Basement Wall Crack Repair

A basement wall repair doesn't have to be an all-day project. In fact, most cracks only require the few simple steps shown in this do-it-yourself guide.

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By: Caroline Shannon-Karasik

Basement walls help the structure of a home stay sound, which is reason enough to keep them properly maintained when planning a basement remodel. Water pressure from the soil surrounding the foundation, or freezing and thawing during temperature changes, can cause basement walls to crack.

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Basement wall repairs are best done with a caulking gun and an epoxy-based resin. To heal most cracks, particularly those in the mortar between concrete block, you can place the tip of the tube of epoxy into the crack and squeeze the trigger to apply the sealant. If the crack requires two coats of epoxy, then allow first layer of sealant to dry before applying a second.

Many do-it-yourself kits are available for these basement wall repairs. The kits often include everything necessary for repairing cracks, such as tools and application instructions, not just for concrete block but poured walls, too.

If a wall crack is horizontal or appears to run in line with a crack in the floor, then there may be a deeper structural issue. In this instance, it is best to consult a professional for an evaluation that could help prevent a much bigger problem.

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