Basement: what a handyman does
Moisture comes first in a basement. Enhaus handles the dry-side work: downspout extensions, pipe insulation, shelving, door and trim repair, and patching walls once the source is fixed. Active leaks, sewage, sump systems and foundation cracks go to licensed plumbers or waterproofing specialists. Fix the water, then repair what it damaged.
Jobs we take on
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- Attach downspout extensions and splash blocks so roof water lands away from the foundation
- Clear, re-hang and repair gutters and downspouts that feed the foundation
- Wrap cold water pipes in foam insulation sleeves to cut condensation drips
- Set up and level a dehumidifier, run its drain hose, and place a humidity meter
- Replace water-damaged baseboard and door casing once the area is dry
- Patch and paint drywall after the water source has been fixed
- Assemble and anchor shelving, and hang wall storage so boxes stay off the floor
- Repair basement doors, hinges, locks and the stair handrail
- Re-caulk basement windows and exterior wall penetrations
Signs it is time to call
- A musty smell, or visible mold on walls, boxes or stored items
- Condensation on windows, walls or cold water pipes
- A humidity meter reading above 60 percent
- Water pooling near the foundation, or a downspout that empties right at the wall
- Peeling paint or soft, swollen baseboards near an exterior wall
What is not a handyman job
Active leaks, dripping or burst pipes, water heaters, sump and ejector systems, floor drains and sewer backups are plumbing work, and Illinois limits plumbing work to licensed plumbers. Water that came from sewage needs a professional experienced with contaminated water. Foundation cracks, bowing walls and interior drain systems go to a waterproofing or structural specialist. Mold covering more than about 10 square feet, or hidden mold, should go to a qualified professional. Outlets, panels and wiring go to a licensed independent electrician. Enhaus does not do remodels or basement finishing.
Plumbing, electrical and roofing go to licensed independent contractors.
What a visit looks like
- We look at the area and any moisture signs first, and tell you if the job needs another trade before repairs make sense.
- We agree on the scope of work before starting.
- We clean up and walk you through the finished work.
Common questions
Can a handyman fix a damp basement?
Only the dry-side parts. The EPA says the key to mold control is moisture control: fix the water source, dry affected areas within 24 to 48 hours, then repair. Enhaus handles downspout extensions, gutter work, pipe insulation and repairs afterward. Tracing a real leak may need a plumber or waterproofing specialist.
What humidity should my basement stay under?
The EPA advises keeping indoor humidity below 60 percent, ideally between 30 and 50 percent, and says a humidity meter is a small, inexpensive tool. We can place one, set up a dehumidifier and run its drain hose. If readings stay high, the cause is usually water coming in, not just damp air.
Will you paint over mold or stains on basement walls?
Not until the surface is clean and dry. The EPA says not to paint or caulk moldy surfaces, because paint over mold is likely to peel, and the water problem has to be fixed or the mold returns. Once the wall is clean, dry and sound, Enhaus can patch and repaint it.
Can you replace a sump pump or fix a floor drain?
No. Illinois requires people who install, alter or repair plumbing systems to be licensed through the state, and sump systems and drain lines tie into plumbing. Those go to a licensed independent plumber. Enhaus can handle the shelving, trim, drywall and paint around that work afterward.