Keystone Basement Systems Q&A

Unfortunately no.  Asphalt must be replaced. 

Absolutely! Many of our customers make comfortable monthly payments.

The seriousness of a crack depends on the location, size, and a number of cracks, or if your home has other structural issues. A large number of homes have cracks in their foundation and the older a home gets, the more likelihood of cracks appearing.

Cracked foundations can lead to framing issues, roof issues, problems with doors and windows, and even leaks in basement walls. 

Absolutely yes, but it comes with a higher degree of difficulty.  You will need to use a true expert company because you will need them to have a high degree of expertise and high quality standards.  As with al fields and sectors, these companies are the exception and not the rule.  Keystone is the highest rated and most rated company in western Pennsylvania, so this is exactly who we are.

Although it is certainly possible to sell your home with an active foundation defect, it is suboptimal. The National Association of Realtors states that an untreated foundation problem can reduce the fair market value of a home by a staggering 10%-15%. In most cases that is double or triple the repair costs.  Even worse, two thirds of buyers state that they will not even bid on a home with an active foundation defect.  So in the end, not only is it cheaper to fix the problem than not to, it is far easier to eventually sell a home that has been repaired.  

If water in your basement is an issue, you likely need a sump pump.

The main function of a sump pump is to capture and discharge unwanted water from your basement to a more desirable.  An effective sump pump can determine whether or not your home is protected from flooding, standing water, or any other source of intruding water that can enter your home.

Our TripleSafe sump pump system can protect your home with 3 effective pumps in one liner. The first pump is an effective pump that will do most of the work. The second pump is higher in the liner and automatically turns on if the first pump cannot keep up. The third pump is a battery-powered pump that makes sure the sump pump protects your home even if the power goes out.

Mold can thrive anywhere there is moisture and organic material (like wood) that it uses as a 'food' source. That makes a crawl space an ideal haven. Encapsulation and dehumidification are the keys to getting rid of mold problems and their accompanying smells. Our CleanSpace vapor barrier will protect your crawl space from moisture coming in through the walls and floor in your crawl space. Adding a Sedona High Performance Dehumidifier takes care of any remaining ambient moisture, which makes your crawl space inhospitable to mold.

Push piers work by using the weight of the structure to drive steel tubes into the ground beneath the foundation. This is done using a hydraulic ram that pushes the pier sections into the ground until they reach a solid layer of soil or bedrock. Once the pier has reached the stable layer, a bracket is attached to the foundation footing, and the weight of the foundation is transferred to the pier. The pier is then adjusted to raise the foundation back to its original position.

If you're experiencing foundation settling or sinking, push piers might be the solution you're looking for. They offer a long-lasting, cost-effective, and minimally invasive solution to foundation repair. If you're interested in learning more about push piers or would like to schedule a 100% FREE estimate call Keystone Basement Systems now!!

1-800-771-3244

Rain can definitely affect the structural integrity of a building if it is not properly waterproofed! When water penetrates the surface of a building, it can cause mold growth, rot, and deterioration of building materials such as wood, concrete, and steel. Over time, this can weaken the structure and lead to significant damage and even collapse. Therefore, it is important to ensure that a building is properly waterproofed for the safety of those that occupy the said building.

There are several ways to approach fixing a sinking concrete patio and every repair is different depending on a number of factors. To find out what solution is right for you, call the experts at Keystone Basement Systems to receive a free estimate.

The best way to spend the least amount of money over the life of a decision is to hire a company with a superb understanding of what caused the problem, what repair options are available, the expertise to chose the right solution for the circumstance and the technical mastery to ensure the repair method is installed correctly to last the life of the home.  In short, a quality solution installed by a quality company will be the least expensive over time.  

Where people make mistakes is thinking the only time you could pay for a repair is when you sign a contract.  But what if it is the wrong method? What if it is installed incorrectly? What if the company is out of business?  34% of all the work we do is replacing previous attempts to solve a problem.  That’s 1 out of 3 homes we visit!  Usually the homeowner picked the cheapest proposal and lived to regret it.  Remember that there is a difference between price and cost.  Price is what you pay today.  Cost is what you pay for the life of the decision.  Keystone is almost always the lowest cost over the life of the decision.  This is no different from buying a quality car, even though the initial price is usually more the day you buy it…but it saves you over time.

Additionally, we have financing plans with comfortable low monthly installments.  Give us a call today at (800) 771-3244 for more information.

