Foundation management and drainage, llc
Frequently Asked
Questions
How much does it cost?
Exterior drainage systems are a fraction of the cost of what basement waterproofing companies push on people. The cost of an exterior drainage solution can vary depending on the topography and size of the project. Small projects typically cost $1k-$2k, and extremely complex systems with buried drain pipes may cost $10k. That is way less than the average price of an interior basement drainage system ($15k), and it works much better.
How do I know if a foundation crack is structural?
We specialize in methods to protect your house from getting foundation cracks by managing water, but sometimes the cracks are already there. Any foundation crack can be a pathway for water to get in your basement, but very few are structurally significant. To determine if a crack is structural, we work with engineers at Kemp Home Inspections, LLC and ASA Engineering Group, LLC to answer your structural concerns.
Do you install sump pumps?
No, we don’t install sump pumps. Sump pumps are for rising ground water coming up through your basement floor. That’s not maintenance, that’s reactionary. The need for sump pumps are very rare, and contractors are constantly installing them for conditions that do not require it. We specialize in managing exterior water from your roof and yard topography. Our philosophy is to protect your foundation by managing the water from the outside.
What cities and areas do you cover?
We are based in Germantown MD and work in the Maryland counties of Montgomery, Frederick, Carroll, Howard, Prince George’s and parts of Anne Arundel. We do not service Virginia or DC.
How long does a project take?
The field installation of a proper exterior drainage system is typically 1 to 3 days; however, the overall project may take several weeks to implement. We need to consult an engineer, call Miss Utility, and we need several days of good weather – wet or soggy conditions isn’t the time to build a drain system.
Do you do structural repairs to foundations?
No, we don’t do structural repairs. We do fill foundation cracks as a backup to prevent water from getting your basement, but that is only to prevent water, not correct a structural issue. If you need structural repairs you should contact an engineer like Kemp Home Inspections, LLC or ASA Engineering Group, LLC. Or you can try an app called The House Engineer which is a great tool at understanding whether you need structural repairs.
How is exterior foundation drainage different from an interior basement drain system?
You probably already have the start of an exterior drainage system at your existing house: it’s your roof gutters and downspouts. If you keep your roof gutters clean and free of debris, and your downspouts are extended to get the water well away from the foundation, you are most of the way to having a robust drainage solution. However, most roof drainage incorrectly dumps water right next to the foundation. We can extend your downspouts and bury these pipes so they aren’t in the way when you mow your lawn, and they don’t get damaged. We also do smart regrading of your yard to use gravity to get the water away from your house. All too often the ground slopes TOWARD the foundation when the ground should slope away from the house structure. We also install yard drains to collect the water. If your house backs up to hill, or is very flat, you should seriously consider what we offer.
What is an engineering certification for a drain system?
A properly installed drain system needs the right size pipe, at the right slope, going to the right place. Many landscaping companies install drain systems by eyeballing it. We take accurate measurements of your yard topography and consult with engineers to ensure the right system for you. At the end of the project, we share our field data with the engineer who can provide an engineering certification that the drainage solution meets industry standards.
Besides exterior water management and sealing of foundation cracks, what else do you do?
We focus on what we’re best at, downspout management, yard drains, and regrading of terrain to move water away from the house. We also fill foundation cracks as an added layer of protection. We occasionally take on small projects related to general home improvements. If you have other home improvement needs, don’t hesitate to ask, and if it’s a good fit we may be able to help, or recommend someone else.