Competitor – John’s

TerraFirma Vs. John’s Waterproofing

Which is the better Waterproofing & Crawl Space Repair Company?

Both John’s Waterproofing & TerraFirma
Provide Expert solutions

But which company is Better?

Basement Waterproofing

If leaking water is a problem in your home, both TerraFirma and John’s Waterproofing offer excellent drainage, vapor barriers, sump pumps, and dehumidifiers.

Crawl Space Encapsulation

To combat dampness and enhance indoor air quality, TerraFirma and John’s Waterproofing both offer encapsulation including drainage solutions, moisture barriers and insulation.

Earthquake Retrofitting

John’s Waterproofing and TerraFirma both offer a range of seismic retrofitting and earthquake preparedness services including bolting, bracing and reinforcements for homeowners in Oregon and Washington.

foundation repair
Terrafirma vs john’s waterproofing

Understanding house settling vs foundation problems is important for any homeowner. While they may seem similar, there are key differences:

  • House settling is a natural process as the home adjusts to the soil. It usually causes minor cracks or slight shifts that aren’t serious.
  • Foundation problems are more severe and may include large cracks, uneven floors, or doors and windows that stick or won’t close properly.

If you’re unsure which issue you’re facing, it’s best to consult a professional. TerraFirma and John’s Waterproofing are both reputable companies that offer reliable foundation repair services in Oregon.

Solutions Terrafirma John’s Waterproofing
  Helical Piers X X
  Push Piers X X
  Pre-Construction Piers X  
  Grouted Micropile Tiebacks X  
  Slab Piers   X
  Foundation Crack Injection Repair   X
  Carbonarmor Wall Reinforcement X  
  Powerbrace Wall Stabilization X  
  Everbrace Wall Replacement X  
  Geolock Wall Anchors X X
  GHelical Tiebacks Wall Reinforcement X X
  Smartjack Support Post System X X

TerraFirma specializes in long-term foundation repair solutions for our customers.

What sets TerraFirma apart is the capability of taking on challenging builds, from the pre-construction stages to already existing foundations in the most extreme scenarios: steep slopes, deep sand, rocky or wet soil, or complex geology. Our experts and wide arrange of solutions enable us to tackle all kinds of projects.

Commercial micropile installation in Portland Oregon -
If leaking water is a problem in your home, both TerraFirma and John's Waterproofing offer excellent drainage, vapor barriers, sump pumps, and dehumidifiers.

basement waterproofing
Terrafirma vs john’s waterproofing

When comparing vapor barrier vs waterproofing, it’s important to understand that they address different types of moisture issues. A vapor barrier is designed to block moisture in the form of vapor from entering living spaces, while waterproofing is focused on preventing liquid water from penetrating the basement from the outside. Vapor barriers control indoor humidity and condensation, whereas waterproofing deals with more serious water intrusion problems.

  • Vapor Barrier
  • Installed on interior walls, floors, or under concrete slabs.
  • Prevents moisture vapor from seeping into indoor spaces.
  • Waterproofing:
  • Involves sealing foundation cracks, applying coatings, or installing drainage systems.
  • Keeps liquid water out of the basement.
  • May include exterior or interior systems like French drains or sump pumps.

Companies like Terrafirma and John’s Waterproofing provide both systems. When used together, they offer optimal protection against water damage and moisture.

Solutions Terrafirma John’s Waterproofing
  Basement Drainage System X  
  Perimeter Drainage System X  
  Thin-Floor Drainage System X  
  Grated Trench Drain X  
  Multi-pump Sump System X  
  Battery Backup Sump Pump X  
  Single-pump Drainage System X  
  Vapor Barrier X  
  Basement Air Dehumidifier Sedona Dehumidifier X  
  Basement Air Dehumidifier XP Upright Dehumidifier X  
  Window Well System X  
  Window Well Drainage System X  
  Aspen Air Purifier X  

TerraFirma is proud to offer the best available products and full disclosure on our waterproofing solutions. Explore our website and see all the different professional certified options we have available for your basement issues.

Avoid surprises! Learn about what systems we offer even before your scheduled visit.

Terrafirma basement waterproof John's
If leaking water is a problem in your home, both TerraFirma and John's Waterproofing offer excellent drainage, vapor barriers, sump pumps, and dehumidifiers.

crawl space repair
Terrafirma vs john’s waterproofing

When evaluating crawl space encapsulation versus a vapor barrier, it’s useful to examine their key differences.

  • Vapor Barrier
  • Involves placing a plastic sheet over the crawl space floor.
  • Leaves walls and vents exposed.
  • More affordable but less comprehensive.
  • Crawl Space Encapsulation:
  • Seals the entire crawl space—floors, walls, and vents.
  • Often includes a dehumidifier for full moisture control.
  • Creates a controlled, dry environment.
  • Offers better long-term protection and energy efficiency.

Companies like Terrafirma and Johns Waterproofing provide both Vapor Barrier and Crawl Space Encapsulation services, helping homeowners choose the most suitable solution for their specific needs.

