Masonry Foundation Repair & Waterproofing
Protect your home's foundation from water damage and structural failure with expert masonry repair and waterproofing solutions.
Why Foundation Problems Cannot Wait
Your foundation supports your entire home. When foundation problems develop, they affect everything above them. Walls crack, floors slope, doors stick, and windows refuse to open. Water seeps into your basement or crawl space causing mold, rot, and damage to your belongings. Small foundation problems turn into big, expensive disasters if you ignore them.
At KXM Knoxville Masonry, we repair and waterproof masonry foundations throughout Knoxville, TN and the surrounding areas. We specialize in brick, block, and stone foundations. We fix cracks, stabilize settling foundations, repair deteriorating mortar, and install waterproofing systems that keep your basement dry. Our repairs stop damage in its tracks and prevent future problems.
We have worked with foundations of all ages and conditions. Historic homes with 100-year-old brick foundations need different approaches than newer block foundations. We assess each foundation individually and recommend solutions that address the real problem, not just the symptoms you can see.
Foundation Problems We Repair
Cracked Foundation Walls
Foundation cracks come in many forms. Hairline cracks are common and often harmless. But wider cracks, horizontal cracks, or cracks that grow over time signal serious problems. We evaluate the crack pattern, measure the size, and determine what is causing it. Then we repair it using methods appropriate for the type and severity of the crack. Some cracks need simple patching, while others require structural reinforcement.
Deteriorating Mortar and Masonry
Mortar joints in masonry foundations wear down over time. Water, freeze-thaw cycles, and age cause mortar to crumble and fall out. When mortar fails, water gets behind the foundation and the structure weakens. We remove deteriorated mortar and repoint the joints with fresh, durable mortar. This is similar to our tuckpointing services but adapted for below-grade conditions where foundations face different challenges than above-ground walls.
Bowing or Leaning Walls
Foundation walls that bow inward or lean are extremely serious. This usually means the soil outside is pushing against the wall with more force than the wall can handle. Left alone, the wall can collapse. We stabilize bowing walls using various techniques including wall anchors, carbon fiber reinforcement, or rebuilding sections that have failed. The right solution depends on how severe the bowing is and what is causing it.
Warning Signs of Foundation Problems:
- Cracks in foundation walls, especially horizontal or stair-step cracks
- Water seeping into basement or crawl space
- Walls that bow, bulge, or lean inward
- Doors and windows that stick or will not close properly
- Sloping or uneven floors
- Gaps between walls and ceiling or floor
Foundation Waterproofing Solutions
Water is the biggest enemy of masonry foundations. When water gets into foundation walls, it causes immediate problems like dampness and mold. Over time, it leads to structural damage, crumbling masonry, and even foundation failure. Proper waterproofing keeps water out and protects your investment.
We use several waterproofing methods depending on your specific situation. Exterior waterproofing involves excavating around the foundation, repairing any damage, applying waterproof coatings, and installing proper drainage systems. This is the most effective approach but also the most involved. Interior waterproofing includes sealing walls, installing drainage systems, and using sump pumps to manage water that does get in.
Proper grading and drainage are critical parts of any waterproofing solution. We make sure water flows away from your foundation, not toward it. We install or repair gutters, downspouts, and drainage systems. We grade the soil so rainwater runs away from your house. These simple steps prevent most foundation water problems before they start.
We also repair or install weep holes and ventilation in foundation walls. These features allow trapped moisture to escape and prevent water pressure from building up behind your foundation. Combined with proper drainage, these details make the difference between a dry foundation and one that constantly fights water problems.
Frequently Asked Questions About Foundation Repair and Waterproofing
Foundation repair costs vary widely based on the type and severity of the problem. Minor crack repairs might cost a few hundred dollars. Major structural repairs with wall stabilization can run into the thousands. Waterproofing costs depend on whether you need interior or exterior work and how much area needs protection. We provide honest assessments and detailed estimates. Foundation repairs are not cheap, but they are always less expensive than the damage that happens if you wait.
Simple repairs can often be completed in one to three days. More extensive work like exterior waterproofing or wall stabilization can take one to two weeks. The timeline depends on the scope of work, weather conditions, and whether we need to excavate. We give you a realistic schedule during the estimate and keep you informed throughout the project. We work as efficiently as possible while never compromising on quality.
Most homeowner's insurance policies do not cover foundation repairs because they are considered maintenance issues or result from gradual settling. However, if the damage was caused by a covered event like a burst pipe or storm, your insurance might pay for it. We provide detailed documentation of all repairs that you can submit to your insurance company. Even if insurance does not cover it, foundation repairs are essential investments in protecting your home.
Protect Your Home's Foundation Today
Foundation problems do not fix themselves. They only get worse and more expensive. We offer free foundation inspections and honest assessments. Our team will evaluate your foundation, explain what we find, and recommend solutions that fit your situation and budget. Whether you need brick repair, waterproofing, or structural reinforcement, we bring decades of masonry experience to every project. Call KXM Knoxville Masonry at 865-338-9396 or contact us online to schedule your inspection.