Basement Waterproofing
We offer basement waterproofing solutions to homeowners all over the states of Missouri, Kansas, Arkansas, Illinois, and Iowa. Find out what waterproofing your basement can do for your home and health here.
Schedule Free InspectionCommon Basement Problems
Water infiltration and damage can have severe consequences for your home. Mold might grow and give off unpleasant odors, or it may even begin to flood.
Basement Mold
Resolve your basement mold issue with state-of-the-art water management solutions from Foundation Recovery Systems.
Water in Your Basement
A wet basement can lead to mold growth and structural problems. Rely on Foundation Recovery Systems for durable solutions.
Musty Basement Smell
Foundation Recovery Systems provides solutions to neutralize musty basement smells and resolve the root causes behind them.
Leaking Basement Windows
FRS specializes in providing solutions for leaking basement windows, preventing structural damage, mold, and water intrusion.
Is your basement wet and leaking? Do you see white, chalky powder (likely efflorescence) or water stains on the walls or floor? Water in your basement can cause mold, mildew, and damage to your home’s structure, so waterproofing your basement is the best way to protect your home.
The Causes of a Wet Basement
A wet basement affects the value and ability to sell a home. How did your basement get to be like this in the first place?
When the soil around your foundation absorbs moisture, it expands and puts pressure on the foundation. This pressure, known as hydrostatic pressure, can cause cracks and inward bowing of foundation walls, compromising their structural integrity.
The “clay bowl effect” happens when a house is built and the building contractor digs a hole where they then pour concrete for the foundation. The gap between the foundation walls and the existing earth is then filled with excavated soil. However, this soil is looser and more aerated than the surrounding soil, so water collects around the foundation walls and cracks them due to hydrostatic pressure.
A functional sump pump system is crucial for keeping basements dry, serving as the heart of a basement waterproofing system. However, failing sump pumps allow water to collect in the basement, and some commonly used sump pump systems have metal basins with poorly fitting or no lids.
These systems are ineffective as they can rust, corrode, and allow water to evaporate back into the basement, leading to unpleasant odors and moisture issues. Furthermore, debris and objects can fall into the system and damage the pump if the sump pit is partially covered.
Improper exterior drainage can cause water to pool next to your home and seep into porous block foundation walls.
The best way to prevent water from entering your home is to bury downspout conductor lines and direct them away from your home. However, the buried drainage system should be in good condition so it does not crack or collapse, resulting in basement flooding. Additionally, some traditional underground downspout conductor lines may become clogged with dirt and debris, causing water backup and overflow issues.
Award-Winning Service
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We met with Shae I believe ways the name. Excellent representation of the company, relatable, and very thorough. We really wanted to sign…
We met with Shae I believe ways the name. Excellent representation of the company, relatable, and very thorough. We really wanted to sign last night but just don’t have the means at the moment. Didn’t get the email link to leave review until reaching out today. Great work from this guy tho and looking forward to working with the company hopefully!
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Foundation Recovery Systems installed 11 helical piers on the sinking addition to our house. First, our inspector/estimator, Tanner, was…
Foundation Recovery Systems installed 11 helical piers on the sinking addition to our house. First, our inspector/estimator, Tanner, was very informative, listened well to our concerns, and was easy to communicate with. After work was completed, Tanner followed up with a phone call to make sure we were pleased with the crew's work. Our crew foreman, Jon, and the rest of the crew were very professional and very hard working. Jon communicated with me clearly about what they were doing and why each step of the way. He also kept me informed of obstacles they encountered and how they were solving them. The crew accidentally damaged some window trim and an exterior door threshold, but Jon told me immediately about it and the company has reimbursed us every penny for repairs. The crew completed their work and we are so happy we hired FRS!
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Our home had several sidewalk sections that had sunk at different rates, leaving uneven edges that were trip hazards. Bryce and Brandon of…
Our home had several sidewalk sections that had sunk at different rates, leaving uneven edges that were trip hazards. Bryce and Brandon of FRS briefed me on their approach to leveling the walkway. They worked hard and carefully, and their experience showed in how good the sidewalk now looks, with trip hazards eliminated. While the service is not inexpensive, communications, process and work went well, with an end result that was better than I anticipated.
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Had issues with our sidewalks dropping in the front and sides of our church. From our first contact, Dakota to the two gentleman that…
Had issues with our sidewalks dropping in the front and sides of our church. From our first contact, Dakota to the two gentleman that actually came out to do the repairs, Denzel and KD, it was a great experience. Worked with us on a reasonable price and went above and beyond on service.All were very professional, courteous and knowledgeable. The repairs look fantastic. I would recommend.
