Business

Filling Foundation Cracks

If you have cracks in your foundation, you need to know how to fill them. You can fill them with a masonry sealer, such as silicone or polyurethane. Before applying the sealer, make sure to remove any paint and other coatings from the surface. Afterward, you should use a masonry roller or large brush to apply the sealer. You can get additional information at foundation crack repair Phoenix 

Foundation cracks can come in different sizes, which means that you should contact a professional for assistance. Small cracks do not affect the structural integrity of the building, but they can pose a threat. Those less than a tenth of an inch wide can eventually become large enough to damage your house.

Typically, foundation cracks start leaking within the first month after the foundation is poured. They happen when the concrete mix shrinks. Using a sealant material is critical, as the more water is present in the mix, the more it will shrink. Besides applying waterproofing, you should also take steps to limit water contact with the foundation by grading soil away from it.

While minor cracks may be easy to repair, it is best to have a professional assess the damage and repair it properly. Using epoxy fill is a relatively inexpensive and effective way to repair foundation wall cracks. However, if the crack is very large, structural bracing may be necessary. Further, cracks in the exterior of the home will need to be repaired both inside and outside.

While cracks are not very unsightly, they are an indicator of a larger problem. If left untreated, the cracks can compromise the structural integrity of the building and decrease the value of the home. The right foundation repair solution should address the underlying causes. For instance, the cracks in a foundation wall can cause the walls to bow inward.

The direction and width of a foundation crack can indicate the severity of the problem. Cracks that are hairline in size and run vertically are generally not of concern. Cracks that run horizontally or diagonally are often signs of soil pressure. Cracks that are larger than an eighth of an inch should be addressed by a professional.

Foundation crack repair may be performed by a structural engineer or foundation repair company. Purchasing an epoxy caulking kit from a home improvement store is also an option. You may also need some basic tools for the task. However, you should be aware that cracks in the foundation will continue to leak until they are repaired.

Another option for foundation crack repair is using sodium bentonite. This granular clay is a great way to waterproof the basement and make the walls impervious to water. This material is commonly used in foundation waterproofing panels. It absorbs water from the soil and expands to 15 times its original volume.

Contact Info

Dalinghaus Construction
Inc – Phoenix 6442 W Park Ave Chandler
AZ 85226 (480) 741-1544