DIY foundation repair: Simple steps to fix cracks and settle your home

Found cracks in your walls or a sloping floor? Those are signs your foundation needs attention. You don’t have to call a contractor right away. With the right tools and a clear plan, many fixes can be done yourself.

Check the damage and decide what to do

First, walk around the house and look for visible cracks in the basement walls, flooring, or exterior brick. Measure the length and width of each crack; a hairline split may need only a filler, while a wider gap could need a structural fix.

Next, test for movement. Place a level on the floor and note any slope. If the floor tilts more than 1/8 inch over a 10‑foot span, you probably have settlement that needs deeper work.

Write down what you find. A simple list helps you pick the right method and tells a pro if you later need help.

Choose a repair method that fits your budget

Drainage fixes: Water is the main enemy of foundations. Clean gutters, add downspout extensions, and grade the soil away from the house. This can stop new cracks from forming.

Crack injection: For hairline to medium cracks, use a polymer or epoxy injection kit. Clean the crack, attach the injection port, and pump the material in until it fills the gap. Let it cure as the instructions say.

Foam lifting: If the floor is low in one spot, polyurethane foam can lift it. Drill a small hole, pump foam, and watch the floor rise. This method is quick, but it’s best for minor low spots.

Carbon‑fiber straps: For larger cracks that affect structural walls, install carbon‑fiber strips on the interior side. Drill holes, insert anchors, and tighten the straps. This adds strength without major excavation.

Helical piers or push piers: When the soil has settled a lot, you may need to push steel piers deep into stable ground. This is more advanced and may need a helper, but the tools are affordable and the result is solid.

Pick the method that matches the crack size, your skill level, and your budget. Most homeowners can handle drainage, crack injection, and foam lifting on their own.

When to do the work and safety tips

Season matters. Dry, warm months give the best cure time for epoxy and foam. Avoid rainy seasons because moisture can affect adhesion.

Wear safety glasses, gloves, and a dust mask when drilling or mixing chemicals. Keep kids and pets away from the work area.

Before you start, check local building codes. Some deeper pier work may need a permit.

Plan your time. A typical crack injection job takes 2‑3 hours, while installing piers can stretch over a few days.

Cost snapshot

Drainage fixes: $100‑$300 for new downspouts and grading.

Crack injection kits: $30‑$80 per kit, enough for a few feet of crack.

Foam lifting: $50‑$150 for a small low spot.

Carbon‑fiber straps: $100‑$250 per wall.

Helical piers: $1,200‑$3,000 for a typical home, but you can rent the tools and save on labor.

These are rough numbers; your exact cost depends on the size of the problem and local prices.

DIY foundation repair isn’t magic, but it’s doable with the right info. Start with a solid assessment, pick a method that fits, do it in a dry season, and stay safe. Your home will stay steady, and you’ll save a lot of money.