Noticed a crack in your basement wall or foundation? Don’t panic—but don’t ignore it either. Cracks in your home’s structure are common, especially in Calgary’s shifting weather conditions. But knowing how to fix them—and when to call a professional—can save you time, money, and future headaches.
At Crack and Attic Doctor, we’ve helped hundreds of homeowners across Calgary and nearby areas diagnose and repair structural cracks with lasting solutions. Let’s break down how it’s done.
Step 1: Identify the Type of Crack
Before jumping into repairs, it’s important to understand the type of crack you’re dealing with.
🔹 Hairline or Surface Cracks
Typically caused by shrinkage or minor settlement. These are mostly cosmetic but should still be sealed to prevent moisture intrusion.
🔹 Vertical Cracks
Often due to natural foundation settling. Usually not a major threat unless water is seeping in or they’re growing.
🔹 Horizontal Cracks
These are more serious. Usually caused by pressure from soil or water buildup outside the foundation.
🔹 Stair-Step Cracks
Common in block foundations. May indicate uneven settling or shifting, which requires expert attention.
Step 2: Clean and Prep the Area
Any crack repair starts with a clean surface.
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Remove dust, loose debris, or old sealant
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For deeper cracks, use a chisel to widen slightly for better sealant bonding
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Use a wire brush and vacuum to clear dust
Step 3: Choose the Right Repair Method
1. Concrete Crack Fillers (For Small Surface Cracks)
Best for small, non-structural cracks in walls and floors.
✔️ Easy DIY
✔️ Fast-setting
✖️ Not suitable for deep or structural cracks
2. Epoxy or Polyurethane Injections (For Deep or Leaking Cracks)
These are high-performance repair options used by professionals.
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Epoxy injection: Strong and rigid, used for structural strength
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Polyurethane injection: Flexible, best for water-stopping and shifting areas
👉 We use specialized injection systems to fill cracks from inside out, bonding the concrete and preventing future movement or leaks.
3. Carbon Fiber Reinforcement (For Bowing or Cracked Walls)
If walls are bulging or cracking due to pressure, carbon fiber straps are installed to stabilize them without excavation.
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Non-invasive
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Permanent strength reinforcement
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Works on poured concrete and block walls
4. Exterior Waterproofing and Drainage Repair
If cracks are caused by water pressure, sealing from the inside isn’t enough.
✅ Exterior excavation
✅ Waterproof membrane application
✅ Drain tile or weeping tile installation to divert water away
5. Foundation Underpinning (For Major Structural Shifts)
In severe cases, where the foundation is sinking or severely cracked, underpinning may be needed to stabilize and level the foundation.
This involves placing piers or supports beneath the footing—only done by structural experts.
Why Professional Crack Repair Matters
While small cracks may seem like a DIY job, a professional inspection ensures:
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The true cause is identified
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The right material and method is used
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Long-term stability and moisture protection
At Crack and Attic Doctor, we combine expert diagnosis with industry-best repair solutions to keep your home safe and dry.
📍 Serving These Locations:
Calgary | Cochrane | Airdrie | Chestermere | Conrich | Okotoks | High River
📞 Get a Free Quote Today
Crack and Attic Doctor
🏢 Office: #715, 100 4th Avenue SW, Calgary, Alberta
📞 (403)-321-2623
📧 crackandatticdoctor@gmail.com
🔗 Click here for your free crack repair quote
Don’t let a small crack grow into a costly repair.
Let our experts fix it right the first time—professionally, permanently, and affordably.
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