Basement walls can bow or buckle over time due to soil pressure, water damage, Hydrostatic pressure, or age. This can cause significant structural damage to your home and also pose a safety hazard to your home and your family. If left unattended, it can lead to the collapse of the foundation of your home, putting the safety of you and your family at risk. Repairing a bowing basement wall is crucial in maintaining the structural integrity of your home. However, it is also important to consider the cost of these repairs.
The cost of repairing a bowing basement wall varies depending on several factors. The severity of the damage, the type of repair required, and the location of your home can all affect the overall cost of the repair. In this blog, we will break down these factors and provide a general estimate of how much you can expect to pay for bowing basement wall repair.
Assess the Severity of Damage to the basement walls
The severity of the bowing or buckling in your basement wall is a crucial factor in determining the cost of repairs. The more severe the damage is, the more extensive and costly the repairs will be. In some cases, a simple crack can be repaired with basic measures, while in other cases the entire wall may need to be replaced.
One way to know the severity of the damage is to look for cracks in the wall. If the cracks are less than 1/4 inch wide and not expanding, they may not require immediate attention. However, if the cracks are wider than 1/4 inch or are expanding, it may be a sign of more severe damage that requires immediate attention.
Another way to assess the severity of the damage is to measure the bowing or bulging of the wall. If the wall is bowing or bulging more than 1 inch, it is a sign of severe damage and will require a professional basement repair company.
Repair Solutions Required
The type of repair required will also affect the cost of repairing a bowing basement wall. There are several different methods for repairing bowing or buckling walls, and each method has a different cost.
Bracing
One common method for repairing bowing walls is to install steel braces. These braces are installed on the inside of the wall and help to distribute the weight of the wall evenly. Steel bracing can cost between $5,000 to $12,000 for about a 20’ wall length.
Rebuild the wall
Another method for repairing bowing walls is to completely rebuild the foundation walls. This method makes for a sound structure and foundation. Rebuilding the wall can be more costly and take more time. The cost to rebuild a 20’ wall can range from 12,000-18,000. A permit would need to be pulled, also a sump pump is required to be installed with the rebuild. Make sure to have a professional basement repair company out to take a look and go over options and solutions for you and your home.
Location of Your Home has effect on cost
The location of your home can also affect the cost of repairing a bowing basement wall. The cost of materials and labor can vary depending on what city and state you live in. For example, if you live in an area with a high cost of living, the cost of repairing your basement wall may be higher than if you live in an area with a lower cost of living.
Additionally, if your home is located on a hill or a slope, it may be more difficult and expensive to repair the basement wall. The cost of excavation and installing new materials can be higher in these areas.
Conclusion to repairing basement Bowing wall
It is important to note that the cost of repairing a bowing basement wall is not something that you should skimp on. While it may seem expensive, it is much less expensive than having to rebuild your entire home due to foundation failure. Additionally, repairing a bowing basement wall can increase the value of your home and prevent potential health hazards caused by mold and mildew growth in the damp environment.
In conclusion, the cost of repairing a bowing basement wall depends on several factors, including the severity of the damage, the type of repair required, and the size of your basement. It is important to have a professional evaluate the damage and provide you with an estimate before proceeding with the repair.
Get A Free estimate and expert advice
If you suspect there may be some structural damage or want to get out ahead of any, call us for a free estimate. An older house may not be showing any signs of damage, but it does not mean there isn’t any.
Here at BAM basements and Masons of Des Moines we pride ourselves on delivering every consideration to total customer satisfaction with the highest quality workmanship, limited lifetime warranties, having over 100 years combined of expertise on waterproofing, we are locally founded, owned, and operated. Call us for all your waterproofing needs and we will find a customized solution to fit your home’s needs. BAM Basements and Masons of Des Moines is your premier basement egress window company serving the Des Moines, Iowa area. If you’re located in Des Moines, Ankeny, Bondurant, Altoona, Pleasant hill, Ames, Adel, Waukee, Indianola, Grimes, Urbandale, Johnston, West Des Moines, or the surrounding areas.