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A basement crack can let water leak in when the concrete cracks. This water can cause mold and mildew to grow in a basement. By stopping water that leaks through a foundation crack, a basement can stay dry. In conjunction with foundation drainage, a quality sump pump and basin and surface drainage, basement crack repair is one step to a complete waterproofing system.
Basement wall cracks are the number one cause for basement water problems. Water from the soil builds up pressure and over time finds the path of least resistance into your basement. Foundation cracks are often caused by this buildup, known as hydrostatic pressure. Cracks in foundation or basement walls are the conduit for water to enter your home and create problems.
There are three guarantees when it comes to poured concrete walls.
- The concrete will get hard
- The concrete will crack
- The concrete wall will not be stolen
While concrete cracks appear to be normal, it is not recommended that they remain ignored. Most homeowners have concrete cracks in their basement, either on the foundation wall or on the floor. If there are water puddles or water stains around these cracks you need to address them immediately. More often than not, a foundation crack will widen over time and result in water seepage and possible structural damage. Foundation and slab cracks are not only an eyesore, but they may damage the value of your home.
Fortunately, there is a way to permanently repair such cracks quickly and effectively. Concrete foundation cracks may be repaired by using pressure injection of an epoxy or polyurethane foam material. For the repair of concrete floor cracks, certain epoxies and polyurethane materials exists, suitable for such slab repairs.
High quality epoxy and polyurethane products, injected by a qualified contractor, is very effective in repairing cracks. Crack injection techniques are relatively simple, yet not recommended by an untrained person. Many foundations have been greatly damaged by untrained crack injection techniques.
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