Basement Wall Crack Repair

By:    |   Published May 26, 2023

When it comes to basement wall crack repair, there are many techniques to try, but which one should you try? And how do you know when to call an expert?

At EverDry Toledo we’ve been providing foundation repair and basement waterproofing solutions since 1986, so we know the do’s and don’ts when it comes to repairing your basement walls.

In this article, you will find 2 useful methods to restore the integrity of your cracked walls by experts with over 35 years of experience.

Let’s get started.

Method 1: Small Cracks

The first method to seal basement wall cracks in this guide is focused on small cracks that can be fixed quickly and easily at a very low cost.

When to Use This Method?

This method works for non-structural cracks and is ideal for cracks up to 1/2 inch wide and 1/4 inch deep. In short, you need to apply some liquid or paste elastomeric compound to the crack.

This method will help to slow down the formation of new cracks in the wall and even block water seepage.

Materials & Equipment

  • Latex gloves
  • Small trowel (or any alternative)
  • Wire brush
  • Scraping device (E.g. screwdriver)
  • Concrete crack filler
  • TSP cleaning solution (or any alternative)
  • (Optional) Heat gun

Instructions

The instructions to fix cracks in your basement walls with this method can be divided into 5 steps.

1. Clean and Dry the Surface

Clean the crack and surrounding area with a wire brush and a cleaning solution (ideally TSP, also called Trisodium Phosphate). You can then wait for it to dry completely or use a heat gun to dry the surface quickly.

2. Remove Debris

Use a screwdriver or similar tool to scrape the crack and remove debris from around the edges.

3. Add the Crack Filler

After stirring or shaking the crack filler, insert it through the spout of the bottle into the crack. Try to fill as much as possible and do it little by little along the length of the crack.

4. Press the Crack Piller Into the Crack

Put on a latex glove and press all the crack filler left on the outside into the crack using your finger. When you are finished, remove all the excess substance using your finger or a clean wipe.

5. Spread the Crack Filler

Finally, use a small trowel to finish spreading the crack filler into the crack as much as possible. Wait at least 24 hours for the crack filler to solidify before painting the wall.

Method 2: Large Cracks

Larger cracks that can affect the structural integrity of your walls can be repaired using crack injections. This method tends to be more difficult and expensive. In case the crack on your wall is too large, it is best to call an expert.

When to Use This Method?

This method primarily relies on epoxy or polyurethane injections to seal basement wall cracks. Some companies offer basement wall crack repair kits that you can buy online.

This method is ideal for large cracks that cannot be repaired with the previous method, and it is very efficient for restoring the structural integrity of your basement walls, as well as eliminating and preventing water seepage.

If you notice that your basement has recurring leaking cracks, or they are too large to be repaired by yourself, it is best to call a professional.

At EverDry Toledo we specialize in basement waterproofing and foundation repair in Ohio, and Michigan. If you are located within our service areas, contact us today to schedule a free inspection, or call us at (419) 469-5833.

Materials & Equipment

  • Latex gloves
  • Eye protection
  • Wire brush
  • Epoxy or polyurethane crack injection kit

Instructions

The process to fix cracks in your basement walls with epoxy or polyurethane injections can be divided into 5 steps, but there’s something you need to know first to avoid confusion.

Typically, crack injection kits come with several containers.

At least one with polyurethane or epoxy that you will inject into the crack, and usually two containers with sealant material that you will use to seal the crack and adhere the injection ports to the wall before injecting any liquid into the crack.

1. Clean the Crack

Using a wire brush, clean all loose concrete and paint from the crack, and then clean out the debris with a vacuum cleaner. You can also use a screwdriver or similar tool to scrape away debris that cannot be easily removed.

2. Mix the Sealer

Open the two sealer containers and extract some sealer in exact proportion from both containers on a clean surface (such as a plate). Then mix both parts until you get a gray color.

3. Stick the Injection Ports to the Concrete

Spread a bit of the mixture you prepared in the previous step on the base of one of the injection ports and glue it right where the crack starts, then repeat this process and put each port every 6 inches all the way to the end of the crack.

Remember, do not spread the mix into the hole of the injection ports.

