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Basement Waterproofing

Basement leaks can lead to significant damage. Learn about Indiana Foundation Service's trusted basement waterproofing solutions.

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Water can accumulate in your basement for many reasons; no matter how it gets there, standing water in your basement causes a slew of problems. Uncontrolled moisture leads to elevated humidity, high energy bills, and increased mold and mildew formation. It can also lead to damage to your home’s structure which can cause warped floors, sticking doors and windows, and cracks in your walls.

It’s important to find the root of the problem and address it at the source so that you can prevent unwanted water in your home. By waterproofing basement areas with water, you can rest assured that you’re protected from the damaging effects of moisture and that your family stays safe.

At Indiana Foundation Service, we have three decades of experience with basement waterproofing in Indiana, offering tailored solutions for your home.


Leaky Basement Causes

Water can leak inside your basement because of a variety of factors. Here are some common causes of your wet basement.

As the construction of your home began, a large hole in the ground had to be made to accommodate the house and its foundation. After the foundation was built, there still was a gap around the house between the structure and the rest of the earth. Some of the previously excavated soil is replaced or “backfilled” around the walls. This soil is looser and fluffier than the rest of the hard-packed, untouched soil. This allows water to collect in the soil immediately surrounding the house, creating a “clay bowl,” and exerting pressure on the walls that leads to cracks and leaking water.

This constant force exerted on the walls by saturated soil is known as hydrostatic pressure. When this force becomes too much for the walls to handle, they will begin to show signs of failure in the form of cracks and inward movement. Water can easily find its way through any cracks and openings, and your home’s structural stability is at risk.

A footing drain was installed outside the foundation walls of your home during its construction in order to help keep water away. But this drain can easily clog and allow water to collect by the walls. Preventing this is difficult, and so is cleaning and flushing the drains.

Clogged or above-ground exterior drainage pipes could allow water to puddle next to the home and leak through cracks or gaps in the foundation walls. It’s a good idea to place these lines in the ground and direct them far away from your house to prevent draining water from leaking inside. But you also need to make sure these lines are doing their job. If they crack, collapse, or clog, you could end up with water in your basement.

Sump pumps are needed to keep water out of the basement. Many sump pump systems are installed with metal basins placed in the floor and have lids that rest on top of the basin and openings for the discharge pipes. Some may not have lids at all. These are ineffective systems that only cause more problems. Metal basins can easily rust and corrode, and partial or nonexistent lids allow water to evaporate back into or flood the basement. This leads to unpleasant odors and moisture issues that defeat the purpose of the sump pump in the first place. Debris and other items also can easily fall into the system and damage the pump if the sump pit is not completely covered.

Mother Nature can be unpredictable and brutal, and Indiana experiences its share of wild weather. Heavy rainstorms can dump a lot of water on the ground with nowhere to go, and wintertime snowmelt results in runoff water. This water can then find its way inside through saturated soil and wall cracks. 

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Leif was excellent and very informative. Provided a great solution that didn't break the bank

Leif was excellent and very informative. Provided a great solution that didn't break the bank

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Dylan Combs and Chris Thompson worked nonstop from the time they arrived at our residence. They were courteous and answered all of the…

Dylan Combs and Chris Thompson worked nonstop from the time they arrived at our residence. They were courteous and answered all of the questions that we had for them. We were pleased with their professionalism. Today we got a follow up from the company to make sure that all was OK and reminded us that they would follow up in a year to ensure that all was good. We have been happy with the company’s service overall.

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Concrete leveling and void fill – actually talked to a real person when calling to negotiate! The scheduling was easy, and work was…

Concrete leveling and void fill – actually talked to a real person when calling to negotiate! The scheduling was easy, and work was completed in one day. Now my garage foundation and sidewalk is level. They also filled the critter voids under my patio to keep it from breaking. Overall I am pleased with the work, and recommend them if you are looking to level concrete or fill under it.

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We were very happy with the work done by indiana foundation. Good service on time.the workers were damion traas foreman.tristan lear…

We were very happy with the work done by indiana foundation. Good service on time.the workers were damion traas foreman.tristan lear installer. And philip eevers co foreman.

