Burlington, VT Trusty Foundation Repair & Basement Waterproofing

The old house in Burlington, Vermont, had stood firm against Vermont’s changing seasons for years. But no matter how much the homeowner tried to keep up with maintenance, there was one problem they couldn’t seem to shake—water in the basement.

Every time it rained, water seeped in along the edges of the foundation, pooling in the corners and leaving behind damp, musty air. Their old sump pump struggled to keep up, and with no perimeter drainage system in place, the water had nowhere to go. The homeowners did what they could—mopping up the mess, running fans, and using a dehumidifier—but deep down, they knew it was only a matter of time before the problem worsened.

That’s when they called Matt Clark’s Northern Basement Systems for help.

Our team arrived and quickly assessed the situation. The homeowner’s existing sump pump was outdated and inefficient, leaving the basement vulnerable to flooding. Worse yet, the lack of a proper drainage system meant that groundwater had free rein to enter the cellar anytime the soil saturated. This moisture could lead to structural damage, mold growth, and even a compromised foundation if left alone.

The solution was clear—we needed to install a full-perimeter drainage system and upgrade the sump pump to a high-performance unit.

 We carefully removed a section of the basement floor along the perimeter and installed our WaterGuard® drainage system, designed to collect water and direct it safely to the new sump pump. Unlike traditional drains, WaterGuard® sits on top of the foundation footing, keeping it clear of dirt and debris that could cause clogs.

We replaced the old, failing sump pump with a TripleSafe® Sump Pump System—our most reliable option, featuring a primary pump, a backup pump for extra capacity, and a battery backup in case of power failure. This ensures the basement stays dry even during heavy storms or power outages.

Once the system was in place, the transformation was undeniable. The next time it rained, the homeowner no longer had to scramble with towels and fans. Instead, water was effortlessly collected and pumped away before becoming a problem. The musty smell disappeared, the air felt fresher, and the basement was finally a dry, usable space.

With Matt Clark’s Northern Basement Systems, the homeowner no longer had to worry about water sneaking into their basement. Instead, they could rest easy knowing their home was protected—no matter what the Vermont weather had in store.

In the heart of Burlington, Vermont, a family had been living with a nagging problem they could no longer ignore. Their home's crawlspace had become a breeding ground for issues. Moisture seeped in through the foundation, creating a musty, damp environment. The air was heavy with a mildew smell, and the floor above felt uneven, showing signs of strain from the creeping decay. The homeowners knew it was time to act before the damage spread to the rest of the house. The crawlspace was in rough shape—saturated with moisture, strewn with debris, and riddled with old insulation that was no longer effective. The structural support beams had begun to weaken from years of exposure, contributing to a sagging floor that created an unsettling creak when walked upon. The homeowners were worried not only about the integrity of their homes but also about the health risks from potential mold growth and the impact on indoor air quality. After consulting with Northern Basement Systems, the homeowners felt reassured that a solution was within reach. The company's reputation for handling challenging crawlspace issues gave them the confidence to move forward. Northern Basement Systems developed a comprehensive plan to transform its crawlspace from a neglected, damp area into a dry, healthy, and structurally sound space. Northern Basement Systems' team arrived ready to tackle the project. First, they cleared the crawlspace of debris, old insulation, and any contaminants, revealing the extent of the damage. The air was more remarkable as they worked, and the team wore protective gear to ensure safety during the clean-up process.

Next came installing a CleanSpace vapor barrier, an essential step to sealing out moisture. The durable, heavy-duty liner was laid over the crawlspace floor and up the walls, creating an airtight shield. The barrier's antimicrobial properties were perfect for preventing mold growth, while its puncture-resistant material kept the crawlspace protected from future water seepage.

To address the structural instability, the team installed SmartJack supports under the wooden beams and joists. These steel jacks were adjustable, allowing the team to lift the sagging floor sections and reinforce the home's foundation. The homeowners watched as their crawlspace, once sagging and unstable, began to level out and gain strength.

