Masonry Foundation Repair & Waterproofing

Your foundation literally supports your entire home. When foundation walls develop cracks, water seepage, or structural damage, every part of your house feels the effects. Doors and windows stick. Floors become uneven. Walls develop cracks. Interior moisture problems appear. What starts as a small foundation issue cascades into expensive damage throughout your home if left unaddressed. Foundation problems do not fix themselves. They only get worse with time, causing progressively more damage and costing more to repair.

Many homeowners ignore early warning signs because foundation repairs sound expensive and complicated. The reality is that catching foundation problems early makes repairs far more affordable and less disruptive. A crack sealed today prevents thousands of gallons of water infiltration over the coming years. Addressing minor settling now prevents major structural repairs later. Proper waterproofing stops the moisture problems that lead to mold, rot, and indoor air quality issues. Early intervention always costs less than waiting until problems become severe.

Here in Sunnyvale, foundation issues often stem from soil movement, water infiltration, and seismic activity. Clay soils expand when wet and shrink when dry, creating pressure on foundation walls. Poor drainage directs water against foundations instead of away from them. Age and wear compromise waterproofing systems. At SV Sunnyvale Masonry, we diagnose foundation problems accurately and implement repairs that address root causes, not just symptoms. We have the expertise to handle everything from minor crack repairs to major foundation restoration and waterproofing projects.

Understanding what causes foundation damage helps you recognize problems before they become emergencies. Regular inspections and prompt attention to warning signs protect your home and your investment.

Signs Your Foundation Needs Professional Help:

• Visible cracks in foundation walls, especially horizontal or stair-step patterns
• Water seepage or dampness in basements or crawl spaces
• White powder deposits on foundation walls indicating water infiltration
• Bowing or bulging foundation walls that show inward pressure
• Doors and windows that stick or no longer close properly
• Gaps between walls and ceilings or floors
• Sloped or uneven floors throughout your home
• Musty odors suggesting hidden moisture problems

Each of these symptoms indicates specific foundation issues that require professional evaluation. Vertical cracks often result from normal settling and may need only sealing. Horizontal cracks suggest serious pressure problems requiring structural reinforcement. Water seepage indicates failed waterproofing that needs comprehensive repair. Bowing walls may need stabilization systems to prevent collapse. We assess all visible symptoms and investigate underlying causes to develop effective repair strategies.

Foundation problems rarely exist in isolation. Water infiltration accelerates structural damage. Poor drainage creates hydrostatic pressure against walls. Inadequate waterproofing allows moisture penetration that undermines structural integrity. Our comprehensive approach addresses all related issues simultaneously, ensuring repairs solve problems completely rather than temporarily masking symptoms. Whether your foundation needs mortar joint repair or extensive structural work, we provide lasting solutions.

Effective foundation repair requires accurate diagnosis, appropriate repair methods, and quality waterproofing to prevent future problems. We follow a systematic approach that ensures your foundation is structurally sound and protected from water damage.

Comprehensive Foundation Assessment

We start with a thorough inspection of your foundation, examining both interior and exterior surfaces. We measure and document all cracks, noting their location, direction, and width. We check for signs of water infiltration, soil pressure, and structural movement. We evaluate drainage systems and grading around your home. We may perform additional testing to assess soil conditions or structural capacity. This comprehensive assessment allows us to determine the extent of damage and identify all contributing factors. You receive a detailed explanation of problems found and our recommended solutions.

Structural Repairs and Stabilization

Foundation repairs range from simple crack sealing to major structural reinforcement. We inject epoxy or polyurethane into cracks to restore structural integrity and stop water infiltration. For more serious issues, we may install carbon fiber reinforcement, steel braces, or wall anchors to stabilize damaged walls. We repair deteriorated masonry using techniques that match original construction. All structural repairs are designed to handle the specific loads and pressures affecting your foundation. We ensure repairs meet current building codes and engineering standards.

Complete Waterproofing Protection

Waterproofing is essential for long-term foundation protection. We apply waterproof membranes to exterior foundation walls where accessible. We install or repair drainage systems including French drains and sump pumps. We seal all penetrations and apply appropriate coatings to prevent water infiltration. Interior waterproofing may include vapor barriers and drainage systems. We improve grading to direct water away from your foundation. Comprehensive waterproofing prevents the moisture problems that cause most foundation damage. Our expertise extends to all aspects of masonry protection, just as we provide quality chimney waterproofing and repairs.