Skip to Main Content
FRS Crew member installing interior drainage system

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.

Get Your Free Estimate

Is your basement leaking and wet? 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; basement waterproofing is the best way to protect your home.


Banner reads: "No interest, no payment for 24 months! Buy now, pay over time!" with promo fine print.

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 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 popular 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. Additionally, 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

Groundworks, LLC BBB Business Review

  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
Review Logo

The work of Brandon C, Dylan E, Darrion R, Blake B and Cris B was all incredibly professional and well done. They were respectful of how…

The work of Brandon C, Dylan E, Darrion R, Blake B and Cris B was all incredibly professional and well done. They were respectful of how their heavy machinery needed for the job moved around the yard, put extra care in not damaging things that were in the way of their work and even moved rocks my kids had decorated to a different spot so they wouldn’t get damaged which I felt was above and beyond. They really cared about doing what could be done for our specific porch/foundation fix rather than just doing a generic job.

  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
Review Logo

Joel, Coleman, and Cameron did a great job jacking up my 125 y/o house. Their work was clean and organized. I can definitely feel the…

Joel, Coleman, and Cameron did a great job jacking up my 125 y/o house. Their work was clean and organized. I can definitely feel the difference in the stability of the house. Before the work began they used a laser level to determine the issues with the foundation and were able to solve the problem for a good price. Highly recommend!

  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
Review Logo

I had foundation recovery systems install a water proofing system in my basement. Before it was like a babbling brook. Now it's dry. Ryan…

I had foundation recovery systems install a water proofing system in my basement. Before it was like a babbling brook. Now it's dry. Ryan howard was very knowledgeable, gave me a quote on the spot and explained the process and prep. I wish I had gotten it done much sooner

  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
Review Logo

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!

  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
Review Logo

Had to get my basement pulled back out because it was leaning inward a couple inches. Jeremy R., Luca B., & Phillips B. were such an…

Had to get my basement pulled back out because it was leaning inward a couple inches. Jeremy R., Luca B., & Phillips B. were such an awesome crew. They were all so kind and explained everything they were doing. They got the wall straightened perfectly, cleaned up nicely after themselves, and are suppose to come back and finish the yard after the dirt settles. Other than the yard being on hold to finish, the job got done nicely! Not sure about other crews but I would recommend this crew!

  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
Review Logo

Mr. Vanderpool the Certified Field Inspector was very professional, showed up on time as scheduled. He provided me with the information…

Mr. Vanderpool the Certified Field Inspector was very professional, showed up on time as scheduled. He provided me with the information concerning the foundation on my home, in a way that made sense and how Foundation Recovery Systems could fix the problem as well as offer financing options. He did a great job!

  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
Review Logo

Joseph woodiel, Kyle Miller, Manson Tinney did amazing work it was a pleasure working with them. I highly recommend them.

Joseph woodiel, Kyle Miller, Manson Tinney did amazing work it was a pleasure working with them. I highly recommend them.

  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
Review Logo

Todd King did an excellent job of explaining the process of having our sinking sidewalk fixed by Foundation Recovery System. He thoroughly…

Todd King did an excellent job of explaining the process of having our sinking sidewalk fixed by Foundation Recovery System. He thoroughly explained the process and answered all of our questions. He is a very pleasant man to work with!

  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
Review Logo

I called FRS to inquire about weatherproofing my crawlspace, and met with Kyle W. who worked with me on splitting up an encapsulation…

I called FRS to inquire about weatherproofing my crawlspace, and met with Kyle W. who worked with me on splitting up an encapsulation project to make it more affordable for my budget.Tyler S. and his team of Derrick P. and Leuck W. came out and worked well past sundown to get the bulk of the trenching and sump project done. The team was professional and kept on their tasks throughout the day.Not wanting to rush things in the dark, Tyler scheduled a follow up appointment to finish some of the finer details with another crew of Mason H. and Walker F. This team was equally professional and put the finishing touches on the new access door for the crawlspace.I am very pleased with the quality of the work performed, and I look forward to contacting them again to finish the second part of the project.

  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
Review Logo

KD and Jake were great! I can’t believe the difference in our driveway and porch. I would highly recommend these guys for any type of…

KD and Jake were great! I can’t believe the difference in our driveway and porch. I would highly recommend these guys for any type of foundation work that you have.

  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
Review Logo

Camden Daniel a certified field inspector came by to inspect my crawl space to give me an estimate and let me say, Foundation Recovery…

Camden Daniel a certified field inspector came by to inspect my crawl space to give me an estimate and let me say, Foundation Recovery Systems, I was very impressed. His professionalism and integrity was second to none. If everyone in your company is like this young man, you will be in business forever. I will be sending anyone that is looking for the services you provide your way. Thank you!