Finally, the team sealed any small cracks and gaps in the crawlspace to block out external moisture and ensure the vapor barrier could do its job without interruption. Ventilation measures were added to promote air circulation, helping control humidity and maintain a balanced environment. After several days of work, the transformation was complete. The crawlspace was now dry, clean, and structurally secure. The homeowners could see the difference immediately. The musty smell was gone, replaced by a fresh, dry environment. Walking across the floors above no longer felt precarious; they felt firm and stable. The worry that had weighed on the homeowners lifted, replaced by a newfound sense of security and peace.

The homeowners now knew their home was safe from the damage that had once threatened it. With the CleanSpace vapor barrier installation and the SmartJack system, their crawlspace was no longer a source of anxiety but a reliable part of their home. This project was a testament to Northern Basement Systems' expertise and commitment to turning problem areas into protected, healthy spaces that homeowners could trust. In Burlington's unpredictable climate, the family could rest easy, knowing their home was fortified against whatever the seasons might bring.

The Smith family in Burlington, Vermont, had noticed something concerning in their basement: the walls were beginning to bow inward. Over time, the bowing worsened, causing the family to worry about the structural integrity of their home. Concerned that the walls might continue to collapse if not addressed, they contacted Matt Clark's Northern Basement Systems for help.

Upon inspection, the team confirmed that the basement's foundation walls were bowing due to pressure from the surrounding soil. Left untreated, the situation could lead to further structural damage, potentially compromising the safety of the entire house. Northern Basement Systems advised the family that a permanent solution would require stabilizing and straightening the walls without costly and disruptive excavation.

The Northern Basement Systems team recommended the PowerBrace™ Wall Support System to address this. The PowerBrace™ system is a set of adjustable steel beams anchored to the basement floor and ceiling. These braces were installed to provide immediate support to the bowed walls and prevent further movement. Over time, the adjustable braces can be tightened, allowing for gradual straightening of the walls.

After the installation, the Smith family was relieved to see their basement walls stabilized. The PowerBrace™ system stopped the inward movement and provided a long-term solution to the structural issue. The system's adjustable nature meant the family could continue to monitor and maintain the walls without needing extensive repairs down the line.

The Smiths felt much more at ease with their home now structurally secure. They could move forward with peace of mind, knowing their basement was protected and their foundation stable.

For homeowners experiencing similar issues with bowing walls, the PowerBrace™ Wall Support System offers a reliable, non-invasive solution.

In Burlington, Vermont, the Walkers lived in a century-old home with a basement that hadn’t been updated in decades. Over the years, moisture had seeped into the foundation, and the original floor was uneven and crumbling. They wanted to preserve the historic charm of their home while making the basement functional, so they reached out to Northern Basement Systems.

Matt Clark’s team devised a plan to install a modern waterproofing system while maintaining the space's character. They installed a perimeter drainage system and a sump pump to keep water out and poured a new concrete slab to replace the deteriorating floor. This provided stability and a clean finish.

The Walkers were thrilled with the outcome. Their basement was now dry, solid, and ready for use while retaining the vintage feel of their home. Northern Basement Systems had perfectly balanced preservation with modern functionality.

In Burlington, Vermont, a family of four had begun to notice unsettling changes in their home. The floors in their living room and kitchen were starting to dip and creak underfoot, making them worry about the structural soundness of their home. To make matters worse, the crawlspace beneath the house was damp and musty, with water pooling after heavy rains.

Determined to resolve these issues before they escalated, the homeowners contacted Matt Clark's Northern Basement Systems. The experienced team arrived promptly to assess the crawlspace and provide a tailored solution. After evaluating the conditions, they recommended installing SmartJacks to stabilize the sagging floors and implementing a comprehensive waterproofing system to protect the crawlspace.

The installation of the SmartJacks system began by carefully excavating small areas within the crawlspace. The SmartJacks were then placed strategically under the compromised floor joists. As the jacks were adjusted, the floors above were gradually raised back to their original position, eliminating the dips and restoring evenness throughout the home.

