Des Moines sits at the confluence of two rivers, and the neighborhoods closest to the Des Moines and Raccoon rivers deal with foundation conditions that the rest of central Iowa doesn't face at the same intensity. Seasonal flooding, saturated clay soils, and hard freeze cycles combine to put consistent pressure on basement walls, footings, and the concrete around the house. Bowed block walls, step cracks near windows, water tracking across the floor after storms, and settled driveways and walks are all common results.
Anchored Walls has been working on those problems in and around Des Moines since 1978. The company started with wall anchor systems for pushed-in basement walls and grew into a full foundation and waterproofing contractor serving central Iowa. Today their in-house crews handle foundation repair, basement waterproofing, crawl space encapsulation, concrete leveling, and egress window installation, with repairs backed by a life-of-the-structure warranty and a money-back guarantee.
The housing stock across Des Moines spans more than a century, and the foundation problems here reflect that range. Older homes in neighborhoods like Beaverdale, Highland Park, and the South Side often have block or brick foundations that have been taking on clay soil pressure and freeze-thaw movement for decades. Newer construction on the expanding edges of Polk County isn't immune either. The expansive soils here put stress on poured concrete walls too, particularly after wet springs followed by dry summers.
The signs tend to show up in predictable patterns. In the basement, a horizontal crack running across a block wall usually means lateral soil pressure has been building outside. Stair-step cracks climbing the mortar joints point to settlement along part of the footing. A wall that looks straight from a distance but curves slightly inward through the middle has started to bow. Upstairs, doors that used to close cleanly and now rub at the top corner, or floors with a noticeable dip toward one side of a room, are often the first things homeowners notice before they've looked closely at the basement.
Anchored Walls built its reputation in Des Moines on repairing pushed-in and bowing basement walls. For walls showing inward movement, their crews install steel wall anchors that extend into stable soil away from the foundation and connect to steel plates on the interior wall. The system can be gradually tightened over time to help restore wall position while preventing further movement. For settlement, they use helical piers or push piers to transfer the load down to stable bearing soil below the problem zone. Cracked sections are repaired, loose blocks reset, and weak spots reinforced so the wall carries the load properly again.
Every job starts with an inspection. A specialist looks at the walls, floors, and grading around the house, explains what's happening in plain terms, and recommends a repair that fits what they actually see on that specific property.
After a long rain or a fast snowmelt, water tracks in along the wall-floor seam, leaves damp patches in the middle of the slab, or pools near floor drains. Block walls develop bubbling or peeling paint. A musty smell settles into the space and doesn't clear for days. In finished basements the evidence shows up as swelling base trim, carpet that stays damp at the edges, or rust forming on stored items and metal posts.
Homes near the Des Moines and Raccoon rivers face that pressure more acutely during high water, but saturated clay pushes moisture through gaps, cracks, and footing seams across the city regardless of proximity to the rivers. Older Des Moines basements often have no interior drainage at all, so water that gets through has nowhere controlled to go.
Anchored Walls installs interior drainage systems for Des Moines homes sized to the specific conditions in each basement. Their crews cut a channel along the inside perimeter at the footing, set drain lines in clean stone, and route water to a sump basin where a pump discharges it away from the foundation. Wall protection panels can be added to direct moisture seeping through block walls down into the drainage system before it reaches the floor.
When a homeowner calls about a wet basement, Anchored Walls looks at where water is actually entering, how often it happens, and what's already in place before recommending a repair.
A lot of Des Moines homes sit over open or partially open crawl spaces, and the humidity that central Iowa summers bring makes those spaces hard to control. Bare soil releases moisture into the air below the house, open vents let outside humidity in, and water that seeps along the foundation edges has nowhere to drain. The results show up above the crawl space as floors that feel soft or uneven underfoot, a musty smell that strengthens near interior walls and vents, insulation hanging down in clumps, and condensation collecting on ductwork and pipes.
Left unaddressed, that moisture works into floor framing, weakens wood over time, and can cause supports under the floor to lose bearing capacity.
Anchored Walls repairs and encapsulates crawl spaces in and around Des Moines. Their crews seal the ground with a durable vapor barrier, close off vents and gaps that let outside air in, and install drainage and a sump system where standing water is present. Dehumidifiers sized for the space pull residual moisture from the air so humidity stays at a controlled level. Where floor framing has started to drop, support posts are added or adjusted to bring the structure back to proper bearing.
The inspection covers the crawl space itself, not just the symptoms showing up in the rooms above it. Moisture levels, wood condition, support layout, and how water reaches the space are all part of what Anchored Walls looks at before recommending a repair plan.
Central Iowa's clay soils shrink and swell with the seasons, and that movement leaves voids under concrete over time. A sidewalk panel drops at one corner and catches your foot. Driveway slabs develop a lip at the garage that you feel every time you pull in. Front steps pull away from the porch and leave a gap that widens each year. Patios tilt back toward the foundation and hold water against the wall instead of draining away from it.
