How To Repair Exterior Foundation Cracks Before They Worsen

Look around your home’s exterior. Pay attention to different areas of your home exterior to spot any defects that need fixing.

Have you noticed any cracks in your home’s exterior foundation? If so, you’re in the right place. Your home’s exterior foundation cracking can spell disaster. Cracks aren’t just unpleasant to look at, they may also lead to bigger issues down the road if left unattended. Thus, if you happen to spot any foundation cracking in your home’s exterior, it’s best that you act now.

Luckily, this post will cover the following subject: how to repair exterior foundation cracks before they worsen. This is very helpful for novice homeowners and experienced homemakers alike who are looking to properly deal with foundation cracking in their homes.

If you want to learn more, read on.

Identify What Type Of Foundation Cracking Is Present

Identify What Type Of Foundation Cracking Is Present

First things first, you need to identify what kind of exterior foundation crack you’re dealing with before proceeding with repair foundation cracks. Not all cracks mean the same—some are just cosmetic concerns, while others are an indication of deeper structural, foundation problems.

To proceed, you need to look closely at the direction and width of the foundation cracking. It’s said that hairline-sized cracks are often less serious, but if you find wider and more noticeable cracks, consider them as a red flag. Horizontal cracks or those that appear stair-step-like in block foundations are particularly troubling, indicating potential structural failures that need to be addressed the soonest.

Prepare The Materials That You’ll Need

Prepare The Materials That You’ll Need

Before you start repairing the foundation cracking in your home’s exterior, gather all the necessary materials to make sure that everything goes smoothly and hassle-free.

When repairing foundation cracking, you’ll need the following:

  • Epoxy or polyurethane concrete repair kit
  • Caulking gun
  • Hammer
  • Chisel
  • Safety equipment like gloves and glasses
  • Wire brush; and the like.

Remember: picking the right sealant depends on the type of crack in your home’s exterior. Home repair experts agree that epoxy is a suitable material for filling those hairline-like thin and subtle foundation cracks. On the other hand, polyurethane is typically better for wider cracks due to the material’s inherent flexibility.

Inspect And Prepare The Foundation Crack Before Working On It

Keep in mind the following home repair tenet: preparation is key to ensuring the repairs you’re going to do hold over time.

To prepare the foundation cracking in your home’s exterior, begin by using a chisel and hammer to widen the crack ever so slightly. You may think that this seems counterintuitive, but it allows for a better seal.

After you’ve chiseled out any loose concrete, scrub the crack with a wire brush to remove any remaining debris and dust. A clean, solid surface is critical for the sealant to adhere properly.

Apply The Crack Sealant

Apply The Crack Sealant

Now, it’s time to get down to the actual business of repairing the exterior foundation cracks in your home.

To proceed, you need to fit the caulking gun with your chosen sealant and carefully inject it into the crack, starting from the bottom and working your way up to ensure no air pockets are left behind.

Then, smooth out the sealant with a trowel or your finger that’s covered by a protective glove. Make sure the resulting sealant is level with the rest of the foundation surface before leaving it behind to settle in and dry.

Keep An Eye On The Repair That You’ve Done

After the repair, you’re not quite done yet. Keep an eye on the area over the next few days to ensure the sealant is curing properly without any issues. Check for any signs of further cracking or separation around the repaired area. It’s also a good idea to inspect your foundation regularly as part of your home maintenance routine.

Prevent Future Cracks

Once your repair is complete, it’s wise to think about prevention. Here are a few tips to help keep your foundation in top shape:

  • Maintain Good Drainage: Ensure that water flows away from your home, not towards it. Extend downspouts, slope the ground away from the foundation, and consider installing French drains if you have persistent moisture issues.
  • Monitor Soil Moisture: Consistent soil moisture levels can prevent uneven settling of the foundation. During dry periods, consider using a soaker hose to maintain soil moisture, and in wet conditions, ensure that excess water is properly channeled away from your home.
  • Inspect Regularly: Keep an eye on your foundation as part of your regular home maintenance. Catching problems early can prevent costly repairs down the line.

Final Thoughts

Repairing foundation cracks doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right tools, materials, and a bit of elbow grease, you can patch up those pesky cracks and protect your home’s structural integrity, as well as keep your outdoors look pretty. Remember, the key is to act quickly and not ignore the problem, hoping it’ll go away on its own.

By taking proactive steps today, you save yourself from potential disasters tomorrow. Keep your home safe, secure, and crack-free with these straightforward repair steps.