Q: Is it a good idea to paint a brick house?

• <div><p>In most cases, painting your brick house is a fine idea that can open up new aesthetic possibilities. However, the paint can slightly shorten the life span of brick, especially if moisture gets trapped underneath the paint layer. Once you paint, you&rsquo;ll have to keep up with maintenance to avoid flaking and blisters.</p></div>

Q: What kind of bricks do you need for a brick oven?

• <div><p>Use fire bricks for a brick pizza oven. These bricks are typically used for fireplaces and chimneys as they can withstand high temperatures from heat sources. If you attempt to use any other kind of bricks, it&rsquo;s likely that this material will crack from such high heat exposure in the best case&mdash;and potentially explode and cause serious harm in the worst case. </p></div>

Q: What is the difference between mortar and thinset?

• <div><p>Mortar and thinset both serve the same purpose&mdash;<a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/types-of-tile-adhesive.htm">tile adhesion</a>&mdash;but have different compositions and use-cases. Thinset is heatproof and presents a wide range of possibilities due to the added polymers. Mortar is typically used for bonding stones and brick. Thinset is rarely used outside, while mortar is rarely used inside. </p></div>

Q: What is the difference between stucco and mortar?

• <div><p>Mortar, or masonry mortar, is mainly used in joints and as parging for stone, brick, or cement construction. Stucco is primarily a surface material used as wall coverings. For maintenance, masonry will need repointing or replacing as damage or land shifting occurs, whereas stucco will need patching or refinishing as it tends to crack over time along with other types of wear-and-tear.</p></div>

Q: Can brick breathe through limewash?

• <div><p>Yes, brick can breathe through limewash. Limewash is a breathable coating made from natural lime and water, allowing moisture to pass through while providing a protective layer. Unlike synthetic paints or sealants, which can trap moisture within the brick and lead to issues like mold, limewash allows the brick to maintain its natural breathability. This characteristic makes limewash an ideal choice for historic structures where preserving the integrity of the brick is essential.</p></div>

American Waterworks

American Waterworks

Customers say: True professional

Recommended by 93% of Angi customers

1989 years of experience

When it comes to water in your basement or a faulty foundation, you need an expert to ensure the damage is reversed and prevented from occurring in the future. American Waterworks has several decades of experience in the basement waterproofing and foundation repair industries, and we know the best tools and techniques to see your home through its troubles. Our professional installers are experienced in solving the wide variety of problems that allow water into basements and other areas below ground level. We've helped property owners with thousands of repairs and other restorations to homes in Minnesota, North Dakota, northeastern Iowa and western Wisconsin. American Waterworks is ready to serve all of your basement, crawl space, foundation, concrete leveling and radon mitigation needs. Call us today for a free estimate!

"This job was completed efficiently and professionally. A design specialist came to test and measure every detail for the project. The crew arrived with everything needed for the job. They worked very hard to install Waterguard in the concrete floors inside around the foundation to the sump pump basket. They also installed Geo-lock anchors to support a block wall that was bowed. This company has 36 years in business and provides excellent results and professional customer relations. Call Amer. Wtrwrks for a free estimate. You will not be disappointed. A wise investment of $11,270."

Donna A on September 2025

When it comes to water in your basement or a faulty foundation, you need an expert to ensure the damage is reversed and prevented from occurring in the future. American Waterworks has several decades of experience in the basement waterproofing and foundation repair industries, and we know the best tools and techniques to see your home through its troubles. Our professional installers are experienced in solving the wide variety of problems that allow water into basements and other areas below ground level. We've helped property owners with thousands of repairs and other restorations to homes in Minnesota, North Dakota, northeastern Iowa and western Wisconsin. American Waterworks is ready to serve all of your basement, crawl space, foundation, concrete leveling and radon mitigation needs. Call us today for a free estimate!

"This job was completed efficiently and professionally. A design specialist came to test and measure every detail for the project. The crew arrived with everything needed for the job. They worked very hard to install Waterguard in the concrete floors inside around the foundation to the sump pump basket. They also installed Geo-lock anchors to support a block wall that was bowed. This company has 36 years in business and provides excellent results and professional customer relations. Call Amer. Wtrwrks for a free estimate. You will not be disappointed. A wise investment of $11,270."

