Basement Wall Crack Repair FAQ
How does low-pressure injection work for repairing poured foundation cracks?
Surface ports are glued to the wall, the crack is covered with surface seal. Injection material is injected through surface ports and into the crack. The complete process can be seen, step-by-step by watching our instructional video - an excellent visual for why crack injection is the preferred method for repairing basement wall cracks.
Will crack injection still be effective during the winter months when it is primarily cold outside?
Yes, because the outside earth temperature stays in the low '50s, for most parts of the United States. Because heat always goes from hot to cold (never cold to hot), the air inside a basement (assuming the house is properly heated) is absorbed by the foundation.
What is the best repair method for a cracked poured concrete basement wall?
A low pressure injection process using either epoxy or polyurethane resin is the best method. While there are numerous ways to temporarily patch cracks, to get a permanent repair you must do two things: stop moisture penetration from the outside and eliminate or accommodate any wall movement. Low pressure injections are done from inside the basement. The procedure will fill the crack from front to back and bottom to top thus completely sealing the crack. In addition, when using urethane foam, you will fill any void behind the crack.
Why do surface repairs using hydraulic cement, caulks, coatings, or patching always fail?
These types of repairs consistently fail within a short amount of time. Expansion and contraction movement of the wall, though minimal, causes these repairs to shadow crack and leak again. Low pressure urethane and epoxy grout injections are permanent repairs since the crack within the wall is completely filled, not just the surface.
How does crack injection work?
A two part liquid resin is allowed to flow under low pressure into the crack in the wall from inside the basement. This resin is introduced into the crack through small ports glued over the crack. The resin travels all the way through the wall to the outside where the concrete wall meets the dirt. The liquid resin chemically reacts and then solidifies filling the space within the crack. The ports can be easily removed within a day.
How long will a crack injection repair last?
Crack injection when properly installed will last the life of the structure.
When should epoxy be used and when should urethane be used?
Both urethane and epoxy can be used to stop water. Urethane has the advantage of expansion allowing for filling potential voids both within and beyond the wall. Expansion also prevents the product from leaking out of the crack before it cures and fills more thoroughly. Repairs that are structural require the use of epoxy. Most cracks are not structural in nature.
How can I tell if the crack needs structural repair?
Signs of structural cracks include horizontal cracks, cracks ½” or greater, significantly wider at the top than the bottom, and offset cracks. These are just a few of signs of structural damage. If there is any question of structural problems an engineer or a professional repair contractor should be called.
What if the crack is very small?
It is rare that a crack is so small it cannot be injected with Emecole's crack injection system. Cracks which are barely visible to the naked eye are good candidates for crack injection.
Why does concrete crack?
Cracks in concrete are primarily due to shrinkage during cure and settling after the house is built. Structural overload and earthquakes are other examples. Almost all basements will eventually develop cracks in a wall.
When do cracks in concrete occur?
Most cracks develop within the first two years after the structure is poured.
Can a crack in concrete grow?
Yes. Freezing, thawing, pressures from expansive soils and changes in moisture content in surroundings areas are a few of the reasons that cause cracks in concrete to grow or move.
Does a crack in a concrete wall that is not leaking need repair?
Cracks will continue to deteriorate over time due to moisture penetration and soil pressure against walls. It is recommended that all cracks be repaired prior to finishing a basement or storing valuable items there.
Will a low pressure injection work on my cracked block foundation wall?
No, blocks contain hollow cells. A local waterproofing applicator can recommend alternate methods of repair.
Do you recommend injecting the leaking joint between my poured wall and the concrete slab?
No. The floor cove should not leak unless the drain tile is blocked or the sump pump is not working properly. Occasionally short distances along the cove are injected with urethane to hopefully divert the water back into the drain field. This is assuming that the drain tile is not blocked.
The products on this website are not available in stores. For additional assistance we are available by email and phone. Emecole's regular business hours are Monday through Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT.
