. Rather than a costly replacement that is disruptive and ruins your landscaping, a concrete repair specialist can lift and stabilize sinking concrete with modern, high-density polymer foam. They can repair the cracks and joints with a silicone-based sealant that protects from water infiltration and reduces soil erosion and softening beneath the slab.

The end result is a restored, even surface that's supported from underneath. Your driveway will feel safe to walk on and regain that clean, fresh look, adding curb appeal back to your front yard.

Learn more about Alford Foundation and Crawl Space Repair's solutions for concrete repair and unsealed concrete driveways.

Why Crawl Space Insulation Still Matters In The Summer

2026-06-11T00:00:00.05Z

Crawl space insulation still matters in the summer because it's going to protect your home against moisture damage, regulate humidity, limit heat transfer, and keep your energy bills more manageable.

With proper floor and wall insulation, the crawl space can become an extended conditioned room in your home and a duct-friendly zone, circulating cool, humidity-free air.

Homeowners Typically Think Insulation is Only Beneficial During Winter Months

It's common to believe insulation is only for fall or winter once the temperature drops, but summer humidity is actually a bigger threat to your home.

In the tri-state specifically, with heavy rains and humidity from the river valley, moisture builds up quickly in our homes and crawl spaces. Insulation is not only designed to lock in heat, but also to control temperature and reduce heat, manage humidity like preventing condensation, and protect air quality by limiting mold spores and smelly odors.

This is especially important since your crawl space is often the source of the air you breathe in the upper levels of your home! Since air rises and circulates through the air in your vents, it originates in your crawl space.

The Truth About Humid Summers and Your Crawl Space in the WV, OH, and KY Tri-State

Clay Soil: This presents a unique problem as moisture is released slowly into the air, the clay holds water, and if you live in a valley or flood-prone area, your crawl space may be damp all summer, even if it hasn't rained recently!
Older Homes: With a higher volume of older homes in our communities, we also have more homes with vented crawl spaces. Those vents enable the humid summer air to come right inside the crawl space and home. Your insulation has to work overtime to keep up and can fail faster without an encapsulation.
Condensation: A lot of homes in our neck of the woods have condensation once the warm, humid air combines with the cooler crawl spaces. This leads to mold, wood rot, and breaks down the insulation entirely. Your traditional fiberglass or paper insulation is probably not cutting it.

A Better Solution Than Traditional Insulation For Your Home

Crawl Space Encapsulation with CleanSpace and SilverGlo Insulation

Alford Foundation & Crawl Space Repair works to make your crawl space as cool, dry, and energy-efficient as possible in the summer. Not only that, but it'll be warm in the winter.

We do this with the CleanSpace vapor barrier and sealing all air leaks from the outside. SilverGlo insulation paneling reduces moisture and humidity, contains inorganic materials so it doesn't support mold growth, and can contribute to lower energy bills. Instead of stuffing the joists with paper or fiberglass, this graphite-infused foam insulation is installed along the walls and can be added along the rim joists or along the crawl space floor for the most savings!

Learn more about our crawl space encapsulations and SilverGlo insulation, and keep your entire home cool and dry this summer.

How Drought Conditions Impact Your Foundation (And How to Spot The Damage

2026-06-04T00:00:00.05Z

If you're dealing with drought-like conditions, like right now in Eastern Kentucky, Southern & Central West Virginia, or Southeast Ohio, you may start seeing the impacts in and around your home.

Unfortunately, without much rain, the moisture level in the soil supporting your home is thrown off, and can cause your home to shift. Here's exactly what that means for you.

Your Foundation is Losing Support from the Ground Up

When soil is moist, it's firm and capable of supporting your home evenly by holding its shape. But as it dries up, it shrinks, pulls away, and leaves gaps that your home can settle into.

At ground level or below, that looks like foundation cracks in your crawl space or basement. It can present as wall cracks in any room or drywall, and sticking windows or doors. Outside, you may see a sunken, uneven, cracked driveway or sidewalk. Nothing is off limits when the soil shrinks.

Surprise, surprise: These soil gaps can even lead to water intrusion or leaks once it starts raining again, as water suddenly begins to fill those holes.

If you notice these but don't address them, over time they'll lead to long-term structural issues and take everything connected to your foundation down with it—your yard, your plumbing, and even increase your energy bills! Not something we need in the tri-state.

Why Does The Foundation Crack During A Drought?

Without rain and moisture in the soil, it shrinks, leading to uneven settling. Especially if it begins to rain, the shrinking and swelling of the soil will cause movement of your foundation, putting stress on the foundation, walls, and structure.

How Do I Spot Foundation Damage During A Drought?

Exterior Damage

• Foundation cracks (Vertical, Stair-Step, or Horizontal)

• Gaps between the soil and the foundation

Interior Damage

• Drywall cracks, like in your bedroom or living areas, especially above doors and windows

• Sticking or out-of-frame doors and windows

• Uneven or bouncy floors

How To Protect Your Foundation During A Drought

• Water the lawn lightly around the foundation

• Keep gutters and downspouts clear

• Monitor your foundation during drought conditions

• Call a professional for foundation repair if you notice any warning signs or want to prevent further damage

If you're finding foundation cracks, wall cracks, or uneven floors in or around your home during the drought season, give Alford Foundation & Crawl Space Repair a call for a free, no-obligation estimate!

Why Does Concrete Settle and Become Uneven?

2026-05-08T00:00:00.05Z

Why Concrete Settles and Becomes Uneven

All concrete can fail. But there are three primary reasons why it cracks and settles, causing unevenness.

The soil beneath the slabs is poorly compacted.
1. When land developers and builders moved soil around to prepare your home to be built, it's likely that the top layer of fill soil was not as tightly compacted as the native soils below. Once the fill soil settles, the empty pockets forming underneath cause your concrete to crack and fall into the gaps.
The soil is too dry.
1. The second cause is from the drying and shrinking of soil during drought conditions, or even warmer weather when precipitation is low. The slabs eventually begin to crack and sink into the shrinking soil.
The soil is too wet.
1. Opposite to dry soil shrinkage, rainwater that runs through the concrete washes through it, leaving it soft, sometimes eroding it completely, causing the concrete to lose support and sink.

Even if you're experiencing a normal year for weather and precipitation, as water runs through the grid lines in your concrete, the soil underneath the slab starts to weaken. The flow of water eventually washes away the soil, leaving gaps and voids. All concrete has a limited lifespan.

