Basement walls that are constructed from blocks can require a number of different repairs over the lifetime of the wall, such as cracks, leaks and complete failures. The good news about basement walls constructed from blocks is that the repairs are manageable and effective. If your basement walls have blocks that need repairs, then you should know about the materials and techniques available for a successful repair. Does this Spark an idea?
Repair Cracks
Repair cracks in the blocks using hydraulic cement or concrete epoxy. Hydraulic cement can be purchased premixed or in powder form. Mix the powder form with sand and water to form a pancake batter consistency. Clean any loose concrete from the crack and pack the hydraulic cement into the crack using a masonry trowel and a small pointing trowel. Use the larger masonry trowel to hold the cement up to the crack and the smaller pointing trowel to push the cement into the crack. The hydraulic cement will expand and seal off the crack.
You can also fill and repair cracks by using concrete epoxy. The epoxy comes in a syringe and can be inserted into the crack by pressing the plunger with your thumb. Fill the crack full and level with the surface of the blocks.
Replace Blocks
Replace damaged blocks by chiseling them out with a brick chisel and a brick hammer. Clean all of the old mortar out of the opening, and replace the old block with a new block. Use type S mortar to bond the block into the opening. Spread the type S mortar onto the bottom and top of the new block, and slide it into the opening without pushing the mortar off of the block. Use a small tuck pointer to fill in the block joints tightly. Use a joint striker to strike the new joints, and sweep the block with a soft bristled brush.
Sealing the Wall
Seal a leaky block wall with concrete sealer. The sealer can be purchased in several different colors and should be rolled on using a paint roller. Sweep the wall with a broom, and dry the wall as much as possible before you apply the sealer. Make sure that the sealer penetrates the pours of the block wall. Apply several coats to ensure a proper seal.
Tags: into crack, basement walls, block wall, block with, blocks that, cement into
