Have you recently noticed cracks in the foundation of your home and don’t understand why?
Although this is a completely normal phenomenon, don’t delay in taking action, as cracks can lead to a depreciation of your property, the entry of water or insects and even the appearance of mold!
Here are three methods that can be used to properly seal cracks on a foundation depending on the type of crevice and its size.
High-pressure injection
The high-pressure injection process consists of introducing a liquid into a very narrow crack and at a high pressure.
To undertake this work, the worker must pass through the interior of the house.
The experienced technician installs mechanical metal injection ports at a 45-degree angle to the crack. A material called polyurethane is then injected from the middle of the crack.
Polyurethane:
- Allows the natural movement of concrete, as it is flexible;
- Expanded once introduced;
- Repairs wet cracks. In the case of water infiltration, for example.
In addition, if the pressure is too great, the filling action itself will create micro cracks.
It is therefore important to call in clogging experts so as not to aggravate the damage.
Sealing cracks with low-pressure injection
Unlike high-pressure injection, the low-pressure injection method involves introducing a liquid at a very low pressure into a narrow crack.
This procedure is done using a caulking gun, a double cartridge gun or a handheld sprayer.
To plug the crevices with this method, it is necessary to install plastic surface injection ports on the crack.
In this case, epoxy is the material typically used for the job.
Epoxy:
- Allows the original structural integrity to be maintained;
- Resistant to temperature changes.
This method only applies to cracks that do not exceed a certain opening diameter, otherwise the repair will be ineffective over time.
Waterproofing for crack sealing
The waterproofing process can also be used to seal cracks on your foundation.
Since this method is carried out on the outside of the foundation, it is sometimes necessary to dig the earth to clear the wall and reach the area to be worked. This step can only be done with the help of a mini excavator.
The crack is open in a “V” shape, which is filled with cement.
The experts then install a water-repellent membrane on the previously cleaned foundation wall.
It should be noted that the installation of a waterproofing membrane is the only solution to prevent potential water infiltration.
Conclusion
It is important to seal cracks on a foundation as soon as they appear to ensure that they do not worsen further over time.
In addition, you will have understood that this work can be complex and the help of an expert is sometimes the only solution.
Make sure you are well advised so that you know the method that best suits your situation and call on experts who will do an impeccable job and long durations.
Contact Fissure Expert for a free quote to seal your cracks today.
Need a Crack Repair Expert?
If you notice cracks on your foundation, it is important to act quickly. Fissure Expert offers professional foundation crack injection services throughout Quebec. Call a certified foundation crack contractor for a free estimate. We serve Chicoutimi, Laval, Sherbrooke and several other cities.