Basement Wall Crack Repair: What Works and What Doesn’t
Although some basement wall cracks don’t point to the structural problem, it’s important to know when they do.
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Basement problems, such as cracks in poured concrete walls, are common. These cracks are typically caused by the concrete’s natural curing process, which can cause shrinkage and cracking as the material dries and hardens. While some foundation or basement cracks are cosmetic, others can lead to severe problems such as water damage, mold growth, and foundation failure.
This page examines effective and ineffective solutions for crack repair.
What Are Foundation Wall Cracks?
Basement wall cracks pose a significant risk by allowing water to enter your home. This can lead to a damp, humid environment conducive to mold and mildew growth. Water infiltration can also damage your belongings, flooring, and walls and may even cause structural issues if the foundation is compromised. While many solutions exist for basement wall crack repair, few are truly effective. Here’s what works and what doesn’t:
Foundation Crack Repairs That Don’t Work
Patching wall cracks on the surface
Many homeowners assume that they can solve basement or foundation cracks by patching the wall cracks by simply applying plaster over the offending crack. However, this is only a temporary fix and does not solve the underlying issue. The soil around your home swells and shrinks as the weather changes, so the plaster will either crack to reopen in the middle or lose its bond with the concrete and leak again.
Epoxy
Plaster or epoxy injections are another quick fixes some homeowners attempt when addressing foundation or basement cracks.
Epoxy injections are a popular solution for basement wall cracks because they can create a strong bond between the two sides of the crack, preventing further water intrusion. Epoxy is a synthetic polymer composed of two main components: the resin and the hardener. When these two components are mixed, they form a highly adhesive and strong material that can bond with a wide range of surfaces.
However, there is a downside to using epoxy injections for basement wall crack repair. Epoxy is a rigid material and does not allow for any flexibility when the wall moves due to natural settling or changes in the soil around the foundation. This lack of flexibility can cause the epoxy to crack or detach from the concrete, creating even more cracks and allowing water to seep in, typically leading to even more cracks.
Urethane Liquid
Urethane liquid is a synthetic polymer designed to expand and fill the cracks in the wall, creating a water-resistant barrier. The material is injected into the crack using a specialized tool, and as it comes into contact with air, it begins to expand and harden. This expansion helps to create a stronger bond between the two sides of the crack and prevents further water intrusion.
However, while urethane injections can sometimes be effective, this solution has significant limitations. Urethane may not stretch very far and, therefore, may not be able to accommodate the natural movement of the wall due to factors such as soil settling or temperature changes. If the wall continues to move, the urethane may crack or detach from the concrete, allowing water to seep in and potentially causing further damage.
Urethane injections are unsuitable for larger or more complex cracks, as the expanding material may not fully penetrate the crack and create a strong bond. It is also important to note that urethane injections are typically only a temporary fix and may need to be reapplied periodically to maintain their effectiveness.
Foundation Crack Repairs That Do Work
When it comes to basement wall cracks, finding a lasting solution to prevent further damage to your home is crucial. While plaster, epoxy, and urethane are popular quick-fix methods, they don’t provide a permanent solution. However, the Carbon Fiber® Wall Reinforcing System is a proven and long-lasting solution.
Carbon fiber reinforcement is a modern technology that permanently repairs cracked and bowed basement walls. Aerospace engineers and the U.S. Department of Defense developed the product. Its effectiveness is now being applied to the age-old problem of foundation walls that have sustained damage.
The Carbon Fiber® Wall Reinforcing System is more robust than steel and utilizes the same technology to support bridges, skyscrapers, and bomb shelters. It stabilizes building foundations that have sustained damage, such as cracks and bowing, making it a reliable and long-term solution to your basement wall cracks.
Additional Effective Wall Crack Solutions
Preventive action against further damage is key if your basement has wall cracks. One option to consider is BasementGutter™ system installation and wall paneling over the leaking wall cracks. The BasementGutter™ system collects water that seeps into the basement and directs it to a sump pump for safe removal, preventing future issues involving floor/wall joint leakage.
In addition to the BasementGutter™ system, wall paneling provides additional protection against moisture damage. It covers up any existing cracks and helps prevent new ones from forming. It can also improve your basement’s appearance while helping to insulate the space and reduce energy costs.
Contact JES for a Free Inspection
Basement wall cracks can be a common issue for homeowners, but not all cracks are created equal. While some cracks may not pose a structural problem, others can cause serious concern. That’s why it’s essential to understand the various types of cracks and their level of urgency. A professional inspection can help determine whether the cracks require immediate attention.
If you notice vertical or diagonal cracks, contact a professional immediately using the form below. Cracks wider than 3/8 inch or with uneven ridges can indicate a more serious issue and should be examined by a trusted and licensed foundation repair company. Don’t wait until it’s too late—take action and protect your home today.
Contact JES Foundation Repair for a free inspection today!
