Masonry Foundation Repair & Waterproofing

Why Foundation Problems Demand Immediate Attention

Your foundation is the most critical part of your home. It supports everything above it, keeps your floors level, and protects your living space from moisture. When foundation problems develop, they do not get better on their own. They get worse. Cracks widen, walls lean, doors stick, and water finds its way into basements and crawl spaces. Small problems become expensive disasters if you ignore them.

Here in Little Rock, AR, expansive clay soils and heavy seasonal rainfall put extra stress on foundations. The soil swells when wet and shrinks when dry, causing movement that cracks concrete and brick. Poor drainage directs water against foundation walls, where it seeps through porous masonry and creates damp, moldy conditions inside your home. These conditions are not unusual, but they require professional attention to prevent serious structural damage.

We specialize in repairing brick and block foundations, sealing cracks, and waterproofing masonry to keep your home dry and structurally sound. Whether you have a crawl space, basement, or slab foundation, our experienced masonry team has the knowledge and tools to diagnose the problem and fix it right. We do not just patch cracks and hope for the best. We identify the root cause and provide lasting solutions.

Common Foundation Problems We Fix

Foundation issues show up in many ways. Some are obvious, like large cracks or water pooling in your basement. Others are subtle, like doors that suddenly do not close properly or hairline cracks in your drywall. Here are the most common problems we see and repair.

Cracked Foundation Walls

Cracks in foundation walls can result from settling, soil movement, hydrostatic pressure, or structural overload. Vertical cracks are usually caused by normal settling and are often easy to repair. Horizontal or stair-step cracks indicate more serious problems like lateral pressure from soil or water. We assess the cause of the cracking, stabilize the structure if needed, and seal the cracks with appropriate materials to prevent further damage and water intrusion.

Bowing or Leaning Walls

When foundation walls bow inward or lean, it is a sign of excessive lateral pressure from soil or water. This is a serious structural issue that can lead to wall collapse if not addressed. We use methods like wall anchors, carbon fiber reinforcement, or partial rebuilds to stabilize bowing walls and restore structural integrity. The sooner you address a bowing wall, the less expensive and invasive the repair will be.

Water Intrusion and Dampness

Water in your basement or crawl space is more than an inconvenience. It damages stored items, promotes mold growth, and weakens your foundation over time. Water enters through cracks, porous masonry, failed waterproofing membranes, or poor drainage around your home. We identify where the water is coming from and implement solutions like crack sealing, waterproof coatings, drainage improvements, and sump pump installation to keep your space dry.

Deteriorated Mortar and Spalling Blocks

Block and brick foundations can deteriorate when mortar joints fail or when water gets inside the masonry and causes spalling. You might see mortar crumbling out of the joints or chunks of block flaking off. This weakens the foundation and creates pathways for water intrusion. We repoint mortar joints, replace damaged blocks or bricks, and apply protective coatings to prevent future deterioration.

• ✓Repairing cracks in poured concrete, block, and brick foundations
• ✓Stabilizing bowing, leaning, or settling foundation walls
• ✓Waterproofing basements and crawl spaces to prevent moisture problems
• ✓Installing drainage systems to redirect water away from your foundation

No matter what type of foundation problem you are dealing with, we have the experience and equipment to handle it. We have repaired hundreds of foundations across Little Rock, and we know how to solve even the most challenging issues.

Our Foundation Repair and Waterproofing Process

Effective foundation repair starts with accurate diagnosis. We do not guess or use one-size-fits-all solutions. We inspect your foundation inside and out, identify the underlying causes of the damage, and develop a repair plan tailored to your specific situation.

Step 1: Comprehensive Inspection

We examine your foundation walls, floors, and surrounding grade to assess the extent of the damage. We look for cracks, signs of water intrusion, soil conditions, drainage problems, and structural movement. We measure crack widths, check for deflection in walls, and evaluate the overall stability of your foundation. This thorough inspection gives us the information we need to recommend the right repair approach.

Step 2: Identifying the Root Cause

Understanding why the problem occurred is critical to preventing it from happening again. Is the soil expanding and contracting excessively? Is water pooling next to your foundation? Are gutters and downspouts directing water toward the house instead of away? We address these underlying issues as part of the repair, not just the visible symptoms.

Step 3: Structural Repairs

Once we have a clear understanding of the problem, we make the necessary structural repairs. This might involve sealing cracks with epoxy or polyurethane injections, installing wall anchors or braces to stabilize bowing walls, or rebuilding sections of damaged foundation. We use proven techniques and high-quality materials to ensure the repair is strong and long-lasting. For homeowners dealing with other masonry issues, we also handle brick repair and restoration projects.

Step 4: Waterproofing and Drainage

After making structural repairs, we focus on keeping water out. We apply waterproof coatings to foundation walls, install or improve drainage systems, and ensure that water is directed away from your home. Interior waterproofing might include sump pumps, interior drain tile systems, and vapor barriers. Exterior waterproofing involves excavating around the foundation, applying membrane systems, and installing perimeter drains. The right approach depends on your specific situation and budget.

Step 5: Final Inspection and Maintenance Recommendations

Once the work is complete, we inspect everything to make sure the repairs meet our standards and your expectations. We also provide recommendations for ongoing maintenance, like cleaning gutters, maintaining proper grading, and monitoring cracks. Regular maintenance helps prevent future problems and protects your investment.

Preventing Future Foundation Problems

While we can repair existing foundation damage, prevention is always better than repair. Taking a few simple steps to manage water and maintain proper drainage can save you thousands of dollars in future repairs.

Make sure your gutters and downspouts are clean and functioning properly. They should direct water at least five feet away from your foundation. Check the grading around your home. The ground should slope away from the foundation, not toward it. Fill in low spots where water pools and consider installing French drains or swales to redirect water.

Avoid planting large trees too close to your house. Tree roots can damage foundations and disrupt drainage systems. Water your foundation during dry periods to prevent soil shrinkage, but do not overwater. Monitor your foundation for new cracks or signs of movement, and address problems promptly before they get worse.

If you need help with drainage or grading issues, we can assist with that too. We often combine foundation repair with retaining wall design and installation to manage water and soil around your property. A comprehensive approach gives you the best long-term results.

Frequently Asked Questions