Foundation crack repair is very important for homes and buildings. Cracks caused by soil pressure, water, and heavy foot traffic can cause foundations to weaken. If these cracks get too big, they can actually get damaged by further incurring damage from weather, thus weakening the whole structure.
Moisture is one of the major causes of foundation problems. Moisture content in the air makes surfaces swell when it’s hot outside. This effect is why humidity levels in a home or building should be kept at a constant level. Homes with higher levels of humidity tend to buckle when they get cold. This kind of foundation crack repair needs to be done regularly. Certain epoxy and polyurethane materials exist, especially suitable for these foundation cracks for the repair of foundation cracks.
When foundations begin to crack, the exterior part of the structure begins to deteriorate as well, which exposes the interior parts of the house. The problem with cracks in foundations is not just limited to houses with basements. Foundations are commonly cracked on walls and even driveways, causing dampness and damage. For foundation crack repair, contractors may use waterproofing solutions to block the moisture from getting inside the house.
A foundation crack repair on an exterior wall requires a different type of solution compared to a repair on the interior. Exterior walls need a sealant to prevent moisture from getting inside. Sealants are typically applied to structures that are painted, or have paints with a water repellent compound on them. This type of foundation crack repair requires professional expertise because it needs to penetrate through paint to reach the wall, and then be injected into the crack. Applying the epoxy injection repair solution will be done by a structural engineer or a foundation contractor.
In order to perform foundation repairs on walls and driveways, contractors will need to have access to heavy-duty steel equipment. Epoxy injectors and polyurethane foams will be necessary for the process. Since these products are meant for temporary foundation repairs, it is essential that the job is performed on a day-to-day basis. Foundation cracks can get worse if they are not repaired immediately. This can lead to costly repairs and more structural damage to the home over time. By using polyurethane foams, a contractor can ensure that the cracks are repaired properly, and do so much faster than traditional epoxy injection repair kits.
After repairing an existing crack, a new coating needs to be applied over it. If it is a small crack, the concrete may be sealed at the surface. If a larger crack has developed, it is essential to apply a stronger seal. Many contractors will recommend that a coat of sealant be applied before painting, plowing, or other forms of surface treatments. Over time, the old coating begins to deteriorate and the concrete will lose its bond.
Foundation crack repair options include replacement of the old sealant, as well as the complete repair of any damaged or missing portions. If the damaged areas are too extensive for replacement, then it will simply require an extensive excavation. Contractors will be able to dig through the soil and find all of the necessary materials in a matter of days. Once this has been completed, the materials can be sealed in place. Sealing is not necessary if there is an existing sealant application. However, in those instances, the contractor may suggest replacement of the sealant, or complete a full foundation repair using new materials and techniques.
Excavation is only one step in repairing a foundation wall or driveway. If no excavations are necessary, then the contractor will simply pour a layer of topsoil over the damaged area. The area will then be covered with plastic or some other suitable substance to keep moisture out while the piers cure and bond together. Once these piers have firmly secured the soil around the edge, it will be time to remove the plastic or other material and start working on the piers themselves. Once these are installed, the entire area should be painted to blend in with the rest of the house.