Basement waterproofing and crawl space repair in IA

Howard Tatge, Owner of MidAmerica Basement Systems, Helper and Hero

Wed, April 4 2012, 00:00:00 -500

Stories of folks helping out those in need never grow old. We all love hearing about people who go the extra mile and make the extra effort to assist others in the community. Howard Tatge, the owner and general manager of MidAmerica Basement Systems, basement waterproofing specialists in the area, is at the center of such a story.

Recently, Howard was asked by a friend and fellow contractor if he could use the company’s air compressor and jack hammer. When Howard asked why, his friend told him about the situation of his wife’s sister and her son. Some time ago, the young man was in a horrific auto accident; with severe injuries to his back and neck, he became a quadriplegic. He’s on the road to recovery but naturally there’s much to deal with. After a stay at Children’s Hospital, he returned home and is now using a wheel chair quite well. Howard’s friend asked to borrow the equipment so he could make the home handicap accessible. Howard offered his personal services as well as the company’s dump truck, compressor, jack hammer, and the shop foreman, too! They removed the house’s front stoop and sidewalk, and hauled away the debris. Then they poured a new concrete ramp which made the house accessible for the young man.

The appreciation of the family is revealed in the heartfelt handwritten note of thanks for “the donation of muscle and truck” and where Howard is called an “unexpected blessing.” The ramp is working out just great and the family is doing well, the note goes on to say.

Brief yet revealing, this simple story reflects the commitment to community that Howard Tatge adheres to as a long-time business owner in the local area. Isn’t it nice to know he can be counted on for that, and so much more!

Mid America Basement Systems is a basement contractor in Marion, IA. Visit them online for a free basement waterproofing estimate in Cedar Rapids, Peoria, Davenport, Bloomington, Waterloo, Iowa City, and other surrounding areas.

MidAmerica Basement Systems Meets HGTV Personality

Wed, April 4 2012, 00:00:00 -500

In early March MidAmerica Basement Systems attended the Western Illinois Builders Association Home Show in Galesburg to showcase our entire line of basement waterproofing products and services. The best part of attending these shows is the opportunity to chat with our current and potential customers about their basement problems and to explain how we can help.

But we made a little news ourselves this time. Two of our system design team members, Mark Kurtz and Ed Mueller, had the chance to be photographed with Brandie Malay from HGTV. A familiar TV personality, Brandie Malay hosts HGTV’s “Hidden Potential” and is the real estate expert on the Chicago edition of “Designed to Sell.”

It was during the Saturday session that Ms. Malay made her appearance; it was terrific promotion for the home show and brought out many interested fans. She gave a slide presentation, sharing her expertise on home staging and tips about selling a house -- valuable information for both homeowners and realtors. She also signed autographs.

Malay was a last-minute addition, and show officials engaged in some hurry-up preparations that happily resulted in allowing Malay to be present. She has appeared on the “Today Show” and other network programs.

So the 35th Annual Home Show was a great success -- for everyone involved!

Mid America Basement Systems specializes in basement repair in Iowa and Illinois. Visit them online for a free basement waterproofing estimate.

Foundation Repair Experts in Iowa

Wed, January 4 2012, 00:00:00 -500

Common causes of foundation damage

Some houses are built on crawl space foundations. Other houses have basement foundations or slab foundations. Many houses feature more than one type of foundation. No matter what combination of foundation types are found in a particular house, it’s important for homeowners to be on the lookout for foundation damage that requires the expertise of a foundation repair contractor.

Foundation damage is much more common than many people think. Telltale signs include doors and windows that are difficult to operate, cracks in walls or slabs that recur after patching repairs are made, and walls or slabs that have shifted or tilted from their original positions.

The building boom is a contributing factor in Iowa foundation repair.

For at least two decades beginning in the mid-1980s, many parts of the country experienced a building boom –including certain parts of Iowa. Responding to the high demand for new homes, builders and developers acquired land and erected houses at a staggering pace. Strong development pressure in many areas had an unfortunate result: Some new homes were built on weak or unstable soil. When this happens, the weight of the completed structure exceeds the soil’s load-bearing capability, and soil compaction or settlement occurs. This in turn causes parts of a foundation to crack, tilt and settle.

