- Locate the Leak. Before you can begin to repair the leak, you will need to locate the source. ...
- Prepare Your Surfaces. Certain types of sealers and patching compounds cannot be applied over painted surfaces. ...
- Repair Floor Cracks and Joints. To repair basement floor cracks that are larger than .25-inches, clean the debris and dirt from the cracks before applying the concrete ...
- Apply Waterproofing. After the patching compound is applied and settled, add the waterproof mix. ...
- Apply Sealant. Brush the sealant onto the wall with a stiff bristle brush that allows you to get the sealer into any cracks or pores.
How do you finish a basement floor?
- Cleaning the space
- Removing and treating for mold and mildew
- Waterproofing
- Installing or adding a back-up sump pump
- Installing a dehumidifier
What is the best way to clean a concrete basement floor?
- Method 1: Concrete Cleaning Solution. The easiest way to effectively clean a concrete basement floor is by using a commercially sold solution specifically formulated for this purpose.
- Method 2: Bleach. If your basement has mildew, mold, or is generally musty-smelling, using bleach is the best way to clean the concrete floors.
- Method 3: Ammonia. Using an ammonia solution is another effective cleaning method for musty concrete basement floors with stubborn grime patches or mold issues.
- Method 4: Dry Cement. When dealing with a concrete basement floor with rust damage, dry cement is simple and easy solution.
- Method 5: Pressure Washer. If you have a drainage system in your basement, a pressure washer can be a fast and effective way to remove large swathes of dirt from ...
- Method 6: Muriatic Acid. If you’re looking to remove years of grime build-up, or you want to strip your concrete basement floors before painting, staining, or refinishing them, muriatic acid ...
How do you clean a basement floor?
These methods are a sure cure for your dirty floor!
- Scrub especially dirty basements with a cleaning solution. If a concrete or concrete-block surface is especially dirty, add detergent and a quarter cup of ammonia to a bucket of ...
- Freshen a smelly basement with bleach. Mildew that takes up residence in a basement gives off an unpleasant, musty odor. ...
- Treat the floor with bleaching powder. ...
How to clean a basement floor with TSP cleaner?
How to Clean a Basement Floor With TSP Cleaner
- Vacuum or sweep the floor to remove surface dirt and dust.
- Fill a bucket with 2 gallons of warm water. Add 1 cup of TSP. ...
- Dip a sponge mop into the cleaning solution and wring it out. ...
- Let the mixture sit on the floor for 15 minutes. ...
- Scrub any tough stains from the floor with the mop. ...
- Rinse the floor twice with a clean mop and plain water. ...
How do you repair a crumbling concrete basement floor?
Prepare the crumbling area for a coat of new concrete. ... Create a slurry mixture by combining pure cement with water in a bucket. ... Apply a coat of the cement slurry mixture on your previously crumbled area, using a paintbrush. ... Cover the cement slurry with some of your concrete mixture.
How do you repair a damaged concrete floor?
0:472:35How to repair a concrete floor - U-CAN Ready to Use ... - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipForce the concrete patch repair into the space squeezing out any air bubbles and level the surfaceMoreForce the concrete patch repair into the space squeezing out any air bubbles and level the surface of the concrete in line with the surrounding.
Can you resurface a basement floor?
Concrete resurfacing can also be used to repair old surfaces as well as hide damage, so you get more for your money. Whether you need a garage floor, basement floor, patio, deck or pool coated, concrete resurfacing saves you time, money and it leaves your surface looking brand new!
What is the best material to put on a basement floor?
vinylThe best type of flooring for basements is vinyl. Vinyl flooring can come in the form of vinyl plank and vinyl tile, giving it the ability to look nearly identical to hardwood and stone products with the added benefit of being waterproof. Vinyl flooring is made of PVC making it durable and waterproof.
Can you pour new concrete over old concrete?
You can put new concrete over old concrete. However, unresolved issues with your old concrete, such as cracks or frost heaves, will carry over to your new concrete if not taken care of. In addition, you must pour it at least 2 inches thick.
Should you fill cracks in basement floor?
The good news is most basement floor cracks are normal and don't need to be repaired. However, some cracks in the basement floor can let in water, moisture, and dangerous soil gasses (including radon).
How do you redo a concrete basement floor?
0:303:04The Correct Way To Resurface A Concrete Floor - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipJoints. From there they were filled with the flexible epoxy to give us a completely smooth surfaceMoreJoints. From there they were filled with the flexible epoxy to give us a completely smooth surface once they were done now this special formula allows the slabs of the floor to move independently.