The slab itself is usually fine. The problem is what's underneath. Downspout washout, freeze-thaw movement, and soft spots near the foundation leave voids under the concrete, and once the support is gone the slab follows gravity.
Anchored Walls levels settled concrete around Des Moines using a polyfoam lifting process. Small holes are drilled through the slab, expanding foam is injected underneath, and as it fills voids and cures it raises the concrete back toward its original position. A sunken sidewalk panel comes back up to meet the next one, a low driveway edge lifts at the garage, a tilted step returns to a safe, even surface.
Safety is a consistent part of the conversation on these jobs. Uneven slabs create trip hazards and send water toward the foundation rather than away from it. Lifting the concrete with polyfoam addresses both problems at once.
Older Des Moines homes were built under different code requirements, and a lot of those basements have windows that are too small, too high, or otherwise insufficient for a finished living space. When a homeowner starts planning a bedroom, office, or family room downstairs, the question of how someone would get out in an emergency comes up fast.
Adding a properly sized egress window solves several problems at once. It provides a code-compliant escape route, brings real daylight into a finished room, and when done correctly keeps soil and water away from the new opening so you aren't trading one problem for another.
Anchored Walls installs egress windows in Des Moines basements. That work includes excavating next to the foundation, cutting a clean opening in the concrete or block wall, setting the window unit, and installing a code-sized well with a ladder or built-in steps. Drainage at the bottom of the well ties into stone and a drain line so water doesn't sit against the wall. Inside, the opening is trimmed so the new window integrates cleanly with the finished space.
Before any cutting starts, Anchored Walls looks at the basement layout, exterior grade, and which wall makes the most sense for light, safety, and access. The result is a window that looks planned, works with the house, and makes the lower level safer and more usable.
Anchored Walls has been working on Des Moines foundations since 1978. A lot of that early work came through referrals from homeowners who had watched a pushed-in basement wall get straightened and braced, then called back years later when drainage or crawl space issues came up. That kind of repeat business from the same neighborhoods builds up over decades, and it shows in how the company approaches a job.
The work is done by in-house crews who work in central Iowa soils every day. They're not subcontractors brought in for a single project. The same people installing wall anchors on one job may be cutting an egress window or laying out an interior drain the next week. That experience matters when someone is explaining what's happening to your foundation, walking through repair options, and setting expectations before work starts.
Repairs are backed by a life-of-the-structure warranty and a money-back guarantee on qualifying systems. For Des Moines homeowners, that combination means the company intends to stand behind the work for as long as the house is standing, whether the job is a wall anchor installation on the south side of the city or a drainage system in a basement closer to the river.
If you're seeing cracks in your basement walls, water after rain, musty smells that won't clear, sagging floors, or concrete that has started to sink around your home, it's worth having someone look at it before the next freeze cycle makes it worse.
Anchored Walls inspects foundations, basements, crawl spaces, and concrete in and around Des Moines. A specialist walks the property with you, looks at the areas you're concerned about, and explains what they see in plain language. If repairs are needed, you get a clear plan, pricing, and warranty information before any work starts.
Schedule your free inspection online to get straight answers about what's going on under your house.
If you’ve noticed cracks in your home’s foundation, moisture in your basement, or uneven concrete around your property, it’s time to take action. Homeowners across Atlantic trust Anchored Walls for lasting foundation repair, basement waterproofing, and concrete leveling solutions.
For more than 40 years, we’ve helped families throughout Iowa protect their homes from foundation damage, water intrusion, and crawl space issues. We back every project with our Life of the Structure Warranty and clear, upfront pricing—so you always know the true cost before work begins.
Schedule your free inspection today and see why we’re Atlantic’s trusted choice for permanent home repairs.
Atlantic homes face a range of foundation and basement issues, driven by Iowa’s clay-rich soils and freeze-thaw cycles. When soils expand and contract, they exert pressure on your foundation and basement walls. Over time, this can cause cracks, bowed walls, and water intrusion.
Older homes without modern waterproofing systems are especially vulnerable. Moisture problems in basements and crawl spaces are common, leading to mold growth, musty odors, and structural concerns. Left unchecked, these problems can become costly to repair.
A timely inspection can help you avoid larger repairs and protect your home’s value. Don’t wait for small issues to escalate—Anchored Walls can help.
Foundation and basement problems often reveal themselves through visible changes around your home. You might notice cracks in brickwork or foundation walls, water stains in the basement, or doors that stick. Uneven floors or sinking concrete can also point to serious underlying issues.
Musty odors, mold growth, and high humidity levels are common signs of hidden moisture problems. In homes with crawl spaces, sagging floors, or visible wood damage can indicate excess moisture or structural weakness.
If you’ve noticed any of these warning signs, call Anchored Walls today. We’ll perform a thorough inspection and explain your repair options, so you can make informed decisions about protecting your home.
We provide trusted foundation repair solutions to stabilize and restore homes in Atlantic. Whether your foundation is cracking, settling, or bowing, we’ll recommend permanent repairs that match Iowa’s soil conditions and climate.
