Foundation
Home foundations that settle and crack present many problems. There's the real possibility of further settlement and continued damage to walls, floors and plumbing, but cracked foundation walls also can allow moisture to enter the structure -- leading to mold and water damage. Fixing a cracked foundation is a difficult repair and should be handled by professionals if you're unfamiliar with typical construction practices. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Examine the cracked foundation and use the chisel and hammer to clear out the crack. If the crack does not appear to be due to a settling foundation (noticeable by a sloped floor), you can most likely simply patch the crack as it is only cosmetic.
2. Mix some of the repair cement according to the manufacturer's instructions and then pick up some of the foundation repair cement on the trowel. Spread cement throughout the crack and smooth out the repair surface. Allow the cement to dry for at least 48 hours before painting.
3. Install helical piers if the foundation is cracking because of soil settlement under the foundation. Dig down next to the home with the shovels and picks until the bottom of the foundation is visible. Screw the large helical piers into the soil next to the foundation, placing a pier every 3 feet along the settling portion of the home.
4. Tighten the mounting bolts and hardware down on the house foundation with the ratchet wrench. Cover the piers and foundation back up with soil, using the shovels. The piers will keep the foundation from sinking further and causing future cracks.
Tags: cracked foundation, helical piers, piers foundation, repair cement