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PROFESSIONAL FOUNDATION CRACK REPAIR IN OTTAWA AND OUTAOUAIS

Whenever a crack appears in your home’s foundation, it requires your attention. Although not all cracks are problematic, some may cause water infiltration and damage or indicate a structural problem that can lead to expensive interventions. With the help of Bol-Dan Foundation & Masonry Inc’s team, your experts for foundation crack repair in Ottawa, these issues can be dealt with efficiently. Our services are comprehensive, including masonry repair and foundation waterproofing. Bol-Dan Foundation & Masonry Inc is your reliable foundation contractor in Ottawa and in Outaouais. We have provided our clients with professional restoration and excavation services since 1994. Tell us what you’ve noticed in your foundation, and we’ll help you understand the next steps.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Foundation cracks can affect both comfort and structural stability. Bol-Dan Foundation & Masonry Inc provides foundation crack repair in Ottawa and helps property owners understand what the crack may indicate and what repair approach may be appropriate.

WHY DO FOUNDATION CRACKS REQUIRE URGENT ATTENTION AND EXPERT INTERVENTION?

Cracks can appear as fine lines but still lead to serious issues, especially when they allow moisture to enter the foundation. Cracks can also widen over time, and if movement affects a vulnerable point in the structure, it can reduce overall stability. In Ottawa’s climate, seasonal freeze-thaw cycles and spring melt can make water intrusion and crack growth more likely, which is why early assessment matters.
 

At Bol-Dan Foundation & Masonry Inc, we provide foundation crack repair services for property owners in the Ottawa region. Please contact us if you notice unexpected and unexplained leaks in your basement or near your walls or doors. We can provide you with complete repair and restoration services for the cracks in your foundation.
 

Call us to learn more about our expert foundation crack repair services.

WHY IS FOUNDATION REPAIR CRUCIAL?

It is crucial to repair your foundation without delay because any fault in your home's foundation can affect its structural integrity. If ignored over time, foundation issues can also lead to broader damage to the structure and higher repair and restoration costs.
 

If ignored over a long period, a faulty foundation can weaken load-bearing walls and may create safety concerns. If you feel that the foundation walls are settling or failing, it is important to inspect for cracks and watch for changes. A practical first step is to take photos, measure the crack, and note whether it is growing or leaking.
 

Some signs of structural failure are more obvious than others. Bending walls and leaning chimneys could be signs of structural problems. Examining the exterior drain tile for blockages or clogs in the weep holes is essential. Get in touch with our experts to learn more about our services.
 

Bol-Dan Foundation & Masonry Inc can repair the cracks in your foundation by adding sealant. We can also perform the repair work by injecting epoxy into the cement.

WHAT TYPES OF FOUNDATION CRACKS CAN OCCUR?

There are many types of cracks, including wall or floor shrinkage cracks and wall or floor settlement cracks. 
 

Wall and floor shrinkage cracks are often non-structural. They can be sealed against water infiltration, stopped from worsening by adding control joints, and repaired to help avoid tripping.
 

Wall settlement cracks are more concerning because they suggest the foundation’s stability must be restored. Steel pins, piers, or rods can be used depending on the terrain conditions and foundation type. Large-scale repairs may require excavation and reconstruction, usually including basement waterproofing. Repairing techniques for floor settlement cracks are similar to those used for floor shrinkage cracks.
 

For poured-concrete foundations, crack injection is commonly used as part of repair planning. Epoxy injection is typically used when the goal is to restore structural bonding in a dry crack, while polyurethane injection is commonly used to help stop active leaks and seal against water intrusion (selection depends on the crack and conditions).

WHAT FACTORS DETERMINE THE RIGHT REPAIR APPROACH?

Repairing techniques depend on various criteria:
 

  • The material used for the foundation (brick, stone or concrete) 
     

  • The area where the crack appears (wall, floor, slab, crawlspace or basement)
     

  • The size of the crack (the width of a 10-cent coin’s edge or wider) 
     

  • The shape of the crack (vertical, horizontal or diagonal; straight or in zigzag; wider or thinner at one end)
     

Homeowners whose foundations are made of brick should be aware that cracks in brick walls can widen over time and should be checked by professionals. You can trust Bol-Dan Foundation & Masonry Inc’s expertise for foundation crack repair in Ottawa and Outaouais to take care of your house’s foundation.