With the structural integrity of the floors restored, the team turned their attention to waterproofing. A heavy-duty vapor barrier was installed across the crawlspace floor and walls, effectively sealing out moisture. They also installed a reliable drainage system and sump pump, ensuring that water entering the crawlspace would quickly divert away from the home.

Upon completion, the family was thrilled with the results. Their floors were solid and level again, and the once-damp crawlspace was now dry and protected. Thanks to Matt Clark's Northern Basement Systems, they could confidently move forward, knowing their home was safe from structural issues and water damage.

The Andrews family lived in their charming Burlington, Vermont, home for over two decades. Recently, they noticed water seeping into their basement during heavy rainfalls, causing dampness and discomfort. They knew they needed a permanent solution, so they contacted Matt Clark's Northern Basement Systems for help.

Upon inspection, the team identified that the water was entering through the basement walls and floor. They proposed installing a perimeter drainage system and a reliable sump pump to dry the basement. The Andrews were pleased with the comprehensive plan and scheduled the work immediately.

The crew arrived on time and began excavating a trench around the perimeter of the basement floor. The team installed the drainage system, directing incoming water to the new sump pump, which, equipped with a battery backup, ensured that the basement would remain dry even during power outages.

Once the installation was complete, the team restored the basement floor to its original state, leaving no trace of their work behind. The Andrews were impressed by the crew's professionalism and efficiency. They could now use their basement for storage and recreation without worrying about water damage.

A few weeks later, during a hefty storm, the Andrews noticed the sump pump working perfectly. No water entered their basement, and they were thrilled with the results. They thanked Matt Clark's Northern Basement Systems for their exceptional service and recommended them to their neighbors.

Matt Clark’s Northern Basement Systems tackled a critical basement wall repair for a homeowner in Burlington, Vermont. Faced with severe wall bowing and cracking, this homeowner needed a reliable and durable solution to restore the integrity of their basement. Our team stepped in with the EverBrace Wall Support System from Supportworks, ensuring long-term stability and peace of mind.

Upon arrival, our experienced team thoroughly assessed the basement wall, identifying the extent of the damage and underlying causes. Recognizing the urgent need for a robust solution, we recommended the EverBrace Wall Support System, renowned for its effectiveness in stabilizing compromised basement walls.

The installation process began with preparing the site. Our team installed steel I-beams along the affected wall, anchoring them securely to the floor and ceiling to create a solid framework. Next, we placed high-strength steel panels between the I-beams, which distributed the wall load evenly and reduced stress on the structure. Specialized brackets were applied to lock the entire system, ensuring maximum stability and durability.

The transformation was remarkable. The once cracked and bowing wall was firmly supported, restoring the basement’s structural integrity. The homeowner was thrilled with the results and expressed newfound confidence in the safety and stability of their home.

Northern Basement Systems is committed to providing high-quality solutions for basement and foundation issues. The EverBrace Wall Support System stabilized this Burlington basement and added significant value to the property. Our team’s expertise and dedication to excellence ensure that every project we undertake meets the highest quality and customer satisfaction standards.

 A homeowner in Burlington, Vermont, recently faced a serious issue with their basement walls, which were bowing and cracking due to pressure from the surrounding soil. Concerned about the stability of their home, they reached out to Matt Clark's Northern Basement Systems for help.

Upon inspection, the team at Northern Basement Systems confirmed that the foundation walls were under significant strain and required immediate attention to prevent further structural damage. They recommended installing the PowerBrace Wall System, a reliable solution designed to stabilize and gradually straighten bowing walls.

The installation process began with the careful preparation of the basement area. The team then positioned heavy-duty steel beams against the affected walls, securing them to the floor and ceiling joists with custom brackets. This setup ensured the pressure was evenly distributed, providing robust support to the walls.

One of the key features of the PowerBrace system is its adjustable mechanism. After installing the beams, the team tightened them to straighten the walls. This mechanism allows for periodic adjustments, ensuring the walls align properly over time.

