Masonry Foundation Repair & Waterproofing
Protect your home investment with expert foundation crack repair and basement waterproofing services.
Warning Signs Your Foundation Needs Attention
Your foundation literally holds up your entire house. When problems develop, they rarely fix themselves. In fact, they usually get worse over time and more expensive to repair. Catching foundation issues early saves you money and protects your home from serious structural damage.
We see foundation problems all the time in Rochester homes. Our soil conditions and freeze-thaw cycles put extra stress on foundations. Water infiltration is especially common. Many homeowners ignore small cracks or minor dampness until they have a serious water problem in their basement. Do not make that mistake.
Common Foundation Problems:
- Cracks in foundation walls, either vertical, horizontal, or stair-step patterns
- Water seepage or standing water in your basement after rain or snow melt
- Musty odors or visible mold growth in basement areas
- Doors and windows that stick or do not close properly
- Gaps between walls and ceilings or floors throughout your home
- Sloping or uneven floors on your main level
- Cracks in interior drywall, especially near corners and door frames
- Bowing or bulging in basement walls
If you notice any of these signs, call us for an inspection. We can assess the damage, determine the cause, and recommend the right repair approach. Many foundation issues can be fixed at reasonable cost if you catch them early. Wait too long, and you might face major structural repairs or even reduced home value when you try to sell.
Our Foundation Repair Solutions
Foundation repair is not one-size-fits-all. The right solution depends on what is causing the problem and how severe the damage is. We start every project with a thorough inspection to understand exactly what is happening with your foundation. Then we recommend the most effective and affordable repair method for your specific situation.
For crack repair, we use professional-grade epoxy or polyurethane injection systems that bond with the concrete and create a permanent seal stronger than the surrounding material. This works for most vertical and diagonal cracks up to a certain width. We clean out the crack, inject the material under pressure, and smooth the surface. The repair is waterproof and prevents the crack from spreading.
Horizontal cracks and bowing walls are more serious because they indicate pressure from outside soil. These often require wall bracing or anchor systems to stabilize the wall and prevent further movement. We install carbon fiber strips, steel I-beams, or wall anchors depending on the severity. These reinforcements stop the bowing and can sometimes gradually pull walls back toward their original position.
Water infiltration problems need a multi-step approach. We identify where water is entering, repair any cracks or holes, and install waterproofing systems to keep water out permanently. This might include exterior waterproofing membrane, interior drainage systems, sump pumps, or a combination of methods. We also address grading and drainage issues around your foundation to prevent water from pooling near your walls.
Some foundation problems stem from settlement issues where soil under your foundation has compressed or washed away. These cases might require underpinning with helical piers or push piers that transfer the load to more stable soil layers. This is advanced work that requires specialized equipment and expertise. We partner with structural engineers when needed to ensure repairs meet all safety standards.
Basement Waterproofing That Actually Works
A dry basement is not just about comfort. It is about protecting your home from mold, preserving your home value, and creating usable living space. Many Rochester homes have basement moisture problems, especially older homes built before modern waterproofing standards existed.
The key to effective waterproofing is addressing the root cause, not just treating symptoms. Painting on waterproof coatings might help minor dampness, but it will not stop water under pressure. We need to keep water away from your foundation or give it a path to drain away safely.
Exterior waterproofing is the most thorough approach. We excavate around your foundation, repair any cracks or damage, apply a rubberized waterproofing membrane to the walls, and install drainage tile at the footing level. We also make sure your soil is graded to slope away from the house. This prevents water from reaching your foundation in the first place. It is the gold standard but requires significant excavation work.
Interior waterproofing systems work from inside your basement and are less invasive. We install a drainage channel along the perimeter of your basement floor that collects water before it enters your living space. This connects to a sump pump that pumps water away from your home. We might also install vapor barriers on walls and dehumidification systems to control moisture levels. Interior systems work well for homes where exterior excavation is not practical.
Every waterproofing project includes attention to gutters, downspouts, and yard drainage. These often contribute to foundation water problems. We extend downspouts away from your house, improve soil grading, and sometimes install swales or French drains to redirect water flow. The goal is keeping water away from your foundation through multiple layers of protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Protect Your Home with Expert Foundation Repair
Do not wait for foundation problems to get worse. Contact RST Rochester Masonry today for a free foundation inspection and estimate.
(507) 738-1309