When foundations become worn and cracked, it may be necessary to repair and restore the cracks. Foundation cracks are caused by the settling of the ground on which the foundation sits. It is perfectly natural for the ground to settle during the lifetime of the foundation. You can expect a small amount of movement about every 2 to 3 years. Repairing a cracked foundation require due diligence in preparation and procedure. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Clean out any loose particles from inside the crack. Many times, when a foundation cracks, small pieces will remain in between the crack. This must be removed in order for the repair to be effective.
2. Mix the type "S" mortar together with the sand. Using the 5 gallon bucket, add about 1/4 water in the bucket first. Mix the mortar and sand at 2 to 1 ratio, two parts sand to one part mortar. Add the sand first. This will prevent the mixture from lumping in the bottom of the bucket. Add the mortar and mix vigorously until you have a mixture that is somewhat sticky and will remain on the trowel without falling off.
3. Wet the crack with the water hose. If the crack is dry, then the mortar may not bond effectively. The water will allow the mortar to be pulled into the pores of the foundation.
4. Pack the mortar into the crack using the small pointing trowel. Using the back of the trowel, take the mortar from the bucket and force it into the crack. You may need to pack a large amount into the crack before it fills. Repeat this on the back side of the foundation.
5. Smooth the mortar with the trowel, and make sure that any excess mortar that is hanging is cut off even with the foundation surface. Allow the patch to dry over the next 6 to 8 hours. Keep the patch moist for the next 2 days so that is doesn't dry out too quick and crack.
Tags: into crack, mortar sand, will remain