A dry basement protects your home and your family’s health. Our proven basement waterproofing systems stop water intrusion, prevent mold growth, and safeguard your property for the long term.
Many homes in Atlantic have crawl spaces that trap moisture and contribute to structural issues. Our crawl space repair and encapsulation services seal out moisture and help restore stability to your home from the ground up.
Uneven sidewalks, driveways, and patios are common in Atlantic due to shifting soils. Our fast, effective concrete leveling services restore these surfaces without the need for costly full replacement.
Basement egress windows provide natural light, improved ventilation, and a vital emergency exit. We install code-compliant egress windows that enhance safety and make your basement space more functional.
For more than four decades, homeowners across Atlantic and the surrounding Iowa communities have trusted Anchored Walls to protect and restore their homes. We’re a local company—not a national chain—so we take the time to deliver personalized service and lasting results.
Every repair is performed by our own skilled crews, never subcontracted out. We believe in clear, honest pricing with no surprises, and we stand behind our work with a Life of the Structure Warranty. That’s the Anchored Walls difference—and why so many Atlantic families recommend us to their neighbors.
If you’ve noticed cracks, water problems, or uneven concrete around your Atlantic home, don’t wait for the damage to get worse. Contact Anchored Walls today to schedule your free inspection.
We proudly serve homeowners in Atlantic and nearby Iowa communities—and we’re ready to help you protect your home for years to come.
Homes in Creston face a wide range of foundation, basement, and crawl space challenges. From shifting soils that crack and move foundations to water intrusion that damages basements and crawl spaces, Iowa’s climate can take a toll on homes of every age and style.
At Anchored Walls, we’ve been helping Creston homeowners protect their homes for more than 40 years. Whether you’re seeing cracks, leaks, or uneven concrete, we provide lasting solutions backed by experienced crews, a Life of the Structure Warranty, and transparent, fair pricing. You’ll always know the full cost of your project up front—no surprises.
Schedule your free inspection today and find out why Creston homeowners turn to Anchored Walls when they need trusted foundation repair and basement waterproofing.
Creston homes are built on soils that shift significantly with moisture changes. During wet seasons, the clay-heavy soils around your foundation expand, pushing against basement walls and causing bowing or cracking. In dry periods, the soil contracts, creating gaps beneath footings that lead to settling and uneven floors.
Many older homes in Creston were constructed without modern waterproofing systems, leaving basements vulnerable to water seepage and mold growth. Crawl spaces often develop high humidity and wood rot, weakening structural supports over time. Outdoors, concrete surfaces like driveways and patios sink or crack as the soils beneath them erode or shift.
Ignoring these issues allows the damage to worsen—and the longer you wait, the higher the eventual repair cost becomes. Addressing foundation and water problems early protects both the value and safety of your home.
In Creston homes, foundation and basement problems often show themselves through small changes that become harder to ignore. You might spot hairline cracks in basement walls or find damp spots after a heavy rain. Doors and windows that once opened easily may start sticking or failing to latch.
A musty odor in the basement or crawl space can signal hidden mold or moisture issues. Floors may begin to slope subtly, especially above aging crawl spaces. Outside, you might notice concrete steps or sidewalks that have shifted or become uneven, creating tripping hazards.
If you’ve noticed any of these changes around your Creston home, it’s time to schedule a professional inspection. The sooner you act, the more options you’ll have—and the less likely you are to face major structural repairs down the line.
Foundation repair services
Foundation problems are common in Creston homes, where changing soil conditions cause movement and stress on your home’s structure. Our foundation repair services address settling, cracking, bowing walls, and uneven floors. We use proven methods to stabilize and strengthen your foundation, helping to protect your home’s value and prevent more costly repairs down the road.
Basement waterproofing services
Water intrusion is one of the leading causes of damage in Iowa basements. We provide complete basement waterproofing services to stop leaks, control moisture, and improve air quality. From interior drainage systems to sump pumps and wall protection, we tailor each solution to your home’s needs, keeping your basement dry and usable in any season.
Crawl space repair services
Moisture in crawl spaces can lead to mold, structural decay, and higher energy bills. Our crawl space repair services include moisture sealing, encapsulation, and structural reinforcement. By addressing humidity and preventing future water problems, we help improve the health of your crawl space and the living areas above it.
Egress window services
Adding egress windows is one of the best ways to increase safety and comfort in your basement. Our egress window services provide code-compliant emergency exits while bringing in natural light and ventilation. Whether you’re finishing your basement or upgrading an existing space, we can design and install egress windows that enhance both appearance and functionality.
Concrete repair services
Shifting soils and freeze-thaw cycles often cause concrete surfaces to sink or crack. Our concrete repair services restore sidewalks, driveways, patios, and more, improving safety and appearance without the need for full replacement. We use advanced leveling techniques to lift and stabilize your concrete surfaces, delivering fast, cost-effective results.
