How to Fill the Gap Between the Basement Foundation

Protecting a basement foundation from water damage and mold and cracking is crucial. A space between a basement foundation as well as a sidewalk leaves both structures susceptible to severe water damage and mold. Filling the space with semi-flexible, rot-resistant material blocks moisture while allowing the structures to shift without cracking. Do-it-yourself people who have little if any experience can complete this project in a afternoon including a full day for that caulk to create.

Cleanse a real difference relating to the foundation and sidewalk with a long wire brush. Chip off any hard debris or caulk stuck for the sides with a hammer plus a chisel. Appraise the width with the gap with measuring tape. If it’s wider than 1/2 inch, you’ll must fill out the visible difference having an expansion joint like foam backer rod. If it’s just one 1/2 inch wide, you can complete Expanding Foam Tape. Convey a strip of froth backer rod on top of the sidewalk parallel for the gap. Make use of a utility knife to cut the rod to adjust to the duration of the space. In the event the rod just isn't good enough, cut another piece to match the residual space. Lay the froth backer rod on top of the gap and push it down with your hands. If you’re using two lengths of rod, push these down hence the ends are flush. Utilize the blunt end of a putty knife to hit the rod as a result of the bottom of the gap. Load silicone latex caulk in to a caulk gun and snip from the end with scissors. Fill the rest of the gap with all the caulk until its level together with the sidewalk. Hold a putty knife level with the whites on the pavement and the other on the caulk. Run the knife slowly along the whole gap to eliminate excess and also to ensure that the caulk is level.