Other Unexpected Reasons Concrete Fails

Slab Expansion

Concrete can also shrink and expand with the weather. In cold weather, concrete contracts while the joints and cracks widen, collecting the pebbles, sand, and other debris with it. But in warm weather, concrete expands beyond its original size because it's now filled with debris. Even your neighborhood street is creeping into your driveway every year, sometimes pushing your driveway.
Driveway concrete may buckle and crack. Garage concrete may get pushed back into the home, and in severe situations, cause foundation damage.

Surface Deterioration

Fun fact: concrete also absorbs water like a sponge, then once the sun comes out, it evaporates. If the temperature drops below freezing, the expanding ice can shatter the microscopic surface pores. This back-and-forth process of absorption and evaporation, freezing and thawing, causes a cracked, pitted, and flaky concrete surface.
This is what happens when you salt your sidewalk or driveway. The salt doesn't cause deterioration itself; instead, when the ice melts and water refreezes, it leads to damage.

Staining

Stains and markings are simply caused by nature, like oil, mold, fertilizers, and even dirt. Adding to its deterioration and plain unattractiveness.

Signs Your Concrete is Settling and It's Time to Act

Uneven slabs are causing you to trip
Pooling water is freezing and leading to slips or falls
Pitting, flaking, deteriorating surfaces
Cracks and gaps along the surface
Visible voids or "empty pockets" beneath the surface
Settling/sinking concrete
Staining and markings

Why You Should Never Ignore Settling Concrete

You'll pay for settling concrete one way or another, even if you don't fix it. Visually, a cracking and settling concrete driveway, sidewalk, pool, or patio area doesn't help curb appeal. Especially if you're looking to sell your home. For safety reasons, you'll want to protect yourself, your family, or seniors close to you from uneven concrete to prevent falls that could lead to painful and costly visits to the doctor. Finally, if left untreated, expanding, deteriorating concrete slabs can lead to more serious problems like costly foundation issues.

How To Repair Your Uneven Concrete

Instead of totally destroying your yard and replacing your concrete, we recommend repairing it. Alford Foundation & Crawl Space Repair uses the PolyLevel system to lift, level, and stabilize sinking concrete. No heavy equipment is necessary. We also use NexusPro Joint Sealant to prevent water from infiltrating through concrete cracks and joints and protect against erosion. Learn more about our concrete repair solutions.

Why Do Your Crawl Space Cracks Keep Reappearing After A Patch?

2026-03-27T00:00:00.05Z

Recurring Crawl Space Cracks Are Sending You A Warning Sign

You've taken matters into your own hands after finding cracks in your crawl space, just like you do with other projects around the house. Maybe you've hired a handyman. You may have used mortar or hydraulic cement and applied it directly onto the wall. You've done a master-level patch job that's thick, even, applied deep into the crack, and structurally tied into the wall. Still, the crack keeps coming back. So what's the deal?

The recurring cracks you're finding in your crawl space are a clear warning sign of foundation settlement that won't improve without being properly addressed.

What Can These Cracks Look Like?

Stair-step cracks are very common in foundation walls built with concrete block.

Vertical cracks are found more often in foundation walls with poured concrete.

Typically, cracks will start narrow at the bottom and get wider as they move up the wall.

What Are The Underlying Causes of the Cracks That Cause Them to Reopen?

Since foundation settlement is the likely cause of the cracks to form, if they are reopening after a patch, you have an active structural shift.

Your home is currently resting on several types of soil layers with different moisture content. Since we are located in the Tri-State Appalachian region, we have predominantly clay soil, which is highly affected by moisture. With precipitation, it expands in size, and without, it shrinks. Over time, this movement creates empty spaces for your home to settle into. A few other reasons could be tree roots, weakening soil due to heavy rain, or poorly compacted soil.

If you have moisture in your crawl space or weakening infrastructure, this could be adding to the problem.

How Do I Know How Serious a Foundation Problem I Have?

One thing you can be sure of: Mother Nature stops for no one. Neither does foundation settlement. You'll know you have a serious problem if you're noticing other problems, too:

• Drywall Cracks

• Windows and Doors Sticking, Out of Square, or Separating

• Separating Chimneys

• Sagging Floors

• Pooling Water or Moisture

What Crawl Space Crack Repair Options Actually Work?

If you're wondering if it's possible to stop your crawl space wall cracks from getting worse, yes, it is! There are several options depending on your home and space. You'll want to get an expert inspection and diagnosis to fully understand the problem and how it can be resolved for good.

As crawl space foundation repair experts, we focus on permanently stabilizing your home with the goal of lifting it back into its original position. Check out our foundation repair options like steel push piers, helical piers, and more.

Wet Spring Incoming: Basement & Crawl Space Prep for Appalachian Tri-State Homes

2026-02-20T00:00:00.05Z

Why Moisture From Spring Weather Brings More Challenges Than Other Seasons

Our region is absolutely beautiful in the springtime, there's no doubt. The dogwoods, wildflowers, mountain views, rushing rivers, and creeks are a sight to see and experience.

But the Ohio Valley and Tri-State region in West Virginia, Ohio, and Kentucky is also prone to heavy rain due to elevated atmospheric temperatures and moisture trapped in the air.

Because we have such a steep Appalachian terrain and both continental and subtropical climate zones, we experience frequent storm systems that lead to flash flooding and often severe damage! In higher elevations, snow and ice melt in late winter, so that water runoff also becomes an issue in our crawl space and basements.

The rain, higher humidity levels, and clay soil bring the perfect storm for foundation settlement. This can also impact your foundation walls, flooring, drywall, ceilings, and the structural elements of your home.

Here's how to get ahead of the rainy season by prepping your basement and crawl space now!