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The crew arrived on time. After introducing themselves; Tyler, Marland and Martin quickly began working. They were excellent workers,…
The crew arrived on time. After introducing themselves; Tyler, Marland and Martin quickly began working. They were excellent workers, representing the Company in a positive manner. The job was completed in a timely manner, the updates along the way were great. They were happy to answer any and all questions that we had. We would definitely call again if services were needed and certainly recommend this Company to anyone needing these types of services that they offer. Thanks Again!
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Jeffrey inspected my home today, he was very thorough, listened to my concerns, and went beyond my expectations. I highly recommend his…
Jeffrey inspected my home today, he was very thorough, listened to my concerns, and went beyond my expectations. I highly recommend his work and this company. Thank you, Jeffrey!
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Blake an Gandie did a amazing job above and beyond what I had expected to great assets to your company highly recommended! Thank you…
Blake an Gandie did a amazing job above and beyond what I had expected to great assets to your company highly recommended! Thank you Foundation recovery systems!
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We hired FRS to correct water seepage issues in our storm room and to add piers under one side of our house. Shawn explained the problems…
We hired FRS to correct water seepage issues in our storm room and to add piers under one side of our house. Shawn explained the problems and solutions very well. Our crew came from Springfield MO, so had a 6 hour commute each day. They completed our project in 3-4 days. The team was led by James and Joseph. All work was excellent right thru cleanup. Excellent job guys!
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John Hernandez came out to assess a couple cracks we had in our walls. He was very timely and professional on arrival. Would definitely use …
John Hernandez came out to assess a couple cracks we had in our walls. He was very timely and professional on arrival. Would definitely use Foundation Recovery Systems for any future repairs we’d need
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Thank you Adam for the thorough inspection. This company was honest about not being able to help us with our rare issue and referred us to…
Thank you Adam for the thorough inspection. This company was honest about not being able to help us with our rare issue and referred us to other places. They did not offer any false promises or attempt to do unnecessary work on our foundation. Thank you for the honesty and integrity.
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Had Travis Smothers come out to look at water in our basement. He explained what was happening and how it could be fixed. I appreciate the…
Had Travis Smothers come out to look at water in our basement. He explained what was happening and how it could be fixed. I appreciate the time he spent with us and how thorough he was. I would definitely recommend him for your water proofing needs.
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Lee,Camyrn and Ethan did a great job in our basement
Lee,Camyrn and Ethan did a great job in our basement
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I am more than pleased with the work done on my home foundation by the Foundation Recovery crew, Josh Eaton, Da Shawn Kendrix, and Lueck…
I am more than pleased with the work done on my home foundation by the Foundation Recovery crew, Josh Eaton, Da Shawn Kendrix, and Lueck Wright. They were arrived when they said they would, explained in detail the work they were going to do, and did it in a very professional manner. And they finished the job in one day. This was not an easy job. They had to dig 3 holes that were 3' square by 6' deep in rocky soil to get to the bottom of the foundation. And they did this digging by hand ! Very professional crew and they deserve a lot of credit for their hard work. They are a real asset to the company.
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Kevin was on time and very genuine. After looking at our crack, he recommended what to do to fix it and didn’t try to sell me anything…
Kevin was on time and very genuine. After looking at our crack, he recommended what to do to fix it and didn’t try to sell me anything that was not needed. He gave suggestions upon inspection of the outside of the house but never said we needed service from them. It’s very refreshing to have someone that is honest and not trying to sell you something you don’t need. Highly recommend Kevin from Foundation Recovery Systems!
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Nathan Bright was amazing. Personable and professional. Super happy with everything him and his company had to offer.
Nathan Bright was amazing. Personable and professional. Super happy with everything him and his company had to offer.
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Paul Winder figured out that our situation doesn’t make sense for their services, and he helped us understand the next steps we need to…
Paul Winder figured out that our situation doesn’t make sense for their services, and he helped us understand the next steps we need to take to protect our home. Thanks Paul! If we ever need something big done, we know who to call!
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Mason H and Tyler S did a fantastic job for me. They kept me informed during the whole process!
Mason H and Tyler S did a fantastic job for me. They kept me informed during the whole process!
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Jared H. Came to work with us and was great! He was incredibly professional, kind, and patient with our kids! He answered all our questions …
Jared H. Came to work with us and was great! He was incredibly professional, kind, and patient with our kids! He answered all our questions and was sincere when giving us options. Jared is FANTASTIC!!
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Ryan Howard explained the job thoroughly and calmed my nerves about the water coming my basement. He was extremely professional and…
Ryan Howard explained the job thoroughly and calmed my nerves about the water coming my basement. He was extremely professional and knowledgeable about the job. I would recommend Ryan H to anyone. What a great personality.
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Dalton was very on time, knowledgeable and answered all of my questions.
Dalton was very on time, knowledgeable and answered all of my questions.
Basement Waterproofing Solutions
Here are some of our permanent basement waterproofing solutions that stop leaks, ensuring your home is safe, healthy, and dry.
