Basement waterproofing and crawl space repair in ND

Recovering From A Basement Flood

Wed, May 15 2013, 00:00:00 -500

With all the late snow we got in Minnesota and North Dakota this year – followed by rapid melting – you may be one of the many homeowners who experience basement or crawl space flooding this spring. And if you’re one of those homeowners – whether you’ve already experienced flooding or you’re just anticipating it – you’ll need to know what you can do to recover from your basement flood. So how do you recover from a basement flood? Here’s what we recommend:

Call a basement waterproofing expert. Not all basement waterproofers are created equal. As a waterproofing expert that has been in business since 2004, Innovative Basement Systems has waterproofed countless basements across Minnesota and North Dakota. We’re confident that we have the knowledge and superior products to dry your basement for the long haul.

When you call Innovative, we’ll send a specialist out to take a look at your home and provide a free estimate customized to fix your problem the right way. We understand that not every home needs the same solution, so we’re willing to work with you and your home to figure out which of our products best suit your needs.
Dry the basement. This step is a no-brainer. If you have a wet basement, you need to dry it. This means draining the water of course, but it also means removing all of the water-damaged items from the space. When the books, cardboard boxes, clothes, upholstered furniture, and other items you’ve been storing in your basement get wet, your basement becomes vulnerable to the spread of mold. It can spread to the other organic materials in your basement, including floor joists and other structural elements. The spread of mold can also cause some serious problems for the air quality in your living space – another great reason to avoid it.

While some water damaged items might be salvageable, much of it probably isn’t. The best thing to do is get rid of anything beyond repair and waterproof your basement to avoid being in the same situation in the future.
Install a quality basement drainage system. If you’re determined to have a dry basement, you’ll need a top-of-the-line basement drainage system like WaterGuard. WaterGuard is installed around the perimeter of your basement floor. It collects water from your walls and directs them toward a sump pump. With expert installation of a quality product like WaterGuard, you’ll finally be able to rest assured that your basement will remain dry in the next flood season.
Get a good sump pump. That sump pump we mentioned above? Make sure it’s a SuperSump. Equipped with a WaterWatch alarm, a SuperSump pump will alert you if anything goes wrong with the pump. This means that in the future you’ll have plenty of time to stop a flood before it happens – instead of continuing to rebuild again and again like you’ve been doing.

With your SuperSump, you can also get IceGuard discharge line protection. This is especially useful to Minnesota and North Dakota homeowners because in the spring when it tends to be warm one day and freezing the next, you won’t have to worry about your sump pump discharge line freezing right when you need it most.
Address bigger issues. If your basement floods every year, there’s probably a reason for it. Maybe your foundation is heaving, causing cracks in the floor that let water come through. Maybe your walls are bowing inward, causing troublesome staircase cracks that allow water to enter. Or maybe your foundation is settling, that wide gap that forms around your foundation during droughts causing a moving foundation and allowing water in.

Regardless of the cause, Innovative Basement Systems can figure it out! Along with basement waterproofing services, Innovative offers foundation repair to homeowners all over Minnesota and North Dakota. If your foundation is letting water in, we can fix both problems using our Geo-Lock wall anchors, PowerBrace wall braces, or helical, slab, and push pier systems. This saves you time – you won’t have to worry about dealing with multiple contractors at once, and you won’t have to worry that the job won’t get done correctly.

Your basement is an important part of your home. Moisture below impacts the living space above. It can cause the growth of mold, dust mites, and other critters that do nothing for the health of your home’s air. Innovative Basement Systems has been in the waterproofing business for years, and we have the knowledge and tools to dry your basement once and for all. Just call us at 877-365-0097 or fill out our online form to schedule your free estimate today!

Veteran Owned Small Business

Fri, May 10 2013, 00:00:00 -500

Innovative Basement System’s is proud to announce they have been verified as a Veteran Owned Small Business. We value our customers and the service we provide in the same manner we value our country. Our dedication to customer satisfaction is our top priority. Call Innovative at 877-365-0097 or fill out our online form today!

Team Innovative - Men's Softball

Tue, May 7 2013, 00:00:00 -500

Despite the very cold weather at the start of the weekend, Team Innovative; sponsored by Innovative Basement Systems, was able to take home a second place finish for their first tournament of the season. Congratulations on your success and Good Luck throughout your season! Go Team Innovative!!

Kare 11 On the Threat of Radon to Minnesota Homeowners

Fri, April 26 2013, 00:00:00 -500

Last night Kare 11 reported on the harmful effects of radon for homeowners in high risk areas in Minnesota. Minnesota has some of the highest radon levels in the country, with the southern and western parts of the state at the highest risk.

Radon is a colorless, odorless gas. You can't see it or smell it, but it's there - at least it is if your home isn't protected. The biggest risk factor of radon is that it's the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking, responsible for 21,000 lung cancer deaths each year according to the EPA.

There aren't currently any regulations for the sale of homes in Minnesota, and many residents are calling for a change. That change may come in the form of "Janet's Bill," which would require homeowners to test their homes for radon prior to putting them up for sale if they haven't tested in the past five years. This measure would place more restrictions on selling your home, but it would also make more Minnesotans aware of the threat of radon.

If you're a Minnesota or North Dakota homeowner concerned with the possibility of radon in your home, call Innovative Basement Systems at 877-365-0097 or fill out our online form to learn more about how you can test your home for radon.

Egress Window Replacement...Valley City, ND

Fri, April 19 2013, 13:44:00 -500

A couple in Valley City, North Dakota called Innovative when they were finally ready to have an egress window replaced in their basement. Their old window had seen better days: it was framed with old, crumbling wood that did little to increase energy efficiency and even less to protect against mold and rot. Innovative sent an egress window specialist out to Valley City to assess the problem and recommend a solution.

How Reliable Is Your Sump Pump?

Tue, April 16 2013, 00:00:00 -500

We meet lots of homeowners who try to take basement waterproofing into their own hands. They try to patch leaky wall cracks on their own, break out the wet/dry vac every spring, or – as shown in the photo above – throw together their own sump pump using an old bucket and a hose. All of these temporary solutions – especially the sump pump – are disasters waiting to happen. Often, the sump pump is your first defense against basement flooding, so you need a good one if you want to make sure your basement stays dry. How reliable is yours?

There are plenty of sump pumps on the market today, but if you want your basement to stay dry for the long haul, you need one that goes above and beyond what the average sump pump does. That’s where Innovative Basement Systems comes in.

With our top-of-the-line SuperSump sump pump – not to mention our WaterGuard drainage system, waterproof finishing products, and the rest of our extensive waterproofing line – you can rest assured that your basement will stay dry for the long haul. But what sets the SuperSump apart from the competition?

SuperSump pumps are equipped with an airtight lid to keep humidity and odors out of your basement. The SuperSump is also just the right size: other options often have liners that go down too deep, causing the sump to pump unnecessary water, but the SuperSump is neither too big nor too small, making it as efficient as it is effective. Minnesota and North Dakota owners will appreciate the addition of IceGuard, a proven protection from frozen discharge lines in the winter.

But the feature the homeowners we work with are most excited about? You can get your SuperSump pump equipped with a WaterWatch Alarm. The alarm will sound if the water in your basement rises past the point where your sump should have turned on. In combination with the rest of the SuperSump’s great features, the WaterWatch Alarm makes SuperSump pumps a failsafe method of keeping your basement dry.

Are you ready to dry your basement once and for all? Sump pumps don’t get any more reliable than the SuperSump. In a basement with perimeter drainage systems like our WaterGuard system, SuperSump is the only way to go! Call us today at 877-365-0097 or fill out our online form to start taking care of your wet basement once and for all.

Lowering Flood Premiums Despite Rising Water

Wed, April 3 2013, 14:29:42 -500

With recent reports of homeowners taking gambles on their flood insurance policies, it’s clear that homeowners in flood zones are desperate for ways to save money. Innovative Basement Systems has added to its lineup a new product that can help homeowners save money on expensive flood insurance policies.

SmartVent is Innovative’s answer to homes with problematic crawl spaces. The system equalizes pressure inside and outside of the crawl space or basement, allowing water to enter and exit the space freely. This freedom of movement reduces the strain on foundation walls and decreases the likelihood of structural problems developing. The vent only opens when water pressure lifts it, so no animals or other unwanted objects can enter the space. And the best part is that crawl space vents can lower flood insurance premiums.

Innovative Basement Systems constantly adopts new products like SmartVent into its waterproofing line. In the past, Innovative has been a part of flood preparation and rebuilding efforts throughout North Dakota and Minnesota – and the company wants to continue helping homeowners prepare their homes for the future.

Innovative Offers An Answer to Springtime Flooding

Thu, March 28 2013, 16:11:43 -500

When the snow that built up over the winter starts to melt, it can cause serious problems for unprepared homeowners. Every year, Innovative Basement Systems performs waterproofing procedures on homes across Minnesota and North Dakota. The problem doesn’t end when the water gets pumped out – it grows. Homeowners need to assess the damage to their property, take measures to prevent mold, and learn how to eliminate flooding in the future.

Using a diverse range of products, Innovative Basement Systems helps dozens of homeowners deal with their basement moisture problem every year. The company has been involved in flood preparation and rebuilding efforts in the past, including the Souris River Valley flood in 2011, which caused hundreds of thousands of dollars in damage to homes in the Minot, North Dakota area. In a follow-up interview with a Minot customer, the homeowner was pleased, “after dealing with seepage from cracked foundation walls for many years,” to not have to worry about it anymore.

In between helping flood victims rebuild, Innovative Basement Systems constantly adopts new products and develops new, cost-effective ways of installing them. The company’s answer to springtime flooding comes delivered in a package customized for each specific home, including repair of water-damaged materials and prevention methods for the future. From foundation repair to close water entry points to specialized drainage systems, Innovative Basement Systems keeps busy getting basements dry – and keeping them that way.

Preventing Mold After Flooding

Tue, March 26 2013, 00:00:00 -500

Spring has sprung, and with the new season will come a new batch of homeowners to be greeted by flood when they walk into their basement. If your basement isn’t already waterproofed, you may be one of them. And a flood isn’t the only problem water can bring. With excessive moisture comes the spread of mold, causing damage to the structure of your home as well as your personal property.

If you waterproofed before the wet season, you have little to worry about. But what if your basement has already flooded? How do you prevent mold then? Innovative Basement Systems can answer this question for you. Our specialists are experienced at diagnosing and recommending solutions for basement problems – including mold.

So what can we do to prevent basement mold after your basement has already flooded?

Identify the source. You have to know the source of the moisture so you can prevent the problem in the future. Without identifying the source, you run the risk of the same problem happening again and again. Luckily, identifying the source of the problem is pretty easy. A quick look around the basement usually tells you everything you need to know.
Dry the basement. This is an obvious first step, but it is one of the most important steps. By removing the water – and any items that have gotten wet, like furniture, clothes, papers, and cardboard boxes – you take a huge step towards keeping mold from causing more damage.
Waterproof. You aren’t going to know if the next big storm or spring thaw is going to spare you, so it’s best to prepare now. After you remove all of your damaged, waterlogged belongings, waterproofing your basement is the best thing you can do to prevent mold after a flood.

Innovative Basement Systems installs many basement drainage systems every year. Of the several systems we have on offer, we are confident that we will find the one best for you and your home. And it doesn’t end at drainage systems – we have sump pumps equipped with alarms to alert you if your pump fails, we have vapor barriers for walls that will protect your basement from flooding again, and we even have a finishing system that uses completely water- and mold-resistant materials.

The best way to prevent harmful mold from forming when your basement floods is to do something about it immediately. Leaving your basement wet or waiting until the next flood is only going to make the problem worse. To get started preventing basement mold after flooding, call Innovative Basement Systems at 877-365-0097 or fill out our online form to set up a free estimate today!

Can I Afford to Waterproof My Basement?

Fri, March 22 2013, 00:00:00 -500

The best way to keep water out of your basement is to take preventative measures against it. And the best way to do that is to use quality products properly installed by professionals. But some homeowners are hesitant to take the plunge for fear of an expensive bill that they can’t afford. Our installers have seen plenty of patched together solutions to serious water problems, like this makeshift sump pump – scrapped together with a bucket and a hose – that a homeowner tried using to dry out their dirt crawl space:

But we’re not surprised that homeowners resort to their own solutions. Extensive home repairs are costly – but not as costly as they will be if you don’t make efforts to correct the problem as soon as it forms. Property damage, mold, flooding, rot – the problems that can arise with a continuing moisture problem are well-known, and they can make a huge difference if you ever want to resell your home.

So what do you do if you don’t have money saved towards home repairs, but you really need to do something about your problem? Innovative Basement Systems offers an affordable financing option for homeowners who need to fix their wet basement now. Our specialists are trained to help you make the best choice for your home – while saving the most money you can – and they can answer all of your questions about financing your waterproofing project.

Basement water is a serious problem, and it can lead to even more trouble if you don’t address it as soon as you notice it. So when you ask yourself whether you can afford to waterproof your basement, maybe you should really be asking whether you can afford not to. If you’re ready to get explore your payment options and get started on repairing your home, start by calling Innovative Basement Systems today at 877-365-0097 or filling out our online form.

Waterproof Now to Avoid the Spring Flooding

Wed, March 20 2013, 00:00:00 -500

The first day of spring is finally here! But we’re not out of the woods yet. There are still lots of things to take into account before the spring thaw – like what to do with all that melting snow. It has to go somewhere, and unfortunately for lots of Minnesota and North Dakota homeowners, it more often than not flows into basements and crawl spaces.

But as insistent as the water is on getting into your home, there are things you can do to protect against a spring flood, whether you’ve never had a moisture problem before or you’re dreading yet another year with a wet basement.

Adjust Downspouts
That snow on your roof and the coming spring rains have to go somewhere. If your downspouts don’t extend far enough away from your foundation, the soil around your home will soak – and some of that moisture may enter your basement through cracks and fissures in the foundation.

Ideally, downspouts like our RainChute should be extended several feet from the foundation to ensure that the water gets far enough away not to pose a threat. Some people even install pipe that leads to outside drainage, which can be a big help for those who have flooded lawns year after year.

Inspect Grading
It’s important to make sure your property drains properly, and that means making sure your lawn slopes away from your home. When soil is disturbed, such as during the building of a home, it can take a while to settle again. This can cause the grade of the soil surrounding your home to change. What once sloped away from your home may now slope towards it, directing water straight towards your foundation.

This problem might be a little more difficult to deal with – you may have to bring in someone to repair your grading issue for you – but it’ll be worth it when you no longer have to worry about water pooling around the foundation of your home.

Check Sump Pump
A good sump pump is often the difference between a wet basement and a dry one. You’d be surprised at how many people install new sump pumps and forget to plug them in! It’s a good idea to check your pump before the weather gets wet. Start by making sure your pump is plugged in and turned on, and then pour water into the basin. If everything is right, the pump should turn on and start pumping the water out.

Some sump pumps are equipped with a backup battery, and others, like our SuperSump and TripleSafe sump pumps, come with a WaterWatch alarm that will alert you if the pump fails. Making sure your sump pump is in working order is a great way to protect your home from flooding.

But what if your basement is already wet?

Most basements experience moisture at one point or another, so it’s pretty likely that your basement is already letting in water. If this is the case, there are things you can do after pumping that water out:

Identify the Source
Water frequently enters basements through cracks and fissures in the foundation walls or the basement floor. When you identify where exactly the water is coming from, you go a long way towards actually drying the basement. Innovative Basement Systems’ specialists will be able to identify the source of your basement water, and then help you come up with an effective, long-lasting solution so that you won’t have to worry about spring flooding again.

Install a Drainage System
Just like the drainage around the outside of your home, the drainage inside your basement is vitally important. Installing a perimeter drainage system inside your basement is a great thing to do if your basement walls have cracks and fissures that allow moisture to enter.

Innovative Basement Systems’ WaterGuard drainage system is the solution that countless Minnesota and North Dakota homeowners have chosen – and for good reason! The system is installed along the perimeter of the floor in order to collect water from walls and lead it to a sump pump, leaving your basement clean and dry.

Get an Effective Sump Pump
As mentioned above, having a properly-working sump pump can be the difference between a wet basement and a dry one. And getting a quality pump is easier than ever when you choose to work with Innovative Basement Systems. Our SuperSump sump pump is equipped against clogs, power loss, heavy rains, and more!

If you find that your basement is in need of waterproofing, look no further than Innovative Basement Systems. We are a recognized leader in the basement waterproofing business of Minnesota and North Dakota, and we’re dedicated to helping homeowners eliminate their water once and for all. Call us today at [phone] or fill out our online form to schedule a free estimate!

