Foundation Design Error: Many a time, it happens that the design proposed for that foundation, Includes several errors and mistakes. In that case, the probability of the failure of the foundation is very high.
Uneven Settlement of Soil: Whenever a house is built, the characteristics and properties of the soil might change with time. Along with that, the level of the groundwater table may also change with time.
Growth of roots of trees beneath the foundation: Many a time, while constructing a building, many trees are cut from below. But the roots of the trees in most of the time left out from cutting.
Width of the crack(whether it falls under the category of fine cracks or in the category of extensive danger type)
An atmospheric condition of the area
Topographical and geological properties of the soil
Chemical composition of the soil(to check whether the soil reacts with the present crack-sealing chemicals, or is it chemically inert)
Finally, financial implications and cost-effectiveness of the repair methods; whether it can achieve higher strength with low cost and within the stipulated time.
Epoxy injection is found to be very economical and easy to use. As a suitable procedure for remedial crack repairs in residential buildings, using Epoxy Injection can retain the earlier strength of the foundation in a very few time.
Thus a crack appearing in a foundation can be very detrimental concerning its durability as well as the longevity of the structure itself. The cracks can appear in a foundation for various reasons. Epoxy Injection is very easy to use and it does not require any specialized equipment for filling up foundation cracks.
Epoxy can attain strength in a very rapid manner as compared to concrete. It is said to be attaining the same strength at 1 day of 3 days strength of concrete.
In addition to the previous point, Epoxy can achieve higher strength as compared to concrete as well.
Epoxy injection does not have any side effects and is chemically inert, and does not react with the chemicals of concrete. Also, it does not react with the chemicals of the soil as well. Thus Epoxy injection is found to be the best procedure for repairing foundation cracks.
At first, the cracks are cleaned thoroughly using a brush.
Depending upon the length of the cracks, drills are holed at suitable intervals. The number and spacing of the holes drilled should be consulted by the local agencies' expertise in foundation repair.
After the holes are drilled, a key is then formed by passing down the grout. This helps in preventing the propagation of the crack itself.
After the key is formed, suitable sealants are provided along the total length of the crack, and the surface finishing is done.
While applying the sealants precautions are to be taken to use gloves. The application of sealants should be done by trained personnel who have expertise in this kind of work.
When Should I Be Concerned About Foundation Cracks?
If the cracks are wider than 1/4 inch.
If the cracks are increasing in size or number.
If the cracks are accompanied by other signs of foundation problems, such as doors and windows sticking, uneven floors, or gaps around doors and windows.
Can I Fill Foundation Cracks Myself, or Should I Hire a Professional?
Minor Hairline Cracks: These can often be filled by a homeowner using appropriate sealants.
Larger or Structural Cracks: It is advisable to consult a foundation expert or professional repair service to ensure proper repair and avoid further damage.