WallSeal™ Basement Wall Vapor Barrier
Learn how to combat basement moisture with Foundation Recovery Systems’ WallSeal™ Vapor Barrier. Book your free inspection now!
BasementGutter™ Interior Drainage System
Choose Foundation Recovery Systems for lasting solutions to basement moisture with our BasementGutter™ Interior Drainage System.
Basement Dehumidifier
The basement dehumidifier from FRS is the solution for a dry and comfortable living space, stopping dampness effectively.
AquaStop™ Basement Sump Pumps
Secure your basement against water with the high-performance, reliable sump pump solution from Foundation Recovery Systems.
Is Basement Waterproofing the Right Solution for Me?
If you have a leaking basement, yes.
Ignoring even a small amount of water can lead to significant damage such as mold and mildew growth, damage to your belongings, and structural damage, all of which can threaten your family’s health and your home’s safety. Customized basement waterproofing solutions are an effective way to protect your home from these risks.
Foundation Recovery Systems offers interior drainage systems to catch leaking water and reliable sump pump systems to pump the water out of the basement and away from your home’s foundation. Our comprehensive basement waterproofing services also include dehumidifiers, vapor barriers, antifreeze discharge line attachments, and sump pump backup batteries.
FAQs
Every home is unique, and each project calls for different solutions. We can customize basement waterproofing solutions specific to your repair needs. Your inspector will take into consideration your repair goals, the severity of damage or problem areas, square footage, and your budget. It’s not just a “one size fits all” fix. So, what works for your neighbor down the street may not necessarily be what your home needs.
Contacting us for an expert opinion is your best bet. We will not try to throw Band-Aids on the problems, push you to buy “everything but the kitchen sink,” or offer sub-standard quick fixes.
Here are some telltale signs of basement waterproofing problems that are not mended by a do it yourself fix. You should instead seek reliable advice if you notice:
- Any kind of water seepage on basement walls and/or floor
- Bulging foundation walls
- Failing or inefficient sump pump system
- Lack of efficient interior and exterior drainage
Along with top-notch solutions installed by a reliable team when you choose to work with us, what you are really paying for is peace of mind and a safer home.
Not only will basement waterproofing benefit you during the time you live in the house, but it will have a lasting impact for the future resale of the house. You are investing in the health and wellness of the structure.
When having your home inspected for real estate transactions, even partial fixes or temporary bandages could raise a red flag along with water or structural damage. You’ll have to spend more time and money trying to address the issues, so why not make an educated decision and sound investment with us and our trustworthy repair solutions?
Our system effectively removes standing water and prevents future water damage for a safer living environment.
Our basement waterproofing solutions involve interior drainage to control water inside your home, consisting of three main parts:
- catching the water
- directing water to a sump pump
- funneling water away from the house
We drill “weep holes” into the block walls’ bottom courses, relieving pressure and allowing water to drain. The water is then intercepted by our BasementGutter™ system and directed to one of our reliable sump pumps. The sump pump then pumps the water through discharge lines directed to a drain far from the house or to the street.
Our patented, top-quality solutions are tested and proven to work to keep water out of your home for a safer living environment.
Cheaper, quick fixes like paints and wall coatings are only temporary bandages that will not address or tackle the root of the problem. Yes, you can apply a special sealant to your walls and floor, but it will pop and flake indicating a lingering moisture problem. Water also follows the path of least resistance. If it cannot enter through one location, it will find another way in.
So, don’t waste your time and money on fast fixes. You need our quality permanent solutions. We use reliable, custom equipment and state-of-the-art technology to install these various systems.
Water intrusion and damage can be detrimental to your home for a variety of reasons. Along with ruining any stored belongings, leaking water can lead to mold growth and unpleasant odors, and even result in flooding conditions.
These issues also result in unhealthy conditions that affect the rest of your home. Because of the stack effect, air circulates through your home from top to bottom, like a chimney. So, whatever is in your basement and/or crawl space (mold, moisture, odors) is in the rest of your house.
While building code calls for vented crawl spaces for air drying purposes, this is harmful to the home. Hot and humid air enters the crawl space during the summer, which contributes to high levels of moisture and humidity in the crawl space and home. This can lead to sagging, soft, buckling floors above, and result in problems to hardwood floors. Similarly, cold air is vented in during the winter, making the above floors feel chilly and overtaxing your furnace. (Additional resource: Liabilities of Vented Crawl Spaces, Their Impacts on Indoor Air Quality in Southeastern U.S. Homes and One Intervention Strategy)
Leaking water also affects your home’s structural integrity. If you have block foundation walls, water can easily saturate and seep through the porous material and find its way inside through any crack or gap. If water has nowhere to go, it starts building up inside the walls. Coupled with hydrostatic pressure, this results in an unsafe mess for your foundation walls and basement floor.