For more than four decades, homeowners throughout Creston and the surrounding Iowa communities have relied on Anchored Walls to protect and restore their homes. We’re a local company with deep experience in Iowa construction and soil conditions—and we take pride in delivering lasting results and exceptional service.
Every project is handled by our own trained crews, not subcontractors. We provide clear, upfront pricing with no hidden fees, and we back our work with a Life of the Structure Warranty so you can feel confident in your investment.
When you choose Anchored Walls, you get more than expert repairs—you get a partner committed to helping you protect your home for the long term.
If you’ve noticed foundation cracks, basement moisture, uneven floors, or sinking concrete around your Creston home, don’t wait for the damage to get worse. Contact Anchored Walls today to schedule your free foundation inspection.
We proudly serve homeowners in Creston and throughout Iowa, and we’re ready to help you protect your home with permanent, proven solutions
Foundation cracks. Bowed walls. Water in the basement. Uneven concrete.
If you’re seeing any of these problems in your Ft. Dodge home, it’s time to act—before small issues become major structural repairs. Anchored Walls has been helping Iowa homeowners protect their homes for more than 40 years. We understand the local soil and climate challenges that can cause homes to shift, settle, and take on water damage.
Our team provides permanent solutions for foundation repair, basement waterproofing, crawl space repair, concrete leveling, and egress window installation throughout the Ft. Dodge area. Every repair is backed by our Life of the Structure Warranty and clear, upfront pricing—so you always know the true cost before work begins.
Schedule your free inspection today and see why so many Ft. Dodge families trust Anchored Walls to protect their homes.
Iowa’s soil is always moving, and in Ft. Dodge, that movement creates serious problems for foundations and basements. Clay-rich soils around your home expand with moisture and contract when dry. This cycle puts constant pressure on basement walls and shifts the ground beneath your foundation. Over time, cracks appear, walls begin to bow, and the home can start settling unevenly.
Older homes in Ft. Dodge often lack modern basement waterproofing and crawl space sealing, leaving them vulnerable to moisture damage, mold growth, and even structural decay. Outdoor concrete surfaces are equally at risk, as freeze-thaw cycles can cause patios, sidewalks, and driveways to sink or crack.
Addressing these issues early helps prevent higher repair costs later and protects the value of your home.
In Ft. Dodge homes, foundation and basement problems often begin with subtle changes. You might notice thin cracks in basement walls or floors that begin to widen over time. Bowed or leaning walls can develop as soil pressure builds up outside. Musty odors in your basement or crawl space may signal hidden moisture problems.
Doors and windows that used to open smoothly may begin to stick, and floors may feel uneven or begin to slope. Outdoors, concrete surfaces can become hazardous as they sink or crack.
If you’re seeing any of these signs in your Ft. Dodge home, call Anchored Walls for a professional inspection. We’ll identify the root cause of the problem and recommend a solution that protects your home for the long term.
Foundation repair services
Our Ft. Dodge foundation repair services address settling, cracking, and bowing foundation walls. One of the most effective solutions we offer is wall anchor installation, which can stabilize and gradually straighten walls that have begun to lean inward. We also provide a full range of structural repair solutions tailored to your home’s specific needs and soil conditions—ensuring your foundation is restored and protected for the future.
Basement waterproofing services
Water in your basement doesn’t just damage belongings—it can weaken your home’s structure and create unhealthy air quality. We provide complete basement waterproofing services in Ft. Dodge, including interior drainage systems, sump pump installation, and wall protection. Our systems are designed to stop water intrusion at the source and keep your basement dry, no matter the season.
Crawl space repair services
Many Ft. Dodge homes have crawl spaces that collect moisture, leading to mold growth and structural problems. Our crawl space repair services include vapor barrier installation, sump pump systems, and moisture sealing. We help you eliminate musty odors, protect wood framing from rot, and improve your home’s overall air quality.
Egress window installation
Adding egress windows to your basement improves both safety and comfort. We install egress windows that meet modern code requirements while enhancing natural light and ventilation. Whether you’re finishing a basement or upgrading an existing one, our Ft. Dodge team can design and install egress windows that complement your home’s style and function.
Concrete repair services
Sinking or uneven concrete can create both safety hazards and unsightly surfaces. We provide advanced concrete repair services in Ft. Dodge to lift and level sidewalks, driveways, patios, and other concrete areas. Our techniques restore stability and appearance, helping you avoid costly full replacements.
For more than four decades, homeowners throughout Ft. Dodge have relied on Anchored Walls to deliver permanent foundation and basement solutions. Our experienced crews understand the challenges of building and repairing homes on Iowa’s shifting soils, and we take pride in doing the job right, from start to finish.
We provide clear, upfront pricing on every project—no surprises. Every repair is backed by our Life of the Structure Warranty, giving you peace of mind that your investment is protected for years to come. When you choose Anchored Walls, you’re choosing a contractor with deep experience and a proven track record in Ft. Dodge and the surrounding Iowa region.
