The short answer
Assess the Crack First
Before you seal anything, figure out what kind of crack you have. Hairline cracks from normal settling are different from wide, jagged gaps that signal movement. Also, check whether water is coming through the crack or just along it, since that changes the repair approach.
Look for signs of structural stress, like uneven floors, sticking doors, or cracks that grow over time. If you see those, the problem is bigger than a simple sealant job. In that case, a foundation professional should inspect the crack and the soil around your home to decide if stabilization is needed.
- Hairline cracks under 1/8 inch wide
- Cracks wider than 1/4 inch
- Cracks that are actively growing or shifting
- Water stains or efflorescence around the crack
- Cracks near corners or windows
- Cracks that appear on both interior and exterior walls
Stop the Water Source
Sealing a crack is pointless if water keeps pooling against your foundation. Check your gutters and downspouts to ensure they direct rain at least 6 feet away from the house. Grade the soil so it slopes away from the foundation, and look for sprinklers that spray directly onto the wall.
If the leak only appears during heavy rain, the fix may be as simple as extending a downspout or regrading a flower bed. For persistent water issues, you might need to install a French drain or sump pump. The pros can handle that kind of exterior waterproofing work if you prefer not to dig.
Seal Small Cracks Yourself
For minor, non-structural cracks, you can use a vinyl concrete patching compound or hydraulic cement. Clean the crack thoroughly with a wire brush, remove loose debris, and dampen the surface before applying the patch. Hydraulic cement expands as it sets, which helps block water under pressure.
For cracks that wiggle or flex, use a polyurethane sealant that stays flexible. Apply it with a caulk gun, forcing it deep into the gap. Smooth the surface with a putty knife, then allow it to cure completely. This works well for cracks that are dry at the time of sealing.
When to Call the Pros
If the crack is wider than a quarter inch, or if you see signs of structural movement, call a foundation specialist. They can determine whether the crack is from soil pressure, poor drainage, or a deeper issue like foundation settlement. Their evaluation often includes checking the footing and the surrounding soil conditions.
The pros may recommend foundation stabilization if the crack is caused by shifting soil. That work usually involves underpinning or helical piers to support the foundation. They can also apply exterior waterproofing membranes and install drainage systems to keep water away from the wall for good.
Prevent Future Leaks
Once the crack is fixed, keep water away from your foundation. Maintain your gutters, extend downspouts, and check the slope of your yard every spring. Also, avoid planting large trees too close to the house, since roots can pull moisture from the soil and cause shrinkage.
If you live in Layton, keep your shutoff valve location written down so you can act fast in an emergency. Regular inspections of your foundation walls and the surrounding grade can catch small issues before they become big leaks. A little effort now saves you from a wet basement later.
Water damage does not wait
Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.
Call Now (801) 383-0232Frequently asked questions
Can I fix a foundation crack with epoxy?
Epoxy works well for non-moving cracks that are dry. It bonds the concrete together and is strong. For wet cracks, use hydraulic cement. For moving cracks, use a flexible polyurethane sealant. If the crack is structural, epoxy injection from the inside may help, but a pro should decide.
How do I know if a foundation crack is serious?
Watch for cracks wider than 1/4 inch, cracks that grow, or cracks that appear with other signs like bowing walls or uneven floors. Water leaking through is also a red flag. If you see any of these, have a foundation professional inspect it. They can tell you if it's cosmetic or needs structural repair.
Will sealing a crack from the inside stop the leak?
Sealing from the inside can stop water that's under low pressure, but it won't fix the root cause. Water will find another path. For a lasting fix, address the drainage outside and consider exterior waterproofing. The pros can apply a membrane and install drainage to keep water away from the foundation.