French drains

I’ve got a brownstone and am looking for recommendations for waterproofing companies to dig a French drain in my basement. Also interested in hearing about problems that others have had with this strategy to eliminate water penetration in a basement.

Guest User | 6 years ago

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wjbehrle | 5 years and 11 months ago

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We used E&M waterproofing for our new french drains. It hasn’t solved our water problem, unfortunately, but our experience with the company has been outstanding. Eddie, the owner, has been working exceptionally hard to help us figure out what more we need to do to solve our problem. The french drain and sump pump installation went really well. Quick, neat, affordable (under $4k).

workisfun | 5 years and 11 months ago

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I had a slab that varied in thickness, from 2”-5ish”. After we accepted that we had to bust up significant sqft of the slab to install the drain, we decided to do the whole thing and eliminate hydrostatic pressure from the equation. Along the way, we discovered cracks and back pitching along the main waste line. So we are incredibly grateful that we did it. And, the improvement in temp regulation with the insulation is undeniable. And at that point, I couldn’t resist installing radiant hydronic loops myself. Saved 10s of thousands of dollars on the whole thing. So far, no water or moisture penetration. Heating fixtures aren’t considered when selecting furniture or arranging a room. Low cost heating. We’re very happy.

cate | 6 years ago

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workisfun, did you previously have a just a think slab with no waterproofing? How is the difference in thickness and moisture? Was it worth doing? Thanks!

workisfun | 6 years ago

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I think mine was around $4k.

Guest User | 6 years ago

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Thanks for these suggestions. I’m hoping to avoid replacing the entire slab, which seems unnecessary. Can you tell me what the price range is for installing one?

workisfun | 6 years ago

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I used quality 1st basement waterproofing, which seemed like an odd choice on its face. It’s a franchise and they use proprietary materials. We also installed a horizontal vapor barrier and a vertical membrane before pouring the new slab. I haven’t bad any problems. Quality 1st was the best price and they offered interest free 18 month financing. Their sump has three pumps and a backup battery. I would bring a few people in.

Arkady | 6 years ago

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I put one in about 30 years ago & it has done an excellent job. Neighbors on both sides of me had flooding recently while I just had some dampness. Park Slope Brownstone can do the work. 646 554 4513