Q&A with Midwest Basement Systems

1. How much does waterproofing or foundation repair cost?
Cost is solely dependent on the size of the home and what the goals for the basement are. Foundation and waterproofing repair costs vary widely from in the hundreds to the tens of thousands depending on the issue.

2. Are estimates FREE?
Estimates are at no charge to the customer and we do and includes a full inspection of the entire home. It costs the company time and money to provide this service so in return we expect homeowners to respect our time by being at the appointment so the system designer can fully explain all issues and answer any questions.

3. What type of products do you use?
Whether it is foundation repair or waterproofing, we use a line of over 30 patented basement products that only our network has access to. We use the highest of quality in order to keep your home safe, healthy, and dry. This is also the reason we are able to stand behind our work with the best warranty in the industry.

4. How long before you can come inspect my home?
This all varies on the time of year, weather and our schedule. Generally speaking we book out a little further in the spring and summer and can get to you a little quicker in the fall and winter months. However, we believe this should not be a determining factor for deciding on a contractor for your basement. You have most likely lived with the issue you’ve had for quite some time, make sure you get multiple opinions and all the information so you can select the solution that will permanently correct your problems. Call our office today at 515-289-1606 to get on the schedule!

5. How long after I make a decision before you can get the work done?
This is similar to our appointment schedule in that it varies on the season and weather. It also varies on the type of work you need done but we are very accommodating to your schedule and get you the solution your looking for in a timely manner.

6. What is causing my issues?
This also varies widely depending on the issue your having but almost all foundation and water issues come down to water sitting around a homes foundation and putting pressure against the walls or washing underlying soil out from under the home. This will be explained more thoroughly in your inspection.

7. What kind of signs can I look for?
There are several things to keep an eye out for: cracked or bowing walls, efflorescence (white residue) on floor and walls, water sitting in walls, stair-step cracking, unlevel floors, drywall cracks (around doors and windows especially), doors and windows sticking , damp smell, and any signs of mold are all good places to start looking for issues.

8. Why does my basement smell damp and musty?
Damp, and musty odors come from a high relative humidity that causes mold and mildew to grow on organic material in your home. It is not healthy or “normal” for a basement or home to smell this way. If you smell a musty odor, there is mold growth and that air circulates to the upstairs where you breathe it in.