While you may be used to noticing or repairing cracks in the walls or ceilings of your home, looking out for foundation cracks is just as important, especially exterior ones that increase chances of water infiltration and other complications.
Here is how to fix foundation cracks from outside.
What causes foundation cracks from outside?
Though cracks sometimes found inside your home are often caused by ground movement or concrete defects, cracks on the outside are usually caused by the weather. Homes and residences in Quebec are likely to develop this type of damage due to the harsh and highly variable climate year-round.
Weather conditions during the laying of the foundations may also have affected the durability and performance of the foundation and concrete. This is why we must carefully choose the right moment to pour foundations.
Properly inspect outside foundation cracks
Outdoor crack inspections should be done before contacting crack repair professionals. A detailed description of the situation will allow for a more accurate quote and avoid any unwanted surprises.
Inspecting the inside of your house
Outer cracks may result from inner cracks, so you should properly inspect your interior foundations. Repair specialists adapt the methods used to the type of crack, so proper inspections on your part are important for appropriate repair measures.
Surface or deep crack?
You can try removing a small patch from outside foundation cracks to see if the whole wall is cracked rather than just the plaster.
Two-step repair: sealing and waterproofing
Fixing a foundation crack from outside is a three-step procedure. The technicians first have to dig using a mini-excavator to clear the work surface and reach the problem area since part of your foundation is underground.
Sealing the crack
Actual repairs start by cleaning the crack and opening it to form a V, where they will apply quick-setting cement before sealing the crack with a high-performance polymer-based sealant. It must have enough elasticity to resist ground movement.
Applying a protective lining
The second stage begins with the application of primer before the installation of a waterproofing membrane that extends underground. The perimeter of this membrane is sealed with an elastomeric bitumen to prevent potential water infiltration and avoid damages that may not be covered by your insurance.
Hire a foundation expert
Cracks on your outer foundation can increase risks of damages such as water infiltration or weaken the structure of your walls, making them just as bad as interior cracks.
It is therefore recommended to inspect your foundations annually and contact foundation repair specialists at the first signs of damage. Foundation Crack Expert Group will gladly recommend the services necessary.
