A thin, dry foundation crack that is not growing can often be sealed yourself with a patch or injection kit. A crack that leaks, keeps growing or comes with bowing walls, sticking doors or uneven floors needs a professional, because the cause has to be found and addressed for the repair to hold.
At HydroHelp911, homeowners across North and South Carolina ask us this question often. This guide compares DIY foundation crack repair with hiring a professional.
Why Do Foundation Cracks Matter?
Foundations crack for many reasons: settling soil, water pressure, changing moisture levels and poor drainage among them. Some cracks are cosmetic. Others can point to movement in the foundation.
When the cause is not addressed, a crack can lead to:
- Mold from moisture coming through
- Water seepage
- Bowing walls
- Further movement in the foundation
Freeze and thaw cycles can also widen a crack over time.
Can You Repair Foundation Cracks Yourself?
Sometimes. Here is what a DIY repair usually involves and when it fits.
What Is in a Typical DIY Crack Repair Kit?
- Hydraulic cement or epoxy filler
- Concrete patch kits
- A caulking gun
These work for small cracks that are not structural, such as a crack in a poured concrete wall that is dry, stable and showing no signs of movement or moisture.
When Does DIY Foundation Crack Repair Work?
- The crack is hairline thin and not growing
- No water is coming through
- The crack is on a cosmetic surface, not a load bearing wall
- You are not seeing other signs, such as sticking doors, uneven floors or damp smells
If the crack is small, cosmetic and stable, a DIY repair may be all it needs. When you are not sure, an inspection can tell you, because sealing the wrong crack can hide a problem that is still moving.
What Are the Risks of DIY Crack Repair?
The Cause Can Be Missed
A crack can be a symptom of soil movement or water pressure. A DIY patch can cover the crack without addressing that cause, and the wall can keep moving.
Water Can Be Trapped in the Wall
Sealing a crack without dealing with the water around it can hold moisture inside the wall.
A Patch May Have to Be Redone
A DIY kit costs little, but a patch that does not address the cause often has to be redone.
There Is No Warranty
A DIY repair comes with no warranty and no inspection. Our warranty terms and their conditions are on our warranties page.
What Does a Professional Foundation Crack Repair Include?
At HydroHelp911, we look for the cause of a crack and repair it with that cause in mind.
What You Get With a Professional Repair
- An inspection of your home’s foundation
- The likely cause of the crack, such as settlement, water pressure or poor drainage
- A repair that fits, from epoxy or polyurethane injection to structural reinforcement
- Warranty coverage, with terms and conditions on our warranties page
How Does DIY Compare With Professional Foundation Crack Repair?
| Feature | DIY Repair | Professional Repair |
|---|---|---|
| Cost Upfront | Low | Set in a written estimate |
| Finds the Cause | No | Yes, through the inspection |
| Tools Required | Basic | Specialized |
| Warranty Included | No | Terms on our warranties page |
A DIY repair can make sense for a small, stable crack. For a crack with water, movement or other signs, a professional repair addresses the cause.
What Should You Do About a Foundation Crack?
That depends on the crack. A simple rule of thumb:
If the crack lets water in, is growing, or is part of a larger pattern (such as diagonal cracks, several cracks or bowing walls), have a professional look at it.
If you are unsure, that is what free inspections are for.
Foundation Repair in North and South Carolina
HydroHelp911 helps homeowners across North and South Carolina with everything from foundation crack repair to full foundation stabilization. Schedule your free foundation inspection to find out what your crack needs.
Next Step
Schedule a Free Inspection
Call or fill out our quick online form. We'll book a convenient time to assess your home at no cost.
Learn more about our foundation repair services.
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Written by
Cory Parks
Owner & President, HydroHelp911
Cory Parks founded HydroHelp911 and leads its structural and moisture repair work for homeowners across North and South Carolina, from the clay soils of the Piedmont to the saturated, sandy ground along the coast.
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