Freeze Thaw Foundation Cracks: How the Cycle Can Cause Concrete Damage
If you live in the Chicagoland area, you already know how brutal winters can be. From icy sidewalks to snow-covered driveways, cold weather brings plenty of visible challenges. But one of the most damaging effects of winter often happens quietly, below your feet: foundation and concrete damage caused by the freeze-thaw cycle. Many affected areas, […]
5 Things Homeowners Should Do This Fall to Get Ready for Winter — Including Attic Insulation for the Holidays
As the leaves fall and temperatures drop, now’s the perfect time to make sure your home is ready for the colder months ahead. A little maintenance now not only helps you avoid costly repairs later—it also ensures your home is safe, cozy, and welcoming for the holiday season. Here are five key steps to take […]
Hear It From Lou – Winter Home Maintenance Tips: Protect Your Foundation and Concrete with Perma-Seal
When you think about getting your home ready for winter, what comes to mind? Probably things like: Weather-stripping doors and windows Having your furnace inspected and cleaned Doing a good end-of-season landscaping clean-up Those are all great steps—but there’s another area of your home that deserves attention this time of year: your foundation and the […]
Is Foundation Settlement Normal? What Every Chicago Homeowner Should Know
Understanding the Basics: What Is Foundation Settlement? Foundation settlement refers to the downward movement of a home’s foundation due to changes in the soil beneath it. Every house experiences some degree of settling, especially within the first few years after construction. In most cases, this is perfectly normal and expected. However, when settlement becomes uneven […]
Top 5 Mistakes That Cause Foundation Damage
Your foundation may seem indestructible, but it’s more vulnerable than you think—especially when well-meaning homeowners make costly mistakes that affect soil stability, drainage, and structural integrity. At Perma-Seal, we’ve seen it all. Here’s a breakdown of the top 5 common missteps that can slowly (and silently) damage your home’s foundation. 1. Improper Drainage Around the […]
Why Epoxy Injection Is the Preferred Method for Sealing Leaky Foundation Wall Cracks
When it comes to repairing leaky foundation wall cracks, homeowners seek solutions that are both effective and long-lasting. Among the various methods available, our team at Perma-Seal uses epoxy injection to fix foundation wall cracks. This technique not only addresses the immediate issue of water intrusion but also restores the foundation’s structural integrity. Understanding Epoxy Injection […]
What is Hydrostatic Pressure
Hydrostatic pressure refers to the force exerted by standing water against a surface, such as your home’s foundation walls and basement floor. When the soil surrounding your foundation becomes saturated—due to heavy rainfall, melting snow, or a high water table—this water exerts pressure against the walls and floor of your basement. Over time, this pressure […]
Understanding The Impact of Winter Weather on Your Foundation and Waterproofing
Chicago winters can be tough on your home, especially when it comes to your foundation and waterproofing systems. The combination of freezing temperatures, snow, and thawing can lead to serious issues if your home isn’t prepared. Understanding these potential problems is the first step in protecting your property during the colder months. The Effects of […]
Hear It From Loui – Strong Foundations, Strong Homes
I may be a little old school but to me a well-built home is well maintained and starts with the stuff you don’t see. Sure, a shiny new bathroom or kitchen or deck is fantastic, and it does add value. But, none of that is worth two cents if the foundation is not strong and […]
Why DIY Foundation Crack Repair Doesn’t Work
Foundation cracks can be a homeowner’s worst nightmare, and the temptation to fix these issues yourself is understandable, especially with the availability of DIY foundation crack repair kits. However, not all cracks are the same—understanding the difference between various types of cracks is crucial for proper diagnosis and repair. Concrete cracks, if not addressed promptly, […]