How to Prepare Your Basement for the Spring Wet Season

Your Spring Basement Checklist:

If you find mold and are experiencing smell damp carpets, increased energy bills, or even asthma and allergies, call a professional immediately.
Check if your sump pump is on and working properly, and make sure there isn't an open hole adding to the moisture problem
If you have sticking windows and doors, get an inspection
Fix the grading around your home, if it's pitched toward your foundation
Clear out your gutters and bury pipes underground to carry water away from the basement
Get proper interior and exterior drainage; not a curtain drain
Make sure you have drainage around doorways and stairs leading to the outside
If your water heater leaks, get a ring
Get waterproof basement flooring
Get a dehumidifier capable of keeping your entire basement dry at all times
Get basement waterproofing and install a vapor barrier for long-term protection

How to Prepare Your Crawl Space for the Spring Wet Season

Your Spring Crawl Space Checklist:

Seal holes, cracks, or gaps in your walls
Close open vents, windows, or doors
Replace wet, moldy, or falling insulation
Replace rotting or weakened support beams or floor joists
Check if your sump pump is on and working properly; make sure there isn't an open hole adding to the moisture problem
Get an understructure inspection if you find sticking doors or windows; uneven, bouncy, or buckling floors
Make sure insulation isn't damp and is installed properly; get rid of paper insulation (it's a mold playground!)
Replace rusty cables
Replace moldy, softened, or rotted load-bearing girders and floor joists (termites love wet wood, too)
Get a dehumidifier capable of keeping your entire crawl space dry at all times
If you find mold and are experiencing mildew smells, higher energy bills, or even asthma and allergies, call a professional immediately.
Get an encapsulation for long-term protection

Signs You Need Immediate, Professional Help

If you want the work done right by a team of experts, we recommend professional assistance for all of these repairs.

However, call us immediately if you find cracks in your foundation, bowing walls, failing beams or floor joists, water that appears every storm, your sump is constantly running or not at all, floors are bouncing and starting to sag, or if mold is spreading.

We always provide free inspections and get you a quote before any work begins!

If you have any questions about the upcoming spring weather and how it may impact your basement or crawl space, how you should prepare, or what we recommend, give us a call at [[phone]].

Why Your Crawl Space Insulation is Failing: Lessons We've Learned

2026-02-13T00:00:00.05Z

Crawl Space Insulation Fails Often, But Why?

If you've noticed cold floors, uneven room temperatures, high humidity inside the house, musty odors flowing through the vents, or a moldy smell when the HVAC turns on, your crawl space insulation may be failing.

When you look at your insulation, is it drooping? Does it have dark stains? Are there signs of pests or droppings? Is it moldy or even wet and heavy? This is an indication that your insulation is no longer working, and it's time to do something about it.

Robert C., Alford Real Estate Response Specialist, shares his 20+ years of expertise in home inspections and crawl space repair to walk you through why it may be failing and how to prevent it from failing next time.

1. The #1 Reason Your Insulation is Failing is Moisture!

If your crawl space is even just a little damp, so is your insulation. And when your insulation is damp, it loses its ability to do its job. When it's wet, it can also grow mold easily. Mold loves any insulation that includes organic materials like paper.

Fiberglass floor insulation and moisture are a bad combination.

2. Incorrect Installation

We've seen a few installation errors. You can't squish fiberglass insulation down to fit it into a cavity. It actually needs at least 1/2 inch of air space to allow the air to pass through it. That's how it effectively keeps in heat.

You also can't place insulation upside down. We see this a lot. We should see the vapor barrier up against the floor. This means while standing and looking up, we should see fiberglass, not paper. Besides, paper-based fiberglass is a playground for mold.

3. Open vents

Are there open vents in your crawl space that lead outdoors? Those will quickly kill your insulation and cancel out any attempt you had at blocking out cold drafts. Sealing the vents permanently keeps the insulation working and your home a lot drier and energy efficient.

How to Prevent Insulation Failure Long Term

First, insulation should be installed against the crawl space walls and floors to maximize effectiveness. Since the wood floor system above the crawl space is full of gaps, pipes, and ducts, it's really the wrong place to insulate.

Instead, by insulating the walls and crawl space floors, and sealing outside vents, the crawl space becomes an extension of the rest of your home--a well-conditioned space.

A crawl space encapsulation is the best way to properly insulate your crawl space from floor to wall. This includes stopping water leakage at the source, isolating your home from the earth with a vapor barrier, sealing the vents and windows, and dehumidifying the air.

To learn more or get a free estimate on proper insulation and crawl space encapsulations, give us a call: [[phone]].

Why Fix Your Crawl Space or Basement Before Listing This Spring?

2026-01-21T00:00:00.05Z

Why Crawl Spaces and Basements Shouldn't Be Forgotten When Selling

It may be the dead of winter, but if you're getting ready to put your home on the market, that means you're doing everything you can to get it ready to sell. While the kitchen, bathrooms, a coat of paint, new flooring, and landscaping are nice-to-haves in a home and certainly attract buyers, what will keep a smart buyer invested in your property are the long-term repairs that can guarantee peace of mind for their future.

Homeowners often overlook the crawl space and basement, but inspectors don’t. Don't let that be the reason your buyers back out of the deal!

Common Issues We Find That Hurt Home Inspections

Mold, even in the smallest amounts
Evidence of standing water or moisture intrusion, like water lines
Moldy or mildew smells that indicate there is moisture
Rotting, sagging, cracked beams
Cracked or bowing foundation walls
Poor, ineffective insulation

The Repercussions of Not Repairing the Crawl Space or Basement

We'd never recommend spraying bleach, using low-efficiency dehumidifiers, laying plastic D-I-Y vapor barriers, or patching cracks on your own. Since they're cosmetic, the inspector will likely find them, and it will backfire.

When professional repairs aren't made, buyers will low-ball your offer, request repairs that add to your list of expenses, demand a repair credit, or walk away from the deal entirely. That's exactly what we're trying to avoid.

Plus, before you receive any offers, you could be scaring away potential buyers with a stinky basement, mold, or unstable foundation if it's noticeable.

Benefits of Repairing These Spaces Before Listing

You could sell faster
Appraisal value goes up
Smooth inspections
Stronger offers knowing your home is in solid condition

How Homeowners Can Prepare These Areas Before Listing

Here's what we recommend:

Reach out to your local crawl space repair and basement waterproofing specialist like Alford.
Ask for an inspection of the space you're concerned about.
Any moisture coming in should be handled first. A new sump pump that works best for your basement or crawl space and interior/exterior drainage will cover this.
Second, isolate the house from the earth. An encapsulation allows water to drain from the floor and walls to the sump. The liner should also be durable enough to walk around on and prevent mold growth.
Sealing off all entry points is next. This includes vents, windows, cracks, gaps, doors, or anywhere air is leaking in from outside. Moisture travels inside your home with air.
Finally, keep the air dry with a dehumidifier. A powerful dehumidifier can remove water from the air without any required maintenance on your end. It should be large enough for the space to effectively keep the air clean and dry.

Why Sellers Choose Alford to Prepare for Selling

Now is the perfect time to make sure your basement or crawl space is ready for the market this spring. We'll get you scheduled for a free inspection, and one of our expert real estate response team specialists will provide a thorough evaluation of your home.