4. Cover the Crack With Sealer

Now mix a larger amount of sealant and with a putty knife or trowel spread it from the beginning to the end of the crack. Be sure to cover the base of the injection ports, but do not put sealant into the hole of the ports.

Allow the sealant to cure for about 6 to 10 hours before the next step.

5. Dispense the Epoxy or Polyurethane Into the Crack

Once the sealant has cured, place the epoxy or polyurethane cartridge in the caulking gun and begin injecting epoxy or polyurethane through the injection ports into the crack one at a time.

Keep the following information in mind during the process of repairing your basement wall cracks with epoxy or polyurethane.

  • Start with the lowest injection port
  • Continue injecting material until the port right above begins to drip
  • Be sure to close each port once you move on to the next one

A small note here, if you see some liquid coming out of the crack, stop the process immediately, put some 5-minute epoxy on the leaking part, and wait for it to cure. Then you can resume the process. This 5-minute epoxy is only included in some kits.

6. Allow the Mix to Cure and Remove the Ports

Once you have finished the process, you must wait for the epoxy or polyurethane to cure. The time will vary depending on the material you’re using, but it usually ranges from 1 to 5 days.

After the epoxy or polyurethane has cured, you can remove the injection ports from the wall.

More Information About Basement Wall Cracks

Here you will find more information about basement wall cracks, such as some common causes and types of wall cracks.

Common Causes of Basement Wall Cracks

Here are a few causes of basement and foundation wall cracks.

  • Moisture: Excess moisture present in the soil around your home produces a lot of pressure on your foundation. This pressure constantly pushes on the foundation walls, creating cracks over time.
  • Settling foundation: The nature of the soil beneath your home and the long-term compressive force can cause cracks in your basement walls.
  • Concrete shrinkage: Concrete shrinkage is a common cause of basement wall cracks in new home construction where the concrete dries too quickly, leading to small cracks in the foundation.

How to Prevent Basement Wall Cracks?

Preventing basement wall cracks is key to maintaining the structural integrity of your home. Here are a few tips to prevent basement wall cracks:

  • Waterproof your basement: Water can seep into basement walls and weaken them over time. Waterproofing your basement walls can help prevent water from penetrating them and causing cracks.
  • Add drainage systems: Drainage systems can help manage water flow and prevent excess water from accumulating around the foundation, reducing the risk of cracks. It’s important to maintain these systems regularly to ensure they are functioning properly.
  • Monitor existing cracks: Keep an eye on existing cracks in your walls and repair them as soon as possible to prevent them from getting larger.

The Bottom Line: Should You Hire Experts to Fix Cracks in Your Basement Walls?

These couple of methods can help you fix cracks in your basement walls by yourself for just a few hundred dollars.

However, if you notice large cracks or any signs that your home’s structural integrity is in danger, it is time to call professionals in basement wall crack repair.

At EverDry Toledo we have serviced over 80,000 basements, and crawl spaces all over Michigan and Ohio, so we know everything about basement waterproofing and foundation repair.

Contact us today or give us a call at (419) 469-5833 for a quote. We also offer free inspections!

Frequently Asked Questions About Basement Wall Crack Repair

Do you want to know more about basement wall crack repair? Check the FAQs below.

Is It Normal to Have Cracks in Basement Walls?

Yes, you should expect your basement to have some cracks over time, however, you should repair these cracks as soon as possible, as well as waterproof your basement to avoid critical problems in the future.

Is a Crack in My Basement Wall a Problem?

Not all cracks are an immediate problem, however, some types of wall cracks should be addressed immediately. These types of cracks include large cracks ¾ inch wide with a leaning foundation, and stair-looking cracks in the mortar joints.

Can a House Collapse From Foundation Cracks?

If there are critical problems with cracks in your foundation, it is possible that a portion of your home could collapse.

Schedule a Free 20-Point Inspection

If you have questions about your foundation or would like to schedule an inspection to ensure the base of your home is in good shape, EverDry Toledo can help with a FREE 20-point basement inspection! We’ll help you pinpoint the source of the moisture problem. If it’s foundation-related, our waterproofing solutions can make your basement dry, healthy, and comfortable.

Contact us online to schedule an appointment or give us a call at (419) 469-5833 and schedule your inspection today!

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