Des Moines Foundation Repairs & Waterproofing

Foundation Repair & Basement Waterproofing in Des Moines, Iowa

Foundation problems can appear slowly in a home, but once you notice them, they’re hard to ignore. Cracks in basement walls, moisture seeping onto floors, or doors that won’t close properly often signal deeper structural issues that require professional attention.

At Anchored Walls, we’ve helped Des Moines homeowners protect their foundations for more than 40 years. From wall anchor installation for bowing walls to full foundation repair, basement waterproofing, and concrete leveling, we deliver permanent solutions designed for Iowa homes.

We back every project with our Life of the Structure Warranty and clear, upfront pricing—so you’ll always know the true cost of your repair before work begins. Schedule your free inspection today and find out why so many Des Moines families trust Anchored Walls to protect their homes.

Foundation & Basement Problems in Des Moines

Des Moines homes are built on soils that shift dramatically through Iowa’s wet and dry seasons. When the ground around your home absorbs moisture, it expands, placing pressure on basement walls. As the soil dries, it contracts—often leaving voids that cause foundation settlement and cracking.

Bowing basement walls are a frequent issue in Des Moines, caused by hydrostatic pressure building up behind foundation walls. Without repair, these walls can crack, tilt, or fail completely. Many homes also face water intrusion problems, especially those with older or incomplete waterproofing systems.

Outdoor concrete surfaces are not immune—freeze-thaw cycles often lead to sinking or uneven driveways, sidewalks, and patios. Addressing these issues early helps prevent larger structural damage and costly repairs down the road.

Signs Your Home May Need Foundation or Basement Repair in Des Moines

In Des Moines, what starts as a small issue, like a faint crack or a musty smell, can quickly escalate. Our region’s expansive clay soils, heavy rains, and harsh freeze-thaw cycles make homes especially vulnerable to foundation and basement problems.

Horizontal or stair-step cracks in your basement walls
These cracks often signal that the soil outside your foundation is exerting too much pressure. In Des Moines, that pressure builds during wet seasons and when groundwater saturates the soil. Left unaddressed, the wall may continue to bow or even fail structurally.

Bowing or bulging foundation walls
When basement walls curve inward, it’s typically a sign of hydrostatic pressure or frost-related expansion. That pressure can weaken your foundation’s stability and lead to dangerous shifts if ignored.

Musty odors or damp basement floors after rain
If your basement smells like mildew or feels humid after storms, moisture is getting in somewhere. Even small leaks can foster mold growth, wood rot, and poor indoor air quality throughout the home.

Doors and windows that stick or no longer align
A shifting foundation can subtly twist your home’s frame. When doors stop closing cleanly or windows become hard to open, it often points to underlying structural movement beneath the surface.

Sagging or uneven floors above a crawl space
Floors that feel bouncy, sloped, or soft underfoot may be a symptom of failing crawl space supports. This is especially common in older Des Moines homes or in homes with untreated moisture beneath the floor.

Cracked or sinking outdoor concrete
If your steps, sidewalks, or driveway have started to sink or slope, unstable soil may be to blame. That same soil movement often affects the foundation, especially during freeze-thaw cycles or after prolonged rainfall.

Services Our Experts Provide

Foundation repair services
Our foundation repair team provides permanent solutions for settling, cracking, and bowing foundations in Des Moines homes. One proven option we offer is wall anchor installation—a reliable method for stabilizing and straightening bowed or leaning basement walls. Using steel wall anchors installed outside the home, we can relieve lateral pressure and restore the strength of damaged walls over time. Whether your foundation requires wall anchors, piering, or structural reinforcement, we’ll recommend the most suitable solution for your home.

Basement waterproofing services
Water intrusion is a serious concern in many Des Moines basements. Our basement waterproofing services include interior drainage systems, sump pump installation, and wall protection systems—all designed to stop water at the source and prevent mold growth. A dry basement protects your home’s structure and improves indoor air quality, helping you maintain a healthier living environment.

Crawl space repair services
Damp crawl spaces can create hidden structural and air quality problems. We provide complete crawl space repair services to seal out moisture, encapsulate vulnerable spaces, and reinforce sagging structural supports. Our repairs help prevent wood rot, mold, and pest activity, while improving the energy efficiency and comfort of your home.

Egress window services
Adding egress windows to your basement is one of the best ways to improve both safety and livability. Our egress window services ensure your basement meets modern code requirements, providing a reliable emergency exit and allowing more natural light into the space. Whether you’re finishing a new basement or upgrading an older one, we design and install egress windows that complement your home.

Concrete repair services
Uneven or cracked concrete surfaces are a common problem in Des Moines neighborhoods. We offer advanced concrete repair services to lift and level sidewalks, driveways, patios, and more, without the need for full replacement. Our concrete leveling solutions improve safety, curb appeal, and the long-term durability of your property.

Why Des Moines Homeowners Trust Anchored Walls

For more than four decades, homeowners throughout Des Moines and surrounding Iowa communities have trusted Anchored Walls to protect their homes. We’ve built our reputation on delivering lasting results and providing honest, transparent service at every step of the process.

Our skilled crews handle every project directly—no subcontractors, no shortcuts. We offer clear pricing and back every repair with our Life of the Structure Warranty, giving you peace of mind that your home is protected for years to come. When you choose Anchored Walls, you’re choosing a contractor with deep experience in Iowa’s soil conditions and a proven track record of success.

Schedule Your Free Foundation Inspection in Des Moines

If you’ve noticed bowed walls, foundation cracks, basement moisture, or uneven concrete around your Des Moines home, don’t wait. Contact Anchored Walls today to schedule your free foundation inspection.

We proudly serve homeowners throughout Des Moines and the surrounding Iowa area—and we’re ready to help you protect your home with permanent, proven solutions.