Foundation inspection and repair Oakville ON
What causes the foundation to crack or be damaged? Well, there are a few things that are pretty much inevitable, such as the tension created from suppressed expansion in heat and contraction in cold, creating cracks. This is common in the Canadian climate where we experience seasons of bitter cold and stifling heat, so concrete goes through constant cycles of expansion and contraction. If there is anything remotely holding back on this temperature-dependent cycle, then the concrete experiences stress fractures or cracks.
Cracks are not uncommon in concrete facades and foundations, but some are more dangerous than others. Vertical cracks are commonplace and if small enough, can be monitored and sealed with an epoxy sealer through the process of drilling little holes in the crack and injecting it with the sealant. Horizontal cracks, on the other hand, indicate a severe structural compromise, and suggest that the foundation has been shifted vertically. This is dangerous, as significant water penetration into the below ground foundation can occur, leading to the unfortunate consequences of mould and water damage. If horizontal cracks are detected, underpinning may be required. The masonry contractors at Masonry Oakville are experts in our craft. We employ time-tested and specialized techniquest to ensure a foundation is protected. What is the biggest enemy of above and below grade foundations? Water and moisture. To ensure a waterproof barrier, we utilize proven techniques to protect the masonry wall and foundation from external elements and moisture. One of these waterproofing techniques is called parging. |
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Parging is both for design and function. It’s a technique of applying and smoothing a special mortar made of lime, water and cement to the exterior above ground basement wall. It’s a convenient way to cover unsightly crumbling brick, but it also serves an important function.
It provides a barrier that’s resistant against water and the elements. In Oakville and most of Ontario, we experience tremendous precipitation throughout the year in the form of rain, snow or even hail. The snow and rain that settles on the ground want to find its way into the foundation through osmosis. Once water seeps into the concrete, the foundation will act like a sponge, bringing even more water in. Having the parging protective barrier can prevent this from happening.
Our parging experience and skills are unmatched, and this is important in creating the waterproof barrier. The proper mortar mixing and blending techniques must be utilized in order to create a functional parging that is actually resistant to moisture. Improper mixing and blending and application of the lime, water and cement will create an easily cracked parging that will not serve its originally intended purpose - little to no waterproofing and it will look bad.
If you’re looking for foundation repair services, but more importantly, preventive foundation waterproofing and strengthening, give us a call at Masonry Oakville to provide expert service in foundation work. We’re confident you’ll be pleased with our work, and as a result you won’t lose a night’s sleep over water damage caused by a damaged foundation.
It provides a barrier that’s resistant against water and the elements. In Oakville and most of Ontario, we experience tremendous precipitation throughout the year in the form of rain, snow or even hail. The snow and rain that settles on the ground want to find its way into the foundation through osmosis. Once water seeps into the concrete, the foundation will act like a sponge, bringing even more water in. Having the parging protective barrier can prevent this from happening.
Our parging experience and skills are unmatched, and this is important in creating the waterproof barrier. The proper mortar mixing and blending techniques must be utilized in order to create a functional parging that is actually resistant to moisture. Improper mixing and blending and application of the lime, water and cement will create an easily cracked parging that will not serve its originally intended purpose - little to no waterproofing and it will look bad.
If you’re looking for foundation repair services, but more importantly, preventive foundation waterproofing and strengthening, give us a call at Masonry Oakville to provide expert service in foundation work. We’re confident you’ll be pleased with our work, and as a result you won’t lose a night’s sleep over water damage caused by a damaged foundation.