Solutions Terrafirma John’s Waterproofing
  Drainage Matting X  
  Perimeter Drainage X X
  Vapor Barrier X  
  Crawl Space Vapor Barrier   X
  TerraBlock Floor Insulation   X
  Crawl Space Wall Insulation   X
  Multi-pump Sump System X  
  Battery Backup Sump Pump X  
  Basement Floor Drain   X
  ShipShape Monitoring X  
  Basement Air Dehumidifier Sedona Dehumidifier X X
  SmartJack System X  
  Crawl Space Excavation   X
  Crawl Space Vent Covers X  
  Everlast Crawl Space Door X  
  Everlast Access Well X  
  Crawl Space Access Well X  

concrete sidewalk and driveway repair
Terrafirma vs john’s waterproofing

When deciding between foam vs mudjacking for concrete repair, it’s important to understand how the two methods differ in approach, materials, and performance:

  • Mudjacking
  • Uses a slurry mixture of water, soil, and cement.
  • Pumps the mixture under the sunken slab to raise it.
  • Requires larger drill holes in the concrete.
  • Heavier material can add weight to the soil, potentially causing future settling.
  • Foam Jacking (Foam Injection):
  • Uses a lightweight, high-density expanding foam.
  • Injected under the slab to lift it with precision.
  • Requires smaller drill holes, causing less damage.
  • Fast curing time—usually within minutes.
  • Water-resistant and longer-lasting in many cases.

In summary, foam vs mudjacking comes down to project needs—foam offers a quicker, less invasive, and more durable solution, while mudjacking can be a cost-effective choice for certain applications.

Solutions Terrafirma John’s Waterproofing
  Polylevel Lifting Foam X  
  Commercial Concrete Repair X  
  NexusPro X  
  SealantPro X  

While many recognize TerraFirma for its exceptional work in home foundation and concrete repair, the company also brings its expertise to large-scale commercial projects with equal precision and professionalism.

Notably, TerraFirma has successfully completed concrete repair work for the Oregon Department of Transportation, as well as other major institutions throughout the state.

Commercial Solutions Photo Album Advanced Energy Systems De icing Solar 2 John's
If leaking water is a problem in your home, both TerraFirma and John's Waterproofing offer excellent drainage, vapor barriers, sump pumps, and dehumidifiers.

Award Winning
Results Begin Here.

A+ Rating Logo

TERRAFIRMA IN ACTION

Commercial foundation and concrete solutions require experienced engineers, stellar support, and results.
Our work on ODOT highways and bridges, the Portland Airport, schools, industrial facilities, and more speaks to the
level of trust TerraFirma has earned in Oregon & Washington. Check out some of our commercial work here.

Learn more about our Commercial Work:

tf commercial cracked driveways John's
helical piles
Stabilize sinking, settling commercial structures with Supportworks helical piers.
tf commercial sunken driveways garage John's
Micropiles & push piers
Expert micropile installation solutions for stability in tight-access and hard soil situations.
tf commercial uneven porche John's
Commercial concrete
lifting & leveling
TerraFirma concrete leveling utilizes high-strength polymers to fill voids under concrete.

Portland, Or
Homeowner
REVIEWS

Don’t take our word for it – see what our clients have to say.
From Lake Oswego to Beaverton, Gresham to Clackamas, and throughout the Portland area, our work speaks for itself.

Seth from TerraFirma came out to my house to inspect my basement, which is starting to show signs of water encroachment. I had no idea what to do. He did a thorough inspection of the interior and exterior of the house, and then we talked. He walked me through several options to address the issue, explaining in a way I could understand, and being very receptive and responsive to my questions. He was very professional and courteous. Seth promptly sent me the quotes for the three options we had for the basement, and made sure to be tidy as he headed out! Even before this, the person who talked with me on the phone to take my info, and later to confirm the visit, was helpful and courteous. It's rare to have a such a positive experience with a contractor (just sayin'), but this was it. I am not sure when we'll be making these changes to my basement, but when we do, it'll be with TerraFirma -- and it'll be with Seth. Everything about this company is green flags!
I recently purchased a home that I knew had water encroachment in the basement. Terra Firma came and presented what can be done and I knew it had to be done. Tieran and his crew came in and did exactly what was explained to me. They answered all my questions and I feel very confident it will be a dry basement going forward. I highly recommend this company for any work that needs to be done to foundation, water issues, crawl space etc. Fantastic company!
I've had many clients use Terra Firma for various projects. Finally had a small project at my property that needed some attention, so I called Terra Firma. They were prompt, courteous and professional, from the estimator, to the main office, to the onsite crew. Great company.
We had two companies come and provide evaluations of our foundation repair needs. TerraFirma was by far the most professional and responsive company. In the end we did not go with the lowest bid but we did go with the company that provided the most professional response and gave use the most confidence it would be done right. We were not disappointed 😊
Great company. Great work.
Augie (and TerraFirma Company) were awesome and went above and beyond in servicing our needs! We’re grateful for all his 5-star support!!
This is the 3rd time I have worked with this company. Very satisfied every time. Seth was very professional and easy to work with.
This was the best experience I have ever had with a business. They were professional, courteous, no pressure, informative, exceptional work. I have been recommending TerrFirma already to everyone!!! Thank-you for being a most valued company!
Terra Firma was great with scheduling, and the work completed. They had great communication and explained the work in detail. Great company to work with.
We've been working with RHD for over a year now. They are an awesome company to work with and all their customers have always spoke very highly of their product. Not many fabrication shops around can produce like these guys!
Great company to work with.
Jeremy did a wonderful job in all our problem areas (sunken area and cracks). He was a very hard worker and represented his company very well. We were impressed & happy with the job. Thank you TerraFirma!!