We prioritize home sellers because timing matters, and repairs completed early will help you avoid last-minute inspection surprises. Alford Foundation & Crawl Space Repair partners with you to recommend the best solution to cover only what you need, giving you confidence that your home is ready to sell quickly. Give us a call today to get started with your estimate.

Are Dehumidifiers Worth It? What You Need to Know

2026-01-02T00:00:00.05Z

Is a dehumidifier worth it?

Could I waterproof my basement or crawl space, and would that be enough?

Dehumidifiers are worth it if you want to reduce humidity, keep your air dry, and have clean, breathable air circulated around your home at all times. Even if you've already waterproofed your home, it's a good idea to add a dehumidifier since all mold needs to grow is humidity. Left unchecked, mold, must, and rot could impact your home's air quality and your family's health. A proper dehumidification system can eliminate excess moisture to make your basement, crawl space, and living areas more comfortable.

Why Moisture Causes Problems in Basements and Crawl Spaces

When it gets really hot outside, and we cool the indoor air with air conditioning, the relative humidity rises. That warm air holds more moisture and ends up on your cold basement walls, floor, water tank, and pipes in the form of condensation. High relative humidity levels create an environment for mold, musty smells, and dust mites. The most effective way to get rid of the moisture from the air is with a dehumidifier.

Often in crawl spaces, outside air gets inside, leaving the space feeling humid and with condensation. Even if you've sealed off the earth, there may still be some air infiltration. As your crawl space is cooler in the summer, relative to the air getting inside, you raise its relative humidity as you cool it. Again, dehumidification is the most efficient way to remove moisture from the air.

What Do Dehumidifiers Do?

The effectiveness of a dehumidifier depends on the type you invest in. A standard home unit that empties 30-70 pints a day and requires emptying buckets of water by hand every few hours isn't going to do the job. They're too small, the fans aren't capable of fully circulating dry air around the space, and they become significantly less effective in the summer due to their ratings.

A high-performance system, like the SaniDry Sedona, can remove up to 100 pints of water per day from the air while using the same energy as a 40-pint unit. It also doubles as an air filtration system, filtering out incredibly small particles from the air, even those as tiny as mold spores and dust mite droppings. It blows dry air into your crawl space or basement, circulating the air throughout your home, and removes that nasty smell and damp air feeling.

Benefits of Using a Dehumidifier

• Keeps your basement or crawl space air dry

• Circulates dry, clean air into and around your home

• Filters harmful particles like mold spores or dust mite droppings

• Eliminates musty odors

The Verdict: Are Dehumidifiers Worth It?

Yes, absolutely. If you have:

• A humid basement or crawl space

• Leaky or flooded basement or crawl space

• Air getting into your basement or crawl space from outside

• Organic materials like wood or paper, where mold can grow

• Allergies or asthma that you suspect is caused by dust mites in your home

…then a dehumidifier is worth it. If you want to circulate clean, dry air throughout your home, a dehumidifier will create a healthier living condition. Don't just settle for any dehumidifier; opt for a powerful SaniDry Sedona for maximum efficiency.

If you'd like a free estimate to see if the SaniDry Sedona is a good option for your home, give us a call today!

Alford Donates Crawl Space Repair to Charleston Homeowner

2025-12-19T00:00:00.05Z

Alford recently worked on a beautiful home in Charleston, West Virginia, to help a homeowner facing significant hardship preserve their crawl space. The crawl space was located directly underneath the sunroom, a deeply meaningful and cherished room where they spent the majority of their time. The homeowner was concerned that the moldy, wet crawl space directly underneath was posing health risks.

Solution Specialist, Cathrine, put together a proposal that would resolve the crawl space issues. Our crew, led by Foreman Travis, completed the transformation within a day. The team treated the mold, installed drainage matting that allowed water to move freely to the drain, a CleanSpace liner for moisture and mold protection, and added a powerful SaniDry Dehumidifier to keep the air clean and dry year-round.

With this repair and waterproofing, the homeowner can count on a dry crawl space that emits clean air throughout the home. We're proud to be in the position to offer our services to customers in difficult situations and will continue strengthening our community through Alford Cares.

About Alford Cares

Alford Cares is the Alford Foundation and Crawl Space Repair give-back program designed to support local families in the tri-state and provide assistance to those in need through charitable contributions and service-oriented initiatives. Contact us to learn more about how to get involved.

How Helical Piers Can Stabilize or Lift Your Foundation Walls

2025-12-12T00:00:00.05Z

If you're looking for a solution to level or stabilize your sinking foundation walls, helical piers could be an option. Helical piers are one of the best types of steel foundation piers used to stabilize or lift existing structures and homes back into place.

What are Helical Piers?

Helical piers are much like push piers in that they transfer your home's weight to load-bearing soil or bedrock. Unlike push piers, where the piers are installed into the soil under the structure's weight, helical piers are mechanically "screwed" into the soil.

Helical piers are a long-term solution to lift and prevent further foundation settlement into the soil.

What are the Advantages of Helical Piers?

Does not add extra weight to unstable soil or crack under pressure
Won't rust with a galvanized coated system
Engineered design prevents bending
Works for heavy and light loads
Fast installation with minimal disruption
Installed below-grade, leaving the repair hidden

How Do Helical Piers Work?

A professional installer removes the soil around your foundation to expose the footings.
The footing is notched and prepared with concrete tools to add a bracket that will connect the pier to the foundation.
The helical pier is "screwed" into the ground using a machine until it reaches the required depth and resistance. Our installers will know how to do your torque reading and how deep to find competent soil, ensuring your foundation won't sink in the future.
Once the piers are placed and secured, the structure's weight is transferred to the helical piers, stabilizing or lifting the home or building.

How to Get Started with Helical Piers

Give us a call for a free estimate to get started with helical piers. Repair and protect your home's foundation for the future.

How to Heat Your Cold Basement Floors and Walls

2025-12-05T00:00:00.05Z

You may have reached your limit on how cold your basement floor and walls are. They're so frigid that you're beginning to avoid walking downstairs to load laundry, move items into storage, or spend valuable family time in your recreational space. Not only that, you may recognize that you're losing heat every year, and it's raising your utility bill.

To heat your basement efficiently, start by checking its current condition. Skip any steps that don't fit your situation.

1. Are you finding water or moisture in the basement?

If you find water or moisture in your basement, you'll want to get rid of it by waterproofing the space. When your basement has moisture, it can lead to damp carpet, condensation on the upper floors, and it forces your heating system to work overtime. Not only that, a wet basement can lead to mold and health issues. Simply put, a wet basement is not usable!