How can I make my concrete basement floor look good?
The following are some ways you can use to make concrete floors look nicer:Acid Staining. Concrete flooring is great because it is easy to maintain. ... Resin Flooring. ... Stained and Polished Concrete Flooring. ... Dyed Concrete Flooring. ... Painted Concrete Floors.
Does concrete resurfacing really work?
That begs the question, “does concrete resurfacing last?” The short answer is, “yes.” If there are no issues with the underlying foundation the resurfacing agent pours onto, then the new material will last. It bonds to the foundation, creates a seal, and leaves you with a brand-new concrete driveway.
Should you epoxy a basement floor?
Epoxy flooring protects your basement floor from moisture, preventing leaks or spills from seeping into the floor below and causing structural damage. Water sits on top of epoxy, making it easy to clean. Epoxy is also resistant to germs and bacteria, eliminating any mold or mildew issues for your basement floor.
What is best for basement flooring over concrete?
vinyl flooringIn some instances, we recommend underlayment for vinyl flooring on concrete. Not only will your floors be smoother and more even, but they'll also have better insulation, sound absorption, and cushioning. Sometimes, LVT is manufactured with built-in underlayment, and some is designed to be installed without any.
Is painting a basement floor a good idea?
Appearances aren't everything, but most people want to take pride in their home and enjoy its atmosphere. At the very least, basement concrete floor paint improves your basement's appearance in a significant way, providing color, vibrancy, texture, and more.
How do you resurface a concrete floor?
0:409:07Resurfacing Concrete Floors with a Self-Leveling Skim Coat - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipProcess you want to pour the concrete. About two hours after applying the primer. We're usingMoreProcess you want to pour the concrete. About two hours after applying the primer. We're using quikrete self leveling floor resurfacer. It's a high grade concrete mix with no large pieces of aggregate.
How do you resurface concrete?
0:394:28How to Resurface Concrete - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipResurfacer. Old concrete must be rigorously clean to ensure proper adhesion of the new surface.MoreResurfacer. Old concrete must be rigorously clean to ensure proper adhesion of the new surface.
How do you fill a large hole in a concrete floor?
0:362:22Repair a hole in a concrete floor | Rizistal - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipLet's get started the deep fill repair mortar is a two-part product containing an aggregate. And aMoreLet's get started the deep fill repair mortar is a two-part product containing an aggregate. And a pre-mixed tin of resin and curing agent make a well in the aggregate.
Step 1 - Locating The Leak
Typically, a leak in your basement floor can come from a crack in the floor or the seam where your concrete floor and foundation meet. Before you c...
Step 2 - Preparing Your Surfaces
Certain types of sealers and patching compounds cannot be applied over painted surfaces. Check the product label to determine whether the basement...
Step 3 - Repairing Floor Cracks and Joints
To repair basement floor cracks that are larger than .25-inches, clean the debris and dirt from the cracks before applying the concrete patch. Remo...
Step 4 - Applying Waterproofing
After the patching compound is applied settled, add the waterproof mix. If the crack or leaking wall-floor joint is still moist, you use a water so...
Step 5 - Applying Sealant
Brush the sealant onto the wall with a stiff bristle brush that allows you to get the sealer into any cracks or pores. Spread the sealant only on t...
Why is my basement floor cracking?
Most often a basement floor crack is a result of wear and tear. But if you notice a heavily cracked area or a crack that runs parallel to the foundation, then the issue may be the result of structural damage. Start by removing debris, such as loose pieces of concrete that may be wedged within the crack.
Why tile a basement?
A tile floor in a basement allows for the easy cleanup and durability that are necessities for many homeowners when finishing a basement .
How long does it take for a crack to dry before sealing?
Seal the concrete patch and allow it to dry for several days. Certain cracks may be the result of structural damage and might require the help of a professional engineer or foundation specialist.
Can you fix cracks in a basement floor?
Fixing cracks in your basement floor doesn't have to be a difficult process. Learn how to make simple repairs with this step-by-step guide. Most basement floors are made of concrete and, while it's definitely a durable material, repairs will be necessary every now and then.
Is concrete flooring good for basements?
Basements Concrete Flooring Maintenance Materials and Supplies. Most basement floors are made of concrete and, while it's definitely a durable material, repairs will be necessary every now and then. The good news is that when planning a basement remodel, most repairs can be achieved with a few tools and materials.
Do you need to repair a crack in a basement?
Even the most stable of basements will sooner than later need to be repaired, especially when it comes to basement crack repair. Here's a quick do-it-yourself guide.
