How to Fix Basement Wall Cracks
Posted by Boston Basement on Mon, Jan 25, 2010 @ 11:03 AM
When is it too early to call a professional waterproofer? Quite simply, never! The common misconception is there isn’t a water problem until there is a foot of water in the basement. By addressing a problem early, you can save a ton of money and aggravation. When problems fester, the options become more limited, resulting in costly remedies. There are two methods for fixing wall cracks, v-grooving and injection.
First Method:
V-grooving involves chipping a V into the basement wall in a way that the narrow point is open to the basement. The crack is then packed with hydraulic cement and troweled even to the wall. This method is usually the least expensive and can work to stop an active water leak. However, as old and new cement cannot bond, the crack still exists and with continued movement (even with the minimal movement of expansion and contraction due to the weather) the crack can open again, It is only a matter of time.
Second Method:
The second method involves injecting either epoxy or polyurethane into the crack. These options are a little more costly but are more effective and last much longer. The process starts by preparing the surface of the crack. The technician doing the repair chooses the locations for the injection ports. Commonly, the ports are spaced apart along the crack in a distance equal to the width Techni-Crack-6-055of the foundation. A surface sealer of either compound is applied over the crack. Either expanding polyurethane or epoxy is injected into the ports until the crack is filled. After the material has set, the ports can be removed and the wall has a flat look to it that can be painted or finished over. This method will seal the crack through the entire wall sealing from the outside to the inside. Unlike hydraulic cement, epoxies and polyurethanes can bond to concrete. Because of this bonding, longer warranties can be expected from contractors.
Which Method is Right For Your Home?
That depends. The best approach is to talk it over with your foundation repair or waterproofing contractor. Be sure to check for licensing (many states require a Home Improvement Contractors and Home Improvement Sales licensing). The Department of Consumer Protection maintains a license verification database online. As well, be sure to check with the Better Business Bureau. Lastly, the