How to Fix Cracks in the Foundation of a Home

Repair cracks in your home's foundation

While highly durable and versatile, concrete is often susceptible to cracking caused by movement in the surrounding ground. The cracks do not alter the integrity of the foundation, but some homeowners find them unsightly. To repair these cracks in your foundation wall, properly, clean, prep., and patch the crack. The process is simple and effective for all of the cracks you will encounter in your house foundation.

Things You'll Need

• Chisel
• Hammer
• Wire brush
• Paintbrush
• Concrete bonding liquid
• Concrete mix
• Water
• Bucket
• Wood
• Broom
• Pointed trowel

Instructions

1. Insert the chisel into the top of the crack and gently tap it with the hammer. Aim to widen the crack to an inch wide along its entire length. Widening the crack to a uniform width will ensure the concrete mix sets evenly and properly.

2. Brush out the concrete chippings with the wire brush. Be sure to force the wire bristles deep inside the crack to remove all stray concrete pieces and any other debris or dirt. Any improperly cleaned crack can threaten the integrity of the concrete patch.

3. Apply concrete bonding liquid to the inside of the crack with a standard paintbrush. Force the paintbrush as far inside the crack as it can go to ensure that the bonding liquid is applied to both the sides and back of the crack.

4. Mix the water and dry concrete in a small bucket in the ratio outlined on the concrete package. Use a spare piece of wood is often a suitable tool to stir the mix quickly.

5. Apply the wet concrete to the interior of the crack with the pointed end of the trowel. Be sure to force the concrete as deep into the crack as you can.

6. Smooth the concrete with the flat side of the trowel and allow the repair to set for 30 minutes.

7. Moisten the end of a broom and sweep it across the surface of the repair to add texture to the concrete and hide the repair. The patch should set within 24 hours of application.

References

• "Homeowner Basics (Black & Decker Complete Photo Guide)"; Jodie Carter; 2008