Donna A on September 2025

Foundation Recovery Systems

Foundation Recovery Systems

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

1992 years of experience

Established in 1992, Foundation Recovery Systems stands as a trusted subsidiary of Groundworks, a distinguished family of companies renowned for delivering unparalleled solutions. From foundation repair, structural reinforcement, crawl space encapsulation, basement waterproofing, and concrete lifting, we provide comprehensive services tailored to meet your needs. With offices spanning across Kansas City, Moberly, Springfield, and St Louis, Des Moines, Peoria, Decatur & Moberly, we bring our expertise closer to you. FRS proudly holds accreditation from the Better Business Bureau, a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence. Drawing from decades of collective experience, extensive industry knowledge, and ongoing specialized training, our dedicated team is poised to safeguard your residential property against water damage, concrete sinking, and foundation instability. At Foundation Recovery Systems, we are not just builders; we are guardians of your peace of mind. Contact us today for a FREE estimate! C139366 (IA)

"Had a great inspection. Shaq was the fireman and fixed our concrete and looks great!"

Keri B on October 2024

Established in 1992, Foundation Recovery Systems stands as a trusted subsidiary of Groundworks, a distinguished family of companies renowned for delivering unparalleled solutions. From foundation repair, structural reinforcement, crawl space encapsulation, basement waterproofing, and concrete lifting, we provide comprehensive services tailored to meet your needs. With offices spanning across Kansas City, Moberly, Springfield, and St Louis, Des Moines, Peoria, Decatur & Moberly, we bring our expertise closer to you. FRS proudly holds accreditation from the Better Business Bureau, a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence. Drawing from decades of collective experience, extensive industry knowledge, and ongoing specialized training, our dedicated team is poised to safeguard your residential property against water damage, concrete sinking, and foundation instability. At Foundation Recovery Systems, we are not just builders; we are guardians of your peace of mind. Contact us today for a FREE estimate! C139366 (IA)

"Had a great inspection. Shaq was the fireman and fixed our concrete and looks great!"

Keri B on October 2024

Thrasher, Inc.

Thrasher, Inc.

Customers say: True professional

2014 years of experience

Free onsite estimate

With 50 years in the industry, Thrasher has helped homeowners preserve and improve the value of their homes using proven basement waterproofing and structural repair solutions. We understand that home repairs can be stressful. That’s why our team will guide you through every step, addressing all foundation concerns, water intrusion, and concrete issues with the utmost care and expertise. By choosing us, you’re partnering with a compassionate team that cares deeply about your home’s well-being and your family’s peace of mind. For more information on Thrasher or to schedule a free home inspection, please call us at 800.827.0702 or visit www.gothrasher.com.

"Prompt, efficient, good workmanship."

Jonathan F on December 2024

With 50 years in the industry, Thrasher has helped homeowners preserve and improve the value of their homes using proven basement waterproofing and structural repair solutions. We understand that home repairs can be stressful. That’s why our team will guide you through every step, addressing all foundation concerns, water intrusion, and concrete issues with the utmost care and expertise. By choosing us, you’re partnering with a compassionate team that cares deeply about your home’s well-being and your family’s peace of mind. For more information on Thrasher or to schedule a free home inspection, please call us at 800.827.0702 or visit www.gothrasher.com.

"Prompt, efficient, good workmanship."

Jonathan F on December 2024

All-Star Basements

All-Star Basements

Customers say: Terrific value

Recommended by 90% of Angi customers

2011 years of experience

All-Star Basements is based out of Rochester, Minnesota and covers Southern Minnesota including the Twin Cities area, Western Wisconsin and parts of Northeast Iowa. Our team is committed to solving our customers’ waterproofing, foundation repair, or crawl space needs and offering multiple solutions to choose from. As a proud member of the National Waterproof Members of America, we have the best products available to solve your leaky basement, seepage, or flooding issues. Our lineup also includes multiple crawl space solutions. If you have foundation problems that need any kind of repair, we can help! We feature the nationally renowned Grip-Tite Foundation Systems, which has a long history of fixing homeowners’ foundation repair issues. At All-Star Basements, we are committed to providing multiple solutions to choose from to help fix any basement problem you may have. We take great pride in caring for all of our customers’ needs, big or small - we do it all!