  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
Review Logo

Greg came to inspect the setup that Foundation Recovery Systems installed last year. It was discovered that one of our sump pump was…

Greg came to inspect the setup that Foundation Recovery Systems installed last year. It was discovered that one of our sump pump was damaged. Thankfully, he was able to repair it and get it running properly.

  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
Review Logo

Easy to schedule, status updates on day of visit and personable staff.

Easy to schedule, status updates on day of visit and personable staff.

  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
Review Logo

Nate V. put together a great action plan for me. He was very thorough and now I feel confident my house is in good hands.

Nate V. put together a great action plan for me. He was very thorough and now I feel confident my house is in good hands.

  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
Review Logo

Kevin was very thorough professional and extremely knowledgeable. Very helpful in decision making and walking through the whole process….

Kevin was very thorough professional and extremely knowledgeable. Very helpful in decision making and walking through the whole process. Top notch inspection.

  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
Review Logo

Trevor Atwell came out for a service visit today and addressed all of my concerns and provided me with peace of mind. He answered every…

Trevor Atwell came out for a service visit today and addressed all of my concerns and provided me with peace of mind. He answered every single question no matter how big or small that I had with great explanations and examples. His wealth of knowledge in the field is evident and I hope to see him for all future service visits.

  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
Review Logo

We had five piers installed last spring to stabilize our garage and family room. The only thing that we had to do was plant grass (they…

We had five piers installed last spring to stabilize our garage and family room. The only thing that we had to do was plant grass (they also planted grass seed before they left but I wanted to make sure it grew in thicker) and by summer ypu couldn't tell that anything had been done. They sent an inspector, Ryan Howard, back to our house today to make sure that the stabilization worked (it did). They will come back the next two years to check their work. We're very happy with the work they did and with their follow-up.

  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
Review Logo

Greg and Derek did an amazing job of repairing cracks in a concrete pad and sidewalk in front of our home in Granite City yesterday. They…

Greg and Derek did an amazing job of repairing cracks in a concrete pad and sidewalk in front of our home in Granite City yesterday. They were so professional and made the job look so easy. They explained everything they were going to do prior to starting the job. Thank you FRS. David and Kalani P.

  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
Review Logo

Got a quote from Scott Cisco, very informative, cares about your situation, very real person, doesn't just try to push sale on you.

Got a quote from Scott Cisco, very informative, cares about your situation, very real person, doesn't just try to push sale on you.

  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
  • 5/
Review Logo

Landon K . was very professional and did a thorough job.

Landon K . was very professional and did a thorough job.

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, or foundation waterproofing, solutions are an effective way to protect your home from these risks.

Waterproofing basement areas includes an 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, anti-freeze discharge line attachments, and sump pump backup batteries.

Basement Waterproofing Systems FAQs

Water can enter due to poor drainage, high water tables, cracks in the foundation, hydrostatic pressure, or improper landscaping.

A sump pump removes accumulated water from the basement, preventing flooding and reducing hydrostatic pressure.

Costs vary depending on the method used and the extent of the issue, ranging from a few hundred dollars for minor fixes to several thousand for extensive repairs.

Properly installed waterproofing systems can last decades, with some solutions offering lifetime warranties.

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 a basement waterproofing system:

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

Foundation 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 contribute to mold and mildew growth. It’s also a good idea to install an energy-efficient dehumidifier to help control moisture and humidity, decrease odors, and reduce the chance of 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, which 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 essential, 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.

Providing Expert Basement Waterproofing in Missouri, Iowa, Illinois, and Kansas

Pennsylvania trusts FRS for reliable basement waterproofing, crawl space, foundation, gutter, and concrete repair services. Contact us for a free inspection!  

Top Cities We Serve


FRS service area

Our Locations

Cedar Rapids

3349 Southgate Ct SW,
Cedar Rapids, IA 52404
(319) 220-5034

Central Illinois

14678 E 925 North Rd, Building 5
Bloomington, IL 61705

Des Moines

2401 SE Creekview Dr.
Ankeny, IA 50021
(515) 373-8491

Kansas City

7280 NW 87th Terrace, Suite C-210
Kansas City, MO 64153
(816) 774-1539

Lee's Summit

211 SE State Route 150
Lee's Summit, MO 64082
(816) 774-1539

Moberly

1872 State Hwy M
Moberly, MO 65270
(660) 202-8662

Springfield

3020 N. Martin Ave.
Springfield, MO 65803
(417) 612-8286

St. Louis

1625 Larkin Williams rd.
Fenton, MO 63026
(314) 207-9995