Foundation Resurfacing

in Portland OR and Vancouver WA areas

A great foundation does more than just hold your home or building above the ground.

It also prevents water damage, insulates against the cold, and prevents long-term damage that could be ruinous to your property. 

If your foundation is in questionable condition, contact the experts at Masonry Waterproofing, and Drainage Masters as quickly as possible. Foundation resurfacing can prevent any problems from getting worse.

Signs You May Need Foundation Resurfacing

Most people don’t think about their foundation every day, but overlooking problems for too long could cause serious problems across the entire rest of your property. If you notice any of these signs, you should call an expert to see if foundation resurfacing is right for you:

• Chipping of the foundation
• Cracks in the foundation
• Foundation leaks
• Crumbling concrete
• Sagging floors in the structure
• Cracks in sheetrock
• Gaps around doors and windows

Concrete Resurfacing for Foundations

Buildings throughout the Pacific Northwest are particularly susceptible to foundation issues. This is largely because of the relatively excessive amounts of rainfall we experience every year. All that moisture may seep into a concrete foundation. Over the years, this weakens the structure, causing leaks and making concrete resurfacing imperative.

Resurfacing Foundation Walls

Foundation resurfacing is more than just a cosmetic repair. Of course, a resurfacing concrete wall project does improve the home’s appearance and value, but it does much more as well. Foundation resurfacing is really about ensuring the structural integrity of the home or commercial property. Without a timely repair or resurfacing of the concrete wall, far more extensive repairs may need to be made.

How to Resurface Concrete

Before you commit to doing it yourself, consider that foundation work often requires permits, specialized tools, and knowledge of local building codes.

Here are the steps to DIY resurfacing:

1. Clean the existing concrete thoroughly. Start by pressure washing the foundation surface with at least 3,500 PSI to remove dirt, loose concrete, and any existing coatings.
2. Repair cracks with the appropriate filler. For hairline cracks up to ¼ inch, use a polyurethane or epoxy-based concrete crack filler. For larger cracks (wider than ½ inch), use a concrete patching compound.
3. Apply a bonding agent. Once repairs have cured, apply a concrete bonding agent using a roller or brush. Work in sections, maintaining a wet edge for even coverage.
4. Spread a resurfacing compound. Mix your resurfacing compound according to the manufacturer’s specifications and apply using a long-handled squeegee or trowel. Work in manageable sections, maintaining a thickness of ⅛ to ¼ inch. 

If you’re considering a DIY approach, you’ll need to honestly assess the condition of your concrete. Minor surface cracks and cosmetic issues might be manageable, but any signs of settling, water damage, or structural compromise require professional intervention.

How can I fix a deteriorating concrete foundation?

If your concrete foundation is showing signs of deterioration, such as cracks, spalling, or settling, you’ll need it fixed by professionals. Resurfacing is a great option to restore its strength and appearance.

A masonry company like Masonry Waterproofing, and Drainage Masters can assess the damage and recommend the best course of action.

Can you rebuild on an existing foundation?

In many cases, it is possible to rebuild on an existing foundation if it’s structurally sound and in good condition. However, before proceeding with a rebuild, it’s essential to have the foundation thoroughly inspected by a qualified professional.

About Our Concrete Resurfacing Process

1. Cleaning: We start by power washing the entire surface of your foundation to remove any dirt and grime.
2. Crack repair: Our experts then prime and patch cracks with hydraulic cement, which we will then smooth out to flush up with the rest of the foundation surface.
3. Hole repair: For larger holes, we use an epoxy mortar to fill the empty space and repair the problem.
4. Finish: After all of those repairs, we use a trowel to smooth and level the foundation walls, and then finish with a sponge for proper texture.
5. Curing: You can usually expect everything to dry within 2-3 days.

Your Local Foundation Resurfacing Experts

A quality foundation resurfacing project is essential for the structural integrity of your home or office. This means that you should only trust an experienced company so that the job gets done right. With decades of experience and a 100% satisfaction guarantee, you can trust us to keep your foundation in great shape.

At Masonry Waterproofing, and Drainage Masters, we can handle any foundation wall resurfacing job, large or small, in Portland OR. Contact us today for a Free Estimate.