WHY DO FOUNDATION CRACKS APPEAR?

Foundation cracks can have multiple causes. Whether a crack seems severe or not, no crack should be left unchecked, as some can let water into the structure or indicate a weak foundation that might lead to severe damage. In Canada, frost action and frost heaving can also create movement and stress on foundations, depending on soil and site conditions.
 

The following list gives you an overview of the reasons why cracks may appear in residential foundations:
 

  • Concrete curing

  • Changes in temperature

  • Improper mix when preparing concrete

  • Lack of steel reinforcement in the foundation

  • Movements in foundations due to incorrect footings

  • Building settlement

  • Excessive load

  • Roots of a tree planted too close to the building

  • Frost damage

  • Soil expansion due to water or frost

  • Improperly compacted soil

  • Other causes

WHAT ARE COMMON SIGNS OF FOUNDATION CRACKS?

Foundation cracks can indicate underlying structural issues that require immediate attention. Recognizing the common signs of foundation cracks is crucial for homeowners to address potential problems early on:
 

  • Visible cracks: Look for cracks in your home's foundation walls, floors, or exterior surfaces. These cracks may start small but can widen over time, indicating structural movement or settlement.
     

  • Uneven floors: Noticeable sloping or unevenness in your floors, especially on the ground level, can signal foundation settlement or shift.
     

  • Sticking doors or windows: Difficulty opening or closing doors and windows, as well as gaps or misalignments in frames, may indicate foundation movement that affects the alignment of the structure.
     

  • Cracks in interior walls: Interior walls may develop cracks, particularly near door frames or windows, due to foundation movement or settlement.
     

  • Bowing or leaning walls: Bowing or leaning walls, both interior and exterior, suggest significant structural issues that require immediate attention to prevent further damage.
     

  • Water leakage: Water infiltration through cracks in the foundation, basement walls, or floors can lead to moisture issues, mould growth, and potential structural damage if left untreated.
     

  • Sagging or bouncing floors: Floors that feel soft, sagging, or bouncing when walked upon may indicate inadequate foundation support or structural instability.
     

  • Exterior foundation damage: Exterior signs of foundation damage, such as crumbling or deteriorating concrete, can indicate ongoing structural issues that must be addressed promptly.

WHY IS TIMELY FOUNDATION INSPECTION IMPORTANT?

Timely foundation inspection is essential for maintaining the structural integrity of your home and preventing costly repairs. Here’s why regular inspections are crucial, especially after heavy rainfall or snowmelt:
 

  • Early detection of issues: Regular inspections allow for the early detection of foundation cracks, settlement, or other structural issues before they escalate into major problems.
     

  • Prevention of further damage: Prompt identification and repair of foundation issues can prevent further damage to the structure of your home, saving you time and money on extensive repairs in the long run.
     

  • Preservation of home value: Addressing foundation issues promptly helps preserve the value of your home and ensures that it remains structurally sound for years to come.
     

  • Peace of mind: Regular foundation inspections provide homeowners with peace of mind, knowing that their home's foundation is in good condition and free from structural concerns.
     

  • Professional assessment: Professional foundation inspectors have the expertise and tools to thoroughly assess the condition of your home's foundation and recommend appropriate repairs or maintenance measures.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF FOUNDATION REPAIRS?

Regularly checking for foundation problems helps prevent significant damage to your property. Some issues can go unnoticed, but conducting a professional inspection can be helpful. If you need reliable foundation repair services, call us for assistance. We can help you identify the problems that might become more severe in the future.
 

If you are unsure about the importance of foundation repair, consider the following benefits:
 

  • It enhances the value of your house

  • It improves the aesthetics of your property

  • It helps avoid flooding in the basement

  • It helps avoid plumbing problems

  • It helps protect your house from structural failures

CONTACT US

Have you noticed a crack in your foundation but are not sure what it means? At Bol-Dan Foundation & Masonry Inc, we have all the necessary knowledge to evaluate the situation and suggest the best course of action. Do not hesitate to contact us and request a free estimate.

SAY NO TO UNWANTED MOISTURE

Say goodbye to excess moisture affecting your walls, foundation, basement, and more with our waterproofing services.

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