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James Jewell, Nick C, Gus T, and David waterproofed my basement. My basement looks incredible and I no longer have to worry about flooding! …

James Jewell, Nick C, Gus T, and David waterproofed my basement. My basement looks incredible and I no longer have to worry about flooding! James was the foreman and he paid close attention to detail and also did a really good job explaining the system and answering all of my questions. The whole crew was professional, efficient, well mannered, and they cleaned up their workspace before leaving…I’d highly recommend this crew to anyone looking for home owner’s peace of mind!

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We had the pleasure of having Cameron Sankey come out this morning for an estimate on some work. He was great and went above and beyond,…

We had the pleasure of having Cameron Sankey come out this morning for an estimate on some work. He was great and went above and beyond, and represented his company well

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Eric D., Vyshonne K. and Austin C. did an excellent job and were Very professional. Our project required a total of 17 Push Piers to be…

Eric D., Vyshonne K. and Austin C. did an excellent job and were Very professional. Our project required a total of 17 Push Piers to be installed, 3/4 of the job was on sloped grade (WOW crazy).Note: The job was completed on time. If needed for other projects I would definitely request these gentlemen!!“ Keep up the great work you do, Indiana Foundation should be proud of your great work and professionalism“ThanksThe Edison’s

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Jacob Rose assisted me in scheduling repair of my homes entrance way damaged sidewalk. He explained the process in detail and scheduled a…

Jacob Rose assisted me in scheduling repair of my homes entrance way damaged sidewalk. He explained the process in detail and scheduled a quick turnaround start date for the repair service to begin. He is a true professional and deserves a five star rating.

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Richard was very knowledgeable and so helpful in teaching my husband and I about the issues going on around our home. He stayed until every …

Richard was very knowledgeable and so helpful in teaching my husband and I about the issues going on around our home. He stayed until every question was answered and offered many flexible payment options. He was great to talk to!

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We had to have our entire crawlspace redone due to water damage. Dane, Nate, and Brian came out to do the scheduled repairs, and they were…

We had to have our entire crawlspace redone due to water damage. Dane, Nate, and Brian came out to do the scheduled repairs, and they were on time and professional. Dane walked us through the progress each day so we were kept in the loop on the work being done. All 3 of them were so polite and personable! We would recommend them to anyone that needs the work done!

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Whitney Rose , very knowledgeable and helpf

Whitney Rose , very knowledgeable and helpf

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Thank Jeff for the great job you did raising our porch, it had dropped about 3 or 3 and a half inches, looks great now. Also want to thank…

Thank Jeff for the great job you did raising our porch, it had dropped about 3 or 3 and a half inches, looks great now. Also want to thank the crew that worked on our foundation where the basement wall had cracked and is bowing out. Those guys worked in the cold weather with snow on the ground to get the job done. I can not remember all the names but we want thank them for a great job, feel better knowing that is taken care of. Also thank the folks in the office that keep us informed. Thank everyone that was working to get this done. Ben and Jane Neeley

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Mark and Andrew did my yearly service inspection they did a fantastic job. They were very knowledgeable efficient and honest.

Mark and Andrew did my yearly service inspection they did a fantastic job. They were very knowledgeable efficient and honest.

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Mark Gladish came and provided an estimate for a mold issue. He gave me a very detailed quote and a very thorough explanation on what…

Mark Gladish came and provided an estimate for a mold issue. He gave me a very detailed quote and a very thorough explanation on what needed done and why. He was very polite, informative and a pleasure to work with. I feel very confident in hiring them to complete the work.

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This review is for Jachlieper Jackie did a great job. Very knowledgeable, friendly and easy to talk to. We never had a foundation problem…

This review is for Jachlieper Jackie did a great job. Very knowledgeable, friendly and easy to talk to. We never had a foundation problem but she explained everything so we could understand. After she checked de home she explained clearly what needed to be done. She is one of the best representative we ever dealt with.

