DIY Crack Repair vs. Professional: Which is Right for You?
When it comes to foundation cracks, homeowners must choose between tackling the problem themselves or hiring a professional.
While DIY solutions may seem quick and cost-effective, they provide only temporary relief and fail to address the underlying issues that cause foundation damage.
Attempting to fix foundation cracks yourself can result in more extensive damage and greater costs.
Let’s explore the options for DIY repairs and professional solutions.
DIY Foundation Crack Repair Options
Homeowners often turn to DIY foundation crack repairs, thinking they can save money or avoid the hassle of hiring a professional.
Common DIY options include:
Epoxy Injection Kits
Epoxy injection kits are marketed as an easy solution to seal small foundation cracks from the inside. While they may temporarily fill the crack and prevent water from entering, they do not address the root cause of the problem, such as soil movement or hydrostatic pressure.
Over time, the crack may reopen, or new cracks may form nearby, requiring repeated applications.
Hydraulic Cement
Hydraulic cement is often used to patch cracks because it expands as it dries, filling in the gaps. However, this material is rigid and does not flex with the natural movement of your home’s foundation.
As the soil around your home shifts, the cement will crack or dislodge, leaving you with the same problem all over again.
Crack Repair Sealants and Caulk
These are other popular DIY methods for small cracks. These products can temporarily seal a crack and keep out moisture but don’t provide the structural support needed to stabilize a shifting foundation.
Like epoxy and cement, they don’t solve the underlying issues, and cracks will likely reappear or worsen over time.
The Downsides of DIY Repairs
While these DIY methods may offer a quick fix, they come with significant downsides:
- Temporary Solutions: DIY repairs do not address the underlying issues causing the foundation cracks. Without tackling the root cause, you will likely face recurring cracks and additional repairs.
- Potential for Further Damage: DIY repairs can mask more severe problems, allowing damage to worsen over time. The longer these issues go unaddressed, the more costly and extensive the necessary repairs will be.
- No Long-Term Peace of Mind: Even if a DIY repair seems successful initially, it lacks the long-term stability and warranties that come with professional work, leaving you with uncertainty and the potential for future headaches.
Professional Foundation Crack Repair
Professional foundation repair is the way to go for a permanent and reliable fix.
Experts have the knowledge, experience, and tools to identify and address the root cause of your foundation issues, providing you with a lasting solution. Here are some effective professional repair options:
Piering
If unstable soil is causing your foundation to settle, piering is a reliable solution. Professionals install steel piers deep into the stable soil or bedrock, providing a solid foundation to support your home. This method addresses the root cause of the problem by stabilizing the foundation from beneath, preventing future movement and cracks.
Wall Anchors
If your foundation cracks are caused by lateral movement due to hydrostatic pressure, wall anchors may be the best option.
Wall anchors are installed by driving metal rods into the ground outside your home and securing them to steel plates on the inside. This method provides lateral support, counteracting the pressure and preventing further bowing or movement of your walls.
Wall Braces
For homes with limited exterior space or tight interiors, wall braces offer a viable alternative. These braces are installed on the inside of your basement walls to provide additional support and prevent further inward movement. They are adjustable, allowing for gradual straightening over time while reinforcing the integrity of your foundation.
Why Professional Repair is the Right Choice
Opting for professional foundation repair offers several advantages over DIY solutions:
- Comprehensive Assessment: Professionals conduct a thorough inspection to determine the underlying cause of your foundation issues, ensuring the right solution is applied.
- Long-Term Stability: Professional repairs address the root cause of the problem, providing a lasting solution that protects your home and prevents further damage.
- Warranty and Peace of Mind: Professional repairs often come with warranties, offering you peace of mind that your foundation is secure and any future issues will be covered.
Choose Professional Groundworks Repair for a Lasting Solution
DIY foundation crack repairs might seem quick and affordable, but they are temporary fixes that often lead to more work, higher costs, and further damage.
Professional foundation repair provides a permanent solution that addresses the root cause of your issues, keeping your home safe and stable for the long term.
Don’t let a small crack become a big problem. Contact a professional repair company like Groundworks for a free inspection and expert solutions to protect your home confidently.
Foundation Damage & Repair FAQs
Choose appropriate tree species, plant them at a safe distance, install root barriers, and maintain proper soil moisture.
The duration of foundation repair depends on the extent of the damage and the type of repair needed, but most repairs can be completed within a few days to a couple of weeks.
Yes, areas with expansive clay soils, high water tables, or poor drainage systems are more prone to foundation settlement issues.
