Basement waterproofing and crawl space repair in TN

How to Prepare Your Home For Winter Using Crawl Space Insulation

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 16:27:14 -0500

Winter is almost here, it's time to prepare by winterizing your home. The best way to get your house ready for colder weather is with insulation. Crawl space insulation keeps the air in your crawl space dry and warm. Keeping your crawl space warm will help your entire house stay warm. Cold winter air flows into the bottom of a house and travels up to the top through your homes living space.

Frontier Basement Systems is the leading installer of crawl space insulation in Nashville, Tennessee and Kentucky. Our newest product SilverGlo insulation boasts an R-11. This superior R-value will keep any crawl space warmer in the wintertime, as well as cooler in the summer. It will also lower humidity levels in a home. SilverGlo is a graphite-infused EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) Foam Board with a radiant barrier on one side. The use of graphite in the foam increases the R-value by 24% over standard white EPS foam.

This crawl space insulation is exclusive to dealerships in the Basement Systems international contractor network of basement and crawl space professionals.

"If you properly insulate your crawl space—in addition to air sealing and controlling moisture, you will save on energy costs and increase your home's comfort," writes the U.S. Department of Energy.

For crawl space insulation Kentucky and Tennesee, contact Frontier Basement Systems today!

Choosing the Right Sump Pump for Your Tennessee Basement

Tue, 08 Nov 2011 10:41:56 -0500

Clarksville, TN – With so many different options out there for sump pumps, trying to choose the best one for your home can be overwhelming. Many sump pumps advertise how great they are, but when tested, that's not the case. When picking a sump pump, you want to get the best one for your money -- failing sump pumps have been regarded as the cause of many flooded basements across the nation.

A sump pump is a two-part system. The “sump” refers to the hole in the ground, combined with the pump that goes in the sump. The sump hole and the pump are both of importance. A sump hole needs to be located at the lowest point of your basement so that the water will naturally drain to it. The pump needs to have the capability of pumping the water up and away from your house; this is called the “head.” For example, if you pump the water 2 feet up out of the sump hole, and 7 feel over your basement wall, that’s a 8 foot head. The higher the head, the lower the volume of water a pump can push. Be careful:

•   Some companies quote how much water their pumps will pump at a three-foot head. What sump pump system has to pump water only three feet high? Even worse, some pump companies will advertise saying “up to XXXX gallons per hour.” This is when the pump is at zero head. We want to know what the pump system can pump out of the house, not just what it can swirl around in the sump pit!

Choosing the Right Sump Pump

When choosing the right sump pump, there are some key things to consider. Be wary of:

•   Plastic Pumps: These retain heat which causes them to burn out faster.
•   Pedestal Pumps: These pumps has low capacity and also cannot be installed into an airtight sump
•   Pumps with Screened Inlets: These screens clog easily, which chokes the water flow
Solution:
•   Cast-Iron Pumps: These pumps tend to be quiet, long lasting, and cool well.

Another thing to examine when choosing the right sump pump is the sump pump switch. This switch is very important, as it signals the sump pump to begin working. Be wary of:

•   “Ball on a Wire” Switches: These need a big area to swing and can get hung up, which will force the system into an on or off position.
•   Pressure Switches: These are not as precise because “on level” can change over time.
Solution:
•   Mechanical Float Switches: These float on a rod, are reliable, and have positive “on” and “off” levels.

Backup Sump Pumps

Unfortunately even the best sump pumps can fail. That's why it's so important to have a backup sump pump system installed.

A backup sump pump will prevent against water entering your basement at times like these:
•   During a power outage – which is usually caused by a big rain storm
•   The primary sump pump coming unplugged
•   Circuit breaker tripping
•   Primary pump failing
•   Primary pump not being about to keep up with the amount of water.

Frontier Basement Systems offers award-winning, patented seal-environment sump pump systems and basement renovation in Jackson, TN and other surrounding areas. They specialize in sump pump installation, crawl space insulation, foundation repair, and basement waterproofing in Kentucky and Tennessee.

The Telltale Signs That Your Tennessee Home's Foundation Is Settling

Fri, 04 Nov 2011 09:44:03 -0400

Clarksville, TN – Settling foundations in Tennessee occur when the soil below you home can no longer support the weight bearing down on it. As this happens, cracks will begin to appear on both the interior and exterior of your home. It's best to find the cause of the settlement immediately to reduce the future cost of repair.

The key reason your foundation sinks, settles, or sags is the soil layers it rests on. Your home is resting on many different layers of soil, each with a different thickness and ability to hold the weight of your home.

