Wall Crack Repair in Montgomery, AL
Cracked walls are the most common visible sign of foundation distress in Montgomery,
Alabama homes. Some cracks are purely cosmetic, caused by normal concrete shrinkage or
temperature changes. Others indicate serious structural movement that requires immediate
attention. Wall crack repair in Montgomery requires an accurate diagnosis so you don’t waste
money fixing the wrong problem.
Diagnosing the Cause of Wall Cracks
Montgomery Foundation Repair Co first determines whether a crack is structural or
non‑structural. Non‑structural cracks are usually hairline (less than 1/8 inch wide), vertical, and
have no displacement (one side is not higher than the other). They can be filled with simple
sealant. Structural cracks are wider than 1/4 inch, diagonal or horizontal, and often have one
edge higher than the opposite edge. You may also see multiple parallel cracks, cracking
around door or window frames, or cracks that continue through brick veneer. Structural cracks
require foundation underpinning before any patching will hold.
Epoxy Injection for Load‑Bearing Walls
When a foundation wall or basement wall has a structural crack but the wall is not actively
moving, low‑pressure epoxy injection restores full strength. Montgomery Foundation Repair Co
cleans the crack, installs injection ports every few inches, and seals the face with epoxy paste.
Then we inject a two‑part epoxy that penetrates the full depth of the crack, bonding the two
sides together. Cured epoxy has a compressive strength greater than the original concrete.
This method works for cracks up to 1 inch wide and is approved by most structural engineers.
Polyurethane Foam for Waterproofing Non‑Structural Cracks
If a crack is non‑structural but leaks water into your basement or crawl space, polyurethane
foam injection is the best choice. Unlike epoxy, polyurethane expands as it cures, filling
irregular voids and creating a flexible seal that moves with minor temperature changes.
Montgomery Foundation Repair Co uses hydrophilic polyurethane that reacts with water to
form a rubbery plug. The foam remains flexible, so seasonal movement from Montgomery’s
clay soil won’t break the seal. This repair typically carries a 10‑year warranty against water
intrusion.
When Crack Repair Requires Foundation Underpinning First
Attempting to patch a crack while your foundation is still settling is futile. The crack will simply
reopen, often wider than before. Montgomery Foundation Repair Co always performs a
settlement inspection before any crack repair. If we find evidence of active settlement—such as
sloping floors, separated brick mortar, or crack monitors showing movement—we recommend
push piers or helical piers first. After the foundation is stabilized, we return to inject the cracks.
This two‑step approach costs more upfront but saves you from repeated crack repairs every
few years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fill foundation cracks myself with hydraulic cement?
Hydraulic cement is a temporary bandage that often fails within months. It does not bond strongly to concrete and cannot seal the full depth of the crack. Professional injection is needed for a permanent solution.
How much does professional wall crack repair cost in Montgomery?
A single crack injection typically runs $300 to $600. Multiple cracks may be discounted to $200 to $400 each. Underpinning, if needed, costs additional and depends on the number of piers.
How long does injected epoxy last?
Properly injected epoxy has the same lifespan as the concrete itself—50 years or more. The repair is considered permanent as long as the foundation does not experience new settlement.
Will crack repair stop water from entering my basement?
Yes, for the specific crack that is repaired. However, water may still enter through other cracks, the cove joint, or porous block walls. Montgomery Foundation Repair Co offers whole‑basement waterproofing if multiple leaks are present.
Need a free foundation inspection from a licensed Montgomery contractor?
Call (334) 835-5928