Basement Finishing: If You Can Dream It, You Can Do It

Wed, March 20 2013, 00:00:00 -500

When you walk into your basement, do you see nothing more than a damp, dingy space that you would rather just avoid? Try thinking of your basement as a blank canvas. Imagine turning your basement into a useable extension of your home. Whether you want to create more living space, use the space to earn extra income, or want to banish those pesky moisture problems, a finished basement is a great way to transform your basement into an asset.

When you purchased your home, you likely had to compromise and give up on the dream of having your own home gym in order to have a house with a big yard and a 10 minute commute to work. By finishing your basement, a run on the treadmill will be just steps away, rather than a 20 minute drive to the gym.

If a gym isn’t your dream, then maybe it’s a TV room, a home office, or a playroom for the kids; whatever it is, a finished basement offers endless opportunities in terms of what your basement can become. In this economy, building an addition might be out of the question, but a refinished basement is an affordable way to add more space to your home.

Staying on the tough economy subject, I bet you never thought that your drab basement could actually make you money. By finishing your basement, the previously unused space can become a rental apartment. This is a simple way to earn some extra cash!

A finished basement offers numerous benefits. A home with a basement that has been remodeled tends to sell a lot faster than a home with an unfinished basement. So by finishing your basement, you can significantly increase your home’s value. A well-insulated basement can also improve your home’s comfort, as well as energy efficiency, which means more money in your pocket.

The basement is one of the most underutilized spaces of a home. Oftentimes, this is because of issues like flooding, mold, drywall that has been damaged by moisture, or carpeting that smells and looks bad. A professional basement finishing contractor can work around all the obstacles that are unique to your basement, like low ceilings, pipes, and heating ducts; and design a customized plan to provide you with a beautiful basement that works with your budget.

If you are unsure of where to start, the team at Innovative Basement Systems can help you decide what refinishing aspects are the most important and come up with ideas to turn your basement into a space that you can enjoy. They offer the expertise and award-winning products to finish your basement in North Dakota or Minnesota permanently. Don’t just dream, start planning today!

When It Comes to Radon Exposure, Everyone is at Risk

Wed, March 20 2013, 00:00:00 -500

Radon is an odorless, tasteless, invisible gas that is found in every state in the US. Over an estimated 20,000 deaths each year have been linked to radon gas exposure and the “silent killer” is the leading cause of cancer among nonsmokers. What if we told you that exposure to radon most often occurs right in your own home?

You are probably wondering how radon can enter your home in the first place. Things like cracks in the foundation, basement floor drains and sump pump openings are an open invitation for this harmful gas. Radon can also enter the home through holes made for pipes and other utility hookups. Does your home have a crawl space? Since radon gas gets released by the soil, a house with a dirt crawl space has a much higher risk for radon exposure than one with a concrete foundation. Once radon enters your crawl space or basement, it has absolutely no problem moving its way into your living space.

It has been found that radon poisoning is more likely to occur during the winter months when windows are closed and there is no way for the gas to escape the home. But this doesn’t mean that radon isn’t harmful any other time of the year. Since radon is a naturally occurring gas, it can be present anytime, anywhere. While radon exposure cannot be avoided, it’s important to keep this exposure to a minimum.

Not only is radon harmful to your health, it can also diminish the value of your home. When it comes to selling your home, oftentimes a radon test is required in order to complete the sale. If you are purchasing a home, it’s important to remember that it doesn’t matter if the home is new or old; radon exposure is always a possibility. Since radon levels can change over time, it’s important to have the home tested periodically.

The Environment Protection Agency recommends that if your radon test shows a radon level of 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) or higher, that you hire a qualified radon mitigation contractor to reduce the radon levels in your home or building immediately. But don’t wait! Exposure to low levels of radon over time can actually be more harmful than high-level exposure over a short period of time. That’s why the EPA suggests aiming to keep radon levels below 2 pCi/L.

Although respiratory ailments like persistent cough, hoarseness, breathing difficulties, and recurring respiratory infections may be indicators of radon poisoning, many homeowners never see any symptoms until it is too late.

Radon testing is the only way to make sure that you are not being exposed to dangerous amounts of radon. Just because Bob Smith who lives next door doesn’t have a radon problem, doesn’t mean that you don’t. By taking steps to lower the radon levels in your home, you could be saving your family’s lives.

A member of the National Radon Defense network, Innovative Basement Systems can help. As the leading radon gas mitigation contractor in North Dakota and Minnesota, we offer professional radon testing and radon mitigation and removal services that you can trust. We can perform an inspection and conduct a radon test in your home in as little as two days. Who knew something so important could be so simple?

Innovative Featured As Angie's List Expert

Thu, March 14 2013, 00:00:00 -500

You already knew that Innovative Basement Systems has an excellent rating on Angie's list. We're one of the highest rated basement waterproofing companies in Fargo, but did you know we provide other services as well? We provide basement waterproofing, crawl space repair, radon mitigation, foundation repair, and basement finishing services throughout Minnesota and North Dakota.

And because we provide high-quality, expertly-installed products to quickly and effectively transform your home, we weren't surprised when Angie's List published one of our articles in their Angie's List Experts Section. Check out 10 Good Reasons to Finish Your Basement, and then give us a call at [phone] when you're ready to finish your own basement!

What Can PolyLevel Do For You?

Wed, March 13 2013, 00:00:00 -500

Innovative Basement Systems has recently added something new to our line of foundation repair products. We’re happy to introduce PolyLevel, a new product designed to repair settled and buckling driveways, sidewalks, roads, and other surfaces made with concrete. So what is PolyLevel, and how does it compare to traditional concrete repair procedures?

What Is PolyLevel?
When heavy concrete is poured over the ground to create sidewalks, driveways, roads, and parking lots – all areas which receive heavy traffic from cars, trucks, and machinery – the underlying soil compacts. This compaction can create some serious problems and render roads, driveways, sidewalks, and parking lots dangerous and unusable. Our solution? PolyLevel.

PolyLevel is a strong, stable material used to repair settling driveways, sidewalks, roads, and other concrete surfaces. This structural grade geopolymer is injected beneath settling concrete surfaces and expands to fill voids and strengthen soil. It's great for homeowners who are worried about their sidewalks and driveways settling and buckling, causing tripping hazards and ruining curb appeal.

Stable and quick-curing, PolyLevel acts fast to level settling concrete surfaces after injection. It is strong but lightweight, with the ability to support substantial loads. And best of all, it's completely non-intrusive. It won't take long to apply to your settled concrete, and nothing will get disturbed in the process.

How Does PolyLevel Compare to Other Procedures?
The most significant difference between PolyLevel and the common liquid mortar method is that PolyLevel is significantly lighter, weighing just 4lb/square foot. Compare that to the 120lb/square foot weight for standard fill materials, and you can see that traditional methods are much more likely to cause soil compaction problems over time.

Another problem with traditional methods is that the flow of the materials is much harder to control. This can cause an installer to inject too much, resulting in a finished product that is still uneven. PolyLevel is much easier to work with, resulting in a much better end result. And, because it's waterproof, PolyLevel will not weather like other popular materials, which crumble away after prolonged exposure to water.

And best of all, PolyLevel is a fast, mess-free solution to your settling concrete problem. Why worry about someone tripping and falling every time you have guests over? A buckled driveway or sidewalk is not a problem you want to have. If you're ready to get the concrete surfaces around your home under control, call Innovative at 877-365-0097 or fill out our online form today!

A Mold Problem Solved...Mandan, ND

Fri, March 8 2013, 12:18:59 -500

A Mandan, North Dakota homeowner contacted Innovative Basement Systems due to continued moisture and mold issues underneath their basement flooring. Their flooring installers have had to pull up the flooring three separate times in attempts to correct the issue, but every attempt had been unsuccessful. In desperate need of a solution, the homeowner contacted Innovative Basement Systems. After a thorough inspection, the specialist was unable to locate any source of moisture entry into the home. The specialist then checked the relative humidity in the basement, which was 91%. During winter months a relative humidity of 91% in a basement is abnormally high; the specialist asked the homeowner if their furnace had a built in humidifier, which it did. Upon checking the humidifier, it was discovered that it was set to its maximum setting. The humidifier was turned off, and a follow-up appointment set for the following week.

Preventing Mold in Basements and Crawl Spaces in Minnesota and North Dakota

Wed, March 6 2013, 00:00:00 -500

Whether your home has a basement or crawl space, you’re probably concerned about making it as clean and healthy as possible. But, there are so many other parts of the home to worry about – parts that you’re more likely to see every day – that it’s easy to forget about your basement or crawl space. The crawl space, being difficult to enter, is especially vulnerable and can be severely damaged before you even notice something’s wrong. That’s bad: how you treat the lower levels of your home impacts the condition of the upper levels. Some of the greatest – and most common – threats to your basement or crawl space are moisture and mold.

Where moisture and organic materials mingle, mold is almost inevitable – and chances are, your basement or crawl space was constructed with organic materials. When mold forms on drywall, exposed wood joists, or other organic building materials, it can quickly spread. The spread of mold can ruin any items you have and storage and seriously damage the stability of your home. So, how can you prevent it?

Here are several ways Innovative Basement Systems can help Minnesota and North Dakota homeowners prevent the formation of mold in their basement or crawl space:

Water Drainage System
While preventing basement or crawl space mold, the most important thing to do is keep the space dry. Installing a water drainage system is the best way to do this. Innovative Basement Systems specializes in waterproofing basements with our WaterGuard drainage system. The system is installed under the perimeter of the basement floor, collecting water and directing it to a sump pump.

In a crawl space, Innovative uses a SmartPipe crawl space drainage system. This system is clog-resistant and equipped with holes on the top and front to collect water from the surface of the crawl space as well as the soil, draining the moisture out of the space.

Sump Pump
After you install a perimeter drainage system like WaterGuard, a sump pump becomes a necessary part of your waterproofing system. Our SuperSump and TripleSafe sump pumps can be equipped with a WaterWatch alarm that will alert you if your system stops working.

Dehumidifier
Any basement or crawl space with a moisture problem could benefit from a dehumidifier. Dehumidifiers are useful for wicking moisture out of the air, preventing it from condensing on basement and crawl space surfaces, eventually leading to mold. Our SaniDry dehumidifier is an energy efficient model that can remove over 100 pints of water from the air per day, able to keep your basement dry and mold free!

Vapor Barrier
Like the dehumidifier, a good vapor barrier will help keep moisture from settling over surfaces in your basement or crawl space. Innovative Basement Systems uses CleanSpace vapor barriers to protect crawl spaces and basements. This system is made of inorganic materials, so it’s not vulnerable to mold, mites, or other common pests. It’ll protect your basement walls, but it’s especially effective in crawl spaces, which commonly have dirt floors that make them even more vulnerable.

Are you ready to turn your wet basement into a clean, dry space – with no risk of mold? Call us today at [phone] or fill out our online form. With decades in the basement business, Innovative Basement Systems has solved basement problems for countless homeowners across Minnesota and North Dakota – and we’re ready to solve your problem as well!

Crawl Space Humidity Problem Solved...Bismarck, ND

Fri, March 1 2013, 11:55:01 -500

The homeowner contacted Innovative Basement Systems due to elevated humidity issues in their home. The humidity was causing serious condensation issues in the attic, which in return was causing moisture damage to the home’s ceiling. The homeowner assumed the issues were being caused by ventilation problems in the attic. Upon inspection, the specialist found several areas of concern in the crawl space. While attic ventilation is an important aspect of a home, after an inspection of the attic space it was determined by the specialist that both adequate ventilation and insulation were present. The relative humidity in the crawl space was above 80%. Due to the stack effect, the extremely humid air was being drawn into both the home’s living space and attic from the crawl space causing the condensation in the attic.

PolyLevel and StableFill Presentation Conducted by Innovative Foundation Supportworks

Thu, February 28 2013, 00:00:00 -500

On February 19, Innovative Foundation Supportworks presented information on polyurethane grouting and cellular concrete to a group of engineers as a part of the monthly meeting of the North Central Region of the American Society of Highway Engineers (ASHE). Jeff Kortan, PE, the director of engineering for Foundation Supportworks, talked to the group about new innovations in settling concrete slab repair as well as lightweight concrete used for a variety of transportation related applications.

The Foundation Supportworks PolyLevel System utilizes high-density polyurethane to stabilize and level concrete. With multiple formulas available, PolyLevel is able to fit the needs of any job large or small. Also, StableFill Cellular Concrete is a lightweight material made by replacing some or all of the stone aggregate used in standard concrete with uniform air cells (voids). Applications include load-reducing fill, backfill for tunnels and retaining walls, annular grouting for tunnels, fill for bridge approaches, and fill for sinkholes and abandoned underground tanks, pipelines and mines.

The meeting was held at the offices of the North Dakota Department of Transportation in Bismarck. Over 40 engineers and highway department officials were in attendance. Representatives from other NDDOT field offices attended the presentation via video conference.

Foundation SupportWorks is a leading manufacturer of earth retention systems, geopolymer stabilization systems, helical and hydraulically driven pier systems. Innovative Foundation Supportworks, with local offices in Fargo, ND and Pine City, MN, is the authorized contractor representing the North Central Region of ASHE.

Why Do Foundations Crack?

Wed, February 27 2013, 00:00:00 -500

A damaged foundation can cause some serious problems for your home. They can make your windows and doors difficult to open, cause your basement to flood, compromise your home’s resale value, and cause a lot of headaches. Without intervention, these problems will only get worse. There are two ways to approach a foundation problem: either repair whatever damage the problem has caused and hope it doesn’t happen again, or fix the problem at its source. Obviously, the second option is the way to go, so it’s important to know the most common reasons why foundations crack in the first place – and what to do about it.

Why They Crack
Not Enough Support
Sometimes foundation walls bow inward when there isn’t anything counteracting the pressure being put on the wall from the outside. Bowing walls compromise the home’s structural integrity, and they could one day lead to total collapse. They’re fairly easy to diagnose: just look for horizontal cracks in your foundation wall.

Heaving
Heaving occurs when soil absorbs water and expands toward the foundation wall. Much like other instances where foundation walls aren’t supported enough from the inside, heaving causes walls to bow inward over time. The difference is that heaving impacts block foundation walls.

Homes in states like Minnesota and North Dakota are particularly vulnerable to soil heaving. The soils in these areas are rich with clay, which absorbs water easily. Without correcting the problem, it only gets worse. Fortunately, heaving is easy to diagnose. In homes with block foundations, gaps will form between the blocks, creating a “staircase” pattern that is easily detectable without any special tools or knowledge.

Settling
This problem is the opposite of heaving. Instead of expanding, soils shrink. Foundations settle when dry soil shrinks away from the foundation, leaving it exposed to the elements and more prone to shifting. Settling can cause water problems as well as foundation problems, so it’s important to figure out a solution right away.

Luckily, settling is also fairly easy to diagnose. Causing vertical cracks to form in drywall even in the above ground levels of the home, uneven floors, and hard-to-open doors and windows, foundation settling is fairly obvious to attentive homeowners.

Construction Problems
Unfortunately not all contractors put as much care into completing their jobs correctly as Innovative Basement Systems, and sometimes foundations suffer for it. When materials aren’t correctly installed – or they just aren’t the right materials to use for the job – things inevitably go wrong somewhere down the line.

What to Do
The best way to repair your foundation – whether it’s settling, heaving, bowing, or just wasn’t constructed properly – is to contact an expert with the knowledge and tools needed to get the job done right. Innovative Basement Systems understands the need for homeowners to protect their biggest investment, so we have many solutions designed to fit your home’s specific needs.

We offer several different piering options to lift settled foundations, Geo-Lock wall anchors and our PowerBrace system to repair bowing walls, and even a wall restoration system known as Shotcrete, which fortifies damaged basement walls using a strong, fiber-reinforced mortar mixture. Whatever your needs, our team of specialists will be there to answer questions, make recommendations, and support your foundation repair project.

If you’ve noticed wall cracks, bowing or crumbling walls, or especially wet or dry soil around your home, now is the time to take action. Call Innovative Basement Systems today at 877-365-0097 or fill out our online form to start taking care of your biggest investment.

Waterproofed Basement...Williston, ND

Mon, February 25 2013, 11:14:37 -500

This project started when the homeowners noticed water leaking into the south side of their home, damaging two finished basement bedrooms. The water had been leaking in every spring for the past few years. They also had some ridges and flaking in the concrete slab in a few areas of their basement floor. The homeowners tried a few different repairs on their outside of their home, adding soil to build up the grade next to the foundation and installing new gutters, but the water continued to leak in where the wall meets the floor on the south side of their home.

Causes of Leaky Basements

Wed, February 20 2013, 00:00:00 -500

It’s still frigid in Minnesota and North Dakota – for now. But after every snowy winter is a spring thaw, where the snow melts, and our yards become soggy, muddy messes. And even worse: our basements are more prone to leakage. While the cause of leaky basements may seem obvious – rain or melted snow leaks in through basement walls – a leak is the consequence of a greater problem. Here are some possible causes of water in your basement:

Drainage Problems
Most people know the importance of clearing their gutters of debris. When gutters are clogged, water can’t drain off the roof properly, which can cause all kinds of problems. But sometimes even when the water can drain, gutters can still cause problems. When gutter downspouts don’t extend far enough away from the home, water pools around the perimeter and can cause basement water troubles.