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Arron came out to look at our house. He told us what we needed to know. Very helpful, no pressure and accommodating. Thanks Arron!

Arron came out to look at our house. He told us what we needed to know. Very helpful, no pressure and accommodating. Thanks Arron!

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We have used Indiana Foundation in multiple homes for a variety of jobs. Every experience working with the company has been excellent….

We have used Indiana Foundation in multiple homes for a variety of jobs. Every experience working with the company has been excellent. Today, the crew of Dylan and Dylan reinforced the floor in our 140 year old basement. They were professional, knowledgeable, and cleaned up the area when the job was complete. I could not have been happier with the work.

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Justin came and gave us a quote and was wonderful! He is very knowledgeable, efficient, and put things into easy digest and understand…

Justin came and gave us a quote and was wonderful! He is very knowledgeable, efficient, and put things into easy digest and understand language to give you the clearest picture of what is going on. Would definitely recommend him again!

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Great experience and great work crew! Alvaro, Mike Lee and Peter were great! They explained everything they did and were so kind and polite!…

Great experience and great work crew! Alvaro, Mike Lee and Peter were great! They explained everything they did and were so kind and polite!I feel so much better about my home with all the work they did!!

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Cameron came to give us a quote on a full basement repair of an 1800's home. Though the repairs needing done were substantial, as we…

Cameron came to give us a quote on a full basement repair of an 1800's home. Though the repairs needing done were substantial, as we suspected, we opted to go another route and have the house lifted and a new basement installed. Cameron was a solid guy, very professional, knowledgeable and was attentive to what we were looking for.

Is Basement Waterproofing the Right Solution for Me?

As a homeowner, it’s important to guard your home against any damage it faces from the outside elements. Waterproofing basement areas affected by water intrusion is essential to prevent problems including mold, foundation cracks, uneven floors, and sticking windows and doors that endanger your family’s health and safety.

Indiana Foundation Service has more than 30 years of experience in diagnosing basement water problems and installing trusted solutions to address basement waterproofing in Indiana. Our multi-step process ensures your home is sealed and protected from water for good. Internal basement waterproofing solutions such as interior drainage and a superior sump pump system effectively drain water away from your foundation.

Basement Waterproofing FAQs

The ideal humidity levels for basements are between 40 and 50%. It’s important to keep the levels below 60% to avoid moisture-related issues. If you need assistance maintaining your basement’s humidity levels and ensuring its protection, contact Indiana Foundation Service. Our team of professionals offers reliable basement waterproofing solutions. 

While a damp and musty basement is common, it is not normal or healthy for your home and family. The presence of water and humidity causes other issues like mold growth, damaged belongings, structural instability, and more. That’s why waterproofing your basement is essential. The most effective methods include an interior drainage system, sump pump, wall vapor barrier, and dehumidifier. Working in tandem, these solutions keep water from infiltrating your home and prevent humidity from wreaking havoc.

Absolutely! If the source of the odor is mold, inhaling mold spores can worsen allergies or cause illness. It’s important not to disregard persistent musty odors. We encourage you to contact Indiana Foundation Service for a free inspection and basement waterproofing estimate. We address musty basement smells at their source and provide solutions that protect your home. 

Regular maintenance includes checking and cleaning your gutters, inspecting your sump pump to ensure it’s functioning properly, and monitoring any cracks in the walls for changes. You can take advantage of Indiana Foundation Service’s annual maintenance programs to ensure your basement waterproofing systems are in top shape.

Why is Basement Waterproofing Needed?

Most homes have some sort of water management system. Although the age and effectiveness may vary, it’s important to maintain regular inspections to ensure they’re in good working condition. Here are some common reasons why waterproofing your basement is an important step in protecting your most valuable asset, your home.