Drainage problems and trees can damage older foundations.

Older houses that have had solid, stable foundations for many years can sustain “sudden” foundation damage. However, such damage usually occurs gradually rather than suddenly. For example, a downspout that deposits roof runoff close to a foundation wall will eventually cause enough soil erosion or hydrostatic pressure to create foundation settlement or cracking. A tree located close to the house will have no impact on the foundation when it’s small. But as the tree grows its root system dries out the soil, causing soil shrinkage and settlement. Tree roots can also work their way into joints in a stone foundation, causing leaks and weakened foundation walls.

Extreme weather puts foundations under pressure.

The link between foundation damage and global climate change has to do with the moisture content of the soil. Heavy rain storms can saturate the soil and increase the pressure on foundation walls. Small cracks in a foundation wall become larger, and the amount of water leaking into a basement increases. Problems also occur during prolonged dry periods. If the soil around a foundation has a high clay content, dry weather will cause this soil to shrink and crack. Soil settlement can occur, increasing the likelihood of foundation damage. And when the rain eventually comes, deep cracks can increase water penetration and pressure against the foundation.

Expert Iowa foundation repair can solve foundation problems

Foundation damage affects the overall structural integrity of a building, impacting safety as well as property value. If you notice a crack or even a small degree of displacement or shifting in a slab or foundation wall, your best bet is to contact a foundation repair specialist in Iowa. A locally based foundation repair contractor will be familiar with foundation problems in your area. Correcting these problems sooner rather than later will save you money and help to preserve your home’s value and safety.

MidAmerica Basement Systems is your local foundation repair contractor in Iowa. They are proud to serve customers with a wide range of services including basement waterproofing, crawl space repair, foundation repair, sump pump installation, egress window installation, and mold remediation. MidAmerica Basement Systems provides these services to customers in Iowa and Illinois including Waterloo, Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, Monmouth, Peoria, and the surrounding areas. Contact them today for more information or a free estimate.

Basement Waterproofing Experts in Iowa

Wed, January 4 2012, 00:00:00 -500

Choosing a basement waterproofing contractor in Iowa

There’s no need to panic if you have a water problem in your basement. This is a condition that’s very common, whether the house is new or old, and whether the foundation walls are made from poured concrete, concrete block, brick or stone. The big question about a wet basement is what to do about it.

Basement waterproofing preserves property value

Even if the basement space sees little or no use, it’s important to deal with basement water problems. A house that regularly has a wet basement can be difficult or even impossible to sell. Homeowners are required to disclose problems such as water in the basement, and a building inspection is certain to identify a leaky basement. When this happens, potential buyers are likely to simply look for another house, or require that waterproofing work be done prior to purchasing the home. Banks are also hesitant to provide a mortgage when a house has water in the basement.

By having professional basement waterproofing done on your house, you’re eliminating these barriers to a successful home sale. An effective basement waterproofing system can even enhance home value, in the same way that new roofing or new windows do.

Controlling basement moisture helps eliminate mold problems

Even if you don’t plan to put your house on the market, it’s important to waterproof the basement so that mold problems won’t develop. The high humidity in a wet basement encourages the growth of mold on wood, paper, cloth, fiberglass insulation and other materials. Mold can lead to wood rot that threatens a building’s structural integrity. But more immediately, mold will release microscopic spores into the air that can trigger severe allergic reactions and respiratory ailments. Since it’s easy for mold spores to move upstairs into the living space, drying out the basement becomes an important health and wellness priority.

For best results, choose a full-service basement waterproofing contractor

Many local contractors offer basement waterproofing as part of their home repair and home improvement services. It can be difficult to figure out which contractor to choose. To narrow down the field and increase your chances of getting the most for your money, look for a full-service basement waterproofing contractor.

A full-service basement waterproofing contractor will have access to the most advanced products and techniques for turning a wet basement into a dry one. These products should include an effective drainage system and a range of heavy-duty sump pumps designed for different conditions, such as high pumping requirements and power outages.

