Project Overview

This project was an insurance-based flooded basement restoration for homeowners in Etters, PA. After a washing machine leak caused water damage in the basement, the insurance company sent out a mitigation team to remove damaged drywall and set up dehumidifiers to dry out the space.

Our role began once the cleanup phase was complete. We were hired to restore the basement and bathroom area, install new finishes, and make sure the space was rebuilt safely and properly.

The Challenge

Although the immediate cause of the basement flooding was a leaking washing machine, further inspection revealed a deeper issue in part of the home’s structure.

The home is a split-level property where the driveway slopes downward toward what was once a garage door opening. That garage opening had previously been framed over and converted into a laundry room. Unfortunately, this framing had been done incorrectly. Because the driveway sat higher than the interior slab, moisture had been entering the wall over time.

When we opened the area up, we found:

• Mold growth
• A rotted bottom plate
• Improper framing from the original conversion
• A high risk of future water intrusion

While this problem did not cause the original flooding, it posed a serious long-term risk if it was not addressed during the restoration process.

The Solution

Our job involved fully restoring the damaged areas while also correcting the underlying issue to help future-proof the home.

The scope of work included:

• Removing remaining damaged materials, including an old shower the homeowners no longer wanted
• Installing new insulation and drywall
• Installing new flooring and trim
• Adding new cabinets
• Restoring the basement bathroom and living space

To address the hidden structural and moisture problem, we:

• Lifted the existing wall framing and installed cinder blocks along the bottom plate from the inside, without needing to remove exterior siding or walls
• Properly sealed the wall from both the interior and exterior
• Installed a channel drain in the driveway and tied it into the home’s existing drainage system to redirect runoff water away from the foundation

This approach corrected the moisture problem while keeping the exterior of the home intact, saving time and cost for the homeowners.

Restoration Process

Throughout the flooded basement restoration, special attention was given not only to rebuilding the space but to improving it.

Discovering the rotted framing allowed us to correct a problem that had likely existed for years. Rather than simply covering it back up, we worked with the homeowners to explain the issue and recommend a long-term fix.

By combining structural repairs with cosmetic restoration, the project became more than just a repair—it became an upgrade to the home’s durability and moisture protection.

Final Result

The finished basement is now clean, dry, and fully restored with new flooring, drywall, trim, cabinets, and updated bathroom features. The space is once again functional and comfortable for everyday use.

More importantly, the moisture and rot issue caused by the former garage opening was permanently corrected. With the added drainage system and sealed wall structure, the homeowners now have peace of mind knowing their basement is better protected from future water damage.

What began as an insurance restoration project turned into an opportunity to improve the home’s long-term resilience.

Key Takeaway for Homeowners

Basement water damage is not always just about what you can see on the surface. Hidden issues—such as improper framing or poor drainage—can create much bigger problems over time.

This project highlights the importance of:

• Proper inspection after basement flooding
• Addressing root causes, not just cosmetic repairs
• Using restoration work as an opportunity to future-proof your home