Poor Grading
But there are other problems you could have as well. Did you know that the land around your home makes a big difference in whether or not your basement stays dry? It’s true – when your yard slopes towards your home, water drains towards your foundation. When it pools around your basement walls, water can get into your home through cracks and gaps between joints that much more easily. By improving your grading – and combining this improvement with basement waterproofing – you will make a huge difference in your basement’s water problem.

Drought
It may seem counterintuitive, but drought can lead to future basement flooding. This is because soil contracts when it is dry. It shrinks away from your home’s foundation, leaving large gaps around the perimeter. When the ground finally does get some moisture, it all goes into the gap, causing problems for your basement.

Foundation Issues
But a drought is only one instance in which a home’s foundation is compromised. Unfortified basement walls often bow inward when the earth around the perimeter presses in on them. And when walls bow, they crack. Gaps form between blocks, giving water an easy passage into the home.

Regardless of why your basement leaks, Innovative Basement Systems can diagnose the problem – and provide an effective solution. Our experts have been servicing basements and foundations throughout Minnesota and North Dakota for years, and we make it our mission to complete every job with the quality customer service we have become known for. If you’re ready to waterproof your basement before the snow melts, call us at 877-365-0097 or fill out our online form!

A Stable, Dry, Finished Basement...Devils Lake, ND

Wed, February 20 2013, 14:38:25 -500

When the owners of this home decided to call Innovative Basement Systems, they had concerns about several problems in their home, all of which Innovative could help with. The basement had a water problem, the foundation walls were bowing inward, and the homeowners dreamed of having a finished basement to enjoy. These problems were a lot for any homeowner to handle, but the Innovative team made sure they knew exactly what would happen in their home before any work got started.

A Dry, Finished Basement...Alice, ND

Wed, February 20 2013, 13:50:44 -500

The owner of this home had some serious concerns about the problems in his basement, as well as some specific requirements for how to solve them. First, because the homeowner wanted his space to be finished after the waterproofing project, he requested that the sump pump not be part of the livable space. And because the basement’s water problem had been going on for quite some time, the homeowner wanted the job done as quickly as possible to limit the exposure of the small children who lived in the home to mold. With these concerns in mind, Team Innovative set about providing a solution that met the homeowner’s needs.

Humidity Is More Trouble Than It's Worth

Mon, February 18 2013, 00:00:00 -500

Let’s face it: nearly all of us have walked into a basement with a strange, musty odor. Over time you get used to it, and the smell seems to disappear. But it’s still there, and it will likely stay until the homeowner realizes there is something he or she can do about it.

That’s what happened a few months ago when an Alexandria, Minnesota homeowner decided to call Innovative Basement Systems about her home’s musty smell. While it may seem like a mere inconvenience that can be covered up with scented candles and sprays, musty odors in a home’s living space can be sign of a bigger problem.

But what problem? A strange smell could be evidence of any number of troubles, but more often than not it’s evidence of a very common problem with an easy solution. That was the case with the Alexandria homeowner. So what’s the problem? Simple. Humidity.

A humid basement or crawl space is the perfect environment for organic materials to form and grow. It is these materials that emit odor, which can eventually grow strong enough to noticeably enter your living space. Mold spores, bacteria, dust mites… All of these can – and probably will – form in a humid environment. There’s not much you can do to combat these harmful organisms except to address the problem at its source: humidity. And it’s our job to help.

Innovative Basement Systems has a diverse range of products designed to tackle basement humidity at its source. From our high-efficiency SaniDry dehumidifier to our CleanSpace vapor barrier to our water-resistant basement finishing line, we have the materials to battle humidity in every level of the home, at every stage of your basement plans.

So if you’re battling a humidity problem in your home – or you think you are – call us! Innovative Basement Systems is a trusted expert in all things basement throughout Minnesota and North Dakota. Our team of experts has the experience and tools to help you through any basement project, and we’re eager to help in any way we can. Call us at 877-365-0097 or fill out our online form to get started.

Use CleanSpace to Waterproof Your Walls

Tue, February 12 2013, 00:00:00 -500

From our waterproof ThermalDry floor tiles to our energy efficient SaniDry dehumidifier, Innovative Basement Systems has some highly effective, affordable products on offer to homeowners who want to make a change in their homes, including those who wish to do something about their leaky basement walls. Our solution is to protect your basement walls with a durable, waterproof product that will stand up against moisture and time.

CleanSpace is just one of our answers to the basement moisture problem – and it’s one of the most popular. The photo above was taken at a recent basement waterproofing job in Denbigh, North Dakota, where Innovative Basement Systems installed CleanSpace in conjunction with the WaterGuard basement waterproofing system.

But what is CleanSpace, what does it do, and how does it measure up against other waterproofing products?

What is CleanSpace?
In a nutshell, CleanSpace is a vapor barrier designed to protect basements and crawl spaces from the moisture. CleanSpace is created from high density polyethylene. Polyester cord reinforcement allows it to be mechanically fastened to the walls so it will never fall off. There are several different options when it comes to CleanSpace: it ranges from 8mm to 20mm thick, and environmentally-conscious homeowners can even choose a recycled option.

What does CleanSpace do?
CleanSpace is used to encapsulate crawl spaces and line basement walls for protection against moisture and mold. In a crawl space, the CleanSpace liner will act as a waterproof shield, keeping moisture from entering from the ground or the outside. By doing this, CleanSpace maintains a dry, mold free environment that won’t cause odors or energy problems in the above home.

In a basement, after being attached to the basement walls using sturdy drilled-in fasteners, the CleanSpace wall lining acts as a barrier against water that often enters the basement through cracks in the foundation. When a drainage system is installed along the perimeter of the basement – as is the case during CleanSpace Wall installations – CleanSpace will direct moisture down the wall into the drainage system. Your basement will be free from water, and your storage will be safe from harm.

Why is CleanSpace better than other options?
Aside from being made of durable polyethylene that will stand the test of time, CleanSpace has another thing going for it as well. Every CleanSpace contains an antimicrobial additive called UltraFresh. UltraFresh is designed to prevent mold and bacteria from forming between the CleanSpace wall and your basement or crawl space walls. With this kind of protection, it makes sense to go with CleanSpace for your basement waterproofing our crawl space encapsulation project. Vapor barriers are very important in securing the lower portions of your home against water, and CleanSpace is an option for homeowners who want the most effective product with the greatest durability.

Basements and crawl spaces are the parts of a home most vulnerable to moisture and mold. Without protecting them, you make the rest of your home vulnerable to the musty smells and damaged property that come along with a moisture or mold problem. Above all, CleanSpace vapor barrier is designed to protect the most vulnerable parts of your home. With its durable material and clean look, it – unlike water – will help you protect your investment without interfering into your lifestyle. Homeowners in North Dakota and Minnesota who are concerned about moisture in their basement or crawl space should call 877-365-0097 or fill out our online form to get started today!

A Waterproofed Basement Ready for Finishing

Thu, February 7 2013, 00:00:00 -500

As we mentioned a few days ago, it’s always a good idea to waterproof a basement before you finish it. By waterproofing prior to finishing, you protect your belongings from damage. While all of the products Total Basement Finishing by Innovative uses are water-resistant, it is best to treat the water at the source of the problem instead of covering it up and hoping it’ll go away.

One homeowner in Williston, North Dakota agreed with us. Prior to starting their finishing project, Innovative Basement Systems installed several products to waterproof the homeowner’s basement. Our WaterGuard system is the ideal solution to waterproofing a basement the right way: it is as unintrusive as possible while also delivering the best results.

The perimeter of the basement is excavated to make room for the WaterGuard pipes, which rise slightly above the floor to collect water from the basement walls. Because of the wall moisture, the homeowner had to replace the lower portion of his basement drywall several times before finally waterproofing his basement – and then equipping his walls with waterproof EverLast wall panels. The WaterGuard system will collect the water and direct it to a pump, while the EverLast panels will keep any moisture contained between the panel and the concrete basement walls.

The WaterGuard system goes around the perimeter of the basement, where it directs water into the basement sump pump. This homeowner chose to upgrade their old, outdated sump pump to one of our SuperSump pumps, complete with a WaterWatch alarm to alert you if anything goes wrong. WaterGuard is also more cost-effective than other commonly used systems. It is smaller, so covering is up is easier, saving you money on labor and materials.

Here, you can see the progress the basement has gone through. The new EverLast half wall gives the basement a clean and polished look and, more importantly, coupled with the WaterGuard system, it will help keep the basement dry for the long haul. This homeowner was very happy with the waterproofing project Innovative Basement Systems completed in their home, and they are eager to continue their finishing project in the future.

Whether you’re looking to repair your foundation, clean up your crawl space, or waterproof your basement, like this homeowner did, Innovative Basment Systems is the best choice. Trusted experts throughout North Dakota and Minnesota, we take pride in putting a homeowner and his or her needs above all else. Give us a call at 877-365-0097 or fill out our online form to get your project started today!

Consider Repair to Improve Resale

Fri, February 1 2013, 00:00:00 -500

Selling a home is not a decision anyone takes lightly. But there are so many things to consider – packing, moving arrangements, excitement about your new home – that it’s easy to leave something out. One thing you might want to consider, though, is whether the unseen parts of your home – the basement, the foundation, and the crawl space – are hurting its resale value. Did you know that wet basements, damaged foundations, and nasty crawl spaces decrease property value by an average of 10%?

Some of these things, like a basement with a water problem, are likely evident as soon as you enter the space, while foundation problems can be a hidden problem – until it’s revealed during a property inspection. Most homebuyers hire an inspector to help them assess potential problems in a home before they buy it, but a home inspection is a good buy for the seller as well as the buyer. Or maybe you’re already aware of your basement, foundation, or crawl space problem. Either way, a homeowner who addresses underlying problems could significantly increase the market value of his or her home.

Think about it: the average cost of a home in the United States is around $279,000 according to a 2010 estimate. If you have a basement, foundation, or crawl space problem, you could be losing out on over $27,000 – even more if you have more than one of these problems, which often coexist with one another. Check out this video to learn more about how a damaged foundation can damage your property value. While you may end up paying to do repairs, it’ll be worth it when your property value increases and your wet basement or cracked foundation will no longer scare away potential buyers.

If you’re a homeowner interested in increasing your property’s value, Innovative Basement Systems can help! Innovative Basement Systems is a trusted name throughout North Dakota and Minnesota for homeowners who need basement, foundation, or crawl space work, and we’re devoted to customer satisfaction through every phase of the work you need. Contacting us by calling 877-365-0097 or filling out our online form is the first step! After that, will be with you every step of the way, from the initial inspection to the final walkthrough, to make sure your home is at its best when you put it on the market.

Avoiding Foundation Repair Can Lead to Other Problems

Mon, January 28 2013, 00:00:00 -500

As we mentioned recently, homeowners who ignore their home’s problems or wait too long to deal with them are taking a risk they may come to regret – especially if the problem has to do with their foundation. Regardless of their reasoning – not knowing what to do about the problem, fearing the cost of repair, hoping it will go away – a homeowner who does nothing about their home’s foundation problem is playing with fire. But without knowing what the risks actually are, it’s easy to be nonchalant about your home’s problem, so we came up with a list of the top risks of avoiding foundation repair:

Cracks in walls. This is as much as risk as it is a sign. If there are cracks in your home’s drywall, chances are good that your house has begun to settle. When a settling foundation goes unchecked, cracks only worsen. Floors become uneven, and doors and windows get harder to open and close. This problem starts out as a nuisance, but it can get much worse over time.
Water damage. Damaged foundations let water enter your basement. It comes in through cracks between blocks which often occur in walls that are bowing inward. Walls bow inward when the pressure on the wall from the outside is not counteracted from the inside. It’s easy for water to enter through these cracks. When temperatures warm up after a winter of heavy snowfall in Minnesota and North Dakota, basement flooding is common. Is the cost of repairing a cracked wall worth the cost of hundreds or thousands of dollars of damaged possessions?
Wasted money. A problematic foundation is bad enough – when you wait to repair it, it’s only going to get worse. Badly bowing or settled foundation walls are more costly to repair – both in materials and in labor – than walls that have just started to show sign of disrepair. By not taking care of your problems today, you run the risk of having a bigger, more expensive problem tomorrow.
Failure of foundation walls. Obviously, the worst thing that could happen after an untreated foundation problem is that the foundation walls fail. This effect would likely take years to happen, but it has happened to many homeowners. Even if you repaired your foundation before it failed completely, waiting too long could greatly increase the expense. Your home is probably the biggest investment of your life, so it makes sense to do everything you can to make sure it sticks around for the long haul.

Innovative Basement Systems is devoted to helping homeowners with foundation problems throughout Minnesota and North Dakota. We understand the worries that come along with having a major problem in your home – and we’ll work with you every step of the way to make sure that your anxieties are eased. When our experienced team of experts is done with your foundation, you will finally be able to have the peace of mind that you deserve. Call 877-365-0097 or fill out our online form today to get started with your foundation repair project.

PowerBrace Saves Another Basement

Wed, January 23 2013, 00:00:00 -500

It can be a devastating blow to realize something is wrong with your home. A lot of homeowners ignore the problem – not because they think it will go away, but because they don’t know what to do about it, or they think they can’t afford to fix it. The trouble with that logic is that even in the best case scenario, they still have a problem – and in the worst case scenario, the problem will worsen, becoming even more complicated and expensive.

A Minneapolis homeowner recently took action against his deteriorating foundation walls by calling Innovative. Prior to our work on his foundation, the homeowner’s foundation was a serious danger to the stability of his home. With nothing to counteract the outside force pushing against them, walls will bow inward. With enough time, the walls could then collapse inward. By stabilizing your foundation walls, you ensure that what will likely be your biggest investment – your home – is safe for a long time to come.

After seeing the homeowner’s basement, Innovative’s specialist recommended the PowerBrace system to stabilize the bowing walls. The PowerBrace system consists of i-beams made of strong galvanized steel. The top of the beam is attached to the joists of the floor above, and the bottom of the beam is embedded in the floor. Between the durable materials and the 25-year warranty, his basement will be protected for a long time to come. On top of that, the installation process requires no excavation and minimal disruption to your basement.

The Minneapolis homeowner who had this PowerBrace installation is very happy to finally be free from worries about his foundation. Through frequent tightening, his walls may soon be back to normal.

Bowing and buckling are extremely common, especially during drought conditions like the ones North Dakota and Minnesota have experienced lately. The key to dealing with the problem is to address it as soon as you notice it. Ignoring the problem will only make it worse! If you have a foundation in need of repair, either using PowerBrace or one of our other effective solutions, call Innovative at 877-365-0097 or fill out our online form.

Team Innovative Conducted Its Yearly Training This Week

Fri, January 18 2013, 00:00:00 -500

This week was a busy one at the Innovative Basement Systems Pine City office. Employees from our Fargo office came down to Pine City to take part in a yearly two-day training program. The training took place on Thursday and Friday, and it covered many important components of the work Innovative Basement Systems does, from sales to installation to safety procedures.

Among the topics presented, one of the most crucial subjects was a reminder that the most important part of a salesperson or installer’s job is customer satisfaction. We want you to be happy with every part of working with us, from the first meeting to the final walkthrough – both topics of conversation throughout the two-day training.

To go along with our dedication to customer satisfaction, a big portion of the training also revolved around making sure our installers properly install – and explain to the homeowner how to use and maintain – the products we offer. Our installers are prepared to adhere to exact specifications during product installations, test products like sump pumps for use before leaving the job site, and clean up any trash created by the work they do in your home. This is all so you can have the peace of mind you deserve before, during, and after a major project is completed in your home.

Safety is another thing Team Innovative does not take lightly. A major component of the training was reminding our installers of safety procedures they must adhere to on the job site. These procedures are intended to make sure every person working your home knows how to avoid accidents – and what to do in the unfortunate event that one occurs. You won’t have to worry about things going wrong when Innovative Basement Systems is at work in your home.

Everyone left the training more informed, more prepared, and a lot fuller thanks to our pizza and cake feast at the end of the training.

Rid Your Home of Radon

Tue, January 15 2013, 00:00:00 -500

According to a recent Pioneer Press article, Minnesota is a high-risk state for radon – largely due to the cold climate. In addition to Minnesota, North Dakota – and most states in the upper Midwest – has high radon levels. Despite the large number of people affected, many still don’t realize the bad news about radon which, according to the EPA, responsible for 21,000 lung cancer deaths each year.

