Repairing A Basement Wall
Cracks are not uncommon in a basement wall and most are not serious enough to cause leaks to develop. Yet, if you have a problem area, do not be alarmed. Cracks are often caused by settling of the house, expansion and contraction due to fluctuating temperatures or construction. Each area of concern must be repaired in order to keep water out of your basement and basement wall repair is an easy task that can often be completed by the average home owner. A variety of repair methods are available so you will need to know the advantages and disadvantages of each before beginning your project. Brush on compounds are often used to repair hairlines cracks, but they are not effective if the job is larger. With this type of product, you will need to read the directions carefully and follow them exactly to achieve a good result. The surface must be prepared before you start and you will need to take the time to apply thin coats of the compound as this works most effectively. Special cements are another popular choice as they expand when they dry. One thing to remember when choosing this material is you must use a chisel to undercut the crack and make a dovetail joint. This is the only way the repair will hold. Glues are often used in basement wall repair also. These epoxies are designed to help two parts of concrete adhere and can withstand the chemicals found in concrete mixtures. Although this type of repair is very strong as it basically welds the concrete together, the product is not easy to use and will work best for those experienced in home repair or professionals. Polyurethane foam injection products are the preferred method and many consider this to be a superior type of repair as it does more than just patch the surface. The foam will ensure that water does not enter your foundation. All that is required is that you inject a special liquid into the crack and allow it to foam. As the product foams, it will expand and fill the crack completely. Whichever method of basement wall repair you choose, take you time to research the job completely. It is always best to know what you are getting into before starting a project. If you have any doubts, contact a professional. Your home is worth the extra money.
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