How to Repair Basement Cracks
If you are noticing cracks in the cement floor of your basement or in the cement foundation wall, then here is how to repair basement cracks. These cracks are eyesores that can decrease the value of your home. And while some of them will have little consequence, others may lead to gaping cracks and may allow the seepage of ground water into your home. This, in turn, can lead to mold and mildew, or even the loss of structural integrity. So it is important to deal with any crack before it becomes a true disaster.
Epoxy or Polyurethane Foam
The simple way to permanently repair these cracks is to apply a low pressure injection of an epoxy or polyurethane foam material right into the crack. The entire process, including the setting of the chemicals, takes about an hour for most jobs. A common place to encounter such cracks is around a drainpipe. Water that eventually flows down the drain may stand for a while in the area around the pipe and cause deterioration of the limestone in the cement, leading to cracks. To address this, spread a drop cloth over the floor area in which you will be working. Take a sledgehammer and chisel to chip away any mortar surrounding the drainpipe. Clean all the debris from the hole and remove and then partially fill the hole with chunks of rubble that you just hammered out. Mix the cement with water in a bucket and then, wearing latex gloves, pack the cement into the hole. Use a trowel to make sure that it is forced deep into the hole. Then just smooth the cement patch flush to the surface. Be sure that you fill in all spaces so that the floor around the drainpipe is completely smooth. Now allow the cement to harden and you have successfully repaired your floor.
Sani-Tred Products
You can seal any cracks and waterproof your entire basement using Sani-Tred products. Begin by preparing the substrate by cleaning and removing any loose cement and debris. Get rid of all foreign matter and make sure the surface is dry. Prime the entire surface using PermaFlex and following the directions on the packaging. Patch any cracks or holes with a mixture of liquid rubber base and thickening activator. Now apply a top coat of PermaFlex. You can apply with a brush, roller, or even a sprayer. The more porous your surface, the more PermaFlex you will need. Poured concrete surfaces require two coats and concrete blocks need three. Once the chemical hardens, you will have effectively eliminated water, moisture, or vapor, like Radon gas, from entering your basement. And Sani-Tred products are guaranteed to last for the life of your home with no further maintenance or application.
You should regularly check your basement for telltale signs of problems. If you get a musty odor or see white powdery substances on the floor, then you can be assured that you have a problem with water leaking in to the room. Use one of the approaches discussed herein to insure the integrity of your basement and the security of your home.