Schedule Your Free Foundation Inspection in Ft. Dodge
If you’ve noticed bowed walls, foundation cracks, basement water issues, or sinking concrete in your Ft. Dodge home, don’t wait. Contact Anchored Walls today to schedule your free foundation inspection.
We proudly serve homeowners throughout Ft. Dodge and nearby communities—and we’re ready to help you protect your home with permanent, proven solutions.
In Ames, foundation and basement problems usually come down to water and soil movement. After a wet stretch, the ground around the house can stay heavy and saturated. In a dry spell, it pulls back. Over time, that cycle puts stress on basement walls, footings, and the concrete around the home. You might see a crack spread across a block wall, water showing up where the floor meets the wall, or a section of sidewalk starting to sink toward the house.
Ames homeowners also deal with long freeze and thaw stretches that keep that movement going. Water works into small gaps, the ground shifts, and the pressure around the foundation changes from season to season. Anchored Walls has been repairing those problems in Iowa since 1978. Their crews handle foundation repair, basement waterproofing, crawl space work, concrete leveling, and egress window installation for homeowners in and around Ames, with repairs backed by a life-of-the-structure warranty and money-back guarantee.
Ames sits on ground shaped by a glacier that covered this part of Iowa until about 12,000 years ago. When the ice melted, it left flat, young soil that never had time to develop natural drainage the way older, hillier land does elsewhere in the state. Soil scientists classify most of the ground under Ames yards as Nicollet and Webster types, both known for holding water close to the surface instead of letting it drain away quickly. After a hard rain, that water sits against a foundation wall for days instead of hours, and it's that steady pressure, not just the water itself, that pushes into cracks and works its way through basement walls.
This history shows up hardest in the city's oldest neighborhoods. Homes in Historic Old Town, most built between the 1880s and the 1930s, have sat on this same slow-draining ground for over a century, giving decades of freeze, thaw, and standing water time to work against their foundations. Newer neighborhoods built on the same soil face the same pressure, just with less time behind it.
A few changes come up again and again in Ames homes. A crack keeps growing along a basement wall. The floor stays damp for days after a hard rain. A slab outside starts tilting toward the house instead of away from it. Some homeowners notice one of these changes. Others notice several at once, spread across different parts of the house.
Cracks are one of the most common things homeowners notice. In a basement wall, they may run straight across a block or climb in a stair-step pattern along the mortar joints. On a concrete floor, a thin line can widen slowly over months as the ground beneath it keeps shifting through wet and dry stretches.
Some walls do more than crack. A block wall may bow inward through the middle, or one side of the basement may no longer look straight when you stand back and sight along it. That kind of movement means the soil outside the wall is pushing harder than the wall was built to resist.
Water tends to show up after heavy rain, snowmelt, or a stretch of wet weather. It can collect along the base of a wall, pool in a low spot on the floor, or reappear in the same corner every time it rains. In older basements especially, that repeating pattern usually points to a gap in the drainage or waterproofing.
Not every moisture problem shows up as water on the floor. A musty smell that gets stronger after rain, or air that never quite feels dry, both mean moisture is sitting in the space long enough to reach the walls, the framing, and anything stored down there.
Foundation movement often shows up in parts of the house used every day. A door that used to close easily starts catching at the top corner. A window that once slid open smoothly now sticks in its frame. Both can mean the structure has shifted slightly out of square.
Changes outside the house are just as telling. A front step pulls away from the porch. A sidewalk panel drops at one end. A patio slopes back toward the foundation instead of away from it. These are signs the ground below the slab has moved, and often the same movement is affecting the house itself.
In Ames, foundation damage can show up in a few different ways. Basement walls can crack and start to bow inward under soil pressure. In other homes, the foundation starts to settle, and the changes show up through widening cracks, uneven floors, or doors and windows that no longer line up the way they should.
Anchored Walls handles both kinds of foundation repair. For walls that are cracking, leaning, or pushing inward, they use several reinforcement methods depending on how the wall is built and how far it has moved. Their repair options include wall anchors, helical tie-backs, waler steel beam systems, and carbon fiber straps. Each one is meant to stabilize the wall and keep the movement from getting worse.
When the issue is foundation settlement, Anchored Walls installs helical piers or push piers to support and stabilize the structure from below. Those systems are used when part of the home has dropped or shifted and the load needs to be transferred to more stable ground.
That range matters in Ames because not every crack points to the same kind of repair. Some homes need lateral support for a basement wall. Others need deep support for a settling foundation. The point of the inspection is to figure out which kind of movement is happening and match the repair to the house.
Water in a basement can damage more than the floor. It stains walls, ruins storage, leaves the air feeling damp, and makes the space harder to use after every storm. In some homes, the water comes in where the wall meets the floor. In others, it pushes through a crack or works up through the slab when the soil around the foundation stays wet.
Anchored Walls waterproofs basements with interior drain tile, sump pump systems, and crack repair. These systems catch water as it enters and move it into a controlled drainage path before it spreads across the basement, so water stops resurfacing in the same spots year after year.