Because it has been found in every county of the United States, building awareness about what radon is—and what you can do to lessen its impact—is vitally important. Innovative Basement Systems is dedicated to helping homeowners battle radon in their homes, and we have the knowledge and equipment you need to make your air healthier. We understand homeowners are anxious about radon and want to know what they’re getting themselves into right away, so we’re here to let you know what to expect.

Test your home. You can’t know where you stand unless you get your home tested. Innovative Basement Systems can provide the kits you need to perform the test. They come with easy-to-follow instructions to ensure they’re done correctly. After the tests are complete, all you have to do is mail them to the lab and wait for the results.

Eliminate any radon present. It is recommended that a homeowner whose home has a radon level of 4 pCi/L or higher should seek radon mitigation services immediately. But there really is no safe level of radon. Why take a chance that you won’t someday be among the 21,000 radon-related lung cancer casualties per year? That’s a risk not worth taking.

Despite the presence of radon nearly everywhere, there are things you can do to lessen its impact on your home and your breathing air. A radon mitigation system can be designed specifically for your home, taking into account how you live, how your home was built, and any structural problems you may have.

Some common areas of concern are cracks in the foundation, gaps where pipes enter the home, gaps around joints, and other air leaks common in every home. Once our crew identifies the point where radon enters your home, it can recommend a solution that best fits your needs. From air sealing to foundation repair, our experts have the knowledge, experience, and tools necessary to get the job done.

Retest your home. We’ll help you make sure the air in your home is as safe as it can possibly be. Retesting for radon is an essential step that will help us know if we missed anything and allow us to make corrections as needed. It’s an essential step that, if not completed, will compromise the investment you make in any work you do.

If you’re concerned about radon in your home, or it has been 2 or more years since your home has been tested, the Surgeon General and the EPA recommend testing immediately. Winter is the best time to test for radon Innovative is a leader in its field, serving homeowners throughout North Dakota and Minnesota. We’re dedicated providing solutions to homeowners concerned about radon and will work with you every step of the way until your problem is under control. Call us at 877-365-0097 or fill out our online form today!

Innovative Basement Systems Participates in National Radon Action Month

Mon, January 14 2013, 00:00:00 -500

Fargo, ND. As radon mitigation specialists, Innovative Basement Systems is joining the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) efforts to help promote January as both National Radon Action Month and the perfect time to raise awareness of radon’s dangers.

Innovative Basement Systems makes it easy for homeowners to take action against those dangers. Their trained radon specialists will inspect and perform a radon test in just two days. If testing results include high levels of radon, Innovative Basement Systems will recommend, design and install the appropriate mitigation system.

Offering consumer information about radon gas, mainly the health and environmental dangers, is a primary goal at Innovative Basement Systems. Their efforts reflect the guidelines promoted by the EPA for National Radon Action Month, such as:

- learning the risks of radon

- taking action by scheduling a radon test

- spreading the word about radon’s dangers

- attending local events for radon information

Innovative Basement Systems has earned the trust of its North Dakota and Minnesota customers as the experts in radon mitigation. They also offer basement waterproofing, crawl space and foundation repair, and basement finishing. As members of Basement Systems, Inc., the international network of professional basement waterproofing contractors, they have learned much in terms of becoming active members in their community and providing quality, thorough community service.

To learn more and get started with radon mitigation services, click on ‘National Radon Action Month’ on their website.

Foundation Repair...Edinburg, ND

Mon, January 14 2013, 11:49:21 -500

The homeowners' west wall was cracked and bowing approximately ½” inward. Cracks were visible, and some of the blocks were putting pressure on plumbing pipes that were running along the block wall. The homeowners were also concerned about the smells coming from the basement, as well as with making his basement more energy efficient. The basement was being used for storage and overflow space during family events.

January is National Radon Action Month

Wed, January 2 2013, 00:00:00 -500

January is all about taking action against radon, but awareness is the first step. Most people simply don’t know the impact that radon can have on themselves and the people they care about. But when they find out, they’re almost always inspired to do something about it. Here’s what you should know:

Radon is a colorless, odorless gas. You can’t see it or smell it, but it is probably there. Every county in the United States has shown some level of radon.
North Dakota and Minnesota have particularly high radon levels. All North Dakota counties and approximately 80% of Minnesota counties test at an average of 4 pCi/L (picocuries per liter).
A county considered Zone 1—the highest designation the EPA gives—is one where the average radon level is 4 pCi/L or higher. If you live in a Zone 1 county, it is strongly recommended that you call an expert to help you test and mitigate any radon in your home.
But there is really no safe level of radon. If you’re among the 20% of Minnesotans who don’t live in a Zone 1 county, you and your family are still at risk. Any homeowner worried about radon should have their home tested.
After smoking, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer. In other words, it’s the number one cause of lung cancer among non-smokers. But whether you’re a smoker or not, every day you breathe air polluted with radon puts you more at risk for lung cancer.
The Surgeon General recommends that homeowners test their homes for radon every two years. When was the last time your home was tested?

Innovative Basement Systems is experienced in doing radon mitigation procedures for Minnesota and North Dakota homeowners. We have the knowledge and tools you need to clean up the air in your home once and for all. Call 877-365-0097 or fill out our online form today to get your home on the right track.

The Problem With Mold

Wed, December 19 2012, 00:00:00 -500

When your basement has a moisture problem, it can be overwhelming to think about the effects the water can have on other parts of your home. Not only does water cause ruin to your property, which can amount to hundreds or even thousands of dollars of damage, but water can also be ruinous to your health. A wet basement is the perfect environment for mold, which is both costly to remove and harmful to your health.

The Problem

Risk to Your Wallet
Mold spreads fast. In moist conditions with high humidity, it can form in a matter of days and start spreading rapidly after that. If you give it the chance to spread, mold can cause thousands of dollars in damages. If you have valuables in basement storage, dream of transforming your basement into an extra living space, or are thinking of selling your home in the future, a mold problem is not an issue you want to have. It can destroy items of sentimental value, set back remodeling plans, and significantly lower your home’s resale value.

A small leak now can easily turn into a mold problem, especially in North Dakota and Minnesota, where the spring thaw often causes flooded basements. But as much damage as mold could do to your wallet, mold can pose a greater risk to your health.

Risk to Your Health
According to the EPA, up to half of all buildings have conditions that encourage mold, which can trigger allergies, asthma, and the spread of infectious diseases. Depending on a person’s sensitivity to mold, allergic reactions can range from mild to severe. Regardless of the severity, why put the health of you and your family at risk by hosting mold in your home?

Asthma can cause even more significant problems. Mold can trigger lung problems, so people with asthma are more at risk in a home with a mold problem. Many people who have asthma aren’t even aware that they have it, so a home with a mold problem can trigger an asthma episode for someone with no knowledge about how to deal with it. Letting mold grow in your home is a health gamble you don't want to take.

But Innovative Basement Systems can help you dry out your basement and eliminate the risk of mold.

The Solution

Crack Repair
Repairing cracks in the walls is the first step to waterproofing your basement. Innovative Basement Systems can seal the cracks in your basement walls, windows, or floor so that you can finally have peace of mind about your wet basement. To prevent more cracks from forming, Innovative also offers long-lasting foundation repair solutions.

Water Drainage
Innovative Basement Systems offers several excellent basement waterproofing options, so that your basement will be protected in the event that water manages to enter it. The WaterGuard drainage system is by far our most popular basement drainage system. It collects water from walls and is designed not to clog, so you won't have to worry about water backing up in your basement again. The water collects in the drain and is guided to a SuperSump pump, so it can be pumped out of your basement once and for all. Certain types of foundations require other drainage systems, but Innovative Basement Systems will make sure you get exactly what you need.

Dehumidify
Innovative's SaniDry dehumidifier will remove moisture from your basement air, greatly lowering the risk of mold formation. Depending on the model that works for your basement, SaniDry can remove 90-110 pints of water from the air each day. After crack repair and waterproofing, this is the best way to keep moisture out of your basement.

Innovative Basement Systems wants to put a stop to harmful mold in your basement. We employ a team of experienced experts equipped with the tools needed to solve any basement water problem, serving homeowners across North Dakota and Minnesota. If you have a moisture problem in your basement and want to put a stop to leaks and mold, call us at 877-365-0097 or fill out our online form today!

Bowing Walls...New Town, ND

Mon, December 17 2012, 14:40:32 -500

Homeowner contacted Innovative Basement Systems due to all four of her basement walls bowing inward. The homeowner was also interested in an egress window and had plans to finish the basement after the walls were stabilized.

Crawl Space...Kindred, ND

Fri, December 14 2012, 15:39:49 -500

When a homeowner in Kindred, North Dakota called Innovative Basement Systems complaining of cold floors and odors entering their home, the specialist had a good idea of where the home’s problem area lay and was eager to help their home return to normal. Add in the fact that the homeowner also had a mouse infestation, and it was clear that the problem needed to be solved sooner rather than later.

Upon inspection, the specialist confirmed that the root of the problem was the homeowner’s crawl space. He could feel cold air rushing out of the access hole, making it clear that air was being pushed into the living room. The bad odor the homeowner reported entered the home through the access hole, and the homeowner and his family were breathing and smelling that air. The smell was caused by the high humidity present in unenclosed crawl spaces.

A crawl space left bare, with no coverings on the dirt floor and no way of directing water elsewhere, can pose significant problems to the rest of the home. Moisture is free to pool under the home, where water vapor can rise and cause damage to the insulation and floor joists above. This can lead to the spread of mold throughout the home, which can pose health problems to the people who live there.

Upon inspection, the specialist confirmed that the root of the problem was the homeowner’s crawlspace.

Basement Waterproofing...Pelican Rapids, MN

Fri, December 14 2012, 14:14:11 -500

A Pelican Rapids, MN homeowner called Innovative when they experienced water issues in their home’s basement. When it was wet outside, water seeped in through the foundation walls and wrecked the carpet. Because of the seepage problem, it was not possible for the homeowner to enjoy their basement as much as they could a dry basement. The water threatened to damage their property, so the space could not be safely used for storage, and it made a damp, uncomfortable extra living space.

After a thorough inspection, the Innovative Basement Systems specialist determined which walls were leaking and came up with a solution.

Waterproof Your Basement Before It Floods

Tue, December 11 2012, 00:00:00 -500

Winter has finally arrived in Minnesota and North Dakota, with all the ice and snow that comes with it. Most of us are too concerned about clearing our driveways and keeping warm to worry about the coming spring, but that’s the time of year when snow can be most damaging. When snow melts, the water can pool around your home and run down your foundation walls, through cracks, and into your basement. But this disaster can easily be avoided by waterproofing your basement now, before you have to deal with a messy clean-up. Here is what Innovative Basement Systems can do for you:

Innovative Basement Systems will install a water drainage system.
WaterGuard is our most popular drainage system. It is installed just below the perimeter of the basement floor. The system is designed to prevent clogs, protect the basement floor from humidity and debris, and drain hollow cavities. It will ensure that your basement stays dry even if the world outside your home is wet.

While WaterGuard is our most used system, Innovative Basement Systems offers several other options so that the best system can be chosen based on your individual needs. During your free estimate, our specialist will eliminate the guesswork by recommending the best option for you.

After your drainage installation, a sump pump is in order. A sump pump is often the first line of defense against basement moisture. Our SuperSump system is a reliable way to keep water out of your basement. It’s tested against leaks, clogs, power failures, and more. We can even equip it with a WaterWatch Alarm that will warn you if water has risen too high.

Innovative Basement Systems will repair foundation cracks.
Cracks in the foundation can be a costly problem, but one that is important to fix right away. Water can enter through any foundation crack, as well as gaps around basement windows and pipes. Because of this, you may not even be aware of places where your basement is vulnerable to leakage.

To fix basement wall cracks, Innovative Basement Systems offers our FlexiSpan Foundation Crack Repair System, which will create a durable seal. We will seal gaps around windows and pipes to make sure your basement is completely protected from water.

Innovative Basement Systems will waterproof your walls and floors.
Innovative’s basement wall and floor systems could be just what you need to protect your property from water damage. Our waterproof EverLast wall panels are strong, extremely durable, and will not support mildew or mold.

We also offer our ThermalDry floor tiles and ThermalDry subfloor matting to protect your basement from water after it’s sealed. The tiles are raised off of the basement floor, giving water vapor a chance to circulate and dry underneath.

Innovative Basement Systems offers a wide range of basement waterproofing products, from FlexiSpan Foundation Crack Repair to our SaniDry dehumidifier to RainChute, a downspout that will direct water away from your foundation. Whatever your needs, Innovative Basement Systems will strive to meet them. A little dampness now can turn into a flood later on; don't let the spring thaw catch you unaware. Call Innovative at 877-365-0097 or fill out our online form today!

Foundation Settling...Pine City, MN

Mon, December 3 2012, 15:18:52 -500

A homeowner in Pine City, Minnesota called Innovative Basement Systems with a foundation problem. Upon inspection by one of Innovative’s experienced specialists, it was clear that the home showed signs of settlement. The first indication of settling was that the side door of the home wouldn’t open. Jammed windows and doors are often the first sign of settlement in a home. Settling makes homes unlevel, which can make it difficult to open and close windows and doors.

Another indication of settlement was that the blocks in the northeast corner of the foundation had a large gap between them. A settling foundation greatly decreases the structural integrity and value of your home. Without intervention, a gap in foundation blocks can deteriorate over time, causing even more foundation problems.

Foundation Repair...Bismarck, ND

Mon, December 3 2012, 13:15:49 -500

A Bismarck homeowner contacted Innovative Basement Systems (IBS) to help correct the settlement which had been occurring over some time. The settlement was causing damage to the home’s floor coverings, the upstairs and downstairs cupboards, and the exterior brick veneer. There were also cracks in the sheet rock inside the home, and several doors and windows had been sticking.

Foundation Repair...Fargo, ND

Mon, November 26 2012, 13:32:55 -500

A Fargo homeowner contacted Innovative Basement Systems due to a crawlspace addition which had settled significantly during the summer drought of 2012. The settlement was getting progressively worse, causing the interior sheet rock to crack and doors to stick.

Unfortunately, this homeowner’s settlement issues are not uncommon, especially in the Red River Valley of North Dakota and Minnesota. The lack of moisture during the summer of 2012 caused many homes to experience similar problems. The soils in our area contain a great deal of clay, and the minerals in the clay absorb moisture. The soils expand when wet and contract when they dry out. This shrinking causes foundations to settle unevenly. Once a foundation has settled in such a manner, it becomes an issue from then on. After calling Innovative, our specialist worked with the homeowner to provide a lasting solution.

Power Braces Are a Smart Foundation Repair Solution

Tue, November 20 2012, 00:00:00 -500

Team Innovative recently helped a Center, ND homeowner finish a foundation repair project involving foundation walls bowing 3” inward. Worried the problem would grow over time, the homeowner called Innovative to help her deal with the foundation problem.

Luckily, Innovative offers many services to homeowners with homes in need of foundation repair. Our experienced foundation repair experts have been trained to recommend and install a homeowner’s best option based on his or her individual needs. Of Innovative’s foundation repair choices – piering, wall anchors, and wall bracing – our PowerBrace foundation repair system is a great option for many homeowners. But who is the best fit for the PowerBrace system, and what does it do?

Who are the best candidates for the PowerBrace system?
Homeowners who have noticed bowing or buckling of their foundation walls are those who are in most need of Innovative’s foundation repair services. However, there are other things to consider as well.

Innovative’s PowerBrace system is recommended by our experts when property lines make installing anchors impossible. Our Geo-Lock Wall Anchors require access to the soil outside of the foundation, which may not be accessible if the foundation lies close to property lines. The PowerBrace system is installed inside the foundation wall, requiring no excavation and maintaining property line restrictions.

What does the PowerBrace system do?
The PowerBrace system stabilizes and straightens bowing and buckling foundation walls over time. Innovative’s team of foundation repair experts will install our durable i-beams to stabilize your basement walls. The beams are secured to the floor and attached to brackets installed onto floor joists to ensure the stabilization of your walls. Over time, the i-beams can be tightened to straighten your walls and bring them back to their original positions.

Not only that, but PowerBrace is as non-intrusive as possible. Because they are installed inside the basement wall, they require no excavation. The braces are also neat in appearance, with little disruption of basement space. Because they are zinc-coated, they will remain clean and rust-free well into the future.

What can you do?
The Center, ND homeowner who called Innovative to deal with her bowing foundation walls is happy with the PowerBrace system installed to stabilize her foundation walls. Having called before the problem became more complicated, her foundation is well on its way to being back to its original position.

Bowing and buckling are extremely common, especially during drought conditions like the ones North Dakota and Minnesota continue to experience. The key to dealing with the problem is to address it as soon as you notice it. If you have a foundation in need of repair, either using PowerBrace or one of our other effective solutions, call Innovative at 877-365-0097 or fill out our online form.

