There are two ways to repair foundation cracks with epoxy: DIY epoxy repair kits or hiring a professional foundation contractor. Costs for repair DIY kits range from $75 – $225, while hiring a foundation contract will cost $500 – $2500, depending on the cracks.
How to fix foundation cracks yourself with DIY Epoxy Kits:
The low cost of DIY Epoxy Repair Kits along with helpful instructional Youtube videos motivate handy homeowners to attempt the repair themselves. The process is straightforward:
Step 1: Purchase Epoxy Foundation Crack Repair Kit
The most popular brand of DIY foundation repair kits is the SIKA crack injection kits. These kits can be purchase at Home Depot for $90
Step 2: Surface Preparation:
For cracks less than 1/4in wide, open the crack using a hammer and chisel to form a small V-shape. Use an air compressor to clean all debris out of the crack.
Step 3: Install “T” Shaped Injection Ports (included in kit)
These ports help the resin material go deep into the crack. Install these ports evenly spaced (6 – 8 inches) and centered across the crack. A glue gun can be used to keep them in place. Once complete spray crack with water to help ensure proper adhesion of the Skiaset Plugs
Step 4: Mix the Hydraulic Mortar:
The mixture sets quickly (1-2 min) so mix small amounts of mortar with water until you get a stiff even consistency.
Step 5: Apply the Mortar Around Plugs
Apply the mortar along the face of the crack and around the ports.
SIKA – Epoxy Injection Crack Repair Kit: Instructional Video
The Risks of DIY Epoxy Repair Kits:
While cost effective, the risks are high. Done incorrectly a DIY foundation repair can fail making an exterior injection and waterproofing repair the only way to ensure the crack is sealed. Costs for external crack repairs include excavating around your foundation and applying a waterproofing membrane which can start at $5000+.
The most common reason DIY repairs fail is when the cavity behind the foundation crack is large and has multiple points of failure. In this case one DIY repair kit will not seal the issue and the crack may start leaking in the future, leading to a more expensive professional repair down the road.
Reasons to Choose a Professional for Epoxy Crack Injections:
There are three main reasons to choose a professional contractor for foundation crack repairs:
- Transferrable Warranty:
Professional foundation contractors often guarantee their work with a transferable warranty. This means even if you sell your home, the new homeowner will benefit from warranty coverage on the crack.
- Material Quality:
Foundation contractors use professional-grade epoxy for injections, which you cannot purchase at home renovation stores. When a crack is larger, the contractor may use multiple injection ports and 2-3x the material included in a DIY kit to seal the crack.
- Advice & Inspection:
Fixing a crack is often not enough. Homeowners need to understand the severity of the crack, what caused it, whether there are more cracks, and whether their foundation has any other issues. This advice is critical if you are finishing a basement. The last thing you want to do is complete a basement renovation only to find foundation and water damage in years to come.
So, even though DIY Epoxy kits are a cost-effective solution for minor foundation crack repairs, homeowners face high risks. Even if you repair the crack yourself, contacting a foundation professional for advice may be wise beforehand.