A dry, working drainage system opens up what that lower level can actually be used for. Storage, a workshop, a finished room, all become realistic once the water problem is solved.
Crawl space problems in Ames often show up through the floors above them. Floors can start to feel soft, uneven, or bouncy in certain rooms. The house may pick up a musty smell that gets worse in humid weather. When moisture builds up in the crawl space, insulation can sag, wood framing can stay damp, and supports under the floor can start to weaken.
Anchored Walls repairs crawl spaces by controlling water, ground moisture, and humidity under the home. Our crawl space services can include crawl space encapsulation, vapor barriers, drainage systems, sump pumps, dehumidifiers, and added support where the floor system has started to sag. Crawl space encapsulation helps seal the area off from ground moisture and outside air, keeping the space drier and easier to control.
The floor above the crawl space is usually the first place these repairs show results. Rooms that felt soft or uneven start to feel solid again once the moisture problem underneath is under control.
Uneven concrete around the house can create problems fast. A sidewalk panel lifts or drops enough to catch your foot. Front steps no longer sit level. A driveway starts pulling away at the garage or settles into a low spot that holds water. In Ames, those changes usually point back to shifting soil under the slab.
Our concrete leveling service is designed to lift and support settled slabs without tearing them out and replacing them. Anchored Walls uses polyfoam to fill the empty space under the concrete and raise it back toward its original position. That can help level sidewalks, porches, patios, driveways, and steps while improving the way water drains around the house.
A lifted slab does more than look better. It removes a trip hazard, stops water from pooling against the house, and keeps the settlement from getting worse before it spreads to the next section of concrete.
If you are adding a bedroom to a basement in Ames, an egress window is part of making the space code-compliant. Iowa code requires basements and sleeping rooms to have an operable emergency escape and rescue opening that opens directly to the outside. The City of Ames also spells out key size requirements for egress windows, including a minimum net clear opening of 5.7 square feet, a minimum opening width of 20 inches, a minimum opening height of 24 inches, and a sill height no more than 44 inches above the floor.
Anchored Walls installs egress windows for homeowners in Ames who want to finish a basement the right way. Our crews handle the excavation, cut the opening in the foundation wall, install the window and well, and make sure drainage is in place so water does not collect against the house. That gives the basement more natural light, a safer way out in an emergency, and a better path toward code compliance for a finished lower level.
Anchored Walls has been working on foundations, basements, and crawl spaces in Iowa since 1978. Our crews handle the repairs themselves, from straightening a basement wall to installing an interior drain system, lifting settled concrete, or cutting an opening for an egress window. That means the people inspecting the problem are the same people doing the work from start to finish.
Qualifying repairs come with a life-of-the-structure warranty and a money-back guarantee, both of which transfer with the house if it's sold. A repair that holds up for decades is only as good as the backing behind it, and a warranty that follows the property gives homeowners something concrete if an issue shows up years down the road.
If something around your Ames home does not look right, it is worth getting it checked before the damage spreads. Cracks in the basement, water after rain, sagging floors, or settled concrete usually point to a larger issue with moisture, soil movement, or support below the house.
Anchored Walls inspects foundations, basements, crawl spaces, concrete, and egress window needs in Ames and the surrounding area. We will look at what the house is doing, explain what we see, and recommend repairs that fit the problem. If work is needed, you will know what is involved, what it is meant to fix, and what kind of long-term protection comes with it.
If you’re finishing your basement or upgrading an existing space in Iowa City, adding an egress window isn’t just a smart idea—it’s the law. Egress windows provide a safe emergency exit and bring in natural light, transforming dark basements into livable, code-compliant rooms.
At Anchored Walls, we specialize in egress window installation tailored to Iowa homes. With over 40 years of experience and a deep understanding of local building codes and soil conditions, our team makes the process smooth, secure, and fully compliant. Whether you're remodeling or just want to improve basement safety, we’re the contractor Iowa City homeowners trust for quality and peace of mind.
In Iowa City, any finished basement space used as a bedroom—or intended for regular use—must have a properly sized and accessible egress window. This requirement exists for a reason: in case of fire, gas leak, or other emergency, basement occupants need a clear, fast way to exit the home.
But there’s more to egress windows than safety. A well-installed egress window brings daylight into the basement, improves airflow, and makes the space feel more open and welcoming. For many homeowners, it also increases property value by turning a formerly dark basement into usable living space.
At Anchored Walls, we install code-compliant egress windows that add both safety and comfort to your basement. Whether you're finishing a basement for the first time or upgrading an older space, our team helps ensure your home meets local building code and emergency egress requirements. Each installation allows natural light to enter the basement while providing a safe exit route in the event of a fire or emergency.
We serve homeowners throughout Iowa City with egress solutions designed to improve basement livability, increase home value, and meet legal safety standards. From inspection to installation, Anchored Walls brings 40+ years of local expertise to every job, always with transparent pricing and long-term protection.