Push piers are a type of foundation repair solution that is designed to stabilize and lift settling or sinking foundations. They are made up of steel tubes that are driven into the ground beneath your foundation, with a machine that has a great amount of force, until they reach stable soil or bedrock. Once they reach this stable layer, the weight of the foundation is transferred from the unstable soil to the piers, which can support the weight of the foundation more effectively.

When a foundation is dug out and poured, the removed soil is replaced as a backfill. Unfortunately, this process can weaken the soil around the foundation and eventually lead to problems. For many homeowners, this is an unknown source of trouble. At Keystone Basement Systems, we can identify soil issues around your home and prevent them from causing further issues with your foundation.

Call us today at 1-412-837-0514 or click below to learn more about our foundation repair services. We offer free estimates on all our work in Pittsburgh, Cranberry Township, McKeesport and throughout the surrounding areas.

Some signs that you should be on the lookout for are as follows:

1. Cracked, crumbling, or compromised foundations- Start by checking the foundation itself. Walk the inside and outside wall of the property and check for signs of Fractures or cracks, crumbling or flaking concrete, moisture or pools of water, sagging floors or walls, and gaps.

2. Shifting soil and water damage- Shifting soil is a common cause of foundation problems. The natural movement of soil can put immense pressure on a foundation not created specifically for its conditions. The soil will often shift in uneven or graded zones, or because of water damage. If you live on a high grade, keep an eye out for shifting soil. Also, check your home premises for damp or wet areas that should be dry. it may indicate a water leak that could lead to foundation damage.

3. Gaps in walls or the foundation- Keep an eye for gaps in paces where the walls, floor, or ceiling should meet flush. These gaps can also appear on the outside of a home and can indicate shifting soil or foundations.

4. Drooping floors or warped ceilings- Although some settling is normal, excessive drooping of the floor, walls, or ceilings can be a sign of foundation problems. these often result in: Cracks in the walls, Warped or shifted areas, Water damage.

5. Door or windows that don't fit- When doors or windows begin to fit too tight or loose, it may be a sign of foundation issues. if you can't fit a door or window to its hinge snugly, there may be an issue. These issues can even affect garage doors, vents, and other wall fittings.

Polyurethane (poly) concrete leveling involves using a polyurethane foam material to raise and level sunken or uneven concrete slabs. The polyurethane foam is injected beneath the concrete slab through small holes drilled into the surface. The foam expands and fills the voids underneath the concrete, raising it to the desired height and level.

Poly concrete leveling has several advantages over traditional mudjacking, including:

1. Lightweight: The polyurethane foam used in the process is much lighter than the mixture of cement, soil, sand, and water used in mudjacking, reducing the stress on the existing structure.

2. Faster: The injection process is quicker and less labor-intensive than traditional mudjacking, making it a more efficient solution.

3. Stronger: Polyurethane foam is more durable and long-lasting than the mixture used in mudjacking, providing a more stable and permanent solution to sunken concrete.

4. Better Insulation: The foam used in poly concrete leveling provides insulation properties, making it a better solution for outdoor surfaces that are exposed to the elements.

It's important to note that poly concrete leveling is not a one-size-fits-all solution and may not be suitable for all concrete leveling projects. A professional contractor, like Keystone Basement Systems, should assess the specific needs of each project and recommend the best solution.

If a natural spring runs underneath your home, it can potentially cause a variety of problems. One of the main issues is water damage, which can lead to structural problems and health hazards. The constant flow of water can weaken the foundation of the house, causing cracks and instability. Water can seep into the walls and floors, leading to mold growth and other forms of water damage that can be costly to repair. Additionally, the dampness and humidity created by the water can attract insects and other pests, further exacerbating the problem.

Another issue that can arise from a natural spring running underneath your home is the risk of flooding. If the spring experiences a surge of water, it can quickly flood your home, causing extensive damage to your belongings and potentially even endangering your family's safety. The water can also bring in contaminants and pollutants from the surrounding environment, further exacerbating health risks associated with mold and other waterborne diseases. Overall, it is crucial to address any issues with a natural spring running under your home as quickly as possible to prevent long-term damage and keep your home safe and secure.

The TripleSafe sump pump is a product from Keystone Basement Systems, a company that has been providing basement waterproofing solutions for over 20 years. The TripleSafe sump pump is one of the most advanced sump pumps in the market and is considered the best by many. In this post, we will discuss the features that make the TripleSafe sump pump stand out from its competitors.

