How to Fill the Gap Between the Basement Foundation

Protecting a basement foundation from water damage and mold and cracking is vital. A niche from a basement foundation along with a sidewalk leaves both structures susceptible to severe racing. Filling the area with semi-flexible, rot-resistant material blocks moisture while allowing the structures to shift without cracking. Do-it-yourself individuals with little or no experience can complete this project in the afternoon and also a full day for the caulk to create.

Cleanse the visible difference relating to the foundation and sidewalk which has a long wire brush. Chip off any hard debris or caulk stuck about the sides with a hammer plus a chisel. Study the width in the gap with tape measure. If it’s wider than 1/2 inch, you’ll must fill in the visible difference with an expansion joint like foam backer rod. If it’s just one 1/2 inch wide, you can fill out Compriband. Place a strip of foam backer rod on top of the sidewalk parallel on the gap. Utilize a utility knife to slice the rod to suit along a real difference. If the rod is just not good enough, cut another piece to suit the remainder space. Lay the froth backer rod into the gap and push it down using your hands. If you’re using two lengths of rod, push these down hence the ends are flush. Make use of the blunt end of your putty knife to hit the rod as a result of the bottom of the visible difference. Load silicone latex caulk in to a caulk gun and snip off of the end with scissors. Fill the rest of the gap together with the caulk until its level with all the sidewalk. Hold a putty knife level with one side over the pavement and yet another on the caulk. Run the knife slowly around the entire gap to remove excess and to make certain that caulk is level.