Once the installation was complete, the team cleaned up the work area, leaving the basement neat and orderly. They also instructed the homeowner on how to adjust the braces in the future to maintain the wall straightening process.

The result was a stable and secure foundation, giving the homeowner peace of mind. They were highly satisfied with Matt Clark's Northern Basement Systems' professionalism and efficiency, as well as the effectiveness of the PowerBrace Wall System in resolving their basement wall issues. The home’s foundation was saved and reinforced for long-term stability.

When a homeowner in Burlington, Vermont, contacted Matt Clark's Northern Basement Systems concerned about a visibly bowed and weakened basement wall. Our team promptly assessed the situation and recommended installing the PowerBrace wall support system to restore structural integrity.

The PowerBrace system features strong, adjustable steel beams that stabilize bowing or leaning walls. Our technicians strategically installed the PowerBrace beams along the damaged wall, securing them to the basement floor and joists above.

Once installed, the PowerBrace system provided immediate support, relieving pressure on the weakened wall and preventing further damage. Over time, the homeowner observed a noticeable improvement in the stability of their basement wall, giving them confidence in the long-term durability of their home's foundation.

After completion, the homeowner expressed gratitude for the professional and effective solution Matt Clark's Northern Basement Systems provided. They were relieved to have a secure and structurally sound basement wall, ensuring the safety and value of their property.

In the quaint town of Burlington, Vermont, a family noticed a persistent musty smell emanating from their basement. Concerned about potential mold growth and the impact on their indoor air quality, they decided to take action. After researching local experts, they contacted Matt Clark's Northern Basement Systems for a solution. Our team promptly scheduled a consultation to assess the basement's condition. Upon inspection, it was clear that water seepage during heavy rains was the root cause of the musty odor and dampness.

Northern Basement Systems recommended a comprehensive waterproofing solution tailored to the family's needs. The team installed interior drainage systems, sump pumps, and vapor barriers to effectively manage water intrusion and humidity levels. With the new waterproofing system, the family felt relieved knowing their basement was now protected against moisture, mold, and potential structural damage. They could finally utilize the space for storage and recreational activities without worry.

Months later, the Johnsons reached out to express their gratitude. Not only had the musty odor disappeared entirely, but they also noticed an improvement in their overall indoor air quality. The basement remained dry, providing a healthier environment for their family.

The success of this project highlighted the expertise and dedication of Matt Clark's Northern Basement Systems in delivering effective waterproofing solutions tailored to each client's unique need.

In Burlington, Vermont, lived a joyful couple, Mark and Sarah F. They had recently received the delightful news that they were expecting a baby. Excitedly, they began envisioning a beautiful future for their growing family. First, however, there was one challenge they had to face—their nasty, wet basement.

Mark and Sarah had neglected their basement, dismissing it as a mere storage space for forgotten items and a breeding ground for dampness and musty odors. But now, with a baby on the way, they realized the urgent need for additional living space and the importance of a healthy environment for their little one. Determined to transform their basement into a welcoming and dry haven, Mark and Sarah embarked on a quest to find a reliable solution. After extensive research and recommendations from friends, they called Matt Clark's Northern Basement Systems, a renowned company specializing in waterproofing and basement repair solutions.

Impressed by the positive reviews and the promise of a custom-designed waterproofing system, Mark and Sarah contacted Northern Basement Systems to discuss their project. A friendly representative scheduled a free estimate with them to assess their basement's condition and propose an effective solution. On the appointed day, Matt Clark's team arrived at Mark and Sarah's home, equipped with expertise and a wealth of experience. First, a system design technician carefully examined the basement, taking note of its damp patches, musty smell, and signs of water intrusion. Then, he listened attentively as Mark and Sarah shared their vision of a dry and safe space for their growing family.

Understanding the urgency and the couple's desire for a permanent solution, Matt assured them Northern Basement Systems could fulfill their dreams. He explained that they would design a customized waterproofing system tailored to their basement's unique characteristics and moisture issues.

