Can You Fix Foundation Cracks From Outside?

If you've ever noticed cracks in your foundation, you may be wondering if they can be fixed from the outside. The good news is that it is possible to fix some foundation cracks from the outside whether it is concrete foundation or more.
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However, there are a few things you need to know first. This article will discuss what causes foundation cracks and how they can be fixed from the outside.

The Causes of Foundation Cracks From the Outside 

​Cracks in your foundation can be caused by a number of things, including:

• Shrinkage - As your foundation dries, it will naturally shrink. This can cause cracks to form.
• Settling - Your foundation will settle over time. This can cause small cracks to form as well.
• Water damage - If your foundation is exposed to excessive moisture, it can cause the cracks to widen.
• Poor foundation construction - If your foundation wasn't constructed properly, it could lead to cracks forming over time.
• Inadequate drainage system - If your home doesn't have an adequate drainage system, it can lead to water pooling around your foundation, which can cause thin cracks.
• Plumbing leaks - Lines under your foundation can leak, causing the soil to erode and crack.
• Tree roots - If trees are too close to your foundation, their roots can grow under it and cause cracks.

​Now that we know what causes foundation cracks let's talk about how to fix them. There are a few different ways you can go about this, but we will focus on two of the most popular foundation crack repair methods.

The 3-step Repair Procedure 

In order to repair cracks from the outside, you will need to do the following:

Step 1: Dig the Surface Around the Crack

To begin, you will need to dig a trench around the perimeter of the crack. This will allow you to get to the root of the problem since you will be able to see the full extent of the damage.
You can use a mini-evacuator or a spade to do this.

Step 2: Seal the Crack

Once you have dug the trench, you will need to seal the crack. You can do this by using a concrete patching compound or epoxy.
If you are using a concrete patching compound, simply apply it to the crack and smooth it out with a putty knife.
If you are using epoxy, mix it according to the manufacturer's instructions and apply it to the crack with a putty knife.

Step 3: Apply a Protective Lining 

First, apply primer to the area around the crack in this step. This will help the bonding agent to adhere properly.
Once the primer is dry, apply a protective lining(waterproofing membrane) over the bonding agent. This will help keep water from seeping into the crack and causing further damage.

When Are Foundation Cracks Beyond Repair?

Foundation issues are very rarely irreversible, so most can be repaired with underpinning solutions and hydraulic lifting! A foundation may become unfixable if the investment it takes to restore doesn't add enough value for homeowners.
Although this situation does occur from the time-to date when foundations have completely collapsed or suffered severe damage.
This is why, if any cracks appear in your foundation, it's always best to consult with a professional to get their opinion. They will be able to tell you whether or not the cracks can be fixed and, if so, how much it will cost.

FAQs 

Can horizontal cracks be filled?

Horizontal cracks can be filled, but they are more difficult to repair than vertical cracks. In some cases, it may be necessary to excavate the foundation's area to reach the crack.

Are foundation cracks dangerous?

Foundation walls crack are not usually dangerous, but they can cause water damage to your home if they are left unrepaired. It is important to have any horizontal or hairline cracks xin your foundation repaired as soon as possible in order to prevent further damage.

What do structural cracks look like?

Structural cracks usually look like vertical or horizontal lines in the foundation wall. These cracks can be caused by settlement, water damage, poor construction, or tree roots.

When should I start to worry about foundation cracks?

You should start to worry about foundation cracks when they are more than 1/10 inch wide. These cracks can cause water damage to your home and should be repaired as soon as possible.

How much does it cost to fix a cracked foundation?

The cost of repairing a foundation crack varies depending on the severity of the damage. In some cases, the crack can be repaired with a concrete patching compound for as little as $250. In other cases, more extensive damage may require excavating the area around the foundation and applying a waterproofing membrane, costing upwards of $800.

Conclusion 

So, can you fix foundation cracks from outside? In short, the answer is yes. There are a number of ways to go about it, and the best method will depend on the severity of the cracking and the type of foundation you have. If the wall cracks are small and don't pose a threat to structural integrity, you can probably repair them yourself with a bit of time and effort.
However, if the structural foundation cracks are larger or causing severe problems, it's best to call in a professional. Either way, don't ignore foundation cracks; they won't go away on their own, and they'll only get worse over time. This is what will happen if you don't fix foundation problems right away.

Author

​David is the lead content editor at RVA Paving Pros, a service for Richmond VA residents. In his spare time, David likes to travel, read about business and visit the finest italian restaurants in town!