You probably understand by now that it can get pretty rough, considering the owner’s house in Alberta. Our houses withstand most of the severe weather conditions at some point during the year; from frostbite cold winters to sudden swings in temperature, they endure a lot. The foundation of any house is one of the most significant components- in fact, without a solid and sturdy foundation, everything else is at risk.
Thus, foundation crack repairs in Alberta come to be of topmost importance today. If minor cracks are left unattended over time, they can quickly become significant structural issues that are costly to repair and sometimes even become safety hazards.
Let’s talk about what causes them.
Foundation Cracks and Their Types
Foundations are indeed open to breakdown. Moisture exchange, earth’s natural movements, and sometimes poorly constructed houses develop cracks relative to time. Although some cracks are just for decorations, some cracks are indicative of deep, structural problems.
There are several types of foundation cracks:
- Hairline cracks: These are thin, superficial cracks that often form as concrete cures. While they might not be a structural concern, they can let moisture in.
- Vertical cracks: Typically caused by normal settling, these are common and usually not a major concern if they remain narrow.
- Horizontal cracks: These are more serious and often indicate excessive pressure from soil expansion or water damage.
- Stair-step cracks: Often found in brick or block foundations, these cracks may signal shifting or foundation movement.
Don’t freak out if you see any of these foundation cracks in your house, but don’t ignore them either. The best way to find out if you can wait for a professional assessment or if you need Foundation Crack Repairs in Alberta immediately is to have a professional evaluation.
Foundation Crack Repairs in Alberta: What You Need to Know
Foundation problems, therefore, are common, yet why? Well, it all comes down to soil and climate. The freeze-thaw cycle is so critical. The ground around your house will expand as the moisture freezes in the winter and then shrink as it thaws during the spring. This constant movement plays havoc with your foundation, stressing it until it finally gives and cracks.
Foundation cracks may lead to serious problems if not attended to. Small openings are all it takes for moisture to enter: Mold may develop, the basement may leak, and eventually, the building may lose stability. You had better start thinking about hiring an expert in foundation crack repairs in Alberta if you’ve noticed the appearance of cracks before the damage goes too far.
Common Repair Methods for Foundation Cracks
Let’s discuss how to repair foundation cracks now that you know why they occur.
Epoxy and Polyurethane Injections
The most popular treatments for minor to medium cracks are injections of epoxy and polyurethane. By filling in the gaps, these substances produce a solid, impermeable seal. While polyurethane is more flexible and permits some movement in the foundation, epoxy is best suited for structural repairs.
Carbon Fiber Reinforcement
The structure can be strengthened with carbon fibre strips when cracks reveal a deteriorating base. These strong materials can be used without requiring much excavation and aid in halting additional movement.
Exterior Waterproofing
Thermal insulation and vapour barriers could also be put onto the outer side of the building if moisture is a recurring problem. This process involves digging around the foundation to waterproof it and installing groundwater management techniques to direct water away from the house.
Underpinning and Piering
Significant sinking or movement of the foundation may require piering or underpinning. It involves constructing piers to carry the weight of the structure or extending the foundation further into the ground for support.
Finding the Right Foundation Repair Contractor in Alberta
Not all foundation repair companies are created equal. When looking for a contractor, keep these tips in mind:
- Experience matters
- Certifications and Warranties
- See Customer reviews
- Is their pricing transparent?
If you’re considering Foundation Crack Repairs in Alberta, make sure to do your research and choose a trusted professional who can provide lasting results.
Preventing Future Foundation Cracks
The next step after fixing foundation cracks is prevention. By being proactive, you can ultimately avoid headaches and save money. Here are some tips for safeguarding your house:
- Improve drainage
- Control moisture levels
- Check for leaks
- Schedule annual inspections
Conclusion
Since the foundation is the backbone of your house, it’s your primary concern to keep it stable and strong. For this, it doesn’t matter whether you have little cracks or huge structural problems; by taking care of it now, you will avoid unaffordable, big repairs in the future. Foundation crack repair in Alberta is essential for protecting the security of your house as well as its worth.
You should not wait for the issue to get worse if you have discovered cracks in your foundation. To ensure the stability of your house for many years to come, get in touch with Alberta Pargin, a reputable foundation repair expert, right now.