The Northern Basement Systems team swiftly got to work, meticulously implementing their waterproofing plan. They installed a comprehensive drainage system to effectively redirect water from the basement, preventing future leaks and flooding. To tackle the dampness and musty odor, they installed a state-of-the-art dehumidifier.

Throughout the project, the team maintained open communication with Mark and Sarah, updating them on the progress and addressing their concerns. In addition, they prioritized quality and precision, ensuring that every aspect of the waterproofing system was flawlessly executed.

Finally, after days of dedicated work, the transformation was complete. Mark and Sarah marveled at their newly renovated basement—a clean, dry, inviting space ready to welcome their baby into the world. They were grateful to Matt Clark's Northern Basement Systems for their exceptional craftsmanship and dedication to customer satisfaction.

As the due date approached, Mark and Sarah prepared the basement as a cozy nursery, confident that their baby would grow up in a healthy and protected environment. The waterproofing system installed by Northern Basement Systems stood as a testament to their commitment to providing the best for their family.

Looking for a permanent solution to repairing failed support columns and controlling water, moisture, and odor from their crawl space, a homeowner in Burlington, Vermont, reached out to the professionals at Matt Clark's Northern Basement Systems for a solution.  A team of certified professional installers used a variety of patent products to turn this once wet, damp, nasty crawl space into a clean, dry, weatherized area.  Steel Smart Jacks replaced the old, unsafe support columns, providing a safe support system throughout the crawl space.        

In 2015 Matt Clark's Northern Basement Systems were called to evaluate cracks in sheetrock & wood floors that were buckling. When Northern Basement Inspector arrived, they found that the foundation was a Frost wall with a slab at grade.  To get the information needed for the job, soil boring tests were needed. The difficulty with this was it was inside, and the concrete slab had radiant heat after using a thermal imaging camera.  We drilled two holes and performed Boring.  Results came back with decaying organic matter 9 feet under the slab that was not removed during construction.  The repair consisted of a support work slab pier, hydraulically driven to a suitable soil resistance.  The 3,800 sq ft home had to be demoed, which was a huge undertaking for the homeowner; a total of 119 slab piers were installed to support the entire slab.  The slab consisted of 6-2" thickness.  Piers was droved down up to 23 feet below the slab.  Before slab outcome slab was lifted back to original elevation, about 2 & 1/4" lift in slabs.  

Here at Matt Clark's Northern Basement Systems, even after the job, our work for the customers isn't done.  Every year our pro, Irma, contacts customers to see if they would like a service/checkup on their systems. Upon calling a customer in Burlington they were all in for having a check up on their Water Guard and Ultra Sump System.  The next day our trusted and very experienced Technician, Jesse, headed out with his scrupulous co-worker, Irma.  They arrived at the homeowner's residence and went right to work vigilantly cleaning all the lines and pumps.  During the cleaning, they found some small ends of tree roots and removed them.  They finished up and left the homeowner with their system running in optimal condition.    

A project manager with the state of Vermont noticed that the court house’s handicap ramp had begun to settle. At the base of the ramp, several sidewalk slabs had also settled leaving the ramp in hazardous conditions and violating safety codes. Fortunately, after doing some research online, this project manager quickly found Matt Clark’s Northern Basement Systems.

The situation called for a PolyLEVEL injection. The experts from Northern Basement Systems found the areas that needed leveling and got right to work. Polyurethane foam is light, yet powerful. After several small holes were drilled into the concrete, the foam was injected beneath the slabs and filled the void where the unsettled soil used to be. As the void filled, the foam pushed downward against the soil, lifting and leveling the concrete slabs back to its original position. Now both the ramp and the slabs at its base are accessible to all.

This project manager did the right thing. Safety is a common priority for any business. Matt Clark and his team of experts hear safety concerns daily. Whether it’s a PolyLEVEL project or any of the other services they offer, Matt Clark’s Northern Basement Systems is dedicated to helping keep this community safe.

