Exterior Foundation Repair: How To Fix Common Problems

By Author: ADVAN
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When it comes to maintaining your home's structural integrity, there are few things more important than a solid foundation. Unfortunately, even the strongest foundations can develop cracks or other issues over time. This is especially true when it comes to the exterior foundation, which is exposed to the elements day in and day out. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the most common problems that homeowners may encounter with their exterior foundation, and provide some tips on how to fix them. Whether you're looking to learn more about home repair, read on for everything you need to know about exterior foundation repair.
Understanding the Importance of Exterior Foundation Repair
Exterior foundation crack repair is a crucial aspect of maintaining the structural integrity of your home. The foundation is responsible ...
... for supporting the weight of the entire structure, and any damage to it can lead to serious problems down the line. Regular maintenance and repair can help prevent costly and time-consuming repairs in the future.
Ignoring exterior foundation cracks can lead to water infiltration, which can cause mold growth, wood rot, and other structural issues. Additionally, cracks in the foundation can compromise the safety of your home and even lead to collapse in extreme cases.
It's important to address any exterior foundation damage as soon as possible. Regular inspections can help identify any issues early on, allowing for quick and effective repairs. By taking care of your home's foundation, you're investing in its longevity and protecting your family's safety by fixing cracks in foundation on the outside.
Common Causes of Exterior Foundation Cracks
Underlying problems in the soil, excessive moisture content, or poor construction can cause exterior foundation cracks. Some of the most common reasons for exterior foundation damage include expanding and contracting soils, hydrostatic pressure, inadequate drainage around the property perimeter, and freeze-thaw cycles.
If you have a cracked foundation repair issue caused by any of these external factors then it's crucial to get it fixed quickly as not fixing them could lead to even bigger damages over time.
It is important to understand that if left unaddressed, foundation cracks can drastically reduce property value and weaken your home's structural integrity. Homeowners who catch early warning signs of cracking should act fast before minor issues become major repairs. If there are crack signs on your concrete foundations such as vertical cracks (less than 1/4 inch wide), diagonal cracking from edges measuring less than an inch deep; they might be minor which one could DIY with epoxy putty but more severe conditions require contacting a professional contractor immediately.
Identifying Different Types of Exterior Foundation Cracks
Vertical cracks are the most common type of exterior foundation crack. They typically occur due to normal settling of the house over time, which can cause stress on the foundation walls. These cracks usually run straight up and down and do not pose a significant threat to the structural integrity of your home.
Horizontal cracks, on the other hand, are more serious and require immediate attention. These types of cracks typically occur due to excess pressure from soil or water against a weakened wall. If left untreated, horizontal cracks can lead to bowing or collapsing walls and create dangerous living conditions.
Other types of exterior foundation cracks include stair-step cracking in brick foundations, diagonal cracking caused by shifting or sinking soil, or corner cracking caused by poor drainage around your home's foundation. It is important to identify what type of crack you have before attempting any repairs as different types may require different treatment methods.
DIY vs Professional Exterior Foundation Repair: Which is Right for You?
When it comes to addressing exterior foundation cracks, you may be wondering whether to tackle the repairs yourself or hire a professional contractor. It's important to consider the severity of the damage before deciding.
Minor cracks that are less than 1/8 inch wide can typically be repaired with DIY methods such as using epoxy fillers or cement patches. However, larger cracks and those caused by structural issues require professional attention.
It's also essential to consider your own experience and skill level in home repairs. If you lack experience in foundation repair, it may be safer and more cost-effective to hire a professional contractor who has the necessary tools and expertise.
Additionally, hiring a contractor means having access to warranties on their workmanship and materials used. This provides added protection against future damage or issues that may arise.
Ultimately, determining whether DIY or professional repair is right for you depends on various factors including severity of damage, your own experience level, budget constraints, and desired outcome.