If water is coming into your basement because of cracks or structural damage to your foundation, a full-service basement waterproofing contractor will be able to diagnose and permanently repair such damage; you shouldn’t have to bring in another professional.

Ask about other products: dehumidifiers, insulation & egress windows

When selecting a basement waterproofing contractor, it’s also smart to ask about other products, such as dehumidifiers, basement insulation and basement egress windows. A dehumidifier is often recommended even after successful waterproofing, to maintain a steady state of lower humidity in the basement. Basement insulation is an option to consider if you want to improve your home’s energy efficiency or if you’d like your basement space to be more comfortable. Consider having an egress window installed if you plan to turn some or your entire basement into additional living space.

MidAmerica Basement Systems has been drying wet basements since 1990 and continues to dry basements in areas of Iowa and Illinois. They provide basement waterproofing in Iowa, crawl space repair, foundation repair, sump pump installation, egress window installation, and mold remediation. MidAmerica Basement Systems offers these services to customers in Iowa and Illinois including Waterloo, Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, Monmouth, Peoria, and the surrounding areas. Contact them today for more information or a free estimate.

MidAmerica Basement Systems Sponsors Holiday Hat Bash to Benefit Local Seniors

Mon, December 12 2011, 00:00:00 -500

Davenport, IA – MidAmerica Basement Systems recently sponsored the 3^rd Annual Party with a Purpose Holiday Hat Bash.

The Holiday Hat Bash is an event paired with CASI, the Center for Active Seniors Inc., to benefit the “Be a Santa to a Senior” program. This program raises money to provide holiday gifts and care for quad cities seniors. The event included appetizers, wine and beer, a raffle, wine pull, and a hat contest

The main event, the hat contest, consisted of a “hat parade” in which the participants show off their hats to the crowd. A panel of judges will decide the winner of the “Best Hat 2011” Trophy as well as “Date Night” gift package.

MidAmerica Basement Systems specializes in basement waterproofing, crawl space repair and foundation repair in Iowa. MidAmerica Basement Systems provides free basement waterproofing estimates to parts of Illinois, Iowa and Wisconsin.

MidAmerica Basement Systems Receives Award at International Convention in Connecticut

Wed, September 28 2011, 00:00:00 -500

Davenport, IA – MidAmerica Basement Systems was recently honored at a meeting of over 600 guests from all over the United States and Canada at this year’s Team Basement Systems Convention. The annual convention is held each year between Seymour, Connecticut, (where the Basement Systems headquarters is located) and Hartford, Connecticut, and brings together dealerships of the international network for classes, seminars, training, parties and networking.

This year MidAmerica Basement Systems received three awards at the Team Basement Systems International Convention. MidAmerica Basement Systems ranked in the top 25 for both Basement Systems Dealers and Foundation Supportworks Dealers as well as one of the Top 5 Foundation Supportworks Power Brace Dealers in the United States and Canada.

The convention featured guest speakers Krish Duhnam (of the Zig Ziglar corporation), and the “Pit bull of Personal Development” Larry Winget. A sports-themed party at the Connecticut Convention Center ended the convention week with music, food and performances by the Harlem Wizards and the New England Patriots Cheerleaders.

MidAmerica Basement Systems is a certified Basement Systems dealer specializing in basement waterproofing, foundation crack repair, crawl space repair and offers expert crawl space encapsulation in Clinton and throughout nearby areas. MidAmerica Basement Systems has been servicing eastern Iowa and Western Illinois homes since 1990.

Basement Systems is an international network of basement waterproofing, crawl space repair and basement finishing contractors. The international headquarters, based in Seymour, Connecticut, also provides sales and service throughout Connecticut and Westchester County, NY. Larry Janesky's Basement Systems has been helping homeowners increase their usable living space for over 20 years across the United States, Canada, Ireland and the United Kingdom. They have 27 patented basement and crawl space products, designed to help homeowners get more out of their basements and increase their home's value.

MidAmerica Basement Systems to Host Free Foundation Class For Iowa Design Professionals

Fri, July 8 2011, 00:00:00 -500

Davenport, IA - MidAmerica Basement Systems™ is offering a free class to local design professionals on July 26, 2011. The class will take place on location at 4525 Buckeye Street in Davenport, IA. The class will run from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. but the doors are open as early as 8:00. A free lunch will be provided.

