Low Ground, High Water: What’s Up with Your Basement? `
In Des Moines, basements are great for storage, storm shelters, or a cozy hangout spot—until they start doubling as indoor swimming pools.
Between spring downpours, melting snow, and the occasional surprise summer storm, it’s no wonder water damage is a top concern for local homeowners. Mix in Des Moines’ urban sprawl, charming historic homes, and clay-rich soil, and you’ve got the perfect setup for water to sneak into places it shouldn’t.
This guide breaks down why basement flooding happens so often in Des Moines and what you can do to stop it before it soaks your weekend plans.
The Real Reasons Your Basement’s Going Under
The Heart of Iowa is full of beautiful neighborhoods, tree-lined streets, and...a surprising number of soggy basements. From Beaverdale to South of Grand, many homeowners have asked the same question: why is this happening?
The truth is, basement flooding in Des Moines isn’t caused by one single issue. It’s usually a combo deal. Our weather, soil, and aging homes all play a part.
Below are some of the biggest culprits behind lower-level flooding in our area.
Heavy Rainfall & Snowmelt
Spring storms roll in, dropping inches of rain in short bursts. In winter, snow can linger, then rapidly melt with a sudden warm-up. The result? A whole lot of water is looking for somewhere to go. And often, it chooses your basement.
High Water Table & Poor Drainage
Thanks to our Midwestern location, the water table in Des Moines can sit relatively high, especially in areas like Merle Hay or Waveland Park. When that’s combined with clay-heavy soil that drains slowly, water tends to pool right around your foundation—just waiting for a way in.
Aging Infrastructure
There’s no shortage of character-filled, older homes in neighborhoods like Sherman Hill or Drake Park. But with age comes outdated waterproofing and cracked foundations. These vintage beauties are more likely to spring a leak during a big storm.
Sump Pump Failures
A sump pump plays a critical role in keeping your basement dry—until it fails. Power outages, clogged intakes, or mechanical failures during a storm can leave your basement unprotected and quickly underwater.
Sewer Backups
Des Moines’ sewer systems can get overwhelmed during major rain events. When that happens, sewage can back up through your floor drains or toilets, causing flooding and serious contamination.
No matter which factor is to blame, the outcome is the same: a wet basement, a major headache, and costly repairs. Understanding basement water issues in your home is the first step to stopping it.
Clues Your Basement’s at Risk for Flooding
Wondering if your basement is vulnerable?
Look out for these red flags:
- Water stains on the basement walls or floors
- Musty odors or persistent dampness
- Cracks in foundation walls or floors
- Peeling paint or efflorescence (those chalky white mineral streaks)
- Mold growth in corners or along baseboards
- Pooling water outside near your foundation after a rainstorm
If any of these sound familiar, it’s time to take action.
How to Keep Your Basement Bone-Dry
You don’t need to wait for a foot of water to take basement protection seriously.
This is what we recommend:
Maintain Your Gutters and Downspouts
Clogged gutters can lead to water spillover. Make sure gutters are clear and that downspouts extend at least 6 feet away from your foundation.
Install a Sump Pump with Backup Power
A battery backup system is a lifesaver when the power goes out during a storm. It ensures your sump pump keeps running when you need it most.
Seal Foundation Cracks
Small cracks can lead to big problems. Use a high-quality waterproof sealant or call in a pro to patch things up.
Improve Yard Drainage
Sloped landscaping, French drains, and dry wells can redirect water away from your home and save your basement from unnecessary stress.
Install a Backwater Valve
This handy device keeps sewer water out of your basement and where it belongs during heavy rains.
Check Your Window Wells
These are often overlooked. Make sure they’re properly covered and drained to avoid surprise water entry points.
Taking preventative steps now can save you from the stress of soggy carpets, warped walls, and musty smells later. Outsmart basement flooding and protect your home from the ground up.
The Moldy Aftermath
Mold doesn’t waste time. It can start growing in as little as 24 to 48 hours after a flood. And it loves a damp basement.
Not only does mold damage your property, but it can also mess with your health, especially if you’ve got allergies or respiratory issues.
That’s why drying out a flooded basement quickly is so important. Ventilation, fans, and dehumidifiers help, but a professional service is often the safest (and fastest) route to mold prevention.
Your Basement Backup Team in Des Moines
When your basement floods, it’s a race against time. ServiceMaster by Rice in Des Moines helps homeowners across the metro area recover quickly, with a trusted mix of expertise, speed, and transparency. From Clive to Capitol View, our team is ready to respond the moment water starts rising.
Our water damage restoration services include rapid water extraction, structural drying, and precise moisture detection. No guesswork or waiting around. If mold has already started to grow, our certified technicians can identify and safely remove it without spreading spores to other areas of your home.
And because disasters don’t wait for office hours, we offer 24/7 emergency response across Des Moines, from East Village to the western suburbs. Using high-powered pumps, infrared technology, and industry-leading techniques, we make sure your basement is dry.
When a wet basement turns your home upside down, we’re the team you can count on to turn things around.
Don’t Let a Drip Turn Into a Disaster—Protect Your Home Today
Basement flooding in Des Moines is a problem you can prepare for. With the right maintenance and expert backup, you can save yourself stress, money, and the smell of musty carpet.
If your basement is showing signs of trouble, reach out to ServiceMaster by Rice in Des Moines, IA. Whether you’re in Highland Park or near Gray’s Lake, we’re here to help you protect what matters most.
Contact us today to schedule a professional assessment or emergency water damage restoration.
