Masonry Foundation Repair & Waterproofing
We fix foundation problems and protect your home from water damage before small issues become structural disasters.
Foundation Problems You Should Never Ignore
Your foundation supports your entire home. When it starts to fail, every part of your structure is at risk. Foundation problems don't fix themselves. They get worse over time, and the longer you wait, the more expensive repairs become. In worst cases, foundation failure can make a home unsafe or unsellable.
Many foundation issues start with water. Spokane gets plenty of rain and snow, and when that water doesn't drain properly away from your foundation, it saturates the soil. Wet soil expands and puts pressure on foundation walls. During winter, that moisture freezes and expands even more. This constant cycle of freezing and thawing, wetting and drying, slowly breaks down masonry foundations.
At SKA Spokane Masonry, we specialize in diagnosing and repairing masonry foundation problems. We've seen every type of foundation issue that affects homes in our area, and we know how to fix them permanently. The key is catching problems early, before minor cracks turn into major structural failures.
Warning Signs of Foundation Trouble
- •Cracks in foundation walls, especially horizontal cracks or stair-step patterns in block or brick
- •Bowing or bulging walls that indicate serious soil pressure problems
- •Water seepage or dampness in your basement or crawl space
- •Crumbling or deteriorating mortar between foundation blocks or stones
- •Doors and windows that stick or gaps around frames showing the house is settling
- •Sloping or uneven floors inside your home
- •Cracks in interior walls or ceilings, especially near corners or above doorways
Our Foundation Repair Services
We offer comprehensive foundation repair services for all types of masonry foundations. Every repair starts with a thorough inspection so we understand exactly what's causing the problem. Then we develop a repair plan that addresses the root cause, not just the symptoms.
Crack Repair and Stabilization
Not all foundation cracks are created equal. Small hairline cracks from normal settling usually aren't serious. But wider cracks, horizontal cracks, or cracks that are growing indicate structural problems. We repair cracks using proven methods like epoxy injection for concrete or repointing and rebuilding for block and stone foundations. We also address whatever caused the crack in the first place, whether it's drainage issues, soil problems, or structural loading.
Wall Reinforcement and Straightening
Bowed or bulging foundation walls need serious attention. We can often stabilize and straighten walls using steel braces, carbon fiber reinforcement, or wall anchors. The method depends on how severe the bowing is and what's causing it. For walls with extensive damage, partial or complete rebuilding might be necessary. We'll explain your options and recommend the most effective and economical solution.
Block and Stone Foundation Rebuilding
Sometimes foundation damage is too extensive for simple repairs. When blocks are crumbling, mortar has disintegrated, or the structure is severely compromised, rebuilding is the only safe option. We carefully support your home, remove damaged foundation sections, and rebuild with new materials using modern techniques and proper drainage. A rebuilt foundation can last another hundred years when done correctly.
Tuckpointing and Mortar Restoration
Deteriorating mortar joints in your foundation let water penetrate and weaken the structure. We remove old, damaged mortar and replace it with fresh mortar specifically formulated for foundation work. This restores structural integrity and creates a water-resistant barrier. Our expert tuckpointing services extend beyond foundations to all your masonry structures.
Foundation Waterproofing Solutions
Keeping water away from your foundation is just as important as repairing damage. Even a small amount of water infiltration can cause mold growth, rot wooden framing, damage stored items, and create unhealthy indoor air quality. Chronic water problems also accelerate foundation deterioration and can undermine your home's structural stability.
We take a comprehensive approach to foundation waterproofing. It's not enough to just seal the inside of your basement walls. Effective waterproofing manages water on the outside before it ever reaches your foundation. Here's how we protect your home.
Exterior Waterproofing and Drainage
The best waterproofing happens on the exterior. We excavate around your foundation, clean the walls, repair any damage, and apply waterproof coatings or membranes. We install drainage systems like French drains and foundation drains that collect water and channel it away from your home. We also ensure proper grading so surface water flows away from the foundation instead of pooling against it.
Interior Waterproofing Systems
When exterior waterproofing isn't practical or cost-effective, interior systems can still protect your basement. We install interior drainage channels that collect water seeping through walls and direct it to a sump pump system. We seal cracks and joints where water enters. And we apply waterproof coatings to walls to create a moisture barrier. Interior systems work well, especially when combined with good exterior drainage.
Sump Pump Installation
A sump pump is your last line of defense against basement flooding. We install quality sump pump systems in the lowest part of your basement or crawl space. The pump automatically activates when water accumulates and pumps it outside away from your foundation. We recommend battery backup systems so your pump keeps working even during power outages.
Whether you need foundation crack repair, wall stabilization, complete waterproofing, or a combination of services, we have the expertise to protect your home. We've solved foundation problems for hundreds of Spokane homeowners, and we stand behind every repair we make. And if you're also dealing with deteriorating brick or stone on other parts of your property, our comprehensive brick and masonry repair services can restore and protect your entire home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Foundation repair costs vary widely based on the problem type and severity. Simple crack repairs might cost a few hundred dollars. Stabilizing a bowing wall or installing drainage systems costs more. Extensive foundation rebuilding is a major investment but sometimes necessary for safety.
We provide detailed written estimates after inspecting your foundation and understanding the scope of work needed. We'll explain all your options and help you prioritize repairs based on urgency and budget. Remember that addressing foundation problems early saves money in the long run by preventing more serious damage.
Timeline depends on the repair type and scope. Simple crack repairs can be done in a day. Wall stabilization or interior waterproofing might take two to five days. Exterior excavation and waterproofing takes longer, usually one to two weeks. Major foundation rebuilding can take several weeks.
We'll give you a realistic timeline before starting work. Weather can affect schedules for exterior work since we need dry conditions. Most foundation repairs don't require you to move out, though we'll let you know if your specific project requires temporary relocation.
When done correctly, foundation repairs should be permanent. The key is addressing the underlying cause, not just fixing visible symptoms. If water infiltration caused the problem, we fix the drainage. If soil pressure caused bowing, we stabilize and reinforce the walls.
We don't offer quick patches that fail in a year or two. We engineer proper solutions using proven methods and quality materials. We also provide guidance on maintenance and drainage management to prevent future problems. Our repairs are designed to last as long as your home.