Masonry Foundation Repair & Waterproofing Services

Your Foundation Is More Important Than You Think

Your foundation is literally what holds your house up. When it fails, everything else follows. Cracked walls, stuck doors, sloping floors, and water in the basement are all signs that your foundation is trying to tell you something. The good news is that most foundation problems can be fixed if you catch them early.

Des Moines sits on challenging soil. Our clay-rich ground expands when wet and shrinks when dry, putting constant pressure on foundations. Throw in freeze-thaw cycles, heavy rain, and the occasional drought, and you have a recipe for foundation stress. This is why foundation issues are so common in Iowa homes, especially older ones.

At DEM Des Moines Masonry, we specialize in masonry foundation repair and waterproofing. We understand local soil conditions and building practices. Whether your home needs minor crack repair or major structural work, we have the expertise to get your foundation solid again.

Common Foundation Problems in Des Moines

Not all foundation issues look the same. Here are the problems we see most often in local homes:

• •Cracks in foundation walls: Vertical cracks are usually less serious than horizontal or stair-step cracks, which can indicate structural movement or soil pressure.
• •Bowing or bulging walls: When basement walls push inward, it means serious soil pressure. This needs immediate attention before the wall fails completely.
• •Settlement and sinking: If part of your foundation has dropped, you will see cracks and uneven floors. This happens when soil underneath washes away or compacts.
• •Water seepage: Water coming through foundation walls or floor joints is a sign of hydrostatic pressure and poor drainage around your home.
• •Deteriorating mortar: Old mortar breaks down over time, especially if it has been exposed to moisture. This weakens the entire foundation structure.

If you are seeing any of these warning signs, do not ignore them. Foundation problems never get better on their own. They only get worse and more expensive to fix.

Our Foundation Repair Solutions

Every foundation is different, so every repair plan is custom. Here are the services we provide to get your foundation back in shape.

Crack Repair and Sealing

For minor cracks that are not caused by structural movement, we clean out the crack, stabilize it, and seal it with appropriate materials. This prevents water intrusion and stops the crack from spreading. We use epoxy injection, polyurethane foam, or hydraulic cement depending on the situation.

Masonry Foundation Rebuilding

When foundation walls have deteriorated beyond repair, we can rebuild them using modern techniques and materials. This might mean replacing sections of block or brick, or in severe cases, rebuilding entire walls. We also handle brick restoration for homes with brick foundations.

Structural Reinforcement

For bowing or bulging walls, we can install steel reinforcements, carbon fiber straps, or helical anchors to stabilize the wall and prevent further movement. These solutions stop the damage without requiring a complete rebuild.

Waterproofing

Keeping water out of your foundation is critical. We apply waterproof coatings to exterior walls, install proper drainage systems, and fix grading issues that direct water toward your house. Interior waterproofing solutions like sump pumps and drainage systems can also help manage water issues.

The right solution depends on your specific situation. That is why we start every project with a thorough inspection and honest assessment of what needs to be done.

Why Choose Masonry Experts for Foundation Work

Foundation repair is not DIY territory. It requires specialized knowledge of structural engineering, soil mechanics, and masonry techniques. We have the training and experience to diagnose foundation problems correctly and fix them the right way.

We also understand how foundations in older Des Moines homes were built. Brick foundations, stone foundations, and early concrete block all require different repair approaches. Modern foundation contractors sometimes lack experience with these historic materials, but we work with them regularly.

Most importantly, we stand behind our work. Foundation repairs are serious business. We do not cut corners or use temporary fixes that fail in a few years. We use quality materials and proven techniques that last.

If your foundation also has chimney damage, our chimney repair services can address both structural elements together for comprehensive protection.

Preventing Future Foundation Problems

After we fix your foundation, you want to keep it healthy. Here are some tips to prevent future problems:

• •Keep gutters clean and extend downspouts at least 6 feet from your foundation
• •Make sure ground slopes away from your house on all sides
• •Maintain consistent moisture levels around your foundation, do not let soil get too wet or too dry
• •Fix plumbing leaks promptly
• •Keep trees and large shrubs at least 10 feet from your foundation

These simple maintenance steps can prevent many foundation problems before they start. But if you do notice issues, call us right away. Early intervention saves money.

Frequently Asked Questions