REPAIRING HOLES AND CRACKS BEFORE WATERPROOFING
-If there are no holes or cracks in the basement walls, you can apply a waterproofing compound directly to the walls by steps described later. However, almost all basement leaks are caused by either cracks or holes in the walls or floors that should be repaired before waterproofing is applied.
-You can usually fill hairline cracks with a regular waterproofing mix. However, cracks larger than 1/8″ should be cleaned out and patched before you apply the waterproof mix.
-You can purchase special epoxy and latex cement formulas for mortaring small repair jobs or for brushing on as a waterproof coating. However, for a large repair job, you will probably want to mix your own mortar for patching holes and cracks before you start applying the waterproofing coat.
-Mortar for filling holes and cracks in cement basement walls or concrete block walls is usually made by mixing one part cement and two parts of fine sand with just enough water to make a rather stiff mortar.
-If the water is merely seeping through the basement wall, force the mixture of mortar cement into the crack with an ordinary trowel or putty knife. This should correct any leakage problem.
-However, if outside pressure is forcing water through the wall, the problem is often extremely difficult to correct.
-If water is seeping in under pressure, you must chip out a dovetail groove for the entire length of the cracked area. Use a regular chipping chisel and hammer or a cold chisel to make a dovetail groove.
-Figure shows both the correct and incorrect ways to enlarge the cracked area before mending it. Use a chipping or cold chisel to create a dovetail space. This provides a holding area for the new mortar.
-An incorrect groove, as illustrated, causes the mortar to fall out of the repaired area when it dries. Take time to do it right–it will pay off in the long run.
-Repair holes in a concrete or concrete block wall in the same manner. Chip out the faulty or broken area in dovetail fashion. The dovetail cut provides a holding edge for the new mortar.
-When the faulty cement around the edge of the hole has been completely chipped away, fill the hole with the same mortar mix recommended for filling cracks. This mixture is one part cement to two parts fine sand mixed with just enough water to create a stiff mortar.
-Place the mortar in the newly cleaned hole, and smooth it out with an ordinary trowel. Be sure the mortar is pressed into all parts of the hole, leaving no air pockets.
If you need help in your repair project, just give us call!
419.841-6055
