General Crack Repair Questions
Is concrete crack injection permanent?
Yes, it will last indefinitely when done correctly.
Can I repair foundation cracks myself?
Yes, DIY kits make it possible to accomplish concrete crack repair by homeowners with relative ease. On rare occasions cracks may be representative of a larger problem. In those cases, refer to a foundation repair specialist. Contact us for more information if you think you fall into this category.
I have a finished basement. Is installing draintile the only way to assure a permanent fix?
No, many times concrete crack injection is the proper home foundation repair. Draintile will solve the problem but is much more costly. Sometimes unscrupulous contractors are simply trying to increase their sales and profits.
Does hydraulic cement work as a foundation crack repair?
No. Hydraulic cement, because it is rigid and not a full depth repair, will crack again at a future date and leak again.
Should I use epoxy or urethane as the injection material?
Urethane is designed for small and large cracks. We would always recommend urethane over epoxy for injection, unless the crack was deemed structural and additional measures were being taken to stabilize the wall. Epoxy injection alone will not typically repair structural movement in a wall. Also, urethane expands inside the wall so it has a much greater success rate for stopping water. If the crack is very small put the urethane tube in a bucket of hot water for a half an hour or so before using. Warming the material will thin it out and make injection easier.
Questions About Our Foundation Crack Repair Kits
Why would I choose epoxy over urethane or the opposite?
Urethane is much easier to use and a better sealant because it expands. Epoxies seal as well and have structural properties as well. The epoxy by itself however will not structurally stabilize a wall. If a wall is moving, additional and expensive procedures need to be done. In addition, epoxies take 4 hours to harden as opposed to minutes with urethane so epoxies can leak out of the crack. That being said, we also carry a fast curing epoxy for crack repair.
Why should I purchase kits from the Basement Oasis?
Our products are field tested everyday by certified professional foundation repair specialists. Every batch of materials in the kits is tested before it is packaged to optimized performance. Our urethanes will not shrink over time assuring a permanent repair. We are dedicated to making sure every customer is satisfied.
Are the kits easy to use?
Yes, we include both written and video instructions with each kit to assure your total satisfaction. Also, you can call at time during business hours for technical assistance (630) 771-0380.
Can I use your urethane product to fill the cracks, and then after it’s dry put drylock over that to fill the gap? I’m in the process of fixing a crack that was previously filled with some dry lock type filler. The drylock filler is falling out and I have drylock and concrete falling out creating a gap about 2 inches wide and ½ inch deep.
Yes you can. You do not need to remove all the existing material. Just remove it in the areas you are placing your ports. Recess the ports in the void with the base of the port against the original crack. You can use drylock to surround the ports in the recessed area. Let it cure for a day or two and then inject the crack.
Should I use epoxy or urethane as the injection material?
Urethane is designed for small and large cracks. We would always recommend urethane over epoxy for injection, unless the crack was deemed structural and additional measures were being taken to stabilize the wall. Epoxy injection alone will not typically repair structural movement in a wall. Also, urethane expands inside the wall so it has a much greater success rate for stopping water. If the crack is very small put the urethane tube in a bucket of hot water for a half an hour or so before using. Warming the material will thin it out and make injection easier.
THE RIGHT CHOICE
Yes, do-it-yourself crack repair can be accomplished by you, the homeowner. You can permanently stop basement leaks. In cases where cracks are 1/8" or larger, at a 45-degree angle, and offset walls are present, a structural conditional may exist. In these cases it is best to call a professional. Contact us at 1 (630) 771-0380 and we will look for a preferred contractor in your area.