Power Braces...Center, ND

Tue, November 20 2012, 14:47:17 -500

Homeowner's south and east walls were cracked and bowing approximately 3” inward. Large cracks were visible and mortar between blocks was falling out. In the corner the blocks on the south wall were “stair step” cracking and shearing inward. Some blocks had sheared in half and moved in almost 2”. This corner of the basement was not stable. The homeowner was concerned that the wall would continue to get worse and eventually fall in.

Protect Your Home by Protecting Your Crawl Space

Fri, November 2 2012, 00:00:00 -500

Most people pretend their crawl space doesn’t exist. Out of sight, out of mind, they may think. But it's not that simple. While people are ignoring their crawl spaces, moisture is still at work there. It’s easy to be complacent when you can’t see what lurks beneath your home. It's even easier to take action once you realize what's at stake. Crawl spaces are typically moist and humid environments, so they come with problems many homeowners are not aware of. Here are some important things you may not know about your crawl space:

Crawl spaces are breeding grounds for dust mites. Every home has dust mites, but they’re more likely to be a major problem in a home with an unprotected crawl space. The humid conditions of a crawl space make it the perfect place for them to multiply. Because dust mites are known for provoking allergies and asthma, an encapsulated crawl space causes a great improvement in air quality.
Crawl spaces are the perfect environment for mold. Like dust mites, mold spores can create breathing problems. Unfortunately, mold is all too common in an unprotected crawl space. Not only does it cause breathing problems, but it spreads rapidly, deteriorating wood and insulation. A protected crawl space not only protects your health, but it protects your investment as well.
Your unprotected crawl space may be costing you money. As air circulates in your home, replacement air rises from your crawl space. This air is usually filled with moisture, which circulates through your home and can impact your energy bills. An encapsulated, dehumidified crawl space is a simple solution to this problem.

Because of the issues crawl space humidity can cause, it is important to take charge before they become a major problem. Innovative Basement Systems offers several products and services to make sure your home is protected. Our knowledgeable and experienced crew will install airtight doors and covers, remove water sources, repair mold-damaged areas, encapsulate the crawl space with our CleanSpace vapor barrier, and dehumidify your crawl space using our SaniDry high-capacity dehumidifier.

Innovative Basement Systems can purify your breathing air, protect your investment, and help you save money on energy bills. If you’re concerned about your crawl space, fill out our online form or call innovative at 1-877-365-0097 today!

Team Innovative Celebrates Halloween!

Wed, October 31 2012, 00:00:00 -500

What started out as an ordinary day at the office ended as a festive day of cookies and costumes as the Innovative Basement Systems team celebrated Halloween.

Pictured are Jessica as a cavewoman, Jim as a pumpkin, and Mary as a Disney tourist.

While they may not be winning any scariest costume contests (except maybe Jessica), everyone had fun taking part in the Halloween festivities.

Happy Halloween!

Push Piers...West Fargo, ND

Tue, October 30 2012, 13:13:19 -500

A homeowner in West Fargo, ND called Innovative Basement Systems regarding ongoing problems with their home. The homeowner noticed a cracking floor slab in the garden level of their home, cracking drywall that had worsened over time, doors and windows that were not operating properly, and soil separating from the foundation wall. Upon inspection, Innovative's specialist determined that the cracks and faulty doors and windows were evidence of foundation settling, while the soil shrinkage was part of the cause. In dry conditions, soil will shrink away from a home's foundation, giving it room to shift and settle, which can cause cracking and unlevel floors.

Settling Foundation...Fargo, ND

Mon, October 29 2012, 14:44:55 -500

Homeowners in Fargo, ND called Innovative Basement Systems to inspect their settling foundation. Upon inspection, the specialist found that the corner of the customer's basement had experienced approximately 1" of settlement. While no signs of settlement were found in the portion of the basement that was 8' deep, settlement did occur on the basement portion that was 4' deep. Other evidence of settlement were two large cracks visible on the outside of the foundation which corresponded with the direction of the settlement shown by the measurements taken inside the house. The homeowners noticed cracks in the sheet rock that had gotten larger recently as well as some doors that were no longer working properly.

Crawl Space and Foundation Repair...Williston, ND

Mon, October 29 2012, 14:12:33 -500

A homeowner in Williston, ND contacted Innovative Basement Systems due to flooding in their crawlspace. Upon inspection, our specialist found several other areas of concern in addition to the flooding. The relative humidity in the crawlspace was above 80%. As a result, issues with mold were observed. Mold can grow in absence of flooding, needing only a relative humidity level above 60% to flourish. Odors at the main floor were also found upon entry to the home, and due to the stack effect, the air being breathed in by the homeowners in the living space above the crawl space were not healthy. The specialist also noticed settlement of the home’s two primary beams in addition to the conditions created by the moisture.

Crawl Space Encapsulation...Alexandria, MN

Mon, October 29 2012, 13:20:42 -500

A homeowner in Alexandria, MN reached out to Innovative Basement Systems for help with her home. A musty smell alerted the homeowner to the moisture problem somewhere in her home. The smell triggered the homeowner's allergies and caused her to worry about the health of the children she watches in the daycare she runs from her home. An Innovative Basement Systems specialist determined that the musty smells were due to high humidity in the homeowner's crawl space.

How to Protect Your Basement From Moisture After Drought

Wed, October 17 2012, 00:00:00 -500

Minnesota and North Dakota are still in the midst of the drought that has inched its way across the country since summer, with both states experiencing moderate to extreme drought conditions. On top of causing brown lawns and withered crops, drought can also cause damage to your home.

As we learned last week, drought can make your house settle when dirt dries and shrinks away from its foundation. But drought has other adverse effects as well. While it may seem illogical, drought conditions can lead to wet basements, which can cause as many problems for your home as a settling foundation.

Alongside the cracked walls, uneven floors, and hard-to-open doors and windows caused by a settling foundation are cracks and fissures which can let water into your basement. A leaky basement can cause damage to your valuables and to your home. It can also strengthen conditions that allow mold to form.

Despite the damage a wet basement can cause, there are some ways to prevent water from entering your basement after drought.

Water the soil around your foundation.
Adding moisture to the soil around your foundation can prevent it from shrinking away from your home, reducing the likelihood of cracks and fissures forming.The wet soil will expand, closing channels that would have otherwise allowed water to work its way into your foundation.
Direct your downspouts away from your foundation.
Because soil shrinks away from a home’s foundation during a drought, the home is left vulnerable to water rushing into the gaps between the dirt and the foundation. This is especially true when your home’s downspouts are too close to your foundation, allowing them to direct large concentrations of water into the gap. To remedy this problem, make sure your downspouts are extended well beyond the foundation.
Test your sump pumps.
After a long drought, your sump pump may not have been tested in quite some time. To test it, pour water into the pump’s liner. The pump should immediately start pumping water out of your basement. If not, be sure to contact a professional immediately to protect your basement from flooding.

But the best way to protect your basement from moisture? Contact the basement waterproofing specialists at Innovative Basement Systems, and let us help you solve your foundation problems. We can turn a wet basement into a dry storage space or even a comfortable living area. Call 877-365-0097 or use our contact form today to schedule a free estimate.

October 15-21 is Radon Awareness Week

Mon, October 15 2012, 00:00:00 -500

Today kicks off Radon Awareness Week, a yearly effort to inform people of the dangers of radon in their homes. Radon is a naturally-occurring gas, colorless and odorless, that has been detected in homes in every county of the United States. The U.S. Surgeon General and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) both recommend that all homeowners have their homes tested for radon. But where does radon come from, and what impact does it really have?

Where does radon come from?
Radon, according to the EPA, is an invisible gas that comes from the decay of naturally occurring uranium in soil and water. It is colorless and odorless, so a homeowner who has not had her home tested for radon will have no way of knowing if she is at risk.

Because radon is prevalent in soil around the world, it is likely that any given home was built in a radon-rich environment. When radon enters the home, it is at its most dangerous. Because the home is an enclosed structure, the gas has nowhere to escape to. It ends up concentrating in the home and becoming a part of the air you breathe.

Radon can enter a home through pathways in the foundation. The North Dakota Department of Health states that when the air pressure inside a home is lower than the outside air pressure, it creates a vacuum that allows gases from the soil to enter the home through pathways in the foundation. These pathways can be damage to the foundation, such as cracks or holes, or it can be pathways present in all foundations, such as sumps.

Most homes in the region have a lower indoor pressure during winter months due to home heating systems, so radon is most likely to enter a Minnesota or North Dakota home when it is cool outside. Around 80% of Minnesota counties and 100% of North Dakota counties are designated as Zone 1 by the EPA, meaning they have an average radon level greater than 4 pCi/L (picocuries per liter). This is the highest designation the EPA gives, so homeowners in these regions should be aware of the possibility of radon in their homes.

What impact does radon have?
According to the EPA radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer overall and the number one cause of lung cancer for non-smokers. Statistics released by the EPA on the effects of a lifetime of exposure to 4 pCi/L of radon are startling. A smoker exposed to 4pCi/L of radon over a lifetime is five times more likely to die of lung cancer than to die in a car crash. Even if someone exposed to the same level of radon had never smoked before in their life, they would still have equal chances of dying of lung cancer and dying in a car crash.

While these statistics are disturbing, they also drive home the point that testing for radon is a vitally important step in protecting the health of yourself and your family.

What can I do?
The first step to dealing with a potential radon problem is having your home’s radon level tested. It is recommended that any home with a radon level of 4pCi/L or above should immediately be mitigated by an expert. Innovative Basement Systems offers radon testing and mitigation for homeowners in Minnesota and North Dakota. Our experts will answer your questions and help you deal with your radon problem so that you can set your fears to rest about radon.

While radon is present everywhere, that does not mean you have to let yourself be exposed to the harmful effects it can have. Use our contact form or call Innovative Basement Systems today at 1-877-365-0097 for more information.

Innovative Basement Systems Wins Awards at the 2012 Team Basement Systems Convention

Mon, October 15 2012, 10:44:28 -500

Innovative Basement Systems was recently honored at a meeting with close to 1,000 guests from all over the United States, Canada and the UK, at this year’s Team Basement Systems Convention.

The annual convention is held each year between Seymour, CT, (Basement Systems headquarters) and Hartford, CT, and brings together dealerships of the international network for training, seminars, networking, celebration, vendor and team building events.

This year Innovative Basement Systems received 7 awards at the Team Basement Systems International Convention. Innovative Basement Systems was awarded for ranking in the Top 20 for Per capita Awards for Basement Systems and for Basement Systems Dealers by Purchases. They were awarded the 5 Year Dealer Award and recognized for the Percentage of Increase Award (Total Dollars) - 253%. Innovative Basement Systems was also placed in the Top 10 Total Basement Finishing Dealers by Purchases, in the Top 5 Foundation Supportworks, Inc. (FSI) Dealers – PowerBraces, and in the Top 50 FSI Dealers for Total Sales.

The high-powered event featured international motivational speaker Andy Andrews! Andrews, world-renowned speaker and author (The Travelers Gift) dazzled the crowd with his presentation highlighting personal choices and attitudes that make the difference between failure and success.

Google even had a presence at this spectacular event! Two Google representatives delivered a behind the scenes peek at how to best utilize the search engines tools for successful business results! This year, the annual flagship event was the BEST yet!

Innovative Basement Systems is a certified Basement Systems dealer specializing in basement waterproofing, crawl space repair and foundation settlement.

Basement Systems is an international network of basement waterproofing, crawl space repair, and basement finishing contractors, led by Company Founder and President, Larry Janesky. The international headquarters, based in Seymour, CT has been helping homeowners increase their usable living space for over 20 years across the United States, Canada, Ireland and the United Kingdom. The company has 27-patented basement and crawl space products, designed to help homeowners get more out of their basements and increase their home's value.

Innovative Raises Money for Charity in Local Dodgeball Tournament

Thu, October 11 2012, 00:00:00 -500

This week some members Innovative Basement Systems participated in Dodge Hunger, a charity dodgeball tournament meant to fight hunger in the Pine City community. Crowds gathered in the Pine City High School gymnasium to cheer on local businesses and organizations as we battled each other to be number one.

The team competed against local police officers, fire fighters, and other community members for the shared goal of raising money for the Pine City Community Food Shelf.

The team - the Dodgeball Divas - gave it their all as they dove and dodged across the court to avoid the balls being lobbed by other teams. Not everyone got away unscathed, but it ended up being a fun, light-hearted way to interact with and give back to the local community.

Protecting Your Home From Drought-Induced Settling

Wed, October 10 2012, 00:00:00 -500

Innovative Basement Systems recently received a call from a customer who made a troubling discovery around the foundation of her home. While checking the perimeter, she noticed a large gap between the ground and her home’s foundation. After calling Innovative, the homeowner discovered that the recent drought sweeping the country has caused the dirt surrounding her home to shrink away from the foundation, evidence of house settling.

The homeowner’s settling foundation makes her home vulnerable to damage such as cracked walls, uneven floors, and hard-to-open doors and windows. These problems are not only eyesores that make the home less comfortable to live in, but they can also lead to serious problems that can adversely affect a home’s safety, structural integrity, and property value.

There are several ways to make sure your home is safe from drought-induced settling. You can keep the soil near the foundation of your home as moist as possible. Some experts also recommend placing mulch around the foundation to slow evaporation, keeping your soil moist.

But the most effective way to make sure your foundation is protected against drought? Get it checked by a foundation repair expert. Even if you haven't noticed a problem as severe as the homeowner who contacted us, your foundation could still be in danger. Innovative Basement Systems regularly helps a high volume of homeowners who are experiencing foundation settlement due to drought. Our system employs piers driven into bedrock, resulting in the home being supported by piers instead of the problem soil. Our system, coupled with our ability to respond to customer concerns quickly and effectively, makes us the best choice for those with foundation problems.

Your home protects you from adverse weather conditions. Why don’t you protect it? If you’re worried about your home’s foundation, call Innovative Basement Systems today at 1-888-202-4242 to schedule a free estimate.

Minnesota and North Dakota Homeowners Continue to Face Foundation Problems Caused by Drought

Wed, October 10 2012, 15:08:41 -500

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
OCTOBER 10, 2012

PINE CITY, MN – The dry weather that has plagued most of the country this year shows no sign of letting up anytime soon. The latest drought condition report released by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) states that 96% of Minnesota is facing moderate or worse drought conditions. The Department of Agriculture in North Dakota reports similar statistics for that state, with drought conditions ranging from moderate to severe across the entire state. While brown, dry lawns and withering crops are the first noticeable signs of drought, there is much more going on beneath the earth’s surface.

According to the Minneapolis Star Tribune, spring rains saved many of the region’s crops, but residents are not free from all adverse effects of the drought. Homeowners across Minnesota and North Dakota now face an onslaught of problems with their homes’ foundations. The National Public Radio (NPR) recently featured a story on the ongoing drought problem in the Midwest, noting that cracking house foundations are a serious underlying danger caused by the drought. Because of dry soil shrinking away from foundations, many homeowners are left with cracks in their drywall and foundation, uneven floors, and windows and doors that are hard to open. Not only are these problems unsightly, but they can also lead to serious problems that can adversely affect a home’s safety, structural integrity, and property value.

Innovative Basement Systems continues to receive a large number of calls from homeowners who are experiencing foundation settlement due to drought. Despite the high number of area homeowners with drought-induced foundation problems, Innovative has been able to respond quickly to ensure minimal disruption to the homeowners’ lives. We use a system that employs piers driven into bedrock or load-bearing strata, resulting in the home being supported by the piers instead of the problem soil. Because of our effective system and efficiency in getting the job done, Innovative Basement Systems is able to keep up with the drought and help homeowners with problematic foundations in the face of a drought that shows no sign of slowing down.

Egress Window Well Replacement...New Town, ND

Wed, October 3 2012, 14:16:07 -500

A homeowner in New Town, ND, contacted Innovative Basement Systems when water started running into her home through a basement window. The water interrupted the use of her basement living space and would likely get worse without intervention. Upon inspection, the Innovative Basement Systems specialist determined the leak was due to an improperly installed egress window well. When egress window wells are correctly installed, they should be carefully fit to ensure proper drainage. The homeowner's well did not prevent water from coming near the home, nor did it efficiently drain the water that did get in.

Innovative Basement Systems Unveils Its Pine City Showroom!

Tue, October 2 2012, 00:00:00 -500

This week the Innovative Basement Systems Pine City office unveiled its new showroom. The showroom was designed to showcase many of the products and services Innovative Basement Systems offers.

On the floor is ThermalDry, a durable floor system designed with comfort and functionality in mind. The tiles are suspended above the basement floor by an interlocking peg system that allows concrete basement floors to breathe and protects your space from water damage. ThermalDry water resistant tiles can be mixed and matched to achieve a customized look. In the event of wear in high traffic areas, single ThermalDry tiles can easily be removed and replaced without interrupting the functionality of your basement living space.

