Basement Waterproofing · Des Moines, IA
Basement Waterproofing in Des Moines, IA
With most Des Moines homes built over basements and most of the year's rain arriving in spring and summer storms, a damp or leaking basement is a familiar problem. Fixing it starts with knowing how the water gets in.
Request a foundation inspectionCommon entry points
The joint where the floor meets the wall, cracks in the wall, gaps around pipes, and window wells that fill with water are where most leaks start.
Water pressure
When the soil outside is soaked, water presses against the walls and pushes up under the floor. That pressure finds every weak spot.
Interior drain tile
A drain channel cut along the inside edge of the floor catches water and carries it to the sump pit. It's the most common fix for seepage.
Exterior waterproofing
Excavating outside to add a membrane and footing drain stops water at the wall but disturbs landscaping, walks and decks.
Crack injection
Leaking cracks in poured concrete walls can be sealed with polyurethane or epoxy from inside.
Window wells
Clear covers and a drain at the bottom of the well keep rain from pouring in at basement windows.
Humidity
Even a basement that never floods can feel clammy in an Iowa July. A dehumidifier protects stored items and finished rooms.
Finish later
Solve water problems before adding drywall and carpet in the basement, or the finishes will hide and trap the leak.
Get an inspection
Tell the contractor when water appears and where. Send a request and a foundation repair contractor will get in touch.
Frequently asked questions
- Will a waterproofing paint fix my leak?
- Coatings can help a damp wall but rarely stop water that's under pressure.
- Do I need a sump pump?
- Most basements with drain tile need one; see sump pumps and drainage.
Other foundation repair services
Request a foundation inspection
Bowing basement walls, new cracks, water on the floor after a storm. Tell us what you're seeing and we'll pass it straight to a foundation contractor, who will call you to set up an inspection and quote.
- Basement walls, cracks and slabs
- Des Moines, Grimes, Norwalk, Indianola and nearby
- Inspection and quote before any work
Need basement waterproofing in Des Moines?
Send a request and a foundation contractor will get in touch. Requests answered 7 days a week.
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