"Great costumer service! They were honest when giving us a consultation."

Allison J on December 2020

All-Star Basements is based out of Rochester, Minnesota and covers Southern Minnesota including the Twin Cities area, Western Wisconsin and parts of Northeast Iowa. Our team is committed to solving our customers’ waterproofing, foundation repair, or crawl space needs and offering multiple solutions to choose from. As a proud member of the National Waterproof Members of America, we have the best products available to solve your leaky basement, seepage, or flooding issues. Our lineup also includes multiple crawl space solutions. If you have foundation problems that need any kind of repair, we can help! We feature the nationally renowned Grip-Tite Foundation Systems, which has a long history of fixing homeowners’ foundation repair issues. At All-Star Basements, we are committed to providing multiple solutions to choose from to help fix any basement problem you may have. We take great pride in caring for all of our customers’ needs, big or small - we do it all!

"Great costumer service! They were honest when giving us a consultation."

Allison J on December 2020

Foundation Recovery Systems

Foundation Recovery Systems

Customers say: Quick response

1992 years of experience

Free onsite estimate

Foundation Recovery Systems (FRS), A Groundworks Company, specializes in helping homeowners with their foundation repair, basement waterproofing, crawl space encapsulation, and concrete needs. Our top priority is providing high-quality home repair solutions and personalized service throughout Missouri, Iowa, Illinois, and Kansas. With fully trained technicians, industry-leading products, and nationally backed warranties, FRS is here to restore your foundation or crawl space.

"Did a thorough job on installing and inspection."

MIKE K on November 2025

Foundation Recovery Systems (FRS), A Groundworks Company, specializes in helping homeowners with their foundation repair, basement waterproofing, crawl space encapsulation, and concrete needs. Our top priority is providing high-quality home repair solutions and personalized service throughout Missouri, Iowa, Illinois, and Kansas. With fully trained technicians, industry-leading products, and nationally backed warranties, FRS is here to restore your foundation or crawl space.

"Did a thorough job on installing and inspection."

MIKE K on November 2025

AccuLevel, Inc. - Iowa

AccuLevel, Inc. - Iowa

Customers say: Quality work

1996 years of experience

Free onsite estimate

Acculevel is your foundation repair expert, serving Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, Kentucky, and Ohio with over 20 years of experience. Our repairs come with a lifetime warranty. Acculevel begins by evaluating your entire foundation system, checking your property for the signs and causes of foundation failure. From foundation & crawlspace repair to waterproofing & encapsulation systems, Acculevel can help you protect your home-- the most valuable investment you'll ever make.

"I had a great experience with him. They are busy so takes a few weeks for work to be done."

Doug C on July 2023

Acculevel is your foundation repair expert, serving Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, Kentucky, and Ohio with over 20 years of experience. Our repairs come with a lifetime warranty. Acculevel begins by evaluating your entire foundation system, checking your property for the signs and causes of foundation failure. From foundation & crawlspace repair to waterproofing & encapsulation systems, Acculevel can help you protect your home-- the most valuable investment you'll ever make.

"I had a great experience with him. They are busy so takes a few weeks for work to be done."

Doug C on July 2023

Hawkeye Alliance, Inc.

Hawkeye Alliance, Inc.

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

2010 years of experience

Hawkeye Alliance, Inc., located in Mason City, IA, was founded and is owned by James Prince, a United States Army Veteran. Hawkeye Alliance, Inc., provides multiple construction services to home owners and businesses alike. Specializing in home remodeling, siding and window installation, new construction, concrete and complete roof replacements. Hawkeye Alliance, Inc., strives to provide an unmatched level of quality workmanship with highly competitive prices. Call us today to discuss your next project and ask for a free estimate!

"they did a good job , excellent clean up."

