The family-owned Trotter Company has been waterproofing basements in the Atlanta area since its establishment in 1929. Henry Trotter, the founder, was a general contractor that spent most of his time trying to discover new ways to waterproof basements that were constructed with cinder blocks. In the 1950s, the company began installing below-floor drains to prevent water from rising up into basements from a high water table. In 1972, it patented the Dry-Tec System, which creates a completely open canal under the basement floor for the elimination of water without the necessity for gravel or weep holes. The company further expanded its services by installing foundation piers to stabilize sinking foundations. It also installs storm drainage systems. Trotter Company maintains a location in Doraville, Ga.