2. Do you have gaps and cracks in your windows or doors?

This could be allowing cold air to enter your basement and again, making your heating system work harder. Even if you don't have water in your basement, gaps and cracks leading to the outside can allow moisture in, leading to the same issues. Waterproofing, enclosing your window wells, and replacing your doors and windows with the help of a professional are all ways to fix this. Remember to always keep your basement windows closed.

3. Is your basement wall insulated well?

It may not be, and there are several ways you can fix that. We offer basement wall options that include insulation:

Basement to Beautiful Panels - These custom-engineered foam panels are fastened directly to your foundation walls and eliminate the need for fiberglass insulation. We use SilverGlo foam insulation infused with graphite, which is like a thermal protective blanket on your walls. Plus, the metal studs are thermally conductive, or what some people may call "warm" studs.

Foamax - This is an advanced polyisocyanurate foam insulation panel that provides comfort and brightens your walls.

4. Are your basement floors insulated?

You may even have carpet in your basement, and it's still cold. What you want to get is a warm, dry subfloor installed. We call these ThermaDry Floor systems, and they're designed for basements. They use all inorganic materials, so mold can't grow on them. ThermalDry Insulated Floor Decking combines foam insulation and inorganic magnesium oxide to keep your floor warm the entire year. We offer both tile, carpeted tile, and even plank options in various colors, based on the look and feel you'd like to have in your space.

Now that you know what's possible for heating your basement, you may be left imagining a warm, dry, and inviting living space. It's certainly attainable with the right experts on your side. Give us a call for a free estimate, and we'll help you get started.

Alford Cares Partners with Branches Domestic Violence Shelter

2025-07-14T15:14:36.05Z

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 12^th, 2025

Alford Cares Program and Branches Domestic Violence Shelter Announce Exciting Partnership

Huntington, WV – Alford Foundation & Crawl Space Repair’s community outreach program, Alford Cares, is partnering with Branches Domestic Violence Shelter to complete a basement waterproofing project that will ensure a safe, clean, and healthy environment for its residents.

Each year, the Alford Cares program completes a free-of-charge project in the community we serve. The purpose of this program is to put our time and effort back into the community that so wonderfully supports us.

Branches Domestic Violence Shelter is the only emergency shelter and comprehensive service provider for survivors of domestic violence in our region and has been in operation since 1980. Last year alone, their advocates served 1,344 neighbors who felt unsafe at home and answered 6,572 calls to their 24/7 emergency hotline.

This collaboration will provide a safer, healthier, and cleaner environment for those victims and children who had to leave their homes due to domestic violence.

Sara Blevins O’Toole, Branches Director of Development, said, “We are incredibly grateful to Alford Cares for donating their time, talent, and resources to improve the basement at our emergency shelter. Their generosity not only transforms a physical space—it creates a safer, more functional environment that directly supports survivors as they begin to rebuild their lives. This kind of community investment sends a powerful message to those we serve: you are seen, you are supported, and you are not alone.”

“We are so excited to have the opportunity to work with Branches DVS, not only to improve their residents’ living space but also to give back to our community and support those who need it most.” Jamie Messer, AFCR Marketing Manager.

To learn more, donate, volunteer your time, or need assistance, please visit their website.

For media inquiries for Branches Domestic Violence Shelter, please contact:

Sara Blevins O’Toole, Director of Development

blevins@branchesdvs.org

Alford Participates in Annual Marine Toys for Tots Drive

2024-11-08T11:50:11.05Z

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Alford Foundation & Crawl Space Repair, and Alford Pest Control Partner with WOWK for Annual Marine Toys for Tots Drive

Charleston, WV – November 8th, 2024 – Alford Foundation & Crawl Space Repair, and their sister company, Alford Pest Control, are once again teaming up with WOWK to be a designated drop-off location for the annual Marine Toys for Tots Drive. This longstanding partnership aims to spread holiday cheer by collecting brand new, unwrapped toys to benefit economically disadvantaged children this Christmas season.

Marine Toys for Tots, a program run by the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, has been delivering the joy of Christmas to children in need for 33 years. To date, the program has successfully distributed more than 677 million toys to 301 million children across the nation. The goal of the campaign is to ensure that every child has a memorable holiday filled with toys and happiness.

"We are honored to once again be a part of such a meaningful cause," said Jamie Messer, Marketing Coordinator, at Alford Foundation & Crawl Space Repair and Alford Pest Control. "This drive is an opportunity for our community to come together and give back, ensuring that children who might not otherwise experience the joy of Christmas are not forgotten."

The drive will take place at Alford's headquarters in Saint Albans, WV, with donation boxes available from November to December 1st. Participants are encouraged to drop off new, unwrapped toys at the office from 8am to 5pm Monday-Friday.

Toys of all kinds are welcomed, especially those for children in various age groups—from infants to teenagers. Donations will be collected and distributed locally, directly benefiting children in the surrounding areas.

"We are incredibly grateful to our community partners, including WOWK, for helping us make this event a success year after year," said Dustin Hatfield, General Manager, at Alford Foundation & Crawl Space Repair. "The generosity and support we receive from the community truly make a difference."

Media Contact:
Jamie Messer

Marketing Coordinator

jmesser@goalford.com

GoAlford.com

Basement Waterproofing in Reno, OH

2024-10-21T10:07:50.05Z

The process kicked off with our Appointment Center team stepping in. They quickly set up an appointment that worked for the homeowner's schedule. Our Solution Specialist then visited the home, took a good look around, and caught the culprit in no time. The diagnosis? Poorly managed rainwater runoff and seepage. No big deal for our team.

For a snug, dry basement, out came our tools, and in went WaterGuard drainage system at the basement's perimeter to smartly channel water away, and a SuperSump to pump any caught water out - these two ensure no unwanted water sticks around. We blocked freezing disasters with an IceGuard at the sump pump discharge line, because no one wants a mini ice age in their discharge line when it's cold outside.

To top it all, our CleanSpace wall system was installed to turn those damp, dingy walls around into a clean, bright space. By the time we dusted off our hands, that basement wasn't just waterproofed; it received a full-blown health boost. Rain or shine, our homeowner now has peace of mind, knowing their basement nightmare is finally over – it was all about turning a problem into a solution, one waterproof step at a time.

