When you first notice a basement or foundation wall crack, you may brush it off as no big deal. Over time, however, these cracks can turn into leaks that cause serious damage to the structure of the building. Foundation wall cracks are often caused by foundation settlement, shrinking concrete, or outside pressure on the walls. They generally expand in a horizontal, vertical, or stair-step pattern.
Wall cracks are common in many residential and commercial properties, and various factors, such as age, foundation settling, and moisture, can cause them. If left untreated, wall cracks can lead to further damage and compromise the structural integrity of the building. That’s where wall crack repair comes in.
Concrete wall crack repair is a specific type of repair that addresses cracks in concrete walls, often caused by foundation settling or shifts in the soil. Wall crack repair services can help to address the issue and prevent further damage to the property, ensuring the safety and stability of the building.
Lamunyon Dry Out & Foundation Repair’s wall crack repair team has a simple and effective method for repairing foundation wall cracks – liquid urethane. If the wall crack has just formed and shows no signs of bowing or buckling, we can seal it with liquid urethane to prevent it from growing.
How Is Foundation Crack Repair Done?
Foundation crack repairs help to maintain your property’s structural integrity. The repair process for a cracked foundation depends on the severity of the damage and the type of foundation. The first step for basement concrete wall crack repair is typically to assess the damage’s extent and identify the crack’s cause.
Once the cause is determined, a professional foundation repair company typically uses several methods to repair the crack, such as injecting epoxy or polyurethane foam into the crack to seal it and prevent further water intrusion.
In more severe cases, cracked foundation repair may require excavation and reinforcement with steel or carbon fiber supports. It’s important to address foundation cracks promptly to prevent further damage and ensure the safety and stability of your property. A professional foundation repair company can provide expert assessment and repair services to help you address any foundation crack issues.
What Are Carbon Fiber Repairs?
Carbon fiber repairs are a popular and effective concrete wall crack repair method. Carbon fiber strips or sheets are bonded to the surface of the concrete wall using a high-strength epoxy resin. Once the epoxy has cured, the carbon fiber provides added support and reinforcement to the wall, preventing further cracking or damage.
Carbon fiber repairs are often preferred because they are non-intrusive, meaning they do not require excavation or drilling into the foundation. They are also highly durable and can withstand high-stress levels, making them a long-lasting solution for concrete wall crack repair. Carbon fiber repairs are typically performed by professional foundation repair companies with the expertise and specialized equipment needed to complete the repair process correctly and effectively.
If you have any basement or foundation cracks forming or have had some for years, do not hesitate to contact us and have our team evaluate your project and provide the best solution, including foundation settlement issues or bowing wall repair.
Is There A Warranty On Wall Crack Repairs in Kansas?
Yes! Lamunyon Dry Out & Foundation Repair proudly offers a 2-year warranty on all structural polymer and crack injection repairs. Our warranties are also transferable, so you have future peace of mind. For full details, ask your specialist or call us today. We also offer foundation repair services in the following locations in Kansas: Manhattan, Topeka, Wichita, Salina, and McPherson.
Frequently Asked Questions
Fixing a cracked foundation typically involves hiring a professional contractor to assess the damage and implement a suitable repair solution to your property.
The specific method used for fixing a cracked foundation will depend on factors such as the severity and location of the crack, the type of foundation, and the underlying cause of the crack. Common repair methods include epoxy injection, hydraulic jacking, and installing piers or underpinning.
To fix a crack in a foundation wall, the first step is to identify the cause of the crack. Once the cause is determined, the best repair method is selected according to the need. A DIY approach may be possible for small cracks using concrete patching material. However, for larger or more severe cracks, it’s best to seek the assistance of a professional contractor. It’s important to address foundation wall cracks promptly to prevent further damage and ensure the safety and stability of the property.
Fixing a cracked basement wall from the outside involves excavating the soil surrounding the foundation to access the exterior wall. The first step is to identify the cause of the crack, as this will help determine the appropriate repair method. After identifying the crack, it can be cleaned and prepared for repair.
Depending on the severity and location of the crack, options for repair include applying a sealant, installing a waterproof membrane, or using a combination of both methods. A professional contractor will typically have the tools and expertise to complete the repair effectively and efficiently.
To fix the cracks in the basement wall, you must do the following–
- Remove wet, deteriorating concrete from the crack using a chisel.
- Dust and debris should be cleaned out of the vicinity of the crack.
- Make holes for every foot along the crack’s length.
- Fill holes with grease fittings or pins.
- Use a ratchet tool to tighten grease fittings or pins that are in holes.
- The grease fitting’s gasket will enlarge and remain in place.
- Attach the pin with a grease-fitting tip.
- Without covering the tips, apply a cement slurry around the pins.
- Epoxy or a hydro-active gel should be placed inside the grease gun.
- Grease fitting tip to grease gun hose attachment.
- When you notice gel dripping out of the grease fitting tip, stop slowly squeezing the hydro-active gel (epoxy) into it.
- Step 10 should be repeated with the remaining grease-fitting pins. The gel will penetrate.
- Slurry should be poured into the remaining crack.
- Slurry the pins and trowel the surface to a smooth finish.
If you want to fix cracks in the walls of your house, follow these instructions–
- Use painter’s tape to cover the trim material (if the crack is close to a window or door).
- Make a 1/4 to 1/8-inch deep V-shaped groove beside the length of the crack.
- Remove the loose drywall material encircling the crack.
- By using your utility knife, remove the damaged taped portion of the crack on a seam.
- Apply a thin/light coat of drywall mud to the crack using a 4 to 6-inch tapering knife.
- Place the drywall tape over the crack and use the blade of the knife to press any air bubbles.
- Use a 12-inch taping knife to spread a second layer of drywall compound over the tape.
- Extend the compound from 5 to 7 inches past either side of the tape.
- Make long strokes evenly distribute those, and let it dry.
- Do not sand the underlying tape while sanding drywall with 100 to 120-grit sandpaper.
- Make sure it’s smooth and flush with the rest of the wall.
- Wipe the dust before painting the patched area to match the rest of the wall.
Lamunyon Dry Out & Foundation Repair Regional Offices
Get An Estimate
Are you seeing indications that your property may need some help? Contact the professionals at Lamunyon today. We are happy to assess the damage, explain what we are seeing and provide you with a free estimate.