Typically, soil layers get stronger with depth – but moisture effects soils differently. For example, when sandy soil comes in contact with moisture, there is minimal expansion. This is because water can pass though the sand y soils very quickly. When sandy soils gets wet, it retains its original size. Likewise, when it dries, shrinking is minimal. However, clay soil has a tendency to react very poorly with moisture. When clay gets saturated with water, it expands in size. As it dries, it compacts.

Settlement can typically occur in three different ways:

1. The drying and shrinking of soils:

• Drought: After many months (or even years) without proper rain, clay soil dries out. As the amount of soil around your house shrinks in size, it creates an empty space for your home to settle in to.
• Maturing trees: The trees surrounding your house have roots that can extend under your home, drawing moisture from the soil. Keep in mind that the root systems of a tree can often be two times the size of the tree canopy.

2. The wetting and softening of soil:

• Heavy rain and flood conditions: As clay soil gets wet, it holds on to the water and becomes very soft. The soft soil is usually weak, and can allow the home to shift or sink down into it
• Poor drainage: When there is standing water next to your home, the soil will absorb the water and weaken the soil.

3. Poorly compacted fill soil:

• Often, when a new home development project is underway, soil is removed from hilltops and placed in valleys to create flat, buildable lots. This soil has the potential to not be well-compacted – this will reflect as it begins to compress under the weight of the new home, in the form of settlement.

There are many visual signs of foundation settling that can occur both inside and outside of your home. Keep an eye out for the following:

• “Stair-Step” Cracking: This type of crack can be found on brick and concrete block walls, and will be visible in both interior and exterior walls. It derives its name from the fact that the crack looks like a set of stairs. As the home continues to settle, the cracks may widen, indicating that the wall is rotating outward.

• Chimneys: Sometimes chimneys are built on a foundation that is not connected to the rest of the home. This can be a problem when the chimney begins separating and leaning from the house as its independent foundation begins to settle.

• Doors and windows: These are the weakest part of the walls, due to the fact that they are an opening cut or created in a wall. Doors and windows can be the first place you notice settlement. Typical signs of this type of damage include:
o Doors and windows out of square
o Cracks extending from the corners of doors or windows
o Separation of a door or window from the framing or exterior finish.

Simply patching up a crack is only pushing off the inevitable because the source of the problem is not targeted. You may say, “Well my wall cracks aren’t that bad yet.” Remember that wall cracks will only get worse over time-- not better. When you see a crack, it is time to call Frontier the leading foundation contractor in Kentucky and Tennessee.

If you are experiencing any of these problems please contact Frontier Basement Systems your #1 contractor for cracked foundation repair in Nashville, TN and KY. Frontier Basement Systems specializes in basement waterproofing, crawl space repair and foundation settlement in Columbia, TN and surrounding areas. Visit Frontier Basement Systems online for a free foundation repair quote.

Frontier Basement Systems Receives Awards at International Convention in Connecticut

Wed, 28 Sep 2011 10:05:33 -0400

Clarksville, TN – Frontier Basement Systems was recently honored at a meeting of over 600 guests from all over the United States and Canada at this year’s Team Basement Systems Convention. The annual convention is held each year between Seymour, Connecticut, (where the Basement Systems headquarters is located) and Hartford, Connecticut, and brings together dealerships of the international network for classes, seminars, training, parties and networking.

This year Frontier Basement Systems received three awards at the Team Basement Systems International Convention. Frontier Basement Systems ranked in the top 10 for CleanSpace Dealers in the United States and Canada. They also placed in the Top 30 for both Foundation Supportworks Dealers and Basement Systems Dealers.

The convention featured guest speakers Krish Duhnam (of the Zig Ziglar corporation), and the “Pit bull of Personal Development” Larry Winget. A sports-themed party at the Connecticut Convention Center ended the convention week with music, food and performances by the Harlem Wizards and the New England Patriots Cheerleaders.

Frontier Basement Systems is a certified Basement Systems dealer specializing in foundation settlement repair, crawl space repair and basement renovation in Jackson, TN and nearby areas. Frontier Basement Systems has been servicing Tennessee and Kentucky homes since 2002.

Basement Systems is an international network of basement waterproofing, crawl space repair and basement finishing contractors. The international headquarters, based in Seymour, Connecticut, also provides sales and service throughout Connecticut and Westchester County, NY. Larry Janesky's Basement Systems has been helping homeowners increase their usable living space for over 20 years across the United States, Canada, Ireland and the United Kingdom. They have 27 patented basement and crawl space products, designed to help homeowners get more out of their basements and increase their home's value.