Foundation Repair in Given, WV

2024-10-14T10:38:30.05Z

Our recommended solution was the installation of our trusted GeoLock Wall Anchor System – an effective method to not only halt the further bowing and cracking of the walls but to potentially straighten the walls over time. Our production team arrived on-site, exhibiting the highest professionalism. They efficiently installed the anchors, causing minimal disruption to the homeowner’s daily life and meticulously cleaned up after completing the job. What was most satisfying was the overwhelming relief and gratitude the homeowner expressed.

The transformation from an unstable and worrying structure to a secure home was palpable. It wasn't just the physical repair that impressed them; it was the sense of security we restored in their living space. These bowing and cracking walls epitomize common foundation issues many homeowners face but often overlook or delay addressing until it escalates.

Basement Waterproofing in Flat Top, WV

2024-10-14T10:23:07.05Z

Our Solution Specialist then met with the homeowner, providing them with a personalized diagnosis and recommended a specific set of solutions. For this particular home, we believed the best remedy involved installing a SuperSump sump pump system known for its efficiency and reliability in removing water, an IceGuard system to ensure proper discharge even in freezing temperatures, and CleanSpace vapor barrier to protect the space from moisture and mold. Our goal was to not only remove the water but to also prevent future moisture problems, ensuring a dry and healthy basement environment.

Our experienced production team worked diligently at the home, starting by carefully preparing the space to avoid any disturbances to the homeowner's daily life. The installation of the SuperSump sump pump went smoothly, planted at a strategically determined low point to catch water effectively. The CleanSpace liner was then expertly applied to the walls, creating a clean, bright look while blocking humidity and water vapor. The IceGuard was fitted to the exterior drainage line, a critical addition to guard against winter freezes. Once installed, these systems worked in harmony to divert unwanted water away from the basement, leaving the homeowner relieved. Their basement is now a dry, usable space - free from the worries of rain-induced floods.

Crawl Space Waterproofing in Gordon, WV

2024-10-11T11:25:17.05Z

Our skilled Solution Specialist visited the property, assessed the full extent of the damage, and recommended a comprehensive waterproofing solution tailored to their specific needs. The proposed plan included a robust lineup of our best products: WaterGuard for efficient water drainage, the SuperSump sump pump system for effective water extraction, IceGuard to prevent blockage during freezing temperatures, CleanSpace vapor barrier for crawl space encapsulation and the SaniDry Sedona to keep humidity levels in check.

Having meticulously mapped out the action plan, our highly skilled production team embarked on transforming the problematic crawl space. They adeptly installed the WaterGuard drainage system, ensuring water flowing around the house directed efficiently to the newly installed SuperSump. The anticipation of freeze breaks was curbed with the addition of IceGuard, protecting the crawl space even in the bleakest of winters.

For added defense, CleanSpace was installed to encapsulate the crawl space, blocking off moisture and humid air, while the formidable SaniDry Sedona quietly went to work, maintaining optimal humidity levels. Post-installation, the change was nothing short of remarkable. The once musty and moisture-rich crawl space was revitalized into a dry, clean, and healthy space.

EverBrace Wall System in Whipple, OH

2024-10-11T10:26:00.05Z

The homeowner welcomed our Solution Specialist, who after a thorough inspection, diagnosed the problem to be more than just surface-level aesthetics; it was an indication of a deeper structural concern. He recommended our EverBrace system as the ideal solution – a process we are thoroughly versed in. EverBrace, known for its strength and efficiency in addressing such structural woes, was the way forward.

A team comprised of a knowledgeable foreman and skilled installers took charge, executing the installation seamlessly. EverBrace's design, being expediently practical, allowed us to straighten the bowing walls, thus eliminating the risk it posed to our client's home equitably. Our commitment also entailed leaving the workspace tidy, ensuring we upheld our promise of a remarkable customer experience from start to finish.

The outcome? Solid walls that no longer bow or crack under pressure, ensuring the home's structural integrity for years to come. The homeowner was painterly delighted with the transformation, feeling secure in their home again. At Alford Foundation & Crawl Space Repair, solving such crucial home issues is what drives our passion to offer long-lasting and trustworthy solutions, ensuring peace of mind for our customers and their homes.

Crawl Space Waterproofing in Newport, OH

2024-10-04T12:12:09.05Z

The journey to a dry crawl space began with a simple call to our Appointment Center team, setting the stage for our tailored intervention. Next, our Solution Specialist paid the home a visit. This wasn't just a cursory look-around. We dived deep, assessing the situation thoroughly to ensure we identified every aspect of the issue. The diagnosis? The need for a comprehensive waterproofing system. And so, our team got to work.

The installation of drainage matting and CleanSpace was the primary defense, acting like a barrier, keeping moisture out. The Smart Sump pump system then became the heart of our solution, efficiently ushering out any water that dared to try its luck. IceGuard was integrated as an added security measure, ensuring that even in the icy throes of winter, discharge lines wouldn't freeze and clog. But we didn't stop there; realizing the importance of air quality, we brought in the SaniDry Sedona - a heavy-hitter in reducing humidity and drying out the air.

The result? A total transformation. The space that once invited dampness and despair was now dry, protected, and resilient against the elements. The homeowner could now enjoy peace of mind, knowing their foundation was secure and their home remained a sanctuary, safe from invasive water.

PowerBrace Foundation Repair in Jane Lew, WV

2024-10-04T11:42:11.05Z

First, the concerned homeowner reached out to us, and after speaking with our responsive Appointment Center team, a visit was scheduled. A Solution Specialist from our Sales Team closely inspected the space and identified the problem's root. The solution? Installing our PowerBrace system – an effective strategy to counteract the pressure being exerted on the walls and prevent further bowing. Without delay, one of our seasoned production teams, equipped not only with expertise but with a sense of responsibility towards the homeowner and their home, arrived on site.

The PowerBrace system – designed for swift yet impactful installations – was set into place with meticulous precision. The foreman ensured communication throughout, reminding the homeowner of our commitment to solving not just the immediate issue but preserving the integrity of their home for years to come. Upon completing the job, our team took great care in cleaning up, leaving no sign of construction. But the impact of our work was unmistakable: the homeowner now had peace of mind, relieved from the immediate fear of collapse.

For us at Alford Foundation & Crawl Space Repair, it was another opportunity to deliver on our mission: to provide a homeowner with not just a fix, but a lasting solution and a remarkable experience throughout. Whether it's bowing walls or any other foundation concerns, our message is clear – we're here to help, ensuring the safety and stability of your home is no longer a worry.

