How to Repair Foundation Cracks
Foundation Crack Repair Services in Amarillo
Some people who discover foundation cracks in their homes automatically assume they are harbingers of significant structural issues. On the other hand, some choose to ignore them entirely, believing they are unimportant or merely cosmetic. Neither approach is correct. Jumping to conclusions can lead to unnecessary stress or costly repairs, while neglecting visible signs may allow a minor issue to escalate into a significant problem.
Some cracks in foundation walls genuinely signal serious foundation problems, such as settling or shifting caused by poor soil conditions, erosion, or drainage issues. Others are simply a result of natural processes, like concrete shrinking or expanding due to temperature changes. Hairline cracks, for instance, are typically cosmetic and do not compromise structural integrity.
The best course of action is to call a trusted foundation repair contractor. Professionals can determine whether the cracks are benign or require immediate intervention. At Childers Brothers, we assess cracks thoroughly and use proven repair methods to address both structural concerns and cosmetic imperfections, ensuring your home’s foundation remains safe and stable. By seeking expert guidance, you’ll gain peace of mind and avoid unnecessary risks.
1. Conduct a Thorough Inspection to Determine the Cause
There is a reason why we start attacking any problem with our 27-point foundation analysis. We could simply fill in the crack and be done, but doing so without addressing the root of the problem is only going to cause more problems for you and your home in the long run.
The inspection will both cover aspects of the crack as well as assessing other potential signals of what is causing the cracks. This is not just a quick look. We bring high tech equipment along to make sure that the information we gather is precise and accurate.
2. Diagnose the Cause and Severity of the Crack
Using the results of the 27-point analysis, we’ll diagnose the cause of the foundation crack and whether or not it is a significant concern to you. We pride ourselves on being forthright and transparent. If the crack is purely cosmetic, we’ll tell you it is purely cosmetic.
If it is instead a sign of deeper foundation issues, we’ll tell you that, too. Regardless, the information gleaned during the analysis lets us know what repairs are, or are not, necessary.
3. Repair Any Underlying Cause for the Foundation Cracks
What is involved in this step depends on what we find out in step two.
If the cracks are signs of foundation damage caused by settlement, we would likely suggest installing helical piers. If it is being caused by hydrostatic pressure being exerted on the foundation wall, we might install carbon fiber sheeting or H-beams to stabilize the foundation wall.
Regardless, the larger repair work, if any is needed, will be precisely matched to problems the home is facing. We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions for foundation repair because, quite frankly, they don’t exist.
4. Repair the Foundation Crack Itself
In some cases, this is really part of step three.
When applying carbon fiber sheeting, for instance, repair of any cracks is done before the sheeting is put up.
Regardless of when it is done, however, it is usually a good idea to repair the crack even after the more serious structural repairs have taken place. This is because foundation cracks can become conduits for water or pest infiltration into your home.
By fixing the cracks the right way, you can seal them up, protecting your basement and home.
For us, sealing them up the right way involves professional strength epoxy crack filler. The epoxy we use, manufactured by industry leader Prime Resins, is far stronger than the type of products you would get at your local home improvement store. Some of the epoxy even becomes stronger than the concrete itself when it is attached.
Our trained installers will ensure that the epoxy is injected deep into the foundation cracks, filling them in their entirety rather than just spreading some over the surface to cover up the deeper problem.
Interested in Foundation Crack Repair Services in Amarillo, Lubbock and the Surrounding Areas?
If you have foundation cracks that are causing concerns and live in the Texas panhandle area or eastern New Mexico, contact Childers Brothers today to schedule your free foundation analysis.