Benefits of Polyurethane Crack Injections in St. Catharines and Niagara

Having a leak in the basement of your home can be a huge headache for any homeowner. Once a leak has happened, it can be difficult to know how to repair it - and to do so properly so that you know you won't continue to have moisture pooling in the basement. One method used by professionals involves the use of polyurethane to seal the crack. Here's what you need to know about this method for your home. 

What is a polyurethane crack injection?

Polyurethane crack injection is a method of waterproofing used by professionals in the Niagara area to seal off cracks in the foundation of a home. The material – polyurethane – is a flexible sealant that expands to form an extremely dense seal. This will completely seal a crack so that any moisture on the outside of the foundation does not pass through. 

Is it expensive?

One of the best benefits of using this type of waterproofing is that it's pretty budget-friendly compared to other waterproofing methods for a foundation. 

It can also be done pretty quickly without major disruption to your home or family's schedule. 

How does polyurethane injection work?

When a waterproofing professional comes into your home, they will first put injection ports at various intervals along the length of the crack, or cracks, in your basement wall. Then they will inject the polyurethane sealant into the injection ports, where it will run into the crack and expand, causing the crack to seal. 

Once that is done, they will put a surface sealer over of affected area until the polyurethane completely cures. 

Polyurethane vs. epoxy

For a long time, waterproofing professionals used epoxy to fill the cracks in foundation walls. 

The trouble with using epoxy is that it's not flexible once it cures. This means that it won't move with foundations that are still settling, and therefore it may not form a complete seal for houses that aren't completely settled. 

Polyurethane, though, will move with the foundation as it settles so it doesn't break the seal and allow more moisture into the house. Further, epoxy has to be applied when the foundation's concrete is completely dry as it doesn't adhere properly when wet. This can be especially tricky for basements with a leaking foundation because the area around the crack will likely never be totally dry. Polyurethane, however, can be applied when the area is still damp. 

Additionally, polyurethane is not weakened by exposure to the elements, so you can be confident that the seal will hold for many years to come. 

Contact Foundation Fix today

If you have cracks in your basement walls, it is best to have them repaired as soon as possible – and with polyurethane crack injection, the process is easy and convenient and poses minimal disruption to your home in Niagara or St. Catharines. Give us a call today to learn more or have your basement assessed.