How to Repair Foundation Cracks

If you’ve noticed some cracks in your building’s foundation and you’re thinking about fixing them yourself, it might be worth it to read on and get a little more information about the situation. Sure, there are times when you can repair foundation cracks yourself with store-bought kits, and this can spare you the cost of having to hire a professional foundation repair company. But there are also times when a foundation crack is indicative of greater underlying structural issues, and in such cases, slapping on some store-bought epoxy would be akin to putting a Band-Aid on a broken bone. That said, how you should go about fixing foundation cracks largely depends on what type of cracks they are.

Different Types of Foundation Cracks

Foundation cracks can usually be classified in one of three ways:

• Shrinkage cracks – All concrete shrinks over time, and so shrinkage cracks are totally normal. Since they are merely surface cracks, they don’t affect the structural integrity of the foundation, however, they can still serve as an entry point for water, so sealing them up with cement or injected epoxy is advised.
• Settlement cracks – Like shrinkage cracks, settlement cracks are usually nothing to worry about. All structures settle over time, so if the structure in question is relatively new, chances are the hairline cracks you’re seeing are just a sign of settlement. And like shrinkage cracks, settlement cracks can be repaired using a store-bought epoxy kit or sealed up with cement to prevent water infiltration.
• Serious cracks – Serious cracks are cracks that should be repaired by a professional. These include horizontal cracks, which could signal uneven settling; cracks that are more than ¼ inch wide; and cracks that are worsening quickly. If the cracks you’ve noticed in your foundation meet any of these criteria, you’d be wise to contact a foundation repair professional that can perform a thorough inspection and recommend a lasting solution to the problem.

Turn to ESOG for a Lifetime of Support

Engineered Solutions of Georgia provides comprehensive foundation repair services to clients throughout the Atlanta area and beyond. If you’ve noticed cracks in your foundation that need professional repair, or if you’d like to have them inspected to be sure, contact us today to schedule a free consultation.