Expert Basement Wall Crack Repair Services in Chicago - Perma-Seal
When it comes to your home’s foundation, cracks of any shape or size are cause for concern. These basement wall cracks often cause water seepage and can indicate larger structural foundation problems that must be addressed in order to maintain the integrity of your home. Our team at Perma-Seal can help you fix foundation wall cracks whether they are in your basement or your crawl space, giving you the advantage of professional assessment and specialized products for effective sealing and waterproofing.
Our team of experts uses top-of-the-line basement crack repair equipment and techniques to repair cracks in basement walls, including leaky wall cracks, and prevent further damage. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact our team for wall crack repair services today.
Are Foundation Wall Cracks Serious?
While most cracks don’t pose serious problems for the structural integrity of a home, you should keep an eye out for other signs that could indicate you have an underlying structural foundation issue as that will require a different type of repair.
Aside from potential structural issues, excess moisture caused by leaky wall cracks provides an ideal environment for mold growth, radon issues, and indoor air quality issues to occur.
Types of Wall Cracks
Large Wall Cracks
Vertical or Diagonal Cracks
Horizontal Wall Cracks
Horizontal cracks are a sign of bowing or excess pressure on your foundation. They are caused by hydrostatic pressure and heavy rainfall. If you see any horizontal concrete cracks, contact our team at Perma-Seal today. These cracks can lead to bowed walls or complete foundation collapse.
How We Fix Wall Cracks
Foundation cracks are among the most common problems in basements and crawl spaces across the Chicagoland area. We offer a variety of cost-effective wall crack repair solutions designed to prevent cracks from spreading while completely sealing the crack to prevent leaks.
Before we apply any sealant, we carefully clean the area and remove any old paint, debris, or loose material to ensure proper adhesion. We use a blow-dryer or compressed air to blow away any moisture or dust from the crack, preparing the surface for repair. Sometimes, cracks are drilled at specific angles to allow for better penetration of the sealant. We then install the plastic injection ports securely onto the wall, ensuring correct placement for effective injection.
Next, we place the epoxy cartridge into a caulk gun and use the appropriate tools and techniques to spread the sealant evenly, making sure to cover the entire crack and surrounding area. Our technicians are careful to apply the sealant meticulously, avoiding plugging the injection ports so the material can flow freely. For larger cracks, we may patch them with specialized materials for added strength.
Once the crack is completely filled, we plug the injection ports to prevent leaks and allow the sealant or epoxy to cure for the specified number of days. After the sealant is fully cured, we remove the injection ports and check the repair to ensure a durable, watertight seal. The repair process may involve slightly widening the crack to ensure the material penetrates fully, and we use sand as a component in concrete, which affects how cracks form and are repaired.
Interior crack repair is often a cheaper and faster alternative to exterior methods, offering significant cost-saving and time-saving benefits for homeowners. Our solutions are designed to be durable and long-lasting, providing peace of mind. By following each step carefully and using the right materials and techniques, we ensure the best possible result for your foundation repair needs.
Epoxy Crack Injection
Exterior Crack Repair
FlexISpanTM
This system was designed to provide you with a permanent and effective solution to all types of wall crack problems, without the need to inject the cracks with epoxy or polyurethane. Instead, cracks are sealed with a flexible sealant on the surface of the crack from the top to bottom. If the crack were to ever leak again, any excess water infiltration will be directed straight into your drain tile system.
Basement Crack Prevention
Preventing cracks in your basement walls is a crucial part of maintaining your house’s structural integrity and avoiding costly repairs down the line. One of the main factors that leads to wall cracks is hydrostatic pressure—the force of water in the soil pressing against your foundation. Over time, this pressure can cause seeping water, especially in homes with poured concrete walls, resulting in hairline or even larger cracks that threaten your basement’s dryness and your home’s stability.
To minimize the risk of wall cracks, start by ensuring the ground around your foundation slopes away from your house. Proper grading and drainage are essential to keep water from pooling near your basement walls. Installing a French drain or similar system can be a highly effective way to redirect water and relieve hydrostatic pressure before it becomes a problem.
Regularly inspecting your basement walls is another key step in crack prevention. Look for early warning signs like hairline cracks, corner cracks, or any areas where water might be entering. If you find a crack, it’s important to act quickly—filling it with a suitable sealant, such as polyurethane foam, can stop water from seeping in and prevent further damage. For additional peace of mind, consider using a basement sump pump monitoring system to help detect and prevent water issues before they start. Make sure the surface is completely dry and clear of debris before applying any sealant for the best adhesion and durability.
There are several other things you can do to protect your basement walls. Keep gutters and downspouts clear so water is directed away from your foundation, and avoid planting trees or large shrubs too close to your house, as their roots can affect the soil and increase pressure on your walls. Using a dehumidifier in your basement can also help reduce moisture levels and the risk of cracks forming.
If you do spot a crack, many homeowners find that a do it yourself application with a crack repair kit is a practical solution for minor issues. These kits typically include injection ports, special tools, and enough material to fill and seal the crack. The process usually involves drilling small holes along the crack, installing the ports, and injecting the polyurethane foam or other sealant to fill the void. It’s crucial to follow the instructions carefully to avoid mistakes that could lead to further damage. Watching a video tutorial can be a great way to familiarize yourself with the process before you begin.
However, in some cases—such as when cracks are wide, spreading, or found in multiple parts of the basement wall—it’s best to consult a professional. They can determine the underlying cause, whether it’s hydrostatic pressure, structural movement, or another factor, and recommend the most suitable repair method to ensure your home’s foundation remains secure.
Taking these preventive steps and addressing cracks as soon as they’re found can save you a lot of effort and money in the long run. By being proactive about basement crack prevention, you help maintain the structural integrity of your house, keep your basement dry, and avoid the stress and expense of major foundation repairs.
Why It’s Important To Fix Wall Cracks
Repairing cracks in your foundation walls is important for several key reasons. These cracks can serve as water entry points, leading to leaks and serious water damage. This moisture can cause mold growth, compromise your home’s structural integrity, and weaken your foundation if left unchecked. Promptly addressing these issues helps prevent costly repairs down the line. Additionally, cracks in the basement can provide access to pests like insects and rodents, which can threaten your family’s health and safety. Sealing these cracks improves your home’s safety and comfort and enhances its value, making it more appealing to future buyers. By investing in basement crack repair now, you’re safeguarding your home and protecting your investment for years.
Important! DIY foundation crack repair solutions are often not enough to completely seal cracks in the long term. Using foundation crack repair kits won’t solve the problem and often cause more issues once installed.
Contact Us For Wall Crack Repair Services in Chicago and NW Indiana
If you have noticed cracks in the basement or crawl space wall, we can help. We offer permanent and affordable solutions for wall crack repair across the Chicagoland and NW Indiana areas. Contact our team by clicking the button below or calling 800-421-7325 today to schedule your free foundation crack inspection and repair estimate.
Basement Waterproofing
Great job
Basement Waterproofing and Crack Repair
Basement waterproofing
Michael kulis was very helpful and informative. He has a wonderful personality and made us very comfortable and confident.