The first feature that sets the TripleSafe sump pump apart is its three-pump design. The sump pump comes with three pumps - a primary pump, a secondary pump, and a third backup pump. The primary pump operates under normal conditions, while the secondary pump is activated in case the primary needs assistance or the primary pump fails. The third pump, known as the battery backup pump, is used in case of power outages. This three-pump system ensures that water is pumped out of the basement even if one or two pumps fail, making it the most reliable sump pump system in the market.

The TripleSafe sump pump is also equipped with a battery backup system that kicks in when there is a power outage. The backup battery can power the sump pump for up to two days, ensuring that your basement remains dry even during extended power outages. This feature is particularly useful in areas prone to power outages due to storms or other natural disasters. Moreover, additional batteries can be added to extend the battery power beyond 2 days.

The TripleSafe sump pump is also designed to be energy-efficient. The pumps are also designed to operate quietly, ensuring that they do not disrupt the peace in the home. This energy-efficient design not only saves on energy costs but also ensures that the sump pump operates smoothly and without any interruptions.

The TripleSafe sump pump is also designed to be easy to maintain. The sump pump comes with an airtight lid that prevents odors and dampness from escaping the sump pit. The lid is also designed to be easily removed for maintenance purposes.

In conclusion, the TripleSafe sump pump from Keystone Basement Systems is the best sump pump in the market.

WaterGuard is a waterproofing system designed to protect basements from water damage. It is a trench and channel drainage system that is installed around the perimeter of the basement to collect water that may leak through the walls or floor. The system consists of a PVC pipe that is buried in a trench filled with gravel, which is covered by a plastic membrane. This pipe leads water away from the basement and out to a sump pump, which pumps the water out of the basement and away from the foundation.

One of the key benefits of WaterGuard is that it is designed to work even in the event of a power failure. If the sump pump stops working for any reason, the system will automatically redirect water to a backup sump pump, ensuring that your basement remains dry and protected. Additionally, WaterGuard is designed to be completely hidden from view, so it won't detract from the appearance of your basement. With WaterGuard, you can enjoy a dry, comfortable basement without having to worry about the risk of water damage.

Waterproofing is the process of making an object or structure resistant to the penetration of water under specified conditions. Although it is done typically by installing a sump pump or drainage system, although there are a number of ways beyond that to waterproof your home and or business, every home and or business is a project of all its own so it requires a custom made plan to fix.

A waterproofing company should be called for water seepage in your basement. Keystone Basement Systems has been waterproofing basements for over 19-years, and we offer free estimates. Our system design specialists determine the cause of the seepage and design a solution to keep your basement dry all the time.  Most importantly, ALL of our work is guaranteed!

While it may be easy to put off fixing that crack in your foundation wall (especially if there is no sign of leaking water), you should not wait too long to have the crack inspected. Soils on the outside of the foundation wall may be settling or adding pressure to your walls, and eventually will lead to larger issues. 

There is no better or cheaper time to fix your foundation, then now. As the crack gets bigger and the problem increases, the cost of repairs will only go up. 

Structural repairs are often necessary when a building or structure has experienced damage, has become worn or degraded over time, or has been poorly constructed in the first place. There are a variety of reasons why someone might need structural repairs, including:

1. Damage from natural disasters such as earthquakes, hurricanes, or tornadoes
2. Water damage from leaks or flooding
3. Fire damage
4. Pests such as termites or carpenter ants eating away at the structure
5. Deterioration due to age or exposure to the elements
6. Poor construction practices or use of substandard materials
7. Changes in use or occupancy of the building

In any of these cases, structural repairs can be necessary to ensure the safety and stability of the building, and to prevent further damage from occurring.

When it comes to home improvement projects, such as basement waterproofing or foundation repair, it can be tempting to go with the cheapest option available. However, as the old adage goes, you get what you pay for. Choosing a low-price company may seem like a good deal upfront, but in the long run, it can end up costing you more money and aggravation in the long run. Besides, how do you get a lower price in the first place? Well, just look at the components that create price; labor, equipment, material, warranty and back-end service. To get a lower price, you have to lower the quality in some or all of these areas.

