Cracks in a foundation can start small but lead to serious water intrusion and structural issues if ignored. Many homeowners try sealing foundation cracks on their own, only to find the problem returns worse than before. Understanding the right and wrong ways to seal cracks is key to protecting your home.
At KC Pier, we specialize in diagnosing and repairing foundation cracks across Kansas City. Our approach focuses on solving both the symptom and the source. Here’s what you need to know about proper foundation crack sealing, what to avoid, and when to call a professional.
Why Foundation Cracks Form in Kansas City
Foundation cracks form for many reasons, often tied to the local soil and climate. The Kansas City region is known for expansive clay soil, which swells with moisture and shrinks during dry spells. This movement puts ongoing stress on concrete walls.
Other common causes include:
- Poor drainage that allows water to pool near the foundation
- Improper soil compaction beneath the home
- Natural curing cracks from concrete shrinkage
- Hydrostatic pressure from heavy rain or a high water table
Key Takeaway: Not all cracks mean structural damage, but every crack is a sign that pressure or movement has occurred. Knowing the cause determines the right fix.
Which Cracks Need Professional Repair
Not all foundation cracks are the same. Some are surface-level, while others indicate movement or settling.
- Vertical cracks often result from shrinkage during curing
- Diagonal or stair-step cracks suggest uneven settlement or shifting
- Horizontal cracks are the most serious and may indicate bowing or wall failure
If cracks continue to widen or moisture starts entering your basement, a professional inspection is needed. Our KC Pier team identifies whether the issue is cosmetic or structural before recommending any repair.
The Do’s of Proper Crack Sealing
Do Identify if the Crack is Static or Active
A static crack has stopped moving. An active crack is still shifting. This difference matters because the wrong sealant will fail if the foundation continues to move.
Do Use the Right Materials and Method
At KC Pier, we use polyurethane injection for cracks that leak water and epoxy injection for cracks where strength and bonding are needed.
- Polyurethane expands inside the crack, sealing leaks and staying flexible through freeze-thaw cycles.
- Epoxy hardens to restore structural integrity, effectively “welding” the wall together.
Do Manage Drainage and Exterior Pressure
Sealing without fixing exterior drainage only treats the symptom. Adding proper grading, gutters, or an interior drain system keeps water from returning.
Do Rely on Professional Tools and Training
DIY kits often miss deeper sections of the crack. Professionals inject sealant through ports that reach the full wall thickness for a watertight seal.
Pro Tip: A professional inspection costs less than fixing secondary damage caused by failed DIY repairs.
Need expert help sealing foundation cracks? Contact KC Pier for a free consultation. Our team will inspect the problem, explain the cause, and recommend a permanent repair plan.
The Don’ts of Crack Sealing
Don’t Use Surface Fillers
Caulking or hydraulic cement may look neat, but it only masks the issue. They trap water behind the wall and eventually pop out, reopening the crack.
Don’t Seal Without Removing Active Water
Water pressure will push any surface patch away. Always repair drainage or install a sump system first.
Don’t Assume Sealing Fixes Structural Movement
If your wall is bowing or your floor is sinking, sealing alone won’t help. Structural reinforcement, such as carbon fiber straps or piering systems, may be necessary.
Key Takeaway: A sealed crack is only effective if the surrounding conditions are stable. Otherwise, the repair will fail again.
Proven Foundation Repair Methods KC Pier Uses
We use specialized products and proven systems to ensure lasting results:
- Polyurethane injection: Expands to fill leaking cracks and stop water entry.
- Epoxy injection: Bonds the wall for structural strength.
- Wall stabilization: Carbon fiber or steel braces correct bowing walls.
- Piering systems: Push or helical piers restore foundation stability when settling is present.
When Sealing Alone Is Not Enough
Sometimes, sealing is just one part of a larger solution. If your foundation continues to move or moisture keeps returning, the underlying soil may be unstable.
Watch for signs such as:
- Cracks that reopen after a few months
- Doors or windows that stick
- Uneven floors or visible wall bowing
- Water seepage during rainstorms
In these cases, structural repair or waterproofing may be needed. Our team combines crack repair with drainage and piering solutions to protect your foundation long-term.
Schedule a Foundation Evaluation with KC Pier
Cracks will not fix themselves. A proper foundation evaluation identifies both the cause and the best repair method. At KC Pier, our process includes:
- A detailed visual inspection
- Crack width and movement assessment
- Moisture and drainage review
- Transparent repair recommendations and pricing
Our goal is to keep your home stable, dry, and safe through expert foundation repair and waterproofing.
If you notice cracks forming in your basement or foundation walls, don’t wait for water to find its way in. Contact KC Pier today for a comprehensive inspection and permanent solution to protect your home’s structure for years to come.