Choosing a poured concrete basement contractor:

Questions to ask, professional associations

Hiring a poured basement contractor is no different than hiring any other type of contractor. See hiring a contractor.

Do they have extensive experience in this line of work. Poured concrete basements should not be one item in a long list of things they "specialize" in.

Are they a licensed, bonded, and insured contractor?

Do they have a list of recent references you can call and/ or visit? See the types of questions to ask in choosing a ready mix supplier

Are they a member of the Concrete Foundations Association? Being a member is not a guarantee of excellent construction practice, but associations are usually joined and supported by those interested in doing the job right. Follow the steps in hiring a contractor.

Basement Construction Checklist
provided by TUFF-N-DRI

If your home is being built for you by a general contractor, you will not be deciding who your poured concrete basement contractor is-your general contractor will. You still want to have an understanding of the type of basement construction being proposed, the waterproofing method which will be used (or if there is not going to be one), and the expertise of the company doing the basement. Basements are vital to the structure of your home, and if you are going to finish the basement to use as living space you absolutely want the basement comfortable and dry.

The University of Minnesota has written an excellent document of "Typical Causes of Basement Moisture Problems." They also provide the solutions! It is a good idea to study the problems people have with basements to make sure your construction procedure adequately addresses each issue so you can avoid these problems.

Return To Building Concrete Basements

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