In recent years, Ken had been experiencing water damages in his basement. These problems would reoccur around March and April when the ground is still frozen and just starting to thaw. Ken’s house rested on a cinder block foundation. He frequently found that water, supplied by frozen, sandy soil surrounding his foundation, would peel away layers off the cinder blocks and seep into the basement. This year, he decided to prepare for the spring weather by calling Northern Basement Systems.

Northern Basement Systems knew the basement needed a new pump system. They installed a Superpump system with a cast iron pump liner, an Ultrasump battery operated backup pump and a discharge line. The Superpump system and the discharge line work together to collect and channel the water safely to the exterior of the house. However, the job was not completed yet. Since the discharge line is an open airway, just like the ground, the discharge line is susceptible to freezing. The solution was to install an Iceguard to help protect the discharge line. The Iceguard is engineered to eject the water away from the exterior wall in the event that the pipe freezes. It is designed with holes in it to allow this to happen, yet no water at all gets out of these openings when the pipe is not frozen.

With these systems in place, Ken is well-prepared for the upcoming spring season. He has peace of mind and won’t have to worry about a damp basement. A basement problem like this happens all the time all throughout the cold, northern states and Northern Basement Systems is available to help.

Wendy F.’s basement in her Burlington home was virtually unusable thanks to dampness. This was not what Wendy had in mind when she bought the house. Desperately wanting to add value back to her home and reclaim the space, Wendy did some searching on Google and came across the website for Matt Clark’s Northern Basement Systems, a local waterproofing company in Vermont. Impressed with the website, the experience of the employees, and the positive customer reviews, Wendy set an appointment for Matt Clark to come to assess the problem. 

In order to return the basement to full use, first, all of the standing water would need to be removed. Northern Basements team installed a WaterGuard XL drainage system, a SuperSump sump pump, and a discharge line equipped with an IceGuard anti-freeze device. A Lawn Scape discharge line outlet was also installed to carry water away from the basement. The basement makeover was completed with ThermalDry floor tiles. To make the space more attractive, Wendy decided to have a SunHouse basement window well installed to help let in natural light. 

Because of Matt Clark and his team of waterproofing specialists, Wendy has a basement that goes far beyond just functionality. The basement she envisioned is finally hers!

Ronald and Christine T. of Burlington, VT were mostly worried about the humidity of their basement when they first set up an appointment with Matt Clark’s Northern Basement Systems. And while Northern Basement Systems agreed that the area needed dehumidification, he also realized that without also tackling the basement’s flooding problem, they would never get rid of all the moisture in the space. He suspected that a TripleSafe sump pump, discharge line, and a Lawn Scape drainage outlet would do the trick. Originally the couple only agreed to the installation of a SaniDry XP dehumidifier to dry the area.

Like so many others, homeowner Paul L. of Burlington, VT dealt with basement flooding during the winter and spring, when heavy snow would melt, seep into the ground, and his home. Matt Clark’s Northern Basement Systems had previously inspected his home and provided him with a quote to waterproof his basement. But at the time, Paul felt he could not go forward with the project. He suffered through another year and decided enough was enough. Now was the time for action. He called back waterproofing expert Justin Lanfranconi and told him that he was sick of losing control of his own home and was ready to start repairs!

A highly specialized team of waterproofers lead by foreman showed up at Paul’s Burlington property with the tools needed to secure his basement. The team installed a SuperSump sump pump to remove water. A discharge line equipped with IceGuard protection meant that the water could safely exit Paul’s home no matter the time of year, and the new Lawn Scape outlet offered a safe place to dump this excess water. Paul finally had the peace of mind he had been missing for years!

Because Paul had such a positive experience with Matt Clark’s Northern Basement Systems, he has already scheduled an appointment with them to have his waterproofing system inspected and services annually. Paul highly recommends the experts at Matt Clark’s Northern Basement Systems to any Vermont homeowner looking to defend their home against the elements!