For more than 40 years, Anchored Walls has helped Iowa homeowners improve the safety and functionality of their homes. We understand the soil conditions, weather patterns, and building codes specific to Iowa City, and we know how to install egress windows the right way. Homeowners choose us for our honest recommendations, transparent pricing, and commitment to long-term results. Every egress window installation is backed by our Life of the Structure Warranty and performed by experienced contractors who take pride in clean, code-compliant work.
Schedule Your Free Egress Window Estimate in Iowa City, IA
Ready to bring your basement up to code—or make it brighter, safer, and more livable? Anchored Walls is the company Iowa City homeowners turn to for expert egress window installation. We make the process clear, fast, and built to last.
Call today to schedule your free inspection and get started on your egress window project in Iowa City.
Small cracks in your foundation can lead to big problems if left unchecked. In Marshalltown, shifting soils and moisture changes put constant stress on homes, causing walls to bow, floors to settle, and water to seep in where it shouldn’t.
At Anchored Walls, we’ve been helping Marshalltown homeowners protect their homes for more than 40 years. From foundation repair and basement waterproofing to crawl space repair, concrete leveling, and egress window installation, our solutions are designed to address problems at the source and protect your home for years to come.
Every project is backed by our Life of the Structure Warranty and clear, upfront pricing—so you’ll know the full cost before work begins. Schedule your free inspection today and see why Marshalltown homeowners trust Anchored Walls for lasting repairs.
Homes across Marshalltown are built on soils that move with the seasons. During wet periods, the ground around your foundation swells and pushes against basement walls. In dry spells, the soil contracts and shifts away—creating gaps beneath footings and leaving walls unsupported.
This movement leads to cracking, bowing, and water intrusion over time. Many Marshalltown homeowners first notice small foundation cracks caused by soil shifting beneath the home. Moisture then seeps into these cracks, widening them and accelerating structural damage.
Older basements without modern waterproofing are especially vulnerable. Water stains, musty odors, and mold growth are common in homes with poor drainage. Outside, concrete steps, driveways, and patios often sink or crack due to freeze-thaw cycles and soil erosion. Addressing these problems early helps prevent higher repair costs and protects your home’s value.
In Marshalltown, foundation and basement issues often show themselves through small but persistent changes. You might notice cracks in brick veneers or concrete walls, or find damp spots in your basement after a rain. Musty odors—both inside and outside your home—can indicate hidden mold or moisture problems.
Chimneys may begin to lean, concrete steps can deteriorate, and interior walls may start to curve inward or outward. Floors that once felt solid may develop subtle slopes or uneven spots, and doors or windows may stick as the foundation shifts beneath them.
If you’re seeing any of these warning signs, don’t wait. Contact Anchored Walls for a professional inspection. We’ll evaluate your foundation and provide a clear plan to restore your home’s stability.
Our Home Repair Solutions
Foundation repair
Our Marshalltown foundation repair services address cracking, settlement, and bowing walls caused by shifting soils and moisture changes. One of our most effective solutions is wall anchor installation, which stabilizes and gradually straightens foundation walls that have begun to lean inward. We also provide comprehensive crack repair and structural reinforcement, ensuring your foundation is protected for the long term.
Concrete repair
Sinking or uneven concrete surfaces can create safety hazards and reduce curb appeal. We offer advanced concrete repair services in Marshalltown to lift and level sidewalks, driveways, patios, and more. Our techniques restore stability and appearance, without the need for full replacement.
Crawl space repair
Many Marshalltown homes have crawl spaces that collect moisture, creating mold growth and structural problems. Our crawl space repair services include vapor barriers, sump pumps, and moisture sealing. We help you eliminate musty odors, protect structural supports, and improve your home’s overall air quality.
Basement waterproofing
Water intrusion can cause significant damage to your foundation and indoor air quality. Our basement waterproofing services in Marshalltown include interior drainage systems, sump pumps, and wall protection solutions. We stop water at the source, keeping your basement dry and healthy in every season.
Egress window installation
Adding egress windows improves both safety and livability in your basement. We install code-compliant egress windows that provide emergency exits and bring in natural light. Whether you’re finishing your basement or upgrading an existing space, our Marshalltown team can install egress windows that enhance both function and appearance.
For more than four decades, homeowners throughout Marshalltown have trusted Anchored Walls to deliver lasting foundation and basement solutions. We understand the unique challenges of building and repairing homes in Iowa’s shifting soils, and we take pride in doing the job right, without shortcuts.
Our skilled crews handle every project directly, providing clear pricing and backing every repair with our Life of the Structure Warranty. When you choose Anchored Walls, you’re choosing a contractor with deep experience and a proven track record in Marshalltown and across Iowa.
If you’ve noticed bowed walls, foundation cracks, basement moisture, or sinking concrete in your Marshalltown home, don’t wait. Contact Anchored Walls today to schedule your free foundation inspection.