Harlan S on November 2015

Hawkeye Alliance, Inc., located in Mason City, IA, was founded and is owned by James Prince, a United States Army Veteran. Hawkeye Alliance, Inc., provides multiple construction services to home owners and businesses alike. Specializing in home remodeling, siding and window installation, new construction, concrete and complete roof replacements. Hawkeye Alliance, Inc., strives to provide an unmatched level of quality workmanship with highly competitive prices. Call us today to discuss your next project and ask for a free estimate!

"they did a good job , excellent clean up."

Harlan S on November 2015

Acculevel Inc

4.66(

181

)

Acculevel Inc

4.66(

181

)

Customers say: Super punctual

Recommended by 92% of Angi customers

Acculevel is your foundation repair expert, serving Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, and Ohio and been in business since 1996. Most of our repairs come with a life of the structure warranty. Acculevel begins by evaluating your entire foundation system, checking your property for the signs and causes of foundation failure. From foundation & crawlspace repair to waterproofing & encapsulation systems, Acculevel can help you protect your home-- possibly the most valuable investment you'll ever make. A dry home is a healthy home. Acculevel is committed to providing the most technologically advanced repairs to help keep your home dry and on a safe foundation. A strong foundation protects your home's structure, lowers utility bills and maintains the value of your property. Check our pictures for the signs & symptoms of foundation & water damage, and then call Acculevel for your free visual inspection. 1-866-669-3349

"STAY AWAY FROM THIS COMPANY. They took my 1st half deposit and then vanished. I have called multiple times. Spoke with someone once and they promised a call back. Never did. Emailed and no response. This was over 4 months ago. Nothing. They stole my money. Sales guy was John Mullikin. Here's their class-act response by chat. The best response I've had yet. "Conversation closed by Erika"."

Jeff N on September 2025

Acculevel is your foundation repair expert, serving Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, and Ohio and been in business since 1996. Most of our repairs come with a life of the structure warranty. Acculevel begins by evaluating your entire foundation system, checking your property for the signs and causes of foundation failure. From foundation & crawlspace repair to waterproofing & encapsulation systems, Acculevel can help you protect your home-- possibly the most valuable investment you'll ever make. A dry home is a healthy home. Acculevel is committed to providing the most technologically advanced repairs to help keep your home dry and on a safe foundation. A strong foundation protects your home's structure, lowers utility bills and maintains the value of your property. Check our pictures for the signs & symptoms of foundation & water damage, and then call Acculevel for your free visual inspection. 1-866-669-3349

"STAY AWAY FROM THIS COMPANY. They took my 1st half deposit and then vanished. I have called multiple times. Spoke with someone once and they promised a call back. Never did. Emailed and no response. This was over 4 months ago. Nothing. They stole my money. Sales guy was John Mullikin. Here's their class-act response by chat. The best response I've had yet. "Conversation closed by Erika"."

Jeff N on September 2025

Complete Basement Systems

4.68(

174

)

Complete Basement Systems

4.68(

174

)

Customers say: Super punctual

Recommended by 91% of Angi customers

Complete Basement Systems is a family owned & operated business with approximately 35 employees. Since 1991 we have been part of the Basement Systems dealer network and have thousands of warrantied customers. No subs. We offer Free Estimates. Cost is determined by the job. No travel charges. Service area includes entire Twin Cities Metro Area and Southern Minnesota. License: #BC143377. Financing available. Ask about Angie's List discount. Award winning service provider. Contact us at 1-800-638-5285

"The installation went well. They responded quickly to me and were very communicative. I just think that it was a bit over priced. I paid it because I had no other option at the time"

Fernando D on April 2020

Complete Basement Systems is a family owned & operated business with approximately 35 employees. Since 1991 we have been part of the Basement Systems dealer network and have thousands of warrantied customers. No subs. We offer Free Estimates. Cost is determined by the job. No travel charges. Service area includes entire Twin Cities Metro Area and Southern Minnesota. License: #BC143377. Financing available. Ask about Angie's List discount. Award winning service provider. Contact us at 1-800-638-5285

"The installation went well. They responded quickly to me and were very communicative. I just think that it was a bit over priced. I paid it because I had no other option at the time"

Fernando D on April 2020