Insights from BAM Basements & Masons of Des Moines
If you’re a homeowner in Iowa, you already know: the weather here can be extreme. From heavy snow and bitter cold in the winter to blistering heat and hot humidity in the summer, our homes are constantly working hard to stand up to the elements. But there’s one natural force that quietly wreaks more havoc than most people realize the rain.
Whether it’s a slow drizzle in April or a downpour during summer storms, rainwater can significantly impact your home’s foundation, especially in Central Iowa where expansive clay soils are common. At BAM Basements & Masons of Des Moines, we’ve spent over a decade helping homeowners understand and repair the hidden effects of water damage. Here’s what you need to know.
The Soil Beneath Your Home Matters
The first step to understanding how rain affects your home is knowing what’s happening underneath it.
Iowa is rich in expansive clay soils, which are prone to dramatic shifts depending on their moisture content. When it rains, the soil absorbs water, expands, and puts upward pressure on your foundation. When the soil dries out, it shrinks, creating empty voids that allow your foundation to settle or sink unevenly.
This constant cycle of swelling and shrinking, known as soil movement, is one of the most common causes of foundation cracks, bowing basement walls, and moisture intrusion.
The Silent Threat: Hydrostatic Pressure
Beyond soil movement, another major concern is hydrostatic pressure. This occurs when saturated soil pushes water against your foundation walls with significant force.
Over time, this pressure can cause:
· Basement wall cracks
· Leaking foundation seams
· Efflorescence (white, powdery stains from water seepage)
· Bowing or inward movement of basement walls
· Increased risk of mold, mildew, and rot
Even if your basement has never flooded, small leaks or signs of moisture are indicators that hydrostatic pressure is already affecting your home.
Signs Rainwater Is Damaging Your Foundation
Most foundation problems develop slowly, and the earlier you catch them, the easier (and cheaper) they are to fix.
Here are some signs that rain and groundwater are damaging your home’s foundation:
· Cracks in basement walls or floors
· Doors and windows that stick or don’t close properly
· Uneven or sloping floors
· Pooling water around your foundation
· Musty odors or visible mold in the basement
· Visible gaps between walls and ceilings
If you notice one or more of these signs, especially after periods of heavy rain, it’s time to bring in a professional for an estimate.
Iowa Rain Patterns: Why Local Matters
Iowa’s rain patterns can be unpredictable, but the state averages about 35 inches of rain per year, often delivered in short, intense bursts during thunderstorms.
This creates perfect conditions for:
· Sudden soil saturation
· Flash flooding around foundations
· Rapid erosion near basement walls
· Overflowing gutters and downspouts that dump water near the home
Because these patterns are so specific to our region, it’s important to work with a local company that understands the unique challenges of Central Iowa’s soil and weather — like BAM Basements & Masons of Des Moines.
The BAM Approach to Protecting Your Home
At BAM, we take a comprehensive approach to addressing how rain impacts your home’s foundation and basement. Here’s how we help Central Iowa homeowners weather the storm:
If your foundation has already suffered damage from soil movement or hydrostatic pressure, we offer both traditional and modern solutions to stop the problem in its tracks. These include:
· Poly Piering (deep foam injection): A non-invasive solution to lift and stabilize settled foundations.
· Wall anchors and braces: Reinforce bowing basement walls and prevent further inward movement.
· Crack repair and sealing: Stops moisture intrusion and prevents further cracking.
2. Basement Waterproofing
We offer interior and exterior waterproofing solutions designed specifically for Iowa homes:
· Sump pump installation and backup systems
· Interior Drainage tile systems
· Moisture barriers and wall encapsulation
· Downspout and gutter extensions
The goal is not just to manage water — but to keep it away from your foundation entirely.
3. Grading and Drainage Correction
In many cases, poor yard grading and ineffective drainage are major contributors to rain-related foundation issues. We help homeowners by:
· Re-grading the soil around the home to ensure water flows away
· Installing French drains and other subsurface drainage systems
· Extending downspouts to move water well beyond the foundation
The Long-Term Effects of Ignoring the Problem
Foundation damage caused by rain doesn’t get better with time — in fact, it always gets worse. Ignoring early warning signs can lead to:
· Costlier repairs down the road
· Structural damage to the home
· Water intrusion that leads to mold and health hazards
· Loss of home value
· Difficulty selling or refinancing your home
In severe cases, prolonged water damage can even compromise the structural integrity of the entire house.
What Can You Do As a Homeowner?
There are a few proactive steps you can take to minimize the impact of rain on your foundation:
· Keep gutters clean and clear
· Install downspout extensions at least 6 feet from your home
· Check that your yard slopes away from the house
· Inspect your basement for signs of moisture regularly
· Seal small foundation cracks before they grow
· Avoid planting trees or shrubs too close to the foundation
Of course, if you’re unsure of what you’re seeing or suspect a bigger problem, don’t wait, reach out to a professional for a no-obligation estimate.
Why Choose BAM Basements & Masons?
At BAM, we’re not just another basement contractor. We’re a locally family-owned company based right here in Central Iowa, and our team is made up of local experts who understand the region’s unique soil and weather patterns.
With over 13 years in business and a 5-star Google rating, we pride ourselves on delivering customized, honest, and effective solutions — without the corporate runaround. Our customer-first approach means we’re focused on long-term results and doing what’s right for you and your home.
Final Thoughts
Rain might seem harmless — even refreshing — but in Iowa, it can pose a serious threat to your home’s foundation. From soil expansion to hydrostatic pressure, water is one of the most powerful forces your home will face.
Fortunately, with the right knowledge, the right plan, and the right partner, you can protect your biggest investment.
If you’ve noticed signs of rain-related damage — or just want peace of mind — contact BAM Basements & Masons of Des Moines for a free consultation. We’ll assess your foundation, identify any risks, and give you a clear, affordable plan to keep your home strong and dry for years to come
