Foundation Movement Affects Kansas City Homeowners at an Alarming Rate

Homeowners in Kansas and Missouri experience foundation problems at an extreme rate.

According to data from Google Trends, a service that tracks internet search volume over the past several years, Kansas City is among the most active metropolitan areas for “foundation repair” and “basement waterproofing” related search queries in the United States.

Soil is a big deal in Kansas and it’s the primary factor contributing to the state’s proud agricultural history.

According to the USDA, soil is Kansas’ most valuable resource, accounting for nearly $8.7 billion to the local economy each year.

Harney silt loam, a nutrient-rich soil ideal for agriculture is recognized as the official state soil.

What Causes Foundation Problems to Occur in Kansas & Missouri?

Unfortunately, the soil conditions in Kansas City aren’t ideal for everyone. The expansive clay soils that are commonly found in the area can cause foundation problems, resulting in headaches for homeowners.

Expansive clay soils contain a high ratio of smectite clays which absorb water like a sponge. As the soil absorbs water it will begin to expand, sometimes increasing its size by as much as 10%! This can cause the earth underneath the foundation to shift.

Conversely, the soils can shrink when they dry out, eroding and leading to structural weakness. Ultimately, the constant contraction and expansion of the soils underneath the home lead to foundation problems.

Signs of Basement Foundation Damage in Kansas City

Aside from a small number of homes built in the 1950’s, most of the foundation types found in Kansas City homes are basement foundations. Basements are vulnerable to a variety of different structural issues caused by hydrostatic pressure excreted on basement walls. As the pressure builds, walls may become damaged.

Drainage problems also contribute to wet basements, leaks, strange odors and mold. To prevent this, it’s important to keep intrusive water away from the foundation. Exterior basement waterproofing and drainage systems are designed to accomplish this. Interior basement waterproofing is also effective and helps manage water away from the foundation after it enters the basement.

Due to a phenomenon known as the “stack effect”, the air found inside your basement or crawl space makes its way up into the living areas of your home. This results in strange odors, uncomfortable humidity and allergens.

Water, structural, and air quality problems that originate in the basement, crawl space or pier and beam foundation area have a tendency to get worse over time. Left untreated, these factors often begin to affect the rest of your home.

Here are a few of the common signs you may have a foundation problem:

• Water intrusion under & over the footer
• Sub-surface water
• Wall water intrusion from cracks and mortar joints
• Bleeding and sweating vents
• Excess moisture, humidity and odor
• Sagging crawl space floors
• Bowed or tilted basement walls
• Basement wall cracks

Olshan Offers Solutions for all Foundation Types – Slab, Basement and Crawl Space

What is the Cost of Basement Foundation Repair and Waterproofing in Missouri & Kansas?

The cost of basement or crawl space repair in Kansas City depends on the size of the structure, extent of the damage and the goals of the homeowner. Minor basement leaks can be stopped with drainage repairs performed on the interior or exterior of the home.

Bigger structural repairs, like pilings, crawl space support posts and wall anchors are more complex and often cost a bit more.

Some homeowners may opt for air quality solutions like crawl space encapsulation, a repair that protects against moisture, mitigates mold and can help increase the resale value of a home.

There’s also exterior basement wall waterproofing, a repair method that leaves the inside of a finished basement untouched reduces hydrostatic pressure, and shields against leaks.

Here are some more details on the average cost of foundation repair and concrete repair in the Kansas City area from our jobs to date in 2024.

The team at Olshan in Kansas City has seen an Overall Average Foundation Repair Service cost in the neighborhood of $5,356 so far in 2024.

*All of the averages given above are based on booked work but are the average for the DFW area. These numbers are not an exact quote and should not be construed as such, they are provided for information purposes only. Call our foundation repair experts for an exact quote.

At Olshan, we understand that no two homes are alike. That’s why our experts thoroughly investigate the problems your home is experiencing before developing a repair plan unique to your home.

We refer to this comprehensive, investigative process as our Healthy Home Approach. To receive a free and accurate cost analysis, simply schedule a free, no-obligation assessment now.

Full Services

Foundation RepairBasement WaterproofingExterior Water ManagementCrawl Space RecoveryWall RepairCommercial Services

• Available Lifetime Warranty
  We stand by our work. Select repairs are backed by an Available Lifetime Warranty and hassle-free maintenance programs. We’re available well after the job is done to help make sure your systems maintain peak performance.
• Patented Technology
  Our exclusive Cable Lock™ ST Plus System is the leading foundation repair system available anywhere. It offers significant improvements in quality of installation, cost efficiency and long term reliability.
• Certified Structural Technicians
  All foundation assessments are performed by Certified Structural Technicians. Since no two homes are alike, our Technicians carefully investigate the problems affecting your home to identify the best possible solution for your home and budget.
• Free Estimates
  Olshan provides FREE – NO OBLIGATION – ESTIMATES and structural damage assessments by trained structural technicians.
• Over 90 Years of Service
  We measure our experience by generations; Since 1933 our reputation for integrity, honesty, and quality craftsmanship have set the standard in home structural repair services.

Leaky Basement? Cracks in Walls? We’ve Got Your Back

Our friendly team of foundation repair experts is always looking out for your best interests. All of our employees are upfront and forthcoming about ALL repair costs before you’re expected to make any decisions.

If any unforeseen problems arise during your foundation repair, you’ll be the first to know. We know you want your home repaired and back to normal as soon as possible so when we give you a deadline, we stick to it. To get started, fill out the quick contact form and we’ll be in touch.

Popular Foundation Services in Kansas City, MO include:

Read Ashley K.‘s review of Olshan Foundation Repair on Yelp