Masonry Foundation Repair & Waterproofing

Why Foundation Problems Need Immediate Attention

Your foundation is literally what holds your house up. When foundation problems develop, they affect everything above them. Cracks in walls, sticking doors, sloping floors, and water intrusion all trace back to foundation issues. What starts as a small problem becomes exponentially worse over time. A crack that could be repaired for a reasonable cost today might require major structural work if you wait too long.

Water is the enemy of foundations. It causes more foundation damage than anything else. When water gets into foundation walls, it creates hydrostatic pressure. In Ontario, CA, we get periods of heavy rain that saturate soil around foundations. This water finds its way through cracks and porous masonry. Once inside, it damages interior walls, creates mold problems, and weakens structural supports.

At OT Ontario Masonry, we specialize in repairing masonry foundations and keeping water where it belongs. We understand foundation construction, soil mechanics, and drainage solutions. We have fixed hundreds of foundation problems throughout Ontario and surrounding areas. Whether you have visible cracks, water seepage, or structural settling, we diagnose the root cause and fix it permanently.

Common Foundation and Water Problems

Foundation issues show up in predictable ways. Here are the warning signs that your foundation needs professional attention:

Foundation Cracks

Not all foundation cracks are equal. Small hairline cracks often result from normal settling and might not be serious. Wide cracks, horizontal cracks, or cracks that are growing indicate structural problems. Stair-step cracks in block foundations signal serious settlement issues. We evaluate every crack to determine if it needs repair and what type of repair will last.

Water Seepage and Leaks

Water coming through foundation walls creates immediate problems. It damages stored items, creates musty odors, and promotes mold growth. More importantly, it signals that water is penetrating your foundation. This water weakens the masonry from inside and can undermine footings. We identify where water enters and install comprehensive waterproofing systems that keep basements and crawl spaces dry.

Bowing or Bulging Walls

Foundation walls that bow inward face excessive soil pressure. This usually happens when drainage fails and water-saturated soil pushes against walls. Bowing walls can eventually collapse if not addressed. We install reinforcement systems and improve drainage to stabilize walls and prevent further movement.

Deteriorating Mortar Joints

Foundation mortar deteriorates over time, especially when exposed to moisture. Crumbling joints let water penetrate and reduce structural strength. Our tuckpointing services restore these joints and create a water-resistant barrier. This relatively simple repair prevents much bigger problems down the road.

Efflorescence and White Deposits

Those white, powdery deposits on foundation walls are efflorescence. They appear when water moves through masonry and deposits minerals on the surface. While not structurally dangerous themselves, they prove that water is penetrating your foundation. Addressing the water source prevents ongoing damage.

Our Foundation Repair and Waterproofing Process

Every foundation problem is unique, but our diagnostic approach is consistent. We identify the root cause, not just the symptoms. Here is how we tackle foundation and water issues:

• Comprehensive inspection of foundation walls, footings, and surrounding drainage
• Interior and exterior evaluation to understand the full scope
• Moisture testing and water source identification
• Soil analysis around foundation perimeter
• Detailed report with photos and repair recommendations
• Multiple solution options with pros and cons of each
• Professional repairs using proven techniques and materials
• Drainage improvements to prevent future problems
• Waterproofing systems for long-term protection
• Final inspection and warranty documentation

Foundation crack repair requires the right approach for the crack type. We use epoxy injection for structural cracks, hydraulic cement for active leaks, and carbon fiber reinforcement for severe cases. The repair method depends on crack width, location, and whether it is still moving. We also address why the crack formed so it does not come back.

Waterproofing is more than just coating walls. Effective systems include exterior drainage, interior drain tile, sump pumps, and waterproof membranes. We design solutions based on your specific situation. Sometimes exterior waterproofing is best. Other times interior systems work better and cost less. We explain the options and help you choose the right approach for your home and budget.

Frequently Asked Questions