This class will be geared towards providing design professionals with an introduction to Helical Foundation Systems, Helical Soil Nails and Push Piers. Attendees of this exclusive class will also receive valuable Professional Development Hours (PDH).

There is limited space and seating available so act now to reserve your seat at this exclusive class. Registration closes July 19th so don't hesitate to contact MidAmerica Basement Systems today.

This free class is valued at $500 and is worth 5 PDH credits. You won't have to pay a penny of that $500, while still earning the 5 PDH credits.

Jeff Kortan, P.E. will be leading this five-hour class. He is the director of engineering for the renowned Foundation Supportworks network. He has had vast experience in his field as a geotechnical engineer; performing product designs, preliminary design applications, product verification testing, project consulting, sales, installation, market training, and education based material development and presenting.

In this class he will help to expand your knowledge of helical foundation systems, helical soil nails, push pier systems, typical applications, capacity calculations, load testing, design considerations, and verification of capacity.

About MidAmerica Basement Systems

MidAmerica Basement Systems is a reputable Foundation Supportworks dealer, even after having begun as just a basement waterproofing company. Their continual growth over the years has also seen them to expand into the basement finishing, energy saving, and radon mitigation fields. Contact MidAmerica Basement Systems today with your questions regarding this exclusive class, or foundation repair in Iowa. MidAmerica Basement Systems is your reputable expert for basement waterproofing in Iowa.

Effective Drainage System Methods

Fri, June 10 2011, 03:33:12 -500

There are basement waterproofing experts who have solved the issues of dampness, wetness and moisture problems for thousands of homeowners. Where there are many companies claiming to be the best, it's important to research your chosen company's credentials.

After much consideration, there are three very effective drainage systems available.

Sub-floor Basement Drainage System

Many homeowners have had issues or are currently suffering from issues of water leaking into their basements. For many years, waterproofing contractors have tried numerous methods to correct and solve the problem, but these methods have fallen short or not worked. A majority of the time drainage pipes are placed in the soil and with time they tend to become clogged with dirt and debris. Once the drainage pipes become clogged the end result is wetness, dampness or flooding in your basement. But now, there is help with a sub-floor drainage system.

This system is specifically engineered to solve all your water problems or issues with flooding without clogging. This is achieved through a special wall flange. This system creates a neat and very effective space between the wall and the floor to properly and correctly drain away seepage, thus preventing clogging, and stopping dirt and debris from entering your basement.

Surface Drainage System

Water is a very, very sneaky element for homeowners because it can quickly enter your home and cause thousands in damages. Most homeowners are often left in the dark, and are unaware that water or moisture has invaded their space. Common signs that water has entered your crawl space are: stains found at the bottom of a staircase, or water seeping underneath the garage door or through a standard door. The best and most effective way to keep water from seeping in through your garage door and down the hatchway steps, is to use a surface drainage system.

This system is uniquely designed to redirect water or seepage into the sub-floor drainage system.

Basement Water Control System

There is only one solution for monolithic foundations. This means the floor and footing are poured as one piece and the walls of your crawl space are sitting directly on your concrete floor. A basement water control system is the perfect solution when removing the floor in your crawl space is NOT an option. The system is designed to remove water or seepage from the wall or floor joint and redirect the seepage to a sump pump.

Solution

The best and most effective way to protect your home from moisture is to contact a certified crawl space contractor. A certified contractor will complete an on-site inspection, provide a professional consultation, a free estimate and recommend the best and most cost efficient way to solve the problem. This expert will also discuss your options and give you plenty of time to make the best decision based on your specific needs.

At MidAmerica Basement Systems, you'll find patented basement waterproofing products such as Waterguard® DryTrak® and TrenchDrains! Contact them today for a free estimate for basement waterproofing in Illinois.

Controlling Crawl Space Moisture

Fri, June 10 2011, 00:00:00 -500

It's very important to invest in preventative measures against crawl space water damage and in above ground living levels.

