Company History

Fun Fact

Oriole Basement Waterproofing was created one year before the O’s came to town!

Our founder, Frank Pirog Sr., was a bird enthusiast and named the company after his favorite bird, the Oriole bird (MD state bird).

To this day, our family are true bird lovers and we proudly root for our O’s!

We are the oldest waterproofing company in MD; 70+ years of experience; over 4,000 jobs completed!

Oriole Basement Waterproofing owners

Oriole's Beginning: Frank Sr. Pirog

1953 – 1996: Frank Sr. Pirog

In the early 1950s, our founder, Frank Sr., stumbled upon the world of basement waterproofing when facing his own flooded basement. Recognizing the scarcity of reliable waterproofing services, he took a leap of faith to establish lasting solutions for homes in Maryland and founded his new company, Oriole Contractors, in 1953.  With Frank’s sons, Frank Jr. and Brian, by his side, Oriole swiftly became the premier waterproofing company in Harford and Baltimore Counties.

Frank Jr

Oriole 1996-2016: Frank Jr. Pirog

Frank Sr. went on to enjoy his retirement, and his son, Frank Jr., assumed ownership of the company. Oriole then became a second-generation family-owned company.

In 1996, Frank Jr. assumed ownership, changed the name to Oriole Basement Waterproofing, and expanded service territory to include Cecil County, Howard County, Carol County, and Ann Arundel County.  

As time went on, Frank Jr. introduced his son, Frank III, to the world of basement waterproofing.  From a young age, Frank III absorbed the intricacies of the family business and, embodying the teachings of his grandfather and father, became his father’s right-hand man.

Oriole 2016-2022: Frank III Pirog

After losing Frank Jr. in January 2016, Frank III took over as the new owner of Oriole.

Under Frank III’s leadership, Oriole transformed and expanded from a single crew to multiple crews.  His drive, ambition, and vision reshaped the company to that which exists today. 

In the spirit of continuing the tradition of a family business, Frank brought on his cousin, Mark Michael, to continue growing Oriole. The collaboration between the two extended beyond business strategy, it represented a continuation of family values, a commitment to exceptional customer service, and a dedication to unparalleled skill. Together, Frank and Mark worked hand in hand to ensure Oriole’s resilience and growth, offering a fresh perspective and energy of a new generation.

Sadly, in December 2022, we lost Frank III, leaving behind a legacy of commitment and passion. As a husband, father, son, and friend, Frank III’s impact was profound. 

Oriole Basement Waterproofing truck

Oriole 2023 - Current: Amber Pirog

In the spirit of continuing her husband’s vision, Amber Pirog assumed ownership of Oriole Basement Waterproofing.

Her role now stands as a testament to her passion and commitment to embodying and building upon the principles and momentum that Frank III created. Amber has embraced the responsibility with a profound understanding of the enduring legacy left by her husband, embodying not only a personal commitment but also a unique perspective and deep connection to the values and vision that have defined Oriole through the generations.

Today, Amber is not merely running a business; she is nurturing a piece of family history. Her leadership reflects a commitment to honoring the past while forging a new path forward. In collaboration with Mark and others, Amber’s role is pivotal in steering Oriole toward continued success, ensuring that the principles and momentum created by Frank III remain at the forefront of the company’s journey.

year 1950

Our founder, Frank Sr.

First learned of basement waterproofing when his own basement flooded in the very early 1950’s.

year 1953

Frank Sr.

Started the basement waterproofing company in 1953. It was a family-run business from the very start. His sons, Frank Jr. and Brian, grew up working for the business.

year 1996

Frank Jr.

Went on to enjoy his retirement, and his son, Frank Jr., assumed ownership of the company. Oriole then became a second-generation family-owned company.

Frank III

Frank III took over the company after his father, Frank Jr. passed. In December of 2022, Frank III passed away and today his wife, Amber, owns and operates the company.

Today present

Amber

In the spirit of continuing her husband’s vision, Amber Pirog assumed ownership of Oriole Basement Waterproofing.

Testimonials

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