Basement Repair FAQs
Typically, the entire concrete repair process is completed within a single day, depending on the extent of the damage and the scope of the project. The PolyRenewal™ foam solidifies in just 15 minutes, allowing you to use the area shortly afterward.
Not necessarily. However, cracks, especially those that are widening or horizontal, can become entry points for moisture over time. Even if they’re not causing issues now, they might in the future. Regularly inspecting and addressing cracks early can prevent larger problems down the road. Contact JES Foundation Repair for an assessment of any cracks or potential vulnerabilities in your basement.
Foundation wall cracks often signal more than just superficial issues. While some settling is normal, wide cracks that seem to grow are not. At JES Foundation Repair, we’ve built a reputation as Virginia and the surrounding areas’ most reliable foundation repair specialists.
What Exactly Are Foundation Wall Cracks?
These cracks appear on the concrete walls that support and provide stability to your home. From thin hairline splits to broad openings, these cracks can hint at deeper foundation problems. The size, direction, and width of the crack all tell a story about where the foundation issues are stemming from. Addressing them early with an inspection and tailored repair solutions can save homeowners from more severe issues in the future.
Why Do Foundation Wall Cracks Appear?
Several factors can lead to the formation of foundation wall cracks:
- Settlement: Movement or compression of soil underneath your home can cause the foundation to descend unevenly, resulting in cracks.
- Expansive Soils: As they expand or shrink with moisture levels, these soils exert pressure on foundation walls, leading to cracks.
- Hydrostatic Pressure: Excessive groundwater can exert force on the foundation walls, causing them to develop cracks or bow inward.
Is It Possible to Repair These Cracks?
Absolutely! Depending on the nature and extent of the damage, there are various effective methods to restore the foundation’s integrity. At JES, we provide:
- Foundation Piers – Installed underneath the foundation and anchored to the foundation footing, piers transfer the weight of the home to stable soils. They stabilize settling foundations and provide support.
- Wall Anchors – Steel anchors are embedded into the foundation wall and extended into undisturbed soil. They counteract the inward pressure causing cracks and bowing.
- Carbon Fiber Reinforcement – Carbon fiber straps that are up to 10 times stronger than steel are applied to the wall surface to strengthen concrete and prevent cracks from worsening.
- IntelliBrace™ Wall Repair System – A network of steel beams is installed inside the wall, providing reinforcement without excavating outdoors.
Steps to Mend Foundation Wall Cracks:
Our method for repairing your foundation will depend on what we learn in our initial inspection. Through the knowledge we’ve gained over years in the industry, we’ve developed a variety of solutions that we will tailor to your home’s specific needs.
1. Professional Evaluation
We’ll begin with a comprehensive inspection conducted by a foundation expert who will identify the primary cause and suggest a suitable repair technique as well as a quote and timeline for the repair.
2. Install the Foundation Repair System
Once we’ve settled on the solution, we’ll implement the tailored foundation repair to target the specific damage encountered in your home.
3. Waterproof Walls
After strengthening your foundation, it’s essential to make foundation walls water-resistant, preventing future moisture infiltration.
4. Regular Checks and Upkeep
Our solutions are tailored to be permanent for the issues your foundation experiences. However, periodic evaluations ensure the foundation remains stable. Keep an eye out for new cracks and potential water ingress.
Why Address Foundation Wall Cracks Now?
Acting promptly on foundation wall cracks is vital:
- Ignoring them might lead to bigger, more costly issues.
- Water intrusion through cracks can result in mold and impact indoor air quality.
- An unsettled foundation can make doors and windows stick or jam.
- Significant cracks can jeopardize your home’s structural safety.
Don’t delay! Connect with JES Foundation Repair now. Our specialized solutions reinforce your foundation, mitigating further concerns. We proudly offer free inspections and quotes.
Reach Out to JES for Lasting Foundation Wall Crack Solutions
With nearly a quarter-century of experience, JES Foundation Repair has consistently assisted homeowners across Virginia and neighboring regions. Our skilled team is equipped to gauge your foundation’s health and offer tailored solutions using advanced techniques and tools.
Contact us today for a no-commitment inspection and estimate for foundation repair. Secure your home’s future and enjoy peace of mind with JES’s unmatched expertise.
FAQs
Yearly maintenance is pivotal in ensuring the longevity and stability of the foundation repair work done. During the annual maintenance checks, professionals can spot potential issues early on before they escalate into more serious problems, saving homeowners time and money in the long run.
At JES Foundation Repair, we understand your home may change hands several times over its lifetime. The warranty on our repair solution is transferable to a new homeowner. Give us a call and we’ll walk you through the process of getting your warranty transferred when it’s time to sell.
Delaying the repair of foundation cracks can lead to a host of problems, including further structural damage, water intrusion leading to mold growth and poor indoor air quality, and even compromised safety of the home. Over time, what might have been a simpler, more cost-effective repair can evolve into a complex, expensive undertaking.
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Shaye Glisson
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