When crack repair is usually enough
If water comes in at one specific crack in a poured concrete wall, and the rest of the basement stays dry, sealing that crack is often all that is needed. Contractors commonly inject the crack from the inside so it is sealed through the wall. Thin vertical cracks in poured walls are very common as concrete cures and settles.
When you need waterproofing
If water appears in several places, along the bottom of the walls where they meet the floor, or up through the floor, sealing individual cracks will not solve it. That pattern usually means water pressure in the soil around the house, and the fix is a drainage system: interior drain tile that collects the water and a sump pump that removes it.
Cracks that are structural warning signs
Some cracks are about more than water. Have these inspected promptly:
- Horizontal cracks in a wall
- Stair-step cracks in a block wall
- A wall that bows or leans inward
- Cracks wider at one end than the other, or getting wider over time
These can mean soil pressure is moving the wall. A waterproofing contractor can tell you if a structural repair specialist is needed.
A quick self-check
During the next rain, look at where the water first appears. Water at one crack points to crack repair. Water along the floor edge or in several places points to waterproofing. Take photos, and share them with the contractor at the estimate.
Not sure? Get it looked at
A free estimate is the easiest way to know for sure. Call (612) 800-8170 to be connected with a local contractor. Learn more about foundation crack repair and basement waterproofing.