Taste of Holiday Extravaganza

Wed, 21 Sep 2011 11:47:53 -0400

The Taste of Holiday Extravaganza will be held on Thursday, September 22nd from 5pm-9pm at the Riverview Inn, Clarksville TN. This annual fundraiser benefits A & S All Support, Inc. A & S All Support assists individuals with disabilities in finding employment through the use of skill assessments, placement services and job coaching.

This will be the third year Frontier Basement Systems has sponsored The Taste of Holiday event. There will be local vendors featuring food, jewelry, candles and more as well as a silent auction and entertainment. We urge everyone to come and help us celebrate and support this organization that is so dear to our hearts. Tickets are available at our office for anyone who wishes to attend.

Frontier Basement Systems Helps Local Community by Fixing Ramp

Thu, 25 Aug 2011 09:56:36 -0400

Frontier Basement Systems participated in a community project which fixed a handicap ramp for the Wesley Foundation at Austin Peay State University in Clarksville. The Wesley Foundation is a United Methodist campus ministry that is sponsored by the United Methodist Church and is owned and operated on campus.

“Frontier is very excited to be able to help a great organization like the Wesley Foundation. It's great to be able to give back to our community and neighbors.” Layne Gebers, President

Frontier Basement Systems specializes in crawl space encapsulation, foundation repair, sump pump repair in Nashville and neighboring cities. If you want an expert basement contractor in Jackson, TN and the surrounding areas be sure to call Frontier Basement Systems! Call for a free quote today!

We Had Dinner With Dave Ramsey!

Tue, 05 Apr 2011 03:25:31 -0400

Frontier Basement Systems is excited to receive the approval from one of the most esteemed individuals in the finance industry, none only than Dave Ramsey himself! We attended an appreciation reception held at his home on February 4, 2011; where he invited all the local companies he trusts enough to put his name beside!

We’re proud to say that we’re Ramsey’s choice for basement waterproofing and foundation repair. In fact, we’re his only pick for the central TN area!

Contact us today for more information about basement waterproofing or foundation repair! We offer patented wall anchors in Nashville, TN and to all local areas.

Dave Ramsey is a best-selling author and host of a nationally syndicated radio show that’s on more than 350 stations and viewed by 3.5 million listeners. He founded the Financial Peace University to help people control their money, reduce debt, and harness proper money handling skills. Ramsey graduated from the University of Tennessee with a B.S. in Finance and Real Estate.

Employee Appreciation Banquet Was Huge Success

Mon, 28 Mar 2011 01:30:13 -0400

This February 5th we celebrated our employees at the Swetts Restaurant in Nashville. It proved to be a huge success as 33 employees came alongside their guests to enjoy an evening of good food, friends, and awards!

This year we organized three prestigious awards: Most Improved Salesperson, Foreman of the Year, and Employee of the Year.The special recipients are: Tim Sapp as this yearÂÂs Most Improved Salesperson, Fernando Mendoza as this year'Âs Foreman of the Year, and Jen Lee as Employee of the Year!

Congratulations to our winners and thank you to everyone who attended this worthwhile event.

Frontier Basement Systems is the local basement finishing, foundation repair, crawl space repair, and basement finishing expert. We service TN and KY and offer free estimates for all of our services. Contact us today as the spring showers produce basement and crawl space issues. We are here for you as your basement and wet crawl space contractor in Bowling Green, KY and all surrounding areas.

Nashville Basement Finishing Contractor Starts March Madness Food Drive for Pantry

Tue, 15 Mar 2011 11:15:56 -0400

Clarksville, TN â Frontier Basement Systems is hosting the March Madness Food Drive to collect food donations to benefit the local Manna CafÃ© Ministries food pantry. The office will be open to receive donations Monday through Friday at 755 N Woodson Road, Clarksville, TN.

The office will be open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Throughout the month of March, those at the Manna CafÃ© Ministries are linking arms with local businesses and others in the community to stock their food pantry, collect monetary donations and spread the word about the importance of this ministry.

Kenny York, an ordained pastor and leader of the Manna CafÃ© Ministries, was once homeless himself only to have turned his life around with the help of a similar ministry. He then moved back to Clarksville, his home town, to help restore the local 20,000 people struggling with inadequate food supplies in the Montgomery area.

The Manna CafÃ© Ministries offers three hot meals each week, food box distribution three days a week, and a delivery food box service. Since May 2010, this ministry has distributed 160,000 pounds of food and 6,000 hot meals.

Frontier Basement Systems is a basement finishing contractor Nashville, TN and also specializes in crawl space repair, foundation repair, and basement waterproofing. They are a member of the Better Business Bureau, Homebuilders Association, and BNI Group. Contact them today for a free estimate for their services.