Many homeowners have had to face mold and mildew in their homes at some point. Unfortunately known as a common occurrence that stems from moisture in your home, mold can also wreak havoc on the health of your loved ones. Certain strains of mold are toxic and can cause severe respiratory issues and allergies. When you waterproof basement areas affected by moisture with solutions including a vapor barrier or dehumidifier, you’re able to tackle moisture levels in your home and prevent mold.

bowed basement wall

Eradicates the Effects of Hydrostatic Pressure

Hydrostatic pressure is the force oversaturated soil exerts on your foundation walls. This can lead to cracks along your basement walls that allow water to easily seep in. If the soil surrounding your home becomes overly wet, you may experience pooling water around your cove joints or on your basement floors. To prevent this, consider repairing foundation damage, checking the grade of your yard, and inspecting your gutters for clogs or damage. Additionally, lining your basement walls with a durable vapor barrier can seal out the effects of hydrostatic pressure, and interior drains and a sump pump help direct excess water away from your home.

Adds Value to Your Home

A finished, waterproof basement can add appeal to potential buyers when you decide to sell your house. This is mainly because of the added livable space, which can be used for many purposes. It also is attractive to buyers who don’t want to worry about having to install waterproofing systems once they move in or do any invasive construction. Our warrantied solutions ease the minds of future owners so that they can have the same protection for their new home.

Common Basement Waterproofing Tips & Mistakes

Over the years, we’ve heard it all and seen it all when it comes to homeowners deciding to waterproof their basements. It’s important to us to make sure all our potential and current customers are educated and knowledgeable about what’s going on in their homes. Here are some of our tips and mistakes to avoid when waterproofing basement areas.

Helpful Basement Waterproofing Tips

  • Did you know that waterproofing your basement can also save you money on your energy bills? Installing waterproofing measures in and around your home protects your HVAC system from having to work harder. When moisture gets into your home, it leads to increased humidity levels, which makes it difficult for your heating and cooling appliances to run efficiently. Waterproofing basement areas controls moisture, creates a comfortable living environment, and reduces the money you spend on energy costs.
  • In most cases, gutters aren’t commonly known by homeowners to protect the interior of their homes, only the exterior. Gutters play an important role in protecting your basement. Their main purpose is to catch rainwater from your roof and direct it away through downspouts. Gutters with proper downspouts and downspout extensions are a great way to keep water away from the edge of the home’s foundation and away from the basement. It is important to note that gutters should be regularly inspected for damage or clogs to ensure they work properly. Installing gutter guards can also prevent clogs from forming as a result of tree debris.
  • Although installing a sump pump is a step in the right direction, a battery-powered backup can make all the difference during a power outage. Since your main sump pump runs off your home’s electricity, if the power goes out, so does your protection from standing water. When you choose to install a backup sump pump, you’re protecting your basement from water and any damage that could arise.

Basement Waterproofing Mistakes to Avoid

  • When your home was first constructed, the soil that was backfilled around your foundation is usually compacted, but still won’t be as dense as when it was dug up. Indiana’s clay soil makes it easy for oversaturation to occur due to its poor drainage. This can lead to hydrostatic pressure wreaking havoc in your basement. To keep this from happening and allow that soaked-up moisture to enter your foundation, it’s important to check the grade of your yard to ensure any water runoff flows away from your home and not towards it.
  • Some home repairs can be completed on your own, but basement waterproofing is not meant to be a DIY project. Many necessary steps need to be taken to ensure your home is properly waterproofed. If something is left out or not inspected thoroughly, your water problems will likely persist, causing more damage. It’s important to have a professional inspect the interior and exterior of your home so that your basement is adequately protected.
  • If you don’t maintain your gutter systems, chances are you’re still going to be experiencing moisture-related problems in your home. It’s vital to regularly check your gutters and downspouts for signs of damage including cracks or holes, separated joints, and clogs. By cleaning out your gutters and repairing any damage, you can feel confident in knowing your basement waterproofing measures are efficiently working.

Providing Expert Basement Waterproofing in Indiana

Pennsylvania trusts Indiana Foundation Service for reliable basement waterproofing, crawl space, foundation, and concrete repair services. Contact us for a free inspection!  

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Indianapolis, IN

624 North Front Street
Whiteland, IN 46184

Kokomo, IN

2731 Albright Rd
Kokomo, 46902

Lafayette, IN

8 N 3rd St
Lafayette, IN 47901