The showroom walls are finished with Total Basement Finishing EverLast Partition Walls, beautiful, durable walls with an R-13 insulation value. EverLast Partition Walls are the smart choice for any homeowner concerned with long-term use. The environmentally friendly walls are made of inorganic materials, making them moisture and mold resistant.

Finishing off the showroom is an attractive ceiling with recessed panels. Crown molding, a standard feature in the Total Basement Finishing System, adds an attractive, polished finish. And the best part?Total Basement Finishing ceilings have a 30-year warranty against sagging and a lifetime warranty against mildew and mold so that you may never have to replace them!

Having a dry basement is the first step in achieving your basement finishing goals. After Innovative Basement Systems repairs your damp, leaky basement, the second step is building a comfortable, attractive living space. Using Total Basement Finishing products such as ThermalDry flooring and EverLast Partition Walls, you will soon have a brand new living space to enjoy.

If you’re still on the fence about who to turn to for your basement finishing needs, why not pop into our new Pine City showroom to see for yourself?

We offer free estimates! Contact 877-365-0097.

Shotcrete & Wall Anchors...Bismarck, ND

Wed, September 26 2012, 10:59:57 -500

Customer wanted to stabilize crumbling wall without removing shared wall with home. The foundation had many signs of deterioration including crumbling, cracks and also settling in one corner of the house.

Waterproofing...Bismarck, ND

Mon, September 24 2012, 09:51:09 -500

Homeowner contacted Innovative Basement Systems due to water coming up into the basement through an under slab duct system; home had one exterior sump, one interior sump, and existing drain-tile. Homeowner had experienced no other water issues in the home. The homeowner was, at the time of inspection, sucking out approximately 20 gallons of water per day from a register.

Summer Drought Causing Houses to Settle

Wed, August 29 2012, 11:28:22 -500

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 29, 2012

Fargo, ND – The drought that has settled on North Dakota this summer has left its trail of damage and destruction. Ranging from “Severe” to “Exceptional” as rated by the NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration), drought conditions are unavoidable. Most of the effects of the lack of water can be seen with the naked eye, but what’s going on under the earth’s surface can be just as damaging. At Innovative Basement Systems, we have received an elevated number of calls from homeowners who are experiencing foundation settlement.

When soil gets as dry as it has been, it shrinks and pulls away from foundations and creates voids around the house. When these voids exist for an extended amount of time, the home’s foundations settle, leaving the house with cracks in the foundation, unleveled floors, windows and doors that are tough to open, drywall cracks and other aesthetic eyesores. These symptoms can plague any home or building regardless of age, size or structure. Homeowners are left concerned with safety, structural integrity and property value of their home.

By installing a push pier system, the foundation is stabilized and often rises back to level. Often times this results in closing foundation and drywall cracks, leveling floors, and making doors and windows fully operation again. The piers are driven to bedrock or a load bearing strata resulting in the home being supported by the piers and not the problem soil.

Ask Team Innovative...

Fri, July 20 2012, 00:00:00 -500

Question from Mary in Forest Lake, MN:

Have you seen more water issues in older or newer homes?

Answer from Keith Hanson, Sales Specialist:

I have seen water issues in both. Water can get into your home in many ways, and it does not matter if it’s old or new construction. There are three ways that water can get into your basement: first, the hydrostatic pressure of the water table can push up and come through cracks in the floor or where the floor meets the wall; second, the water can come through a crack in the foundation wall; and third, is the water can push in. What we mean is push over your footings and under your foundation wall, where it will come up at the seam where the floor meets the wall. Even with new homes with exterior drain tile systems, there can be problems. Unfortunately by the time you find out about the issue it’s too late.

Call Innovative Basement Systems at 877-365-0097 for a FREE estimate today to make sure your basement is protected.

Thanks Mary for the great question!

Associated Builders and Contractors MN and ND

Thu, June 28 2012, 00:00:00 -500

The symptoms of a crawl space problem

Wed, June 20 2012, 00:00:00 -500

What to look for...

-Drywall Cracks in the Interior
-Uneven Floors
-Foul Odors in the Home
-Heightened Allergies or Asthma Symptoms

At Innovative Basement Systems, it's our job to make sure that your musty crawlspace is transformed into a clean, dry, and energy-efficient space.

Most homeowners aren't happy with their crawl space environment. And there's a good reason for that - most crawl spaces don't offer much to smile about.

Typical crawl spaces are moldy, foul-smelling spaces that homeowners avoid at all costs. Many of them flood, and they're often filled with debris. In more extreme cases, they can be rotting structures with rodents, animals, and other pests living within.

Click here for more information about our crawl space repair products and solutions.

For a free crawl space repair quote, call 877-365-0097 or e-mail us today!

Sani Dry Air Systems

Wed, June 13 2012, 00:00:00 -500

For removing high levels of relative humidity in a basement, a dehumidifiers the plain answer... But you don't want just any household dehumidifier. SaniDry air systems is the only machine that will get you the results you need!

The SaniDry Basement Air System is a high-capacity, high-efficiency dehumidifier with air filtration in a single unit. The SaniDry takes up to 100 pints of water per day out of your basement air, while using the same energy as a 40-pint dehumidifier. And it filters particles out of the air to less than an incredible two microns in size - which is smaller than any mold spore or dust mite dropping.

The SaniDry has a powerful blower to move the dry air all around your basement space. This dry air then dries your building materials and basement contents, which makes the damp smell and feeling go away! What a huge difference a SaniDry can make in condensation season. Homeowners notice a marked difference and begin to love their once-neglected basement environments after having a SaniDry installed.

You'll also never have to empty any buckets on your SaniDry basement dehumidifier, because it automatically drains into your WaterGuard basement drainage system or sump pump.

Having a groundwater-free basement is one thing, adding a SaniDry is like putting the cherry on top of your dry basement program - it makes your basement complete. There are not many basements that don't need one.

Picture the concrete in your basement turning white because it is so dry! Contact Innovative Basement Systems at 877-365-0097.

Presence of Radon Gas in Your Home

Tue, May 22 2012, 00:00:00 -500

You Wouldn't Live in a Home Without Smoke Detectors, Would You?

Most people are diligent about maintaining working smoke detectors in their home in order to prevent being injured or killed by a fire. Radon gas actually kills more than seven times the people each year as home fires, but many completely neglect to test their home for this "silent killer." The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that 21,000 people die each year in the United States from radon-induced lung cancer, compared to 2,800 who die in home fires.ⁱ

Any home, whether new or old, with a basement or without, well-insulated or drafty, can have a radon problem; the EPA estimates that nearly 1 out of every 15 homes has elevated levels. Radon is measured in "picocuries per liter of air," or "pCi/L." Outdoor air generally has radon levels of about 0.4 pCi/L, whereas the average radon level indoors is estimated to be about 1.3 pCi/L. While the U.S. Congress has set a long-term goal stating that indoor radon levels should be no higher than outdoor levels, the EPA recommends taking action only if your home's levels exceed 4 pCi/L.

This does not necessarily mean that 4 pCi/L is "safe," however, as there really is NO safe level for radiation. Even the EPA admits that lower levels can still pose a health risk, and you may want to take precautions to further reduce the amount of radon in your indoor space even if it's at or below 4 pCi/L.

Is There a Way to Gauge Your Risk of Radon Exposure?

You and your family are exposed to radon in your home, at the office, at school, in commercial buildings -- inside every structure you enter. Radon in the outside air disperses before it reaches high levels of concentration, but in tightly sealed or poorly ventilated indoor spaces, even low levels of radon can accumulate and pose a significant health hazard.

Your radon exposure risk will depend on:

The levels of radon in your indoor environments

The amount of time you spend in those environments

Whether or not you are a smoker (if you smoke and live in a home with elevated radon levels, your risk of lung cancer is particularly high)

Soil radon levels vary widely across the United States and depend on the geology of the area. Regions of the Mid-Atlantic States and the upper Midwest tend to have higher radon levels than those found in the southeast and west into Texas, and along most of the west coast.

You can find out what the natural radon levels are in your area using the EPA's radon mapⁱⁱ -- but keep in mind that elevated radon levels have been found in almost every state, so be careful not to make assumptions about the safety of your own home based on this map. You will still need to measure the radon levels in your home or office to determine whether or not you may be exposing yourself and your family to dangerous levels.

The radon gas emitted by soil and rock can seep into buildings through gaps in the foundation, construction joints, and through cracks in floors and walls. Since radon levels are highest in rooms closest to the ground, if you spend a lot of time in basement rooms at home, work or school, your risk for exposure could be greater.

Naturally, your radon exposure is likely to be very high if you work in an underground mine (uranium and some other types as well) or a uranium processing facility, if you live near a uranium mine (although few facilities are still in operation), or if you come in contact with phosphate fertilizers. You can also be exposed to radon gas through drinking water. As the radon is released from the water into the air, you can inhale it into your lungs.

The risk of exposure from water is generally minimal, unless you happen to use a deep, underground well sunk into rock with a high radium concentration. Water from such a well could have a high level of radon, but surface water from lakes and rivers has very low radon levels.

I would encourage you to test for this poison if you get your water from an underground well. Most municipal water supplies do not contain radon. If you're interested, you can purchase a test kit for Well Water.

Where Does Radon Come From, and How Does it Cause Cancer?

As mentioned, radon in your home can originate from a number of sources, including outside air that seeps into your home through cracks in the foundation, walls and floors, as well as your well water. Radon exposure can also come from certain building materials, including:

Silicone-rich magmatic rocks, particularly granite, and especially the more exotic granites like the red, pink and purple varieties

Gypsum waste products

Cement and concrete

Pumice

Basaltic rock

Certain smoke detectors, particularly the ionization type (which are less expensive and more commonly used than the photoelectric type), emit small amounts of radon, as do certain clocks and watches. If you own a new or relatively new watch with a luminous dial, it probably contains either Tritium, a radioactive form of hydrogen, or Promethium, a man-made radioactive element. Both elements emit small amounts of radon, and while most of it is contained in the cover of the watch, there is still a minimal risk associated with having luminous watches around.

If you happen to own a World War I vintage "glow in the dark" clock or watch, be aware that highly radioactive radium was used to make the luminous paint for the dials. Wearing such watches, and certainly repairing them, poses a significant risk of radon exposure.

If you're wondering what makes radon so dangerous, it's the breakdown products, also known as radon progeny or the daughter products of radon, that can cause disease. These are a series of solid elements including lead-214, polonium-214 and polonium-218, which give off alpha particles of radiation. Alpha particles, unlike gamma radiation, cannot penetrate the tissues of your body from the outside. However, when inhaled or ingested, these low-dose radioisotopes accumulate in the body and exert chronic damaging effects to the DNA of your cells which contributes to a wide range of diseases, most notably cancer.

According to the EPA, if 1,000 smokers were exposed to the "action" radon level of 4 pCi/L over a lifetime, about 62 of them would get lung cancer from the radiation, compared to about 7 out of 1,000 non-smokers. The EPA's charts below give you an idea of your cancer risk from various radon exposures depending on if you're a smoker or a non-smoker:ⁱⁱⁱ

How to Test Your Home's Radon Levels

Radon gas can be deadly and is present in nearly all the air we breathe. Testing is simple and inexpensive, so I strongly encourage you to investigate how much of this gas you and your family are exposed to, and take the necessary steps to remediate the problem if the levels in your home are excessive.

There are a number of factors that can cause indoor radon concentrations to vary, such as the use of ventilation systems, the weather, and anything that impacts indoor air pressure, such as window openings, window fans, driers, and fireplaces. The EPA recommends you take a short-term test and if your result is 4 pCi/L or higher, follow-up with either a long-term test or a second short-term test. A long-term test will give you a better understanding of your year-round average radon level, but if you need results quickly (such as if your first short-term test came back at dangerously high levels), take a short-term test.

There are a number of resources for test kits:

If you'd like a certified technician to measure the radon levels in your home or other indoor environment, you can contact the American Association of Radon Scientists and Technologists.^iv Testing costs from $100 to $300.

You can also obtain information on certified technicians and do-it-yourself testing from the EPA.^v State and regional information can be found there.

The National Radon Program Services at Kansas State University offers discounted test kits available to purchase online.^vi

Other do-it-yourself test kits for radon run between $20 and $30 and can be purchased online and at your local hardware store.

If your home has elevated radon levels, it's important to find a qualified radon service professional to fix your home immediately. Some U.S. states maintain lists of contractors that have met certain qualifications for radon mitigation; your state radon coordinator will have this information.^vii There are also two privately run national radon programs that can help you find a qualified radon service professional:

The National Environmental Health Association (NEHA)^viii

The National Radon Safety Board (NRSB)^ix

Finally, Kansas State University maintains national radon hotlines:

National Radon Hotline: Purchase radon test kits by phone.
1-800-SOS-RADON (767-7236)

National Radon Helpline: Get live help for your radon questions.
1-800-55RADON (557-2366)

National Radon Fix-It Line: For general information on fixing or reducing the radon level in your home.
(800) 644-6999

There are a variety of ways to reduce radon levels in your home, including:

Sealing cracks in floors and walls

Increasing ventilation through sub-slab depressurization with pipes and fans

Removing granite countertops if they are emitting high levels of radon

Replacing ionization smoke detectors with the photoelectric type

The cost of radon reduction measures depends on the size and design of your home and the specific methods needed. Costs range from $800 to $2,500, with an average cost of $1,200. Radon reduction systems may be able to reduce your home's radon levels by 99 percent.

If you're building a new home or other structure, insist on building materials that are more resistant to the naturally occurring radon in the outdoor environment. The five basic features of a radon-resistant home are:

Gravel laid below the foundation, which allows radon in the soil to circulate freely underneath your house

Plastic sheeting or other vapor retarder laid over the gravel to stop soil gases from entering the structure

Vent pipe run vertically from the gravel layer up to the roof to safely vent radon from the soil outside the house

Sealing and caulking of all cracks, crevices and other openings in the concrete foundation and the walls of the structure

Electrical junction box installed in the attic for use with a vent fan, should one be needed

Generally speaking, once your home's radon issues have been fixed, you should re-test your home every two years. It's a good idea to re-test your home regularly even if your levels were not elevated to begin with to be sure the levels remain low. This is yet another simple way to protect and take control of your health.

Settling Foundation?

Wed, March 28 2012, 00:00:00 -500

Have you noticed that your floors are squeaking? That you have cracks above windows and door frames? How about problems closing and opening windows and doors? These are all common problems associated with a settling foundation. We can help.

In our region one of the most common issues we come across is settling foundations. Foundations settle for a couple different reasons. Newly built homes almost always settle after being built because the ground underneath the home will compact over time. In existing homes it's kind of the same problem. With the changing of seasons in the upper midwest, the ground below our homes expands and contracts due to the weather conditions. When the soil is really wet in the spring the soil will contract. When the soil is dry (let's say during the summer) it will contract.

When the soil is expanding and contracting it's affecting the structure of your home. Picture your home sitting on top of a sponge...when the sponge is filled with water on one corner, the house will raise on that corner. When the water is squeezed out of the sponge the house goes back down. This is essentially what happens to the soil around your home. This can also cause basement walls to bow or push in.

By scheduling a free estimate we can have our certified foundation specialist assess the situation. We have in-network engineers whom we can discuss options with regarding your situation to ensure we quote you properly. We won't just take a shot in the dark guess, we'll do our best to come up with the best solution for your home. Don't let another contractor give you a rough quote - make sure you have something detailed and in writing.

It IS most likely your biggest investment. Let us help you protect that investment.

Click here to see how we can assist you with your foundation repair needs:

Increasing Home Floor Space Inexpensively

Wed, March 21 2012, 00:00:00 -500

Many homeowners typically find that they need additional floor space after a few years. This can be because of an increase in family size or an increase in the number of things you own. However, you want to utilize all available floor space effectively before you spend on the construction of an additional room. One of the easiest ways of increasing floor space is by finishing your basement. A finished basement can be used for a variety of purposes – it can be a home office, a family room, children’s play room, a den, a game room, a home theater room, or a guest room. The actual utilization depends on your particular needs. With the availability of high-quality, durable basement finishing products with warranties of over 30 years, you can safely finish the basement as per your specifications and enjoy the extra room for years. Moreover, it is a good investment as well, as a finished basement increases the value of your property.

Remodeling the Basement

Many homeowners find that as the needs of their family change, the finished basement is no longer required for the original purpose. Instead, there is a need for a different room – maybe a recording studio for the budding musician or a workshop for the designer. Whatever your plans for your basement, you need to find a specialist basement remodeling contractor to ensure that you get the maximum value for the money you spend. An experienced basement remodeling contractor will be able to suggest designs that make use of the existing floor, wall, and roof tiles in your basement. By changing just the molding and the light fixtures, you will be able to provide your basement with a new look.

