If you find yourself googling the title to this article in a panic, we don’t blame you. The sight of a previously solid concrete wall crumbling is enough to unnerve any homeowner. That being said, take a deep breath and relax- there are things that we can do to fix this problem. The first step, as ever, is working out what’s going on.
Why is My Basement Wall Crumbling?
Concrete is pretty sturdy stuff (that’s why we use it for everything from paving to building). While it’s strong, long-lasting and generally pretty durable, it’s not impervious to damage. A few likely culprits include things like:
Water Damage
Have you ever seen the Grand Canyon? That was carved out of the earth by the force of water flowing down it. Now, just think what water could do to your basement walls.
While concrete may seem solid, it’s actually filled with tiny cracks and tunnels. These capillaries can allow small amounts of water to seep through, slowly eroding your walls. Over time, enough damage is done that you’ll find sections of wall crumbling.
Freeze/Thaw Cycles
In colder climates, the natural process of freezing and thawing each winter and spring is a likely candidate. As we already pointed out, concrete isn’t nearly as solid as it seems. When water finds its way in and then freezes, it pushes tiny cracks open a little wider.
When it thaws again, it takes a little of the loosened concrete with it. Over the course of a few years this can turn tiny, microscopic capillaries into gaping cracks and apparently solid walls into crumbling wrecks.
Poor Initial Construction or Aging Materials
While we often romanticize the craftsmanship of the past, the truth is that they were just as likely to mess things up as anyone today. Combine this with long years of exposure to the elements and you’ve got a recipe for concrete spalling.
Likewise, modern builders can cut corners, make mistakes and generally make a bit of a mess of things. A bad initial construction will inevitably lead to problems down the line. If this has happened to you, count yourself lucky that crumbling walls are all you’re facing.
Efflorescence
Moisture passing through concrete invariably picks up trace amounts of the elements which make up your wall. These are deposited on the surface in the form of salts as the water then evaporates. If you’re finding a white, powdery residue on your walls, this is probably what’s going on.
While it will take a long time to get to the stage of a wall starting to crumble thanks to efflorescence, it will eventually happen. When it does it’s time to repair those basement walls.
The Role of Time
Concrete is strong, but over time it naturally wears down. Exposure to elements like temperature changes, moisture, and general wear can gradually weaken it. Over the years, these stresses lead to cracks and crumbling. While concrete is durable, it’s not immune to aging, and without proper maintenance, the effects of time can become more severe, ultimately leading to the deterioration of your walls.
Can I Fix This Myself?
If you’re considering repairing your basement walls yourself, there are certainly tasks that a skilled DIYer can handle. Minor issues such as surface cracks or small-scale repairs can often be addressed with solutions like patching or applying crystalline waterproofing. Projects like these, or even digging minor trenches, can be well within reach for a competent homeowner.
However, when it comes to larger problems or issues that could compromise the structural integrity of your home, it’s wise to seek professional assistance. While DIY efforts can be effective, they do have their limitations, and given the potential for significant consequences, it’s crucial to recognize when expert help is necessary.
How Do I Fix Crumbling Basement Walls?
If the problem seems to beyond a simple DIY fix, worry not. The professionals have the tools, materials and knowhow to make most crumbling cement as good as new. Here’s what that might look like:
Step 1: Address Underlying Issues
Most crumbling cement walls are caused by the effects of moisture. The logical first thing to do is reduce the amount of moisture they’re exposed to. That means installing various waterproofing solutions. There’s no such thing as a universal solution and it will likely be a combination of a couple things from the following list:
- Installing a sump pump
- Installing either interior or exterior French drains (maybe both)
- Waterproof membranes and coatings on the exterior walls
These all share the same basic idea: keep the water that’s contained in the soil around your home away from your walls.
Step 2: Make the Repairs and Fortify the Wall
Once the underlying causes have been successfully dealt with, it’s time to fix the problems they caused. Depending on the damage there are a wide range of options here:
- Foundation repairs: This could involve anything from repairing the mortar between blocks, filling cracks or installing structural support.
- Applying Crystalline Solutions: If the wall isn’t in danger of coming down, a crystalline waterproofing solution could be the answer. This chemically reacts with moisture and the concrete, forming tiny crystals. These block the capillaries which allow moisture through, boosting structural integrity as they do so. Best of all, they get reactivated every time they’re exposed to moisture, making them more effective over time.
- Applying Masonry Paint: Apart from making the job look seamless and finished, masonry paint adds a bonus layer of protection. It probably won’t be enough by itself, but an extra layer never hurts.
Do I Need to Call a Specialist?
If you’re wondering how to decide if this is a DIY job or something that requires professional intervention, look for these signs:
- Extensive crumbling
- Deep cracks
- Noticeable shifts in the foundation like bulges or dents
- Persistent dampness and moisture
- Leaks
- Pooling water
- Mold growth
- Strong musty smells
Specialists in crumbling wall repairs know how to deal with the symptoms. They’ll be better equipped to deal with the underlying causes too. Why settle for a surface repair when you can deal with the issue by the root?
Does This Mean That There’s Damage To The Structure And Support Of My Home?
Almost by definition, crumbling foundation walls mean that there’s some damage to your home’s structural stability. That being said, it’s not always a cause for concern.
Smaller cracks, slight degradation of the mortar between blocks or a slightly crumbly surface are annoying but nothing to lose sleep over. You’ll still probably want to address the core issues that caused them, but your home isn’t going to collapse overnight.
If you see signs of something more serious, call the experts in right away. These could be things like:
- Cracks wider than ¼”
- Uneven floors or walls
- Pooling water
- Drainage issues
- Sticking doors and windows
- Cracks in walls and ceilings above the basement
What Happens If I Don’t Repair Crumbling Concrete Walls
Left unattended, problems have a horrible habit of spiralling. As problems get worse, solutions get more expensive.
Structural damage can and will get worse unless fixed. Water will find its way into the rest of the home, damaging your walls and floors. Pests and rodents will find ways through. The air quality in the home will drop as mold spreads.
Dealing with a basement wall crumbling is a matter of some urgency.
How Much Do Repairs Cost And How Long Do They Take?
Asking the cost and timeline for fixing a crumbling cement basement is a little like asking how long a piece of string is. The answer varies widely from job to job.
A simple basement wall repair could potential take a day. A more complex one might take a week or more. Likewise adding in services to deal with underlying problems like waterproofing will extend both the time and cost.
Higher quality materials tend to produce better results but also cost more. Things like crystalline waterproofing and carbon fiber reinforcement don’t come cheap but the results speak for themselves.
The most fundamental principle here is that the worse the damage is the more it will cost to repair. It’s best to act quickly to avoid spiralling bills.
Benefits of Addressing Crumbling Basement Walls Quickly
Beyond the possibility of some hefty savings, acting quickly means that you stand a much better chance of:
- Protecting your home’s stability
- Improving air quality
- Avoiding pest infestations
- Boosting your home’s long term value.
When faced with the prospect of a basement wall crumbling, it really is best to deal with it as soon as possible.