How to Repair Foundations – Concrete Repairman®

A home’s foundation is anchored to the earth around it, but soil shifts and moves due to weather and groundwater conditions. This stress strains foundation walls and can cause cracks and other problems. It is important to catch these problems early to prevent them from worsening. This is especially true for structural problems like sinking and bowing foundation walls.

In some cases, a cracked or leaning foundation can be repaired using simple and inexpensive concrete repair techniques. However, even these methods can only address the problem at the surface. To address the underlying issue, more extensive and costly repairs are necessary.

If the crack is less than a quarter-inch wide, it can usually be filled with polyurethane or silicone caulk. Apply the caulk using a caulking gun to force it into the crack, filling it.

It’s best to call in a professional for cracks wider than a quarter inch. A structural engineer can help you determine if the crack is a problem or not and if it needs to be repaired. It is also best to remove foundation plantings and install guttering and downspouts to ensure water is directed away from the house. Slope the yard so that it doesn’t collect near the foundation. More about foundation repair.

These cracks are often caused by hydrostatic pressure pushing against the foundation wall. This is particularly common in areas with expansive clay soils that can swell when wet. Depending on the severity of the crack, a professional may need to perform an inspection and recommend a concrete repair method.

If a slight bulge accompanies a crack in the foundation wall, this is usually a sign that the crack is more severe and should be evaluated by a professional. It is also important to examine the surrounding soil, to make sure that it is not too wet or loose.

Tension Ties Strap Repair

If your basement is experiencing serious problems, it may be time to consider a Tension Ties strap system to stabilize the foundation. This is an effective and cost-efficient way to keep your basement safe and dry.

A cracked or sinking basement can be an embarrassment and a safety hazard for your family. However, the good news is that many of these problems can be prevented with a little maintenance and some basic foundation repairs. Call a professional for a free inspection if you see any cracks or other signs of trouble. The sooner a problem is spotted, the easier and cheaper it is to fix.