Regardless if your crawl space is dirt, vented, or unconditioned, these lower levels of homes tend to suffer the most due to the many changes in weather and the high temperatures and humidity levels.

Humidity easily travels through your crawlspace and upwards into your above ground living levels, making the space damp where mold can grow.

Damp or wet environments are perfect for insects and animals, but this space underneath your home can be extremely unhealthy and destructive. Mold grows, spreads and thrives under these conditions. Decay or dry rot from damp, wet conditions can cause structural weakening or damage to the organic building materials; the same materials your home is constructed of.

There are three main sources that have been known to destroy organic materials: heat, ultra-violet radiation and water. Organic materials include wood, carpeting, paper, and other materials that were once living. Of these destructive elements, water is the only element we have the ability to control. A waterproofing expert can help keep water out, keep your crawl space dry and create a healthy environment.

Vapor Barrier Installation

Once moisture, water and high levels of humidity have been removed from the space, it is time to address the problem. In the case where homes are affected by damp or wet conditions, the first step to solving the problem is to install a vapor barrier.

A vapor barrier is designed to block out water in liquid or vapor form through the concrete walls or floor, as well as block the passage of water in or out of the space with a layer of plastic sheeting.

Selecting a Dehumidifier

Most dehumidifiers are inefficient and are not powerful enough to dehumidify your entire crawl space. Most have issues with weak motors and their collection trays are insufficient and constantly need to be emptied on a daily basis. On an average, these systems remove 30-40 pints of water per day, in the event the air is wet and needs to circulate to be dried.

There is one that can actually remove 110 pints of water per day, is very powerful, and strong enough to blow air into your entire finished basement space. This is called the SaniDry.

For crawl spaces and basements with low ceilings, the SaniDry CSB is the perfect option. This unit allows you to control the humidity level removing 90 pints of water per day from the air and it is also self-draining, a plus for any homeowner.

Solution

The best and most effective way to protect your home from moisture is to contact a certified crawl space contractor. A certified contractor will complete an on-site inspection, provide a professional consultation, provide a free estimate and recommend the best and most cost efficient way to solve the problem. This expert will also discuss your options and give you plenty of time to make the best decision to remove moisture from your crawl space.

At MidAmerica Basement Systems, you'll find patented basement waterproofing products! Contact them today for a free estimate for crawl space repair in Peoria!

Iowa Basement Company Moves Into Improved and Energy Efficient Headquarters

Wed, February 23 2011, 00:00:00 -500

Davenport, IA - MidAmerica Basement Systems has experienced for themselves the joy of a newly remodeled space, having just moved into a freshly renovated and energy efficient headquarters spanning 5,000 sq/ft for offices and 15,000 sq/ft for the warehouse.

The warehouse is strategically divided to store materials as well as trucks and equipment. In order to save on energy, the area for storing materials is kept at a temperature of 60 degrees while the other portion of the warehouse is maintained at a crisp 45 degrees. Pallet racking was also utilized to make the most of the available space.

Office space is no longer at a minimum for MidAmerica. The owner now has a larger and fully equipped office, while the bookkeeper and sales manager now have their own offices. The space for the sales staff and phone center has also expanded, while the training room now seats 31 people. In addition, the training room and conference room each have overhead mounted projectors and screens, both rooms also have dry erase boards that cover the entire front wall of the rooms. To save energy, these areas are kept at 68 degrees during the day, and lowered to 55 degrees between 7 p.m. and 4 a.m.

In addition to these upgrades, there have been a couple of other energy efficient changes. A new replacement furnace is 95 percent energy efficient and new energy efficient windows have been installed.

Contact MidAmerica today-- a locally owned basement, crawl space and foundation expert with more than 20 years of experience and is a member of Basement Systems and Foundation Supportworks. Contact them for help with basement waterproofing, crawl space repair and foundation repair in Bloomington, IL and all surrounding areas, including Dubuque, Cedar Rapids, Moline, Peoria and cities throughout Illinois and Iowa.

Iowa Basement Systems Dealer Places In Year's Top Basement Systems Dealers

Fri, September 3 2010, 00:00:00 -500

Davenport, IA - MidAmerica Basement Systems, a local basement environment expert, is now the number eight dealer in the Basement Systems, Inc. international network of nearly 300 dealers worldwide. They were acknowledged at the network's annual convention held August 18-20, 2010 in Connecticut.