Crawl Space Waterproofing in Peytona, WV

2024-09-23T09:40:48.05Z

Following their call, our dedicated Appointment Center team set up a home inspection where our Solution Specialist was quick to visit the homeowner's property. After a thorough evaluation, the problem was clear: the crawl space needed a robust waterproofing system to keep it dry, no matter the weather outside. Our solution was strategic, aiming not only to remedy the current water intrusion but also to prevent future issues. We installed the TripleSafe Sump Pump, a reliable safeguard against flooding, enhanced by the dependable CleanSpace vapor barrier to block external moisture. For the essential finishing touch, we installed the SaniDry Sedona, ensuring the air stayed dry and healthy by maintaining optimal humidity levels.

Upon completion, the transformation of the crawl space was distinct; gone were the water trails and the musty smell, replaced by a clean, dry, and comfortable space. The homeowner was relieved, to say the least. They expressed their satisfaction with the seamless execution and the significant difference in their crawl space's environment. At Alford Foundation & Crawl Space Repair, we're about so much more than just fixing crawl spaces. We focus on providing peace of mind through tailored, durable solutions and positive experiences.

Crawl Space Waterproofing in Red Creek, WV

2024-09-23T09:31:25.05Z

The prescribed solution included the installation of our TripleSafe Sump Pump, CleanSpace encapsulation system, and the SaniDry Sedona dehumidifier. This trio of products is specifically designed to offer a complete waterproofing solution that captures and expels water efficiently while preventing mold growth and humidity. Our highly skilled production team, led by an experienced foreman, took charge of the installation, ensuring each step was executed professionally and with minimal disruption to the homeowner.

Following the clear roadmap provided, they installed the TripleSafe Sump Pump to handle high volumes of water, lined the basement with CleanSpace for a waterproof barrier, and set up the SaniDry Sedona to maintain a dry, healthy air environment. Not only do these products work effectively on their own, but together, they transform a once damp basement into a dry, usable space. The outcome was a triumph. The homeowner reported complete satisfaction, experiencing a dry basement even after several heavy downpours—a testament to the efficiency and reliability of our solution.

Crawl Space Waterproofing in Grassy Meadows, WV

2024-09-23T09:25:32.05Z

Our recommended remedy? A comprehensive installation of a TripleSafe Sump Pump, CleanSpace encapsulation, and a SaniDry Sedona dehumidifier. This combination was carefully chosen; the triple protection of the sump pump ensures operational assurance even in the case of a primary pump failure or a power outage, indispensable in maintaining the dryness of the space.

Moreover, the CleanSpace encapsulation works wonders by acting as a moisture barrier, keeping humidity out. In tandem, the SaniDry Sedona dehumidifier maintains an optimal dryness level, efficiently eliminating that persistent musty odor by purifying the air. Our Production team tackled the installation with exquisite precision. We approached the project not just with a goal to fix the symptoms but to provide a lasting, comprehensive solution that prevents future issues. Ensuring not a beat was missed, our dedication to leaving the installation site cleaner than we arrived could not be overstated.

The outcome was transformative. No longer did the homeowner fret about the underlying issues within their crawl space. The musty smell was a thing of the past, and the moisture managed effectively—leaving them with peace of mind.

Foundation Repair in Amma, WV

2024-09-20T11:35:11.05Z

One of our expert Solution Specialists visited the home, conducted a thorough examination of the foundation, and identified the underlying issue. It was clear that the foundation had settled over time, leading to the issues the homeowner was experiencing. To provide a reliable and lasting solution, we recommended the installation of a Helical Pier system. Our installation process kicked off with a clear explanation of the work to the homeowner. Then, our skilled production team, comprising a foreman and dedicated installers, got to work seamlessly.

We installed the Helical Pier - a steel pier anchored firmly into stable, load-bearing soil beneath the foundation. This not only lifts but also stabilizes the foundation, directly addressing the problem of sagging floors and sticking doors. Upon completion, the transformation was noticeable. The floors felt solid underfoot, and doors swung open without a hitch. The homeowner remarked on the peace of mind our swift and clear process had brought them. Importantly, with Helical Piers now underpinning their home, they felt confident the solution was not just immediate but enduring. Our close-out of the job included a thorough clean-up, leaving the homeowner’s property as tidy as we found it, if not tidier.

Crawl Space Waterproofing in Simon, WV

2024-09-20T09:29:00.05Z

A Solution Specialist from our Sales Team then took a meticulous look around, confirming that indeed, water was making an unwanted guest appearance in their crawl space. The prescription? A comprehensive trio of our tried-and-tested solutions: the TripleSafe Sump Pump, CleanSpace liner, and a SaniDry Sedona. The installation was like watching a well-orchestrated play.

Our Foreman, leading the helm with our skilled installers, navigated through the installation with expertise only rivaled by their cleanup prowess. First up, the TripleSafe Sump Pump was setup - a true guardian against water, tailored to kick in right when needed, ensuring the crawl space remains dry as a bone, come rain or high water. Next, the CleanSpace liner was unravelled, snugly fitting into the crawl space’s nooks and crannies, creating a durable barrier against moisture and those unwanted humidity levels.

Lastly, the SaniDry Sedona made its grand entrance. Compact yet mighty, this dehumidifier made swift work of purifying the area's air, banishing that musty scent to history. Fast forward, and what was once a damp, smell-bound crawl space is now a dry, fresh haven.

Concrete Repair in Amma, WV

2024-09-16T15:30:09.05Z

Our initial step was to send our skilled Solution Specialist to thoroughly inspect the driveway. Upon inspection, we recommended an efficient, minimally invasive combo of PolyLevel and NexusPro to address the uneven concrete and seal joints and cracks effectively. These choices were due to their superb track record of providing a durable solution tailored to our climatic challenges and their little to no disturbance to homeowners’ routines.

Our production team sprang into action, injecting PolyLevel – an innovative foam solution under the slabs to gently raise and level them, ensuring they met accurately with each other. After achieving a perfectly level driveway, we applied NexusPro, a superior sealant that provides long-lasting flexibility and waterproofing protection, filling and sealing the joints and cracks to prevent future damage. The transformation was noticeable immediately. Not only was the driveway restored to its original level condition, offering sheer peace of mind to the homeowners, but the enhanced look significantly improved the overall curb appeal of their home.