There May Be Some Wet Basements in Tennessee With This Weeks Thawing Temperatures

Mon, 14 Feb 2011 03:15:43 -0500

Clarksville, TN â Frontier Basement Systems is a local basement and crawl space expert that is recommending all Tennesseans to keep an eye on their basements while the weather reaches thawing temperatures this week.

The ground doesnât just thaw when the temperatures begin to rise, but the ground also moistens-- which can become a great hassle for homeowners. The water in the soil beneath most homes tends to have a way of seeping into the basement, unless a proper basement waterproofing system has been installed.

With a sump pump system, a Tennessean will not have to fear the severe repercussions from warming weather. A sump pump directs the rising water from the soil beneath the basement and redirects it far from the homeâs foundation.

As the weather continues to warm, Frontier Basement Systems is encouraging homeowners to have their basement evaluated for free. Frontier Basement Systems offers free estimates for crawlspace waterproofing in Bowling Green, KY and TN.

Frontier Basement Systems also offers basement finishing, foundation repair, and crawl space repair in Central TN and Southwestern KY. They are a member of the internationally recognized Basement Systems, Inc. network of nearly 300 specialists. In addition, theyâve maintained an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau since 2002.

Contact them today to fix your shifting foundation in Nashville!

Flooded Basement Water Removal in Nashville, TN

Wed, 19 May 2010 03:58:49 -0400

Nashville, TN – Major storm and heavy rain caused widespread flooding in Tennessee.

Rapid rainfall caught people by surprise which left people, dogs and other animals trapped. Where possible, people were evacuated to higher ground, and area airports had to close.

While flash flooding spread across the state, experts advised to use common sense. Be careful going through water even if it doesn't look like it's deep.

Often, water levels on the road are deeper than they appear, and vehicles can easily get stuck or float. In addition, be aware of your surroundings and keep the radio or tv on so you’re up-to-date with the most recent local happenings. This will help ensure you stay safe.

Once the immediate risk of flooding has passed, the real work of repairing your flooded Nashville home begins. Click on the link above or here for help repairing a flooded home.

Now that the flood waters have started to recede, the flood clean up (which estimated at $1.5 billion without counting government buildings) begins. Many in the national media have been criticized for not covering and helping the flood zone sooner.

Those in the Volunteer State and surrounding flood zones have responded to their neighbors' pleas for help by volunteering their time, money and skill sets to assist those in need. 12,000 people volunteered with the group Hands on Nashville to help get flood victims relief. Of course Tennessee is known as the Volunteer State from wars in which citizens lined up to help their statesmen and women.

Local Nashville celebrities including Tim McGraw, Faith Hill, Kenny Chesney and others have been directly affected by the floods which overtook their Nashville homes. Yet other celebrities like Jerry Seinfeld and Taylor Swift are raising money and making large personal donations to help the relief effort. A June relief concert is being planned by Tim McGraw and Faith Hill to feature aforementioned artists and Carrie Underwood, Martina McBride, Luke Bryan, Lynard Skynard and others. Proceeds raised will be used to help local flood victims.

For information on how to help protect your flooded basement or crawl space from residual flooding, contact Frontier Basement Systems. We do provide our expert opinion about basement water removal for leaky flooded basement in Greater Nashville, TN.

Frontier Basement Systems Receives Seal of Satisfaction Award in Nashville

Thu, 04 Feb 2010 12:32:32 -0500

Frontier Basement Systems received the Nashville Services Select 2010 Seal of Satisfaction award in the "Waterproofing and Foundation Repair" category for professional services companies. The award was presented at the Black Tie Awards Dinner on January 23rd at the Stockyard Restaurant in Nashville, TN.

The Seal of Satisfaction is nominated by local consumers in each market based on customer satisfaction. Over 70 Professional categories are submitted to an independent third-party research firm. The award is based on the commitment to business excellence and customer satisfaction. There are only 22 Seal of Satisfaction award recipient companies in Nashville for 2010.

When asked what this award means to them, Layne Gebers responded, "We're so proud of our entire team! It's wonderful to receive an award that is nominated by our local consumers. It's a real testament to the hard work we give every day to our neighbors and customers."

Layne and Judy Gebers are the owners of Frontier Basement Systems located at 755 N Woodson Rd., Clarksville, TN. They have been in business since 2002. Frontier Basement Systems services all of Middle Tennessee and Southwestern KY performing basement waterproofing, crawl space encapsulation systems, foundation repairs and radon mitigation.