262-790-1085

Frequently Asked Questions

 Why do concrete walls crack?

Concrete shrinks as it cures.  While many contractors put control joints in the wall, the concrete may crack at stress points like the corner of a window.

 Do all cracks have to be filled?

Most builders will only authorize the repair of cracks that are actively leaking.  However, if the wall is going to be closed up, it is recommended that all cracks be filled.

 Why use urethane instead of epoxy? 

All active leaking cracks have to be filled with urethane, as epoxy will not adhere to a wet crack.

 How long will the repair it last?

It depends of the age of the wall.  Concrete will continue to shrink for up to three years.  For new construction, shrinkage could cause the crack to reopen.  This is why contractors recommend waiting until downspouts are in place and the landscaping completed.  After a couple of years, the repair will last indefinitely.  The cured urethane will not break down.

 Can all cracks be repaired by this method?

Yes. Since 1990, we have only had two walls that had to be repaired from the outside.  This was thought to be caused by settling, as both were new construction in a questionable area.  Cracks can be as small as a hairline or large enough to get your hand in.

  I have a crack in my basement wall that has not leaked in 7 years.  Should if repair it prior to closing off the wall?

Yes. We have had cracks that did not leak for years and then started to let in water.  This could be caused by a change in gutters, down spouts or grading or just a severe storm.  Best to be on the safe side and repair them.

 Will drilling all those holes weaken the wall?

No. Eight or ten 3/8-inch holes 4 inches deep will not affect the strength of the wall.

 Can I still see the crack after it is filled?

Yes. The crack will still be visible.  The injection holes will be filled with a cement patch.

 Will a building inspector approve this repair?

Yes. This is a recognized repair method for poured walls.

 Will this repair make a mess of my basement?

No. There will be some dust from the drilling.  The dust and bleed out of foam will be cleaned up as part of the job.

 Is there any danger with the chemicals used?

No. This is chemically a polyurea.  As it reacts with water, CO2 is generated and causes the resin to foam. (Same as bread; yeast causing CO2 to raise the bread).  Once cured, the material is inert.  This repair method is used for potable water tanks.

 How soon will the repair stop the leak?

Within several minutes of starting the injection, the foam will react with the water and seal the crack.  The material will be hard to touch in 3 to 5 minutes.

 Why can’t this method be used to fix cinder block foundation walls?

Leaks in block walls are caused when the mortar joints are cracked.  This occurs when the wall is moved by pressure from the outside, usually, in SE Wisconsin, by swelling of the clay soil.  The wall has to be braced and dug up on the outside and coated with some type of membrane coating.