Basement Finishing Products

When you are choosing products to help finish your basement, you need to ensure that they are water proof and easy to clean and maintain. A hard working and competent basement finishing company will offer you wall tiles that can be wiped clean, are scratch resistant, and come in a variety of colors that will suit many décor ideas. Moreover, these will come with a 50-year warranty to give you years of comfort. By making sure that the basement wall tiles can support a flat screen TV or a picture with ease you will be able to change the look of your basement in future without incurring a large expense. By ensuring that these tiles can be removed to access the wiring and plumbing that most basements contain, you can be sure that routine maintenance will not damage the basement finish.

Lighting and Ventilation

Basements receive less light and ventilation than other rooms in the house. However, by taking adequate care to factor this in when designing the basement of your home you can have a well-lit and pleasant additional room. A basement should have general lighting as well as special focus lights for specific work areas. Also, one can use special window panes that let in the maximum amount of light to make the finished basement a bright and cheerful place that everyone will love to spend time in. By acknowledging the limitations of your basement and working to overcome these you can be sure of creating a comfortable yet practical room in the basement of your home.

Innovative Basement Systems specializes in basement finishing Bismarck, ND and other surrounding areas. They provide free basement finishing estimates in West Fargo, Detroit Lakes, Williston, International Falls, Wahpeton, Devils Lake, Thief River Falls and neighboring areas.

Slashes Slated for U.S. Radon Protection Program

Fri, March 9 2012, 00:00:00 -500

Proposed 2012 budget cuts of $2 million to the radon program of the Environmental Protection Agency threaten to drastically reduce the effectiveness and awareness of radon gas safety in our society. Additional budget cuts proposed for fiscal year 2013 would affect the State Indoor Radon Grants program and regional oversight efforts.

Because radon gas is invisible in daily life, heightened education and awareness programs are all the more critical to safe guard the population. Longer term exposure can unknowingly result in severe health problems including cancer. Since the 1988 Indoor Radon Abatement Act passed by the Federal government, progress has been encouraging. Imposing these budget cuts would undermine that progress and the law’s mission.

Groups are rallying their efforts and constituents to reverse the proposed cuts in spending. The American Association of Radon Scientists and Technologists (AARST) and Cancer Survivors Against Radon (CanSAR) are among them. Contacting Congressional representatives is one of the best ways to express opposition to the cutbacks. Voices must be heard; health and safety risks can be averted.

The National Radon Defense (NRD) is a network of radon professionals dedicated to delivering the highest quality radon measurement and mitigation services. All members are carefully selected and participate in extensive, on-going training ensuring customers quality solutions and value pricing. The NRD is the world’s most trusted source in the radon measurement and mitigation services industry.

As a member of the National Radon Defense network, Innovative Basement Systems strictly adheres to their guidelines for service, workmanship, and reliability. They are ready to answer any questions about radon in the home, test and monitor radon gas on the premises, and provide results and solutions specifically designed for the house. The process is simple, fast, and accurate.

Innovative Basement Systems specializes in radon mitigation in Fargo, ND and other surrounding areas. Visit them online to set up a radon mitigation estimate.

Radon Gas Alert for Every Parent of School-age Children - MSNBC Today!

Mon, March 5 2012, 00:00:00 -500

Are Your Children at Risk? Watch the Video.

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

A new investigative report has aired on the MSNBC Today Show sounding the alarm about the occurrence of radioactive radon gas in our nation’s schools, affecting thousands of children. The report identifies a reluctance of many schools to conduct radon gas tests, perhaps fearing the results. But radon gas testing, in schools and homes, saves lives.

Quoted in the report, Bill Fields, highly respected in the radon field, says that exposure to radon gas causes more deaths than any other environmental hazard. He compares it to the proven and documented dangers of smoking.

Lack of money, the report goes on to say, is often cited as one of the reasons school districts don’t test; federal law also does not require them to test for radon gas.

Essential viewing for everyone, this important video presents the facts and dangers of radon gas in schools and homes, and goes in depth about what school districts are doing and not doing, the EPA, and stories of victims.

The National Radon Defense is a network of radon professionals dedicated to delivering the highest quality radon measurement and mitigation services. Members are carefully selected and participate in extensive, on-going training ensuring customers quality solutions and value pricing. This network is the nation’s trusted source of radon measurement and mitigation services available.

As a member of the National Radon Defense network, we strictly adhere to their guidelines for service, workmanship, and reliability. We are ready to answer questions about radon in the home, test and monitor radon gas on your premises, provide results, and suggest solutions specifically designed for you. The process is simple, fast, and accurate.

Innovative Basement Systems specializes in radon mitigation in ND and other surrounding areas. Visit us online for a radon mitigation quote.

Ask an Inspector

Thu, March 1 2012, 00:00:00 -500

Q: What is the difference between doing a FHA Inspection and a normal inspection that a home owner would request prior to purchasing a home? What is checked with each?

A: An FHA inspection in not an actual Home Inspection. This type is accomplished by an Appraiser. An Appraiser's job is to determine the market value of a home. The FHA part of the appraisal covers select safety concerns and some checklist items. It is not a complete operation and evaluation of the home. A Home Inspector will inspect and evaluate all major components of a home with an example being to check the electrical panel. An FHA inspection determines the size of the panel. An inspector will open the panel and evaluate for proper wiring, over loading, and burned/corroded connections. An FHA inspection looks for cracked glass only, while a Home Inspector will operate and determine the working condition of the windows. With a home inspector, all components of a home are operated and evaluated. You receive a written report explaining the condition and findings discovered during the home inspection. The average home inspection report is 20 pages with a break down of the exterior, roof, garage, kitchen, bathrooms, living spaces, foundation, attic, plumbing, electrical, heating and AC.

Thanks again to Dean Foell with Tri-State Inspection, Inc. for taking the time to answer our questions!

Ask a Realtor

Tue, February 28 2012, 00:00:00 -500

As a homeowner it's normal to think about ways to improve the investment on your home. The first thing my husband and I did when we moved into our first home was to improve our curb appeal. We had a 60-foot pine tree in our front yard that was leaning toward our home. It made us very nervous every time there was a storm. So, removing the hazard was our first priority.

Looking back, we both realize that we should've planned a little more and thought it all the way through. We didn't think about all the small rocks that were under the tree to help with water drainage around the foundation. Big mistake. The tree came down and out came the shovels and wheel barrows. I can't tell you the number of hours we spent that summer day, just the two of us, removing the rock. It was exhausting. We swore we would NEVER put rock down ever again.

Not only did we remove the tree and the rock, we also removed the plastic that was underneath the rock that led all the way to the foundation wall. Yep, we pulled that out too. (Please keep in mind while reading this that this was well before I worked for Innovative.) Little did we know, at the time, that we were causing a bigger problem in our basement. The very next spring we had water in our basement. It also didn’t help that our sump pump wasn’t working. We didn’t know. It was our first home. Now we make sure every spring to check it before the snow really starts to melt.

What I’m trying to say is everyone makes mistakes and learns from them. I’ve even been in your shoes. Once you figure it out it makes life with your basement less stressful. Now that my husband and I have accomplished our goal of a dry basement it’s time to finish it. We just want to make sure that we make the correct choices to increase the value of our home.

I talked to Melissa Mozley with Park Company Realtors and asked her what kind of return on investment we could expect for this basement we’ve put so much energy into.

Q: My basement is unfinished but I’m thinking about finishing it. What kind of monetary value will I be adding to my home by completely finishing the basement?

A: It depends! It is difficult to pin-point the monetary value of a finished basement as it based off of several factors. Generally, by finishing your basement with a professional you will almost always increase the value of your home because you are adding livable space. However, the value amount is determined by the square footage and style of the home and the finishing should always meet or exceed the quality of the other level’s finishes.

Now that I understand what she said we are going to be smart about this project. We are going to call in the professionals – Innovative Basement Systems!

Ask an Inspector

Fri, February 24 2012, 00:00:00 -500

Who better to answer your questions about your home than an inspector? We met with Dean Foell, a local Fargo inspector, and asked him a question about common problems he comes across.

Q: When doing home inspections, what is the most common problem you find?

A: Foundations in the Red River Valley area are always a concern. Our heavy soil is very damaging to foundations. The combination of our soil and poor water drainage affects block, brick, poured, and wood foundations. The lack of proper working gutters and poor drainage has caused foundation walls to fail. Basement floors are cracked and heaving to the point of causing potential structural concerns. Many basement walls in the area are braced. This will stop further movement of the walls if installed properly. Some foundation walls have shifted to the point of needing to be straightened. Older home drain tile systems are plugging up and allowing seepage into the basements.

Your Dream Basement in North Dakota and Minnosota

Wed, February 22 2012, 00:00:00 -500

We all have a dream basement in mind. Maybe yours is like mine. Mine always started off with a dry basement. Too many years of tearing out carpet, using the wet vac and losing sleep over water in my basement. Thankfully our basement is now dry.

After many years of water seepage it is time to seriously entertain the thought of finishing our basement. What do we imagine that space to be? We have an average size basement. It has one bedroom, a bathroom with a shower, and the possibility of another egress for a second bedroom.

When I close my eyes and imagine how I feel in my new basement, one thought comes to mind. Relaxed. I want an area that is calming. For our basement walls I like to see lighter colored walls, calming lights and beige carpet tiles. My husband would most likely imagine a man cave. On the wall, a big screen TV and theater seating. It’s evident that our basement finishing ideas are pretty far apart.

Whatever it is we decide to do with the space we’ll love it. We’ll finally have a useable basement with the added benefit of increasing our property value.

Below are a few examples of basements that Innovative Basement Systems - Total Basement Finishing can do for you!

Ask a Realtor - Melissa Mozley, Park Company

Tue, February 21 2012, 00:00:00 -500

Question: I am thinking about selling my home. We've had water seepage issues in the past and have some bowing walls. What would you recommend we do prior to putting our home on the market?

Melissa Mozley: I would recommend that these items are fixed prior to marketing the home. When someone sells their home, the owner fills out the Property Condition Disclosure Statement which discloses material facts know about the property. If an owner has seepage issues but fails to correct the problem, which could deter a buyer from the home. If you have bowing walls, I recommend these to be fixed prior to selling as well. In order for a buyer to secure an FHA or VA loan (two very common mortgage loans), an appraisal must be done. During this process, the appraiser will look for safety hazards in the home and will require the seller to fix prior to allowing the buyer to close on that loan (known as lender commitment work orders). Bowing walls can also be detected by a home inspector which buyers often hire before moving forward with their offer. Having the problem solved beforehand will increase the likelihood of selling their home, especially to a VA or FHA-approved buyer. If the seller is unable to make the repairs, a professional report/bid should be provided for conventional loan or cash buyers so they know what to expect if they purchase the home.

Feel free to put your questions on our Facebook page and we'll have Melissa answer them for you.

Intersted in working with Melissa? Check out her website at http://www.melissamozley.com/

Team Innovative Places 3rd!

Mon, February 20 2012, 00:00:00 -500

Team Innovative, sponsored by Innovative Basement Systems, participated in the Pine Pond Hockey Classic this past weekend. It was held at Westside Park Pond in Pine City, MN. It was an exciting weekend of action-packed, co-ed hockey!

Team Innovative had an outstanding weekend of hockey placing 3rd overall. Go Team Innovative!!

Bowing Walls - Don't Let This Happen to You!

Thu, February 16 2012, 00:00:00 -500

Working at Innovative Basement Systems I hear a lot of horror stories from our customers. Some stories are about horrible experiences they’ve had with other contractors and others are about their home.

About a year and a half ago we talked to a customer about her bowing walls. She was very concerned that the structure of her home was unsafe. She scheduled a estimate and we went to her home and gave her a free estimate on how to straighten her basement walls.

After we went out to her home and gave her a quote she had decided that she wasn’t interested in doing the work we suggested. She had her reasons and we completely understood.

Six months after the initial consultation we called this customer again – checking in to see if she had possibly changed her mind about fixing her basement. What happened next I never expected. She laughed. Then apologized and stated that her house had collapsed and she definitely didn’t need our product.

I remember being stunned. I mean I knew it was a possibility but I had never heard someone tell us that their house actually collapsed because of a bad foundation.

Bowing basement walls are a very common problem for homeowners. With the changing of weather conditions it affects our foundation. Think of it this way, when the soil is wet from rain or snow it expands, right? When it’s a dry year and there isn’t much moisture the soil will contract. Both of those things affect the stability of your foundation.

Don’t become a victim to expanding and contracting soil conditions. Call Innovative Basement Systems today and request a free estimate. We’ll send out a certified Specialist to give a free, no-obligation quote.

January is National Radon Month

Tue, January 3 2012, 00:00:00 -500

Fargo, ND – With radon being one of the leading causes of lung cancer today, it’s vital to bring attention to this often-overlooked danger. January is National Radon Month, making it a good time to purchase a home radon test kit or hire a professional radon mitigation contractor. Innovative Basement Systems is an expert on radon mitigation and has made a number of recommendations for homeowners during National Radon Month.

Radon is a naturally occurring gas that is released from soil. Because it is a radioactive carcinogen gas, it can be dangerous to people if it travels up into their homes. Radon is responsible for 20,000 lung cancer deaths each year, making it the second-leading cause of lung cancer (behind smoking). Luckily, there are ways to lessen the amount of radon in a home, thereby preventing the contraction of lung cancer. Radon mitigation is becoming a common service that a number of contractors can provide.

Innovative Basement Systems is encouraging homeowners to test their homes for radon this New Year. Because radon gas is colorless and odorless, it is not detected unless a specific test for the gas is performed. It’s important that each homeowner tests their home for radon before it’s too late.

Radon in a building is measured by picocuries per liter (pCi/L). The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends mitigating any building with a radon measurement at or above 4.0 picocuries per liter. When a building’s radon levels are found to be unhealthy, a radon mitigation system is specially designed to effectively reduce the levels to a healthier amount. Radon abatement methods can keep radon from entering a house, including soil suction, which draw the radon from below the basement or crawl space floor and push it outside. Some other radon mitigation techniques include sealing, house/room pressurization, heat recovery ventilation, and natural ventilation.

Innovative Basement Systems is North Dakota and Minnesota’s expert basement waterproofing, crawl space, sump pump installation and foundation repair contractor. Their radon mitigation systems use sub-slab depressurization to reduce radon levels. A PVC pipe collects soil gasses, radon is piped upwards in the building, and then a radon depressurization vent forces radon out of the house.

Innovative Basement Systems serves North Dakota and Minnesota, including Bismarck, Fargo, Grand Rapids, Minneapolis, St. Paul, Duluth and surrounding areas. They have years of experience building and drying basements, and they are members of the Basement Systems international network of basement waterproofing specialists. For more information about this radon mitigation company in Fargo or a free estimate contact them today.

How to Combat Radon in Your Home

Thu, December 29 2011, 00:00:00 -500

Radon is a naturally occurring gas that is released from soil. Because it is a radioactive carcinogen gas, it can be dangerous to people if it travels up into their homes. Radon is responsible for 20,000 lung cancer deaths each year, making it the second-leading cause of lung cancer (behind smoking). Luckily, there are ways to lessen the amount of radon in a home and prevent the contraction of lung cancer from radon. Radon mitigation in Minnesota and all across the country has become a common service that a number of contractors can provide now.

There are a number of methods contractors use to lower a home’s radon levels. Radon is measured by picocuries per liter (pCi/L) and the EPA recommends mitigating any building with a radon measurement at or above 4.0 pCi/L. Some mitigation techniques are designed to prevent radon from entering your home, while others simply reduce the home’s current radon levels. No matter what method you choose, it is important to have the work performed by a certified professional radon mitigation contractor to ensure it gets done correctly.

Your heating and cooling system may be distributing radon gas throughout your home. According to the EPA, radon gas is approximately 7.5 times heavier than air but is influenced by air movements and pressure. The EPA recommends using mitigation methods that prevent radon entry including soil suction, which draws the radon from below the house and vents it out through a pipe to the air above the house where it is quickly diluted. Other radon mitigation techniques are sealing, house/room pressurization, heat recovery ventilation, and natural ventilation. Radon gas is typically discharged through a home’s roof and into the air in order to decrease concentration levels.

The concentration of radon gas at its discharge point can be tens of thousands of picocuries per minute, according to the EPA. However, radon concentration can begin to approach safer background levels at just three to four feet from its discharge point. Once radon gas gets out into the open, it is no longer a threat. Only when the gas becomes concentrated trapped inside a house does it become a carcinogen. The EPA prohibits ground-level discharge of radon because this could allow the gas to re-enter the home, and it can also be a danger to children. Discharging radon gas through a home’s roof is the most efficient way to remove radon.