Crawl Space Waterproofing in Troy, WV

2024-09-16T14:51:48.05Z

Our dedicated Appointment Center team quickly arranged a home inspection, laying the groundwork for a swift resolution. Once the appointment was confirmed, our Solution Specialist conducted a thorough inspection of the home's crawl space. It was critical to get up close with the problem to provide a solution that wouldn't just mask the symptoms but eliminate the cause.

Based on the insights gained during the inspection, we recommended installing a TripleSafe Sump Pump and our CleanSpace system – proven products for creating a dry, clean crawl space. Getting to work, our skilled production team, including an experienced foreman and diligently trained installers, embarked on the installation with a clear goal: to transform this troublesome crawl space into something the homeowners could once again ignore.

They expertly placed the TripleSafe Sump Pump, a reliable solution ensuring the area stays dry indefinitely, and then wrapped up the area with CleanSpace, an encapsulation material perfect for locking out moisture and the mustiness it brings. The result was not just a job well done but a fundamental improvement to their home.

Foundation Repair in Fleming, OH

2024-09-10T10:55:38.05Z

A seasoned Solution Specialist from our Sales Team visited the property, meticulously inspecting the site to diagnose the underlying issue. The problem? A settling foundation, a common but serious issue that if left unaddressed, could compromise the entire structure. Without hesitation, our solution was clear - the installation of Helical Piers, our go-to for stabilizing foundations and preventing further settling.

Our production team, consisting of a knowledgeable foreman and skilled installers, took on the task with precision. Helical Piers work like giant screws, drilled deep into the earth beneath the foundation to provide a solid, unmoving support. The installation isn’t just a Band-Aid; it’s a long-term solution aimed at halting settling, lifting the foundation back towards its original position, and, most importantly, ensuring peace of mind for homeowners.

Shortly after the installation, the results spoke volumes. Not only were the unsettling cracks no longer a concern, but the homeowner also felt a renewed sense of confidence in the safety and stability of their home. Our work here serves as a proud example of our mission at Alford Foundation & Crawl Space Repair: to provide not just expert craftsmanship and durable solutions, but also a remarkable customer experience every step of the way.

New Look, Same Professionals

2023-03-07T09:14:39.05Z

Our look is different, but the professionals at Alford Foundation and Crawl Space Repair, formerly Alford Home Solutions, remain your trusted source for basement waterproofing, crawl space repair, foundation repair, concrete lifting and leveling, and sunroom and awning installations. We will continue to provide the same high quality services that homeowners in the Tri-State area have depended on since 1963.

Click here to check out our new website!

All previous warranties will be honored, nothing has changed within our daily operations or contracts.

If you have any questions don’t hesitate to give us a call on our same number 304-768-2135.

If you are a pest control customer of ours, we are still here as Alford Pest Control! 304-758-PEST

Check out our pest control website!

www.Alfordpestcontrol.com

On behalf of Alford Foundation and Crawl Space Repair, we thank you for being a customer of ours.

Local Contracting Company hosting a Virtual Job Fair

2020-04-27T13:03:17.05Z

During the Coronavirus pandemic, job searching seems like a near impossible task. But practicing social distancing and looking for a job without leaving your home is possible, thanks to our virtual job fair.

LINKS TO JOBS: https://www.alfordhomesolutions.com/about-us/job-opportunities/list.html

Step 1: Search for the job you're interested in with Alford Home Solutions. https://www.alfordhomesolutions.com/about-us/job-opportunities/list.html

Step 2: Fill out the job application and upload resume on the website.

Step 3: Check in with HR to make sure we have your application. At this time please send in your preferred time to interview. Contact ekendall@aolfordhomesolutions.com

Step 4: We will notify you of the dates, time, and information to interview with us via Zoom. Please make sure you have access to this website or app.

Got Foundations Problems?

2013-12-30T15:03:13.05Z

Grip-Tite, an industry-leading manufacturer of foundation and basement wall repair systems, new foundation piles and soil retention elements located in Winterset, Iowa since 1921, is pleased to announce the appointment of Alford Home Solutions as the certified Grip-Tite Dealer/Installer for West Virginia, Western Kentucky and SE Ohio. Alford Home Solutions has been servicing customers and guaranteeing customer satisfaction in the Tri-State area since 1963 and will now be adding foundation and basement wall repair to their service offerings. Alford Home Solutions joins a growing Grip-Tite dealer network that covers all 50 states and Canada.

Chris Alford, President, sent a full contingent of key operational and sales personnel to an intensive, three-day training at the Grip-Tite facilities in November 2013, Alford Home Solutions is now positioned to immediately address your foundation and basement wall problems and provide the best and most cost-effective solutions. Be it a bowed or cracked basement wall, a settled foundation that creates cracks in brick or siding or prevents doors and windows from operating properly, Alford Home Solutions has the product and service to quickly analyze the problem, provide a solution and restore safety and security for your family by correcting the problem areas quickly and efficiently.

For an evaluation of your problem foundation or basement wall, call your certified Grip-Tite Dealer/Installer, Alford Home Solutions at 888-527-6009 or visit their website at www.alfordhomesolutions.com

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Alford Home Solutions Earns Esteemed 2013 Angie’s List Super Service Award

2013-12-30T14:20:09.05Z

Alford Home Solutions has earned the service industry’s coveted Angie’s List Super Service Award, reflecting an exemplary year of service provided to members of the consumer review service in 2013.

“We are honored to receive the Angie’s List Super Service Award for Pest Control for the second year in a row. It is part of our mission statement to perform outstanding customer service and I am glad to see we are fulfilling it. Customer Service is our number one priority,” said Chris Alford, President of Alford Home Solutions.

“Only about 5 percent of the companies Alford Home Solutions competes with in the Charleston market are able to earn our Super Service Award,” said Angie’s List Founder Angie Hicks. “It’s a mark of consistently great customer service.”

Angie’s List Super Service Award 2013 winners have met strict eligibility requirements, which include an “A” rating in overall grade, recent grade, and review period grade; the company must be in good standing with Angie’s List, have a fully complete profile, pass a background check and abide by Angie’s List operational guidelines.

Service company ratings are updated daily on Angie’s List. Companies are graded on an A through F scale in areas ranging from price to professionalism to punctuality. Members can find the 2013 Super Service Award logo next to company names in search results on AngiesList.com.

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Angie's List helps consumers have happy transactions with local service professionals in more than 720 categories of service, ranging from home improvement to healthcare. More than 2 million paid households use Angie's List to gain access to local ratings, exclusive discounts, the Angie’s List Magazine and the Angie's List complaint resolution service.