Do I Need Foundation Crack Repair?
Foundation crack repair is something you will want to have done when necessary. Horizontal cracks in your foundation are obviously more serious than vertical ones. This kind of crack, also called a stress crack, is usually caused by unbalanced soil pressure and hydrostatic pressure pushing against your foundation wall.
Now you might be thinking that if you can’t see it, then you don’t have to worry about it. Unfortunately, that’s not true. Basement floors, walls, and other foundations are just one of many ways that water seepage into your home. Other common causes include soil shifting, wood decay, and condensation.
In order for foundation crack repair to be successful, there are several things to address. First, you will need to waterproof your home. You do this by sealing the area around your foundation with a basement waterproofing membrane or by using an interior drainage system. In addition to basement waterproofing, you should also block out rain and direct sunlight at all times. Finally, in many areas, you will also need to repair any damaged or loose foundation walls.
When it comes to repairing foundation cracks, it is wise to make minor repairs in an attempt to prevent major damage. For example, if you notice a dent in one wall, you may be able to fix it yourself. If there are major cracks, however, you should call in a professional to assess the situation. The most common reason for repairs of this nature are due to hydrostatic pressure and soil movement.
One type of foundation crack repair that many homeowners choose to perform is vertical foundation cracks. As the name implies, these cracks run vertically down the walls. Although these often pose a serious threat to your home’s structural integrity, they can also be repaired quite effectively. As with basement waterproofing, you should waterproof your walls prior to repair, but you will probably also want to block out as much light from your house as possible during the repair process. It is also recommended that you secure the perimeter of the damaged area. By doing so, you will help to ensure that the repair does not spread into the drywall below.
In some cases, you may be able to solve your foundation crack repair problem on your own. Unfortunately, if you do not pay close attention to the walls during the process, you will leave yourself vulnerable to dampness and condensation. In order to minimize damage to your walls, you should seal them with a water-resistant coating. In many cases, this coating can be applied between the exterior and interior concrete walls, or between the interior and exterior plaster board. In addition, the coating can be applied to cracked or chipped stone.
Another way that you can deal with foundation cracks is to use a rubberized solution. This sealant will prevent moisture from reaching the cracks, which can weaken the wall and make it more likely to collapse. For this solution to work best, it is important to apply it after the cracks have begun to form. You can apply the solution to cracks in the foundation, or to cracks that you find along the walls.
If you do not need to worry about moisture, cracking, or other structural problems, you might want to consider a new home. A new home often offers the most extensive protection against natural disasters, such as rain and wind. New homes are built to withstand extreme weather conditions. Although many homes are constructed with the old-fashioned internal wooden joists, they are much less likely to experience cracking and other problems that can threaten their structural integrity. Therefore, it may be necessary to repair your foundation cracks before you purchase a new home. You should always consult with a building expert when considering a new home, and consider your home’s vulnerabilities before purchasing one.