The 2010 Basement Systems Convention included all-day training on Wednesday and Friday at the headquarters in Seymour, Conn. There was an award ceremony held at the Bushnell Theater in Hartford, Conn. on Thursday evening where all those in attendance heard from guest speaker, Liz Murray who is the face to the Lifetime Emmy nominated movie, "Homeless to Harvard: The Liz Murray Story".

MidAmerica is a locally owned basement and crawl space specialist that has been in business since the spring of 1990. They joined the Basement Systems to bring the network's global resources to the local Iowa residents.

They are also a member of the Foundation Supportworks, Inc. network that focuses on repairing foundations and improving crawl space supports.

Howard Tatge is the owner and general manager of MidAmerica. His experience spans an entire career in the repair industry. This is truly a family gene since his father had worked his whole career in the construction business.

The Basement Systems, Inc. network is an international network of the world's finest basement waterproofing experts. The network is an industry leader with 300 contractors that specialize in basement and crawl space waterproofing, 25 patented products, and 22 quality and innovative prizes.

For basement waterproofing in Des Moines contact MidAmerica today, at 1-800-378-2039. They're highly trained and certified basement environment experts ready and willing to serve you.

Foundation Repair in Cedar Rapids, IA and Peoria, IL

Mon, September 21 2009, 00:00:00 -500

- *** Published in Merchant Circle Blog for Mid America. ***-

MidAmerica Basement Systems is the Foundation Support Works (FSI) Dealer in Eastern Iowa and Western Illinois including Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, Waterloo, Dubuque, Cedar Falls, Marion, Marshalltown, Burlington, and Muscatine in Iowa, and Peoria, Bloomington, Normal, Moline, Rock Island, Galesburg, East Peoriain Illinois.

We are the Foundation Repair Contractor in the network and use FSI's products for foundation repair services.

We install foundation wall anchors for bowing or buckling foundation walls, foundation piers for foundation settlement.
If you are interested in foundation repair estimate, we offer FREE Estimate!

For more information, please visit our website http://www.midamericabasementsystems.com/ or call us at 1- 800-638-7048.

Get ready for Spring

Fri, March 6 2009, 00:00:00 -500

Spring will be here again before you know it, and you'll need to get your house ready for warmer temperatures, melting snow and lots of rain! After a season of cold, snow and being closed off from the elements, everything in a house can be affected from the air quality to the windows and roof. Go through your house now and see what needs fixing and maintenance before the warm weather gets here.

Exterior Spring Preparations

One of the first things you can do to prepare for spring rain and melting winter snow is cleaning out the gutters and downspouts. If they are clean then the water can pass through them properly and away from your home. Clogged gutters can cause water to fall off close to your house and into the soil surrounding your foundation. This water can end up flooding your basement. A downspout is only as good as its distance from your house. Getting a downspout extension can flow the draining water away from your foundation.

Making sure to waterproof your basement can also avoid a costly and troublesome mess. If the weather gets warm and snow melts too quickly it may result in flooding, which can end with water seeping through the loose soil around your foundation and straight into your basement.

You should also check over your deck once winter starts to fade. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution writes that winter can cause decks and railings to crack or split and should be replaced in the spring with new wood. You can also apply a wood protecting finish to the wood to prepare it for rain.

Interior Spring Preparations

Nothing says spring like a vigorous cleaning! Spring cleaning has become a tradition of its own allowing people to clean away the layers of dust and dirt left from a winter of being closed off. Throwing open the windows and allowing fresh air into the house will not only feel better but help clear out allergens and dust.

Keeping on the topic of indoor air quality, changing the filters in your air conditioner is a must. Also, have a certified and licensed air conditioning technician inspect your system before you start using it. Finding a problem early means it can be fixed early so you're not stuck in a heat wave waiting for the technician to have a free moment to swing by.

These are just some of the many steps you can take to get your house ready for spring. For help with some of your spring home preparations, give us a call or contact us online for a free quote!