We proudly serve homeowners throughout Marshalltown and nearby communities—and we’re ready to help you protect your home with permanent, proven solutions.
When you notice cracks in the foundation of your home, it’s important to address the problem sooner rather than later to avoid the damage becoming worse and needing more extensive and expensive structural repair down the line. Our foundation repair contractors in Ames have effective solutions to make permanent repairs to your foundation, protecting your home for decades to come.
Iowa's Trusted Foundation Repair Company
Since 1978, homeowners across Iowa have trusted Anchored Walls to protect their homes from the ground up. Whether you’re dealing with foundation cracks, water in the basement, sinking concrete, or crawl space problems, we provide permanent repairs backed by decades of experience.
We’re proud to be a local company serving communities throughout Iowa. Our skilled crews perform every repair—we never subcontract the work. And every project is supported by our Life of the Structure Warranty and honest, transparent pricing.
Iowa homes face a range of foundation and basement challenges, driven by the state’s soils, climate, and building patterns. Our local crews see these issues every day—whether in historic homes, newer construction, or rural properties with aging foundations.
Here are some of the most common problems Iowa homeowners encounter:
Iowa soils often include expansive clay, which swells when wet and shrinks when dry. This constant movement puts stress on foundations, leading to cracks, uneven floors, and sticking doors and windows. Over time, sections of the foundation may settle, compromising the stability of the entire structure.
Inadequate drainage, hydrostatic pressure, and freeze-thaw cycles can push basement walls inward. In Iowa’s climate, we frequently see concrete block walls that bow or tilt due to years of soil pressure. Without repair, this can lead to wall failure and costly structural damage.
Many Iowa homes were built before modern waterproofing techniques became standard. As a result, leaky basements are common across the state. Water can enter through wall cracks, floor joints, porous concrete, or inadequate window wells, causing damage, mold, and poor air quality.
In homes with crawl spaces, excess moisture is a leading concern. Unsealed or poorly vented crawl spaces can trap humidity, foster mold growth, and cause wood framing to rot. This can lead to structural issues and higher energy bills.
Freeze-thaw cycles, poor soil compaction, and erosion can cause concrete sidewalks, patios, and driveways to sink or crack. In Iowa, we frequently restore concrete surfaces that have become unsafe or unsightly due to uneven settling.
For more than four decades, Iowa families have relied on Anchored Walls to protect and restore their homes. We aren’t a national chain or a franchise—we’re an Iowa company, and we take pride in doing work that stands the test of time.
When you call us, you’ll speak with local experts who understand the unique challenges Iowa homes face. Every repair is handled by our skilled crews, not subcontracted out. We believe in clear, honest pricing with no surprises, and we back our work with a Life of the Structure Warranty—because we want you to have peace of mind long after the project is complete.
Thousands of homeowners across Iowa have trusted Anchored Walls with their foundation and basement repairs. We take that trust seriously, and we’re committed to earning it on every job, in every home, in every community we serve.
From Des Moines to Davenport, Ames to Iowa City, and communities large and small across the state, we’re proud to serve Iowa homeowners with trusted foundation repair, basement waterproofing, and concrete leveling services. Don’t wait for small problems to become costly repairs. Contact Anchored Walls today to schedule your free inspection and protect your home for years to come.
I'm immensely grateful to you and your team. Despite a challenging situation, your friendly and efficient team completed the job promptly. Just two weeks later we needed it and I can't imagine the devastation without it. You saved my home, thank you from the bottom of my heart!
The respect and professionalism shown to us by everyone we were in contact with was nothing short of amazing. From the original quote, to the installation, you were on time and the finished product is excellent. I have nothing but good words for your company! Thank you for giving me more than I've come to expect in this time.
Read lessVery professional experience and I like the transferability of the warranty.
So happy with your work and wonderful to know we won't have water in our basement again!
Matt did a great job troubleshooting the problem and offering me good, practical, honest advice. He went out of his way tracking down information and solutions for me. The work was excellent and the site was very clean at the end. Communication from the office was top-notch.
Read lessI was really impressed with how closely Anchored Walls kept in touch with me on the project ranging from the initial visit for the estimate to the completion. There were never any questions on who was arriving when. The crew was super professional and the cleanliness was impressive! I would highly recommend Anchored Walls!
Read lessEvery single person I spoke with at Anchored Walls was genuine and professional. The quality of the work was A+. I will definitely recommend and call back if needed for anything else in the future. Thank you!
Read lessThe job was completed as promised. The repair is working as you said it would. At this point, I am completely satisfied. Very nice work!!
Read lessAs installers encountered circumstances along the way, they efficiently and most satisfactorily completed the project. All phases of the work were handled professionally. We would recommend the company! Thank you.
Read lessWonderful Communication, and high quality work! Thank you!
We were very pleased with the amount of follow up and communication from all involved in the project and the ladies in the office were great! Not one thing was left to chance. Never have I ever had such a great relationship and communication from a contractor. Great Job! Thank you All!
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