Cracks in Foundation: Causes and Solutions

Cracks in foundation walls are common, especially in Quebec, where extreme weather conditions contribute to material wear. When a crack occurs, it can lead to serious problems, such as water infiltration and structural damage, and may also affect the value of your property. It is essential to detect them early and to hire a company with the expertise to carry out proper repairs.

How to Identify a Crack in Concrete Foundation Walls?

A crack is a long, narrow opening or fissure that appears in your foundation. It can vary in size and depth and may run in different directions (for example, diagonal cracks or horizontal cracks). The longer you wait to have it repaired, the more extensive the damage may become, requiring more complex intervention.

Foundation Cracks: Common Causes

A building’s foundation can be affected by various factors, some of which are beyond our control. The main causes of cracks in your basement foundation include:

• Soil movement: Certain types of soil, such as clay, are more sensitive to moisture variations, especially during dry periods. During droughts, they can lose up to 37% of their volume, creating voids under the footings and reducing load-bearing capacity.
• Freeze-thaw cycles: Soil expands when it freezes, exerting pressure on foundations. These changes can significantly affect the home structure integrity.
• Water infiltration: When water seeps into existing small cracks, it can enlarge them as it freezes, causing damage.
• Poor-quality concrete: Low-quality concrete is more prone to cracking and can increase the risk of structural problems. Proper concrete curing ensures that the foundation achieves its intended strength and durability.

How to Repair Foundation Cracks?

Various repair methods can be used. The choice of the appropriate method depends on several factors, such as the size of the crack, its location, its orientation, and the overall condition of the foundation. Hiring experts is essential to determine the right solution for your specific situation.

Epoxy or Polyurethane Resin Injection

Epoxy resin is used to seal structural cracks. This type of resin is designed to harden, acting like a glue between the two sides, making it an effective solution for restoring the concrete’s strength in a durable way.

Polyurethane resin is flexible and waterproof, making it ideal for developing cracks and water infiltration. It provides a barrier against moisture while remaining flexible enough to accommodate slight movements of foundation walls, including minor foundation settlement.

When using the resin injection method, the crack must first be cleaned. Once prepared, the resin is injected under pressure to completely seal the crack as it hardens. This restores the foundation and prevents future water infiltration.

Working with a professional ensures the best results and your peace of mind.

Waterproof Membrane Installation

Another solution involves installing waterproof membranes, which prevent water from infiltrating the exterior foundation wall. Bituminous membranes, polyethylene sheets, and other specialized foundation products can also be used.

Learn why the teams at Béton Fondation Plus chose the Delta-Drain membrane for foundation waterproofing.

This method requires excavating the soil around the building to apply the membrane to the outside of the foundation wall. The membrane provides protection against moisture and is particularly well suited for clay and wet soils.

Structural Reinforcement

Structural reinforcement is a method used for severe cracks that can make the foundation unstable or cause it to deform. In such cases, it is necessary to restore the foundation’s stability and strength through the installation of push or helical piers, the addition of support walls, or steel tie rods.

Foundation crack repairs should always be carried out by professionals. These repairs require specific expertise and specialized equipment to avoid worsening the problem or compromising the building’s safety. Contact our team for your foundation repair needs.

How to Prevent Foundation Cracks?

Preventive measures are essential to avoid damage that may result in costly repairs. Soil and moisture can affect even a solid foundation if not properly controlled.

Proper Drainage

Proper water and moisture management start with directing surface water away from the foundation. When water accumulates around the foundation, it puts pressure on exterior walls and can cause concrete cracks, moisture issues, and water infiltration. Effective drainage solutions include:

• Installing a reliable French drain system
• Grading the land to create a gentle slope away from the building
• Adding supplementary drainage systems, such as sump pits or sump pumps

Gutter Maintenance

Gutters play a key role in directing water away from your home. If they become clogged or damaged, water can overflow, pool around the house, and lead to increased moisture problems. Regular cleaning and inspection, along with properly positioned downspouts, can help prevent these issues.

Soil Moisture Control

Changes in soil moisture can cause ground movement and result in foundation cracks. Proper landscaping can help direct water away from the foundation. Options include grading the land with a gentle slope outward, adding mulch, or creating a drainage garden or border.

Regular Inspection

It is also recommended to inspect your foundation regularly (at least once a year). This allows you to identify cracks as they begin to form, monitor moisture levels around the home, and take prompt action if necessary.

Don’t let foundation cracks compromise your home’s safety. With the expertise of professionals, cracks can be effectively repaired, preventing costlier damage. Contact our specialists to have your foundation inspected and determine the appropriate solution.

Keep in mind that every case is unique. Consulting a foundation repair company is essential before undertaking this type of work.