Foundation Crack Repairs Can Last a Lifetime OR Fail: Learn Why
Foundation cracks can be a serious problem for homeowners, as they can lead to water infiltration, structural damage, and even the collapse of the foundation. If you’ve discovered a crack in your basement foundation, it’s important to take action to repair it as soon as possible. But how long can you expect a foundation crack repair to last?
If done right, foundation crack repairs should last for the lifetime of your house.
At Renco, we back all foundation crack repairs with a 25-year transferrable warranty. This means if you sell the home, you can pass on the warranty to the new owner in case of future issues.
Factors Affecting the Lifespan of Foundation Crack Repairs
The lifespan of foundation crack repairs can vary depending on a number of factors, including:
- The severity of the crack: A small, hairline crack may be easier to repair and less likely to reappear than a larger, more severe crack.
- The type of repair method used: Different repair methods have different lifespans. Some repairs may only last a few years, while others can last for several decades.
- The underlying cause of the crack: If the crack is caused by ongoing foundation settlement or movement, the repair may not be effective in the long term.
Common Foundation Crack Repair Methods and Their Lifespans
Our basement waterproofing repairs are backed by a lifetime transferrable warranty.
1) Epoxy and Polyurethane Injection
One common method of repairing foundation cracks is injection with epoxy or polyurethane. These materials are designed to fill the crack and prevent water from entering the foundation. Epoxy and polyurethane injections are generally considered to be long-lasting repairs, with a lifespan of 10 years or more. For more info, you can read our DIY guide to epoxy crack injections here.
2) Carbon Fiber Reinforcement
Another common method of repairing foundation cracks is using carbon fiber reinforcement strips. These strips are applied to the foundation’s surface and help distribute the load across a wider area, reducing stress on the crack. Carbon fiber reinforcement repairs are considered to be long-lasting and can last for 25 years or more.
3) Hydraulic Cement, Piers, and Anchors
Other repair methods include hydraulic cement, which can be effective for sealing small cracks but may not be suitable for larger cracks or those caused by ongoing foundation movement. Another option is the installation of foundation piers or anchors, which can help to stabilize the foundation and prevent further cracking.
The Importance of Addressing Underlying Foundation Crack Issues
It’s important to note that the lifespan of any foundation crack repair depends on the underlying cause of the crack. If the crack was caused by ongoing settlement or movement of the foundation, the repair may not be effective in the long term. In such cases, additional repairs or even foundation replacement may be necessary.
Example of underlying foundation issue:
For example, if a foundation crack is caused by expansive soils that are prone to swelling and shrinking, a long-lasting repair may require addressing the soil issues. This could involve installing a foundation drainage system, improving the grading around the foundation, or even installing soil stabilization measures.
Similarly, if a foundation crack is caused by poor soil compaction or inadequate footings, the repair may need to address these issues in addition to sealing the crack. This could involve installing additional footings, reinforcing existing ones, or even excavating and re-compacting the soil beneath the foundation.