Keystone Basement Systems, on the other hand, chooses to calibrate its solutions to permanently solve problems for its clients. We know this is something you want to fix once and never have to deal with AGAIN! We have a reputation for providing high-quality work using highly-skilled people using great equipment and materials to provide lasting results. Here are some important things to consider when making your choice:

1. Labor: Keystone Basement Systems employs highly-skilled and experienced people who are well-trained to handle a wide range of basement waterproofing and foundation repair issues. They have the expertise to assess the problem and recommend the best solution, ensuring that the job is done right the first time. The company invests heavily in continuing education to build expertise in its people. This creates a higher probability that jobs are done right, even when odd or non-standard issues arise. Additionally, team members at Keystone are fairly compensated. Our team members stay with the company and make real careers. Our institutional knowledge grows over time. Lower price companies, on the other hand, don’t believe in this, and pay little to their team members to get their price down. Turnover is prevalent. In that environment you must continue to use entry level or low-skill labor to do the work because that is all you can attract with low wages. This lowers the likelihood that standard jobs will go well for the customer and drastically lowers the likelihood of success when a job is different or non-standard. In short, you get what you pay for.

2. Quality Equipment & Material: Keystone Basement Systems uses high quality equipment and materials for their clients. This ensures that the job is done efficiently and effectively, with a focus on long-lasting results. As it is in all the trades, you can use material and equipment that is low quality, medium quality or high quality. Each company makes that choice. What you chose determines how long things will last. At Keystone, we know our customer demand longterm solutions, and would not stand for low or medium quality that quickly breaks down. Low price companies are short-term thinkers, and put very little emphasis on long-term results. Hence they chose the lower price equipment and material. That’s how they get the price lower. In short, you get what you pay for.

3. Warranty & Guarantee: Keystone Basement Systems stands behind our work, offering warranties and guarantees on our services. This means that if any issues arise after warrantied work is done, we will come back and fix it at no additional cost to you. It is for this fact we dominate all online review platforms when judged against our competition. Lower price companies use fine print (if they are even still in business), avoidance or half measures to deflect and avoid responsibility. The lower price company will provide the worst back-end service, no matter what is written on an estimate. That is why their reviews and reputation is poor. In short, you get what you pay for.

4. Customer Service: Keystone Basement Systems places a strong emphasis on customer service, working closely with clients to ensure that their needs are met and their questions are answered. We believe in annual maintenance to ensure function and longevity of our work. We welcome having a relationship with our clients and believe in standing by you over the years to ensure you never experience this issue again. We are committed to providing a positive experience from start to finish, and are always available to address any concerns or issues that may arise. Lower price companies want to collect the check and never see or hear from you again. That’s where the term “tail light guarantee” comes from. Your warranty and back-end service immediately fades like the taillights of the truck you see driving away. In the end, you get what you pay for…and you know deep down that is true.

While a low-price company may seem like a good deal initially, the reality is that they use less skilled labor and lower quality equipment, leading to problems down the road. These companies rarely live up to the warranties and guarantees stated on their estimates, leaving you on the hook for any future repairs or issues. Remember, price is what you pay today and cost is what you pay over time. Lower price options are strongly correlated with a lower price on day 1 and a much higher price over time. That, coupled with the stress and aggregation of fixing something that should have been done right the first time, makes the lower price options dramatically more expensive in the long run. You guessed it, In the end, you get what you pay for…and deep down you know that is the truth.

In contrast, a company like Keystone Basement Systems provides a high-quality service with skilled labor, top-of-the-line equipment, and a commitment to customer satisfaction. While our prices may be higher than some of our competitors, the cost over time will be lower. The value we provide in terms of quality and peace of mind is well worth the investment. Also, you don’t have the risk. Consider this:

Lower price option = Low price / high risk option

Keystone = Low risk / high value option

In conclusion, when it comes to home improvement projects such as basement waterproofing or foundation repair, it's important to choose a company that provides high-quality work with great people and great equipment. No one wants to do this work twice. Therefore, consider the low risk / high value provider that can make that happen. Keystone Basement Systems is an excellent example of such a company, offering skilled labor, top-of-the-line equipment, warranties and guarantees, and exceptional customer service...because in the end, you get what you pay for…and you know that is true!

Keystone Basement Systems is a leading basement waterproofing, foundation repair, and basement finishing company located in McKeesport, Pennsylvania. They have been serving the residents of McKeesport and the surrounding areas for 20 years, providing high-quality services and solutions to homeowners in need of basement and foundation repairs. The company's team of highly skilled professionals is dedicated to providing expert advice, quality workmanship, and exceptional customer service.

Keystone Basement Systems uses the latest technologies and products to ensure that their customers receive the most effective and efficient solutions for their basement and foundation problems. Whether it's waterproofing, crack repair, or basement finishing, they have the expertise to get the job done right the first time! So If you're looking for a reliable and trustworthy basement contractor in your area, Keystone Basement Systems is the company for you.