How We Transformed a Musty Basement in Glen Mills, PA

When these homeowners moved into their Glen Mills home they noticed a persistent musty odor coming from the basement. Our inspection showed groundwater was seeping in around the foundation perimeter and humid air was accumulating in the space, classic conditions for odors and potential mold. To permanently solve the problem we used a three-part approach: CleanSpace wall lining, a full WaterGuard perimeter drain, and a SuperSump pump to remove water. Below is the exact sequence we followed so you can see how the system comes together.

Step 1: Initial Inspection & Layout

We started with a full walkthrough and a level survey to locate the areas of water entry and confirm the footing location. This lets us plan where to excavate and how to route the new drainage system without guesswork.

Step 2: Controlled Trenching Along The Perimeter

Next, we excavated a shallow trench at the footing around the entire perimeter. The trench opens space for both the upcoming WaterGuard channel and gives us access to the footing to tie into the drainage. The excavation is minimal and targeted, no huge demolition, which keeps the job clean and efficient.

Step 3: Install CleanSpace On Walls

Before placing the WaterGuard channel, we installed CleanSpace along the block walls. Lining the walls at this point ensures the CleanSpace can be integrated into the drainage system: any moisture behind the liner will flow down into the perimeter channel rather than migrate into the basement air. Installing CleanSpace now also protects the wall surface while we handle the drainage work below.

Step 4: Place WaterGuard System At The Footing

With CleanSpace secured above, we installed the WaterGuard drainage channel in the trench at the footing. WaterGuard captures seepage at the most common entry points (wall-floor joint and footing) and routes it to the sump. Because CleanSpace is already in place, any water that would travel down the wall is directed cleanly into the channel.

Step 5: Connect To SuperSump & Test The System

We connected the WaterGuard to the newly installed SuperSump pump. Before finishing, we tested the system by introducing water to the channel to confirm flow into the sump and proper pump operation, including alarm and backup features where applicable. This ensures the system will respond correctly during storms.

Step 6: Backfill & Concrete Finish

Once everything passed testing, we backfilled the trench and poured concrete to restore the basement slab. The finish is clean and flush so the floor looks and performs like new. Any required wall patching or cosmetic touch-ups are completed as part of this step.

Step 7: Final Walkthrough With Homeowners

We performed a final inspection with the homeowners, showed them how the system works, explained the SuperSump maintenance basics (checking the pit, testing the pump, battery backup checks), and provided documentation and warranty information.