Your home is a significant investment, and it is important to ensure its health and safety today and for the future. The longer you neglect these issues, the more costly future repairs will be. A wet, nasty basement also affects the value of and ability to sell a home.
The Benefits of Basement Waterproofing
Not all homes are built with proper basement waterproofing or drainage systems, and any sub-standard material can break down and fail over time. Here are some of the most common reasons for basement waterproofing:
Stops Mold and Mildew
Basement waterproofing fights against mold and keeps your home healthy and dry. After a significant basement leak, it only takes up to 48 hours for surfaces to develop mold. Mold gives off musty odors, and it can irritate your respiratory system, and it’s especially problematic for people with existing lung conditions. There are many different types of mold, but black mold, in particular, is considered to be the most harmful.
Fixes Wall Cracks and Foundation Damage
Basement waterproofing means no more wall cracks and foundation damage. A cracked foundation and wet basement form a vicious cycle of damage. Overly saturated soil increases hydrostatic pressure around your basement, cracking them further and allowing water to leak inside. If both issues are not repaired, they will continue to worsen and could lead to flooding, structural instability, and even a wall’s complete collapse.
Restores Home Value
Basement waterproofing can restore your home’s value when it comes time to sell. Most buyers want a turnkey property free of basement problems. A wet basement with mold and other damage reduces the value of your home. Buyers may ask for a lower selling price to get repairs, or they might ask you to repair the damage before they make an offer. So, it’s best to have any basement waterproofing done prior to listing your property.
Common Basement Waterproofing Tips & Mistakes
3 Helpful Tips to Consider:
- Even with a basement waterproofing system in place including interior drainage and a sump pump, humidity and condensation can still wreak havoc on your basement and help contribute to mold and mildew growth. It’s a good idea to also have an energy-efficient dehumidifier installed to help control moisture and humidity as well as decrease odors and the chance for mold growth.
- Areas like Kansas City, Springfield, St. Louis, and Des Moines are no stranger to frequent rains. If you live in an area that sees a lot of precipitation and storms, it’s a good idea to have a battery backup sump pump installed. This helpful addition to your sump pump system ensures it will continue to work to keep your basement dry even during power outages.
- Along with high-quality basement waterproofing solutions inside your home, you also need to pay attention to exterior systems like your gutters and downspouts. Making sure they are properly functioning and free of debris and clogs helps keep water away from your basement.
3 Mistakes to Avoid:
- Many homeowners look for a “quick fix” to their wet basement problems, including so-called “waterproof” paint. Anyone can get DIY basement waterproofing solutions at hardware and big-box stores, but they are temporary at best. You would have to continue purchasing and reapplying them to the basement, and that may cause even more damage.
- You need more than a footing drain. When homes are constructed, the builders generally lay a footing drain next to the foundation. This helps keep water away from the basement. However, because it is buried so far underground, the weight of the soil can weaken and crush the fragile pipes, allowing water to leak inside the basement. You need more basement waterproofing solutions in place.
- Having a dehumidifier is important, but many believe any dehumidification unit will help all spaces. Because basements are completely or partially underground, they are naturally more humid than other areas of your home, so a conventional dehumidifier won’t cut it. You need a professional- grade dehumidifier and a comprehensive basement waterproofing system to match.
Find your service area
Kansas City, MO
Kansas City has clay-like, expansive soils with a climate that experiences heavy rainfall that leads to flooding in the spring that can damage your home’s foundation, basement, concrete, and crawl space.
Moberly, MO
If you live in Moberly, where it rains a lot and the soil is fertile clay, you can expect water damage to your foundation, basement, concrete, and crawl space.
Springfield, MO
Gravelly soil in Springfield is prone to erosion and creates an unstable base for your foundation. Give your home the extra support it needs to stand strong.
St. Louis, MO
Clay-like soils and a wet climate in St. Louis can cause flooding, resulting in structural damage to your home's foundation as well as the basement, concrete, and crawl space.
Des Moines, IA
Water damage can harm your home's foundation, basement, concrete, and crawl space if you live in Des Moines, Iowa, because of the city's silty-clay loam and humid climate.
Springfield, IL
Don’t let rain and snow cause problems for your foundation in Springfield. Too much of either can cause the soil in your yard to become weak and unstable. Foundation Recovery Systems has tools designed to combat the effects of soil damage on your home.
Peoria, IL
On average, Peoria receives a high amount of rain and snow every year. Unfortunately, precipitation puts your foundation at risk as it breaks down soil and building materials over time. Don’t worry, FRS has various solutions to this problem.
Rockford, IL
Without proper safeguarding, your foundation can be damaged by Rockford’s above-average snow and rain. With solutions from Foundation Recovery Systems, you can stop foundation damage in its tracks and keep your home protected year-round.
