How to Fix Foundation Cracks
While it may seem like a very small problem, the cracks in the foundation that arise are not merely just concerns. They might point to even more severe structural issues that need to be addressed. Never let this happen as it may cause water leaks, shattering and movement of the foundation and creating unsafe living spaces. At Structural Engineers, we know that it’s very important to repair cracks in the foundation as quickly and efficiently as possible. It doesn’t matter whether it is just a small hairline crack in the wall or significant damage, being able to evaluate and repair these cracks prevents you from endless repairs and restores your inner calm.
This article will include the different types of foundation cracks, their causes as well as measures to take in fixing them for the assured safety of your house. Be it a simple task or one that would involve hiring an expert, you can rest assured that we have it all.
Let’s explore some of the most frequently asked questions about how to fix foundation cracks.
FAQs
- How do I determine if a foundation crack needs repair?
The first action to take in crack assessment is to look at the size, shape, and position of the crack. Most of the time these small, vertical, less or equal to 1/8 inches wall cracks that happen on non-bearing walls (e.g., plaster or drywall) are finished and can usually be repaired with simple filling. Large cracks, on the other hand, are different; any cracks wider than ¼ inch or those that seem to be expanding should be looked into because they often indicate some foundation movement or settling. Diagonal, stair-step, and horizontal cracks are usually more serious and call for any form of professional help.
For instance, a vertical 1/8-inch-wide crack on your basement wall may only be an effect of settling and therefore may be easily fixed. A horizontal crack with some distortion and bulging walls, however, needs professional attention.
- Can I fix foundation cracks myself, or should I hire a professional?
In the case of small and non-structural repairs, which do not require significant professional help, it is possible to resort to do-it-yourself measures, and it would not be very expensive. For instance, small vertical extensions like cracks can quite simply be fixed by using a concrete sealant or an epoxy found in practically all hardware shops. If, however, the deep infrequent cracks are quite wide or horizontal in shape or they are associated with severe foundational problems such as bowed walls and uneven settling, seeking help from someone such as Structural Engineers is recommended. They can assess the level of damages sustained and advise on the suitable option including more complex repairs.
- What materials are used to fix foundation cracks?
Various materials are available for the purpose of repairing foundation cracks, which depends on the type and extent of the crack;
– Injections of epoxy: The smallest of which, epoxy is a material that is useful mainly because it helps make a very firm bond and also restores the affected foundation walls to their original state.
– Foam to fill cracks Poyurethan: Perfect for cracks that are losing water, it is because it fills up the cracks completely preventing any seeping.
– Concrete Patching Compound: For wider cracks this works well thanks to the fact it offers a firm and long-term seal and is suitable for both outdoor and indoor walls.
– Carbon Fiber Reinforcement: Where the creation of cracks is due to bulging pressure, walls may also have carbon fibre straps or staples attached to prevent cracking.
For instance, if your basement wall has an innocuous spider crack that is not leaking, an epoxy injection will probably suffice. However, for a larger defect in the wall through which water can exude, causing damage to the wall, a better option would be polyurethane foam.
- How long does it take to fix a foundation crack?
The duration of repairing a foundation crack varies with the type and intricacy of the crack. Most external cracks can be fixed in a matter of hours, which includes preparation, application of sealant or patch, and waiting for it to set. Bigger ones are sometimes tricky as they may need more time to heal, especially if additional support such as carbon fibre straps or complicated repairs such as underpinning are involved.
As a case in point, the period required to fill a vertical hairline crack in concrete will average 2-3 hours while a horizontal crack will most probably take a day or more due to reinforcement repairs.
- How much does it cost to fix foundation cracks?
The cost of foundation crack repair depends on the nature of the damage and how far it goes. Small cracks that only require epoxy injections or concrete patching can cost somewhere between $500 to $1,000. However, structural cracks which require reinforcement and or underpinning cost anywhere from $5,000 and above to even 10,000 depending on how elaborate the repair is.
For instance, if you have a small vertical crack in your foundation wall that can easily be sealed in with epoxy, you would incur an expense of about $500. A horizontal structural crack with severe bowing may need underpinning at the cost of thousands of arrangements.
Conclusion
Foundation crack repair is a necessary procedure that enhances the sustainability of any structure over an extended period. A few shallow cracks can be repaired with do-it-yourself fixes, however, deeper, more complicated ones typically need specialized services, such as those provided by Structural Engineers. Early intervention regarding cracks, maintenance of the foundation and drainage, and soil management also help to mitigate further damages and expensive repairs from occurring later. In case you feel that there is a problem with your foundation, contact us for Foundation inspection and consultation.