Before radon mitigation takes place, a home must receive radon testing. Although there are do-it-yourself home testing kits for radon, it is recommended that homeowners use a certified professional. Trained radon contractors can get a more accurate radon measurement and get the results to the homeowner faster than a DIY kit. After the initial measurement in the lowest living space of the house shows a high level of radon, a second measurement is taken in another living space. If the tests all show an elevated radon level, the radon specialist will recommend a radon mitigation system specifically designed for that home.

If you need radon abatement in Minnesota, contact your local National Radon Defense contractor. NRD dealers go through extensive training and certification to perform professional radon mitigation in Minnesota and across the country.

It's National Radon Awareness Week!

Tue, October 18 2011, 00:00:00 -500

We at Innovative Basement Systems understand the importance of helping homeowners understand radon, and we hope you’ll join us this week in raising awareness to the effects of radon exposure!

In recognition of the estimated 21,000 victims of the fatal effects of radon exposure, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Surgeon General have declared this week as National Radon Awareness Week.

Radon testing can be done at home where test results are then sent and diagnosed at a lab. There are short-term and long-term tests available. We also offer radon testing in North Dakota.

Radon is the number one in-home killer in the United States claiming 21,000 lives of unsuspecting homeowners to lung cancer—most of whom have never even smoked. Though unnoticeable to human senses, we perform radon testing and mitigation to reduce homes to levels below the action level of 4.0 picocuries per liter. Read more about National Radon Awareness Week from National Radon Defense.

Innovative Basement Systems Receives Awards at International Convention in Connecticut

Fri, September 30 2011, 00:00:00 -500

Pine City, MN – Innovative 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, Innovative Basement Systems received three awards at the Team Basement Systems International Convention. Innovative Basement Systems ranked as one of the Top 25 Basement Systems Dealers, one of the Top 30 Foundation Supportworks Dealers and one of the Top 5 Foundation Supportworks Power Brace Dealers in the United States and Canada.

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.

Innovative Basement Systems is a certified Basement Systems Dealer specializing in residental foundation repair, crawl space repair and basement waterproofing in MN. Innovative Basement Systems provide free estimates to home owners in North Dakota and Minnesota.

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.

Healthy Housing Expert Exposes Radon and Lung Cancer Link to Dr Oz

Tue, February 15 2011, 00:00:00 -500

Omaha, NE - Dr. Oz welcomes Rebecca Morley, a healthy home expert, and a family affected by radon induced lung cancer, to his show on February 10, 2011 to discuss the facts about radon and lung cancer. Facts that experts at National Radon Defense expose on a daily basis. Radon induced lung cancer kills 21,000 people each year and is virtually unnoticeable before having a home tested.

President of National Radon Defense, Curt Drew says; 'his is the kind of awareness we need to keep spreading the facts about radon exposure.'

On NBC at 3 p.m. EST, Rebecca Morley the executive director of the National Center for Healthy Housing (NCHH) will be on the Dr. Oz show alongside a family that has been affected by radon induced lung cancer. They will be speaking about the hazards of radon exposure. Although radon induced lung cancer kills thousands each year, many people are still unaware of the facts about radon.

National Radon Defense is a nationally recognized network of radon experts who test for and mitigate homes of high radon levels. Unfortunately, it is still difficult to make the world aware of how simple it is to test and reduce the radon. It is equally difficult to convey the severe repercussions to neglecting radon testing, which is why so many people are still dying from radon exposure.

Rebecca Morley, MSPP helps make homes healthy and safe. She has lead recovery initiatives after Hurricanes Katrina and is a published author of housing hazard articles.

Contact National Radon Defense today and find a local radon mitigator to test for and reduce radon levels in homes, schools, at work and other buildings.

Minnesota Radon Mitigation During Radon Awareness Month

Thu, January 6 2011, 00:00:00 -500

Hinckley, MN - Innovative Basement Systems hopes this monthly campaign will help more people to learn about radon and utilize the preventative measures being provided. Radon induced lung cancer can be prevented by radon testing and mitigation.

As a member of the National Radon Defense (NRD) Network of radon experts, Innovative Basement Systems joins the network's initiative to spread awareness and prevent radon induced lung cancer.

Radon testing and mitigation provide the hope and preventative measures necessary to bring hope this month instead of despair.

While lung cancer may responsible for killing more people each year than breast, colon, and prostate cancer combined-- radon mitigation can prevent radon induced lung cancer. In fact, NRD dealers are encouraging everyone to raise awareness about radon being the leading cause of lung cancer amongst nonsmokers and the hope that radon mitigation can bring.

Unfortunately, lung cancer receives the least amount of research funds to help these innocent victims. It is invisible, tasteless, and odorless, which makes it impossible to detect with any human senses.

Radon is a naturally occurring gas that forms as a byproduct of uranium decay. Uranium can be found in most soils around the world making radon's outdoor presence just about everywhere. Cracks and holes in a home's foundation become the perfect entryway for radon, and without a proper mitigation system, the radon concentrations will rise and become quite hazardous to the inhabitants.

Many, if not all homeowners having suffered with or seen someone suffer with radon induced lung cancer reluctantly found out that their homes' radon levels were undoubtedly high. The EPA recommends any home with levels at or above 4.0 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) be immediately mitigated by an expert.

Contact Innovative Basement Systems today to schedule a radon test and to have an installation scheduled for radon mitigation in Minnesota or North Dakota. They're the trained radon mitigation expert in ND or MN.

Radon Mitigation in North Dakota Meets the Growing Concern for Safety During Winter Months

Tue, November 30 2010, 00:00:00 -500

Fargo, ND - As radon test results are returning with higher than safe amounts, many homeowners are growing concerned. Some local experts say that the winter months may increase radon levels as the homes are closed up. Innovative Basement Systems is a member of the National Radon Defense network and is a leader in radon testing and mitigation and aims to reduce the concern of local homeowners.

Knowledge is power, especially when applied to radon. A homeowner must test his/her home in order to know the exact radon levels. Innovative Basement Systems wants to inform homeowners that even neighbors can have very different levels of radon.

The Environmental Protection agency recommends an action level of 4.0 pCi/L (picocuries per liter).

Many wonder how radon can even enter a home. Kevin Pavlish, a local environmental health practitioner says, "As that gas is rising through the ground, if our basements get into the way because of the negative air pressure in our homes, it literally sucks that radon into our homes through cracks in the basement floor."

Some local experts contort that radon levels may be increasing during the wintry months because the gas is unable to escape. Homeowners do not open windows as often as in the summer months.

North Dakota is known to have had investigations of radioactive mineral deposits in several areas throughout the state from the 1940s through 1970s. In addition, radon is released from uranium soils, which are in high amounts in North Dakota.

Contact Innovative Basement Systems today if you're in need of a radon expert in North Dakota. They will provide radon testing and radon mitigation in North Dakota. Innovative Basement Systems is a leader in several home improvement industries and is a part of the internationally renowned Basement Systems, Inc. network.

How Radon Gas Compares to Cigarette Smoke And XRay Radiation

Wed, November 10 2010, 00:00:00 -500

Ever since the World Health Organization released their test results and confirmation that radon is a proven carcinogen and that radon testing and radon mitigation is necessary throughout the world, homeowners and businesses are beginning to take the risks of indoor radon exposure all the more seriously.

Radon Information

It's infamous and it's on the prowl. This gas easily goes unnoticed as it's invisible, unscented and tasteless. All too often many homeowners are living in radon infested homes, not just for one or two years-- but sometimes a lifetime!

Whether you live in the U.S. or India, radon is everywhere. It's the result of uranium's decay in soil that causes polonium to be released thus creating such high toxicity.

Seeing as many people don't know the radon levels within their home, job or school; it's all the more important that these places are tested. Regardless of the amount, you won't be able to notice. Regardless of the amount, you could get lung cancer.

"Most radon-induced lung cancers occur from low and medium dose exposures in people's homes. Radon is the second most important cause of lung cancer after smoking in many countries," said Dr. Maria Neira of the WHO.

Although very scary, testing and removal is very easy and well worth the investment.

Smoking

The effects of smoking are far more widely publicized and understood in comparison to the effects of this toxic gas. However, although smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, radon exposure is a close second causing an estimated 20,000 deaths each year-- according to the Environmental Protection Agency. According to the WHO, Radon is the cause of 15 percent of the world's recorded lung cancer cases.

Unfortunately, 1 pCi/L is equal to 2.5 cigarettes a day! The suggested action level established by the EPA rests at 4.0 pCi/L (picocuries per liter) and 2.7 pCi/L according to the WHO-- now it can become understandable how even the low levels of radon can cause problems.

Radiation

As more and more people are learning about radon, it's important to recognize that the radiation from radon far surpasses that of even the hospital chest x-rays. In fact, here's something worth considering.

In general, homeowners should try to obtain the lowest possible level within their home because the effects of slight exposure are, as we've learned, proven to be quite severe.
So, to give you some insight into this Group A Carcinogen and how it links to radiation, let's actually compare the effects of radon exposure and the effects of the radiation from x-rays.

The radiation in a 4.0 pCi/L level of radon is equal to the radiation from 100 chest x-rays. The number of chest x-rays permitted by most hospitals is what makes that number all the more interesting. Most hospitals actually only allow people to have four chest x-rays each year. That's .16 pCi/L per x-ray and .64 pCi/L a year. In other words, can you understand why the WHO has their action level at 2.7 pCi/L?

The effects of radon are far higher than even the effects of chest x-rays -- which should make any homeowner quick to have testing and mitigation.

For radon mitigation in North Dakota and Minnesota contact Innovative Basement Systems today. They offer radon testing in MN and ND, as well as the most trusted mitigation and maintenance services.

Radon Awareness Week Perfect Time to Test North Dakota Homes

Mon, October 18 2010, 00:00:00 -500

Oct 15, 2010 - Fargo, ND. National Radon Awareness Week begins Sunday, October 17, and is the perfect time for homeowners in North Dakota and Minnesota to test for radon. Innovative Basement Systems provides testing for homeowners, as well as mitigation systems for those homes with high levels of radon.

Innovative Basement Systems President Keith Johnson says, "Fall and winter are the ideal times to test for radon in the home, since windows are typically closed and any radon in the home will not be diluted with fresh air from outdoors."

Radon is a colorless, odorless, radioactive gas caused by the decay of uranium in the earth. As radon gas rises through the soil, it can seep into homes through cracks in the foundation, walls, crawl spaces, sump pumps and wells. The only way to know if your home has a high level of radon is to test for it. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) considers 4 picocuries per liter of air unacceptable.

Long term exposure to high levels of radon can lead to lung cancer. The National Cancer Institute says that radon is responsible for more than 20,000 cases of lung cancer in the U.S. each year, making it the number one cause of lung cancer among non-smokers and the second leading cause of lung cancer overall.

Testing for radon is best done in the fall or winter months, when the home is usually closed to outdoor air. Innovative Basement Systems has trained radon mitigation specialists available to help homeowners test for radon in their homes. If elevated radon levels are found in the home, radon mitigation experts in North Dakota can install an aesthetically-pleasing mitigation system.

Innovative is also a member of National Radon Defense, a network of radon mitigation experts across the nation.

For more information on radon and its health effects, radon testing and radon mitigation systems in North Dakota and Minnesota, contact:

Innovative Basement Systems
Keith Johnson
(877)365-0097
kjohnson@innovativebasementsystems.com

Radon Gas Experts Inspect North Dakota or Minnesota Homes to Remove High Radon Levels

Thu, August 26 2010, 00:00:00 -500

Fargo, ND - Innovative Basement Systems offers homeowners services such as basement waterproofing and finishing, crawl space and foundation repairs, and most recently they have expanded their services to include radon inspection, mitigation, and repairs!

Don't stress over your home's radon levels, because there's a radon specialist ready to help. All the radon gas measurement specialists at Innovative have been fully-trained to mitigate your home, and conduct any necessary repairs to prevent future high radon levels in your home.

If you're wondering what kinds of repairs could be required to help prevent future high radon levels, here are some of the techniques Innovative utilizes. However, each home will require unique repairs in order to cater to its structural design and your particular needs.

Innovative can redirect the air, vent it away from your home, seal any entry points, conduct a final system checklist, and retest for radon. Your Radon Gas Measurement Specialist will explain to you the radon inspection and mitigation process so you don't have to worry about those hidden factors.

Contact Innovative today to schedule an appointment for a North Dakota radon mitigation expert, or to install a Continuous Radon Monitor.

Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers, and kills an estimated many thousands of people each year. If you smoke, and are unknowingly living in a home with high radon levels, you are putting yourself at further risk of contracting lung cancer. Radon can be found throughout the world in soil, rock, water, and air. Learn more about radon gas and radon gas mitigation.

New Team Member at Innovative Basement Systems

Wed, June 16 2010, 00:00:00 -500

Jeremy Holm recently joined the Team at Innovative Basement Systems as Sales Manager. Jeremy is a North Dakota native who currently lives in Moorhead, MN. He has been in the sales and management arena for the last 11 years and was recruited for the position because of his extensive experience.

"I'm excited to be a part of this team of professionals," states Jeremy. "As the newest member of the team, I'm looking forward to making a positive impact on the company and the area it serves."

Jeremy graduated from Concordia College in Moorhead, MN and has since managed in the retail industry, operated a growing grounds maintenance company, and most recently was the District Sales Manager for a company that covered a three state territory and represented 17 different manufacturers. While hitting the ground running at Innovative Basement Systems, Jeremy also enjoys spending time with his family and volunteering as a youth hockey and baseball coach.

The Mission of Innovative Basement Systems is to be the best in our industry and "WOW" our customers every step of the way. Key aspects of this mission are excellence and superior performance with honesty and integrity always coming first. Jeremy is looking forward to carrying out this mission by building customer relationships and performing above and beyond the call of duty in order to "WOW" every customer on every project.

Innovative Basement Systems and Egress Windows of ND and MN adds to their Team!

Tue, November 3 2009, 00:00:00 -500

On November 2, 2009, Innovative Basement Systems & Egress Windows added another asset to their Team!!

Charlie Adams, originally from Lansford, North Dakota, will head up the Foundation Supportworks Division of Innovative Basement Systems and Egress Windows.

Charlie is a 2000 graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point. He served as an infantry officer in the Army for 5 years that included a year-long deployment to Iraq. After leaving the military in 2005, Charlie was the construction manager for Brand Services LLC in Denver, Colorado. In 2007, Charlie accepted a position as the Program Director for 5 state board programs that included the Colorado State Board of Architects, Professional Engineers, and Professional Land Surveyors, the State Electrical and Plumbing Boards, and the Colorado Passenger Tramway Safety Board. After enjoying Colorado for the past 8 years, Charlie is excited to return to North Dakota.

Innovative Basement Systems & Egress Windows is glad to have Charlie as a part of their team!

Golf and Tennis Event in Florida

Thu, September 10 2009, 00:00:00 -500

Jessica returned from Florida on Monday, Aug 7 from a Golf and Tennis Event.

Great opportunity to meet people from all over the world and reconnect with people she hadn't seen in two years. The weather was great and so was the golfing!

Indy Car

Thu, August 20 2009, 00:00:00 -500

Jessica heads to Sonoma, CA for an Indy Car race this weekend, Aug 21, 09.

Can't wait for the racing to begin! Road courses are always exciting and unpredictable. Can't forget about the wineries, good food and great friends!

Flood Recovery and Cleanup in North Dakota

Mon, April 20 2009, 00:00:00 -500

Since the end of March, North Dakota has been picking up the pieces and trying to recover from the devastating floods and blizzards that struck parts of the state. As volunteers were piling sandbags trying to prevent rivers from flooding over on March 26, snow was falling on them and the temperatures were below freezing. Now that the worst is over, the cleanup is underway and Innovative Basement Systems would like to help.

The North Dakota Department of Health most recently reported that between April 2 and April 9 there were 18 flood-related injuries bringing the total up to 223 since the flooding began on March 23. Flooding is still affecting residents of areas of North Dakota including Bismarck, Grand Forks and Fargo, and the cleanup and recovery is going to be a long and arduous process.

Located in Fargo, North Dakota, Innovative Basement Systems has seen first-hand the damage the flooding has done on the area. During a dangerous and powerful flood, the lower parts of a home can sometimes see the most devastation. Areas like basements and crawl spaces can be completely destroyed and can also leave behind lasting damage. Wet basements and crawl spaces can foster mold growth and make your entire home unhealthy.

Innovative Basement Systems provides free basement and crawl space inspections and estimates to homeowners in North Dakota and western Minnesota. Homeowners may call them or contact them online to find out how they can help homes recover from the devastating March flooding. There is no reason to go through this difficult cleanup process alone.

Innovative Basement Systems is a basement waterproofing, crawl space repair and foundation repair company servicing North Dakota and parts of western Minnesota. They can fix your wet basement using patented products including sump pumps, French drain systems and dehumidifiers. They also provide crawl space encapsulation services to protect crawl spaces from mold and moisture. Innovative is a member of the Basement Systems international network of Basement waterproofers.