Can laminate flooring be waterproofed?
In fact, most cracks only require the few simple steps shown in this do-it-yourself guide. Advancements in laminate flooring have allowed for waterproof options that are ideal for covering a basement floor. Learn more about laminate flooring in basements with this guide.
What happens if you leak a basement floor?
Whether the basement is finished or not, leaks in the floor can cause serious damage that can be costly if not repaired promptly.
How to tell if a basement is unfinished?
It will be less challenging to find it if your basement is unfinished. A pool of water usually indicates the leak. Another indicator is a leaky foundation seam. If you have difficulty finding the leak, clean it up and watch the floor closely. You'll soon see the source of the water.
Where does water come from in a basement?
Typically, a leak in your basement floor comes from a crack in the floor or the seam where your concrete floor and foundation meet.
Can you use water soluble waterproofing to fix a crack?
After the patching compound is applied and settled, add the waterproof mix. If the crack or leaking wall-floor joint is still moist, use a water soluble formula. Otherwise, the waterproofing will not adhere to the edges of the crack or leaky joint. Refer to manufacturer’s instructions to determine the compound to water ratio.
Why is my floor uneven?
If the uneven floor is caused by portions of the floor sinking rather than rising, it can be jacked into place . Specialized equipment is used to pump mud under the floor to fill in areas where erosion or compaction has created voids, allowing the floor to sink.
How to even out heaving on concrete slab?
Measure the amount of the heaving. Small differences in levels can be evened out by pouring an overlay across the existing slab. The Concrete Resurfacing Network suggests overlays of 1/16 to 3/8 inch are possible. Mix a mortar-type cement mix with mall or no aggregate and spread it across the old slab. Slabs where the heaving exceeds 3/8 inch are likely a candidate for slab removal and replacement, according to Service Magic.
Where are drain tiles installed?
Drain tiles are installed in a trench either just inside or outside the foundation wall. Sump pumps are placed in sump holes at a level below the concrete floor. Concrete heaves when the soil moisture below it freezes and expands.
Can you repair a heaved basement floor?
Repairing uneven or heaved concrete basement floors can be a challenge. In some cases the "repair" for the problem may be the removal of the floor and pouring a new slab. Smaller heaves can be repaired in other ways. The first step is always to determine the cause and implement a solution to the heaving problem. Advertisement.
Why does my basement floor crack?
The most common cause of basement floor cracks, however, is hydrostatic pressure under the floor.
How thick is a basement floor?
The concrete in the basement floor is usually only two to three inches thick and the floor serves no structural purpose but is there only to provide a clean, flat surface in the basement. The floor is essentially sitting on top of the footings and butted up against the wall. There are several sources of water seepage in and around the floor.
What causes a basement floor to puddle?
The same hydrostatic pressure that causes the floor to crack will also force water through the cracks and through the cove joint, creating puddles on the basement floor.
Why does my basement have water in it?
Another frequent cause of water in the basement is a non-structural crack in a poured concrete basement wall. These cracks are best repaired by injecting them with expanding polyurethane and many homeowners have tried the “a crack’s a crack” theory and asked to have floor cracks similarly injected. This doesn’t work.
What is the joint between the wall and the basement floor called?
This is true also of the joint between the wall and the basement floor, a minute space called the cove joint . Water that passes through the keyway can also pass through the cove joint and end up on the basement floor.
What causes water to come into basement?
Of course, any water that comes into the basement for any reason – hydrostatic or lateral pressure, gutter spillover or oversaturated soil around the foundation – or from any source – cracks, bad mortar joints or the cove joint – ends up on the basement floor. However, there are certain types of water problems associated with ...
Why do foundations have a keyway?
In order to prevent movement of the wall at the footing level, foundation builders create what is called a “keyway” to lock them together. When the footings are poured and the concrete is fresh, a specially shaped form is inserted into the concrete to create a tapered channel down the middle of each footing.
How Do You Fix Cracks in a Basement Floor and What Does it Cost?
Depending on the size of the crack, repairs could cost as little as $7-$10 for a tube of elastomeric caulk or as much as $14 to $18 per sq/ft for concrete replacement.
What is the term for cracks in basement floor?
Major cracks in basement floor sections should be addressed. For serious damage, the sunken section should be raised, often called slab-jacking or mudjacking. Or it should be broken up, removed and replaced.
How to tell if a concrete slab has a hairline crack?
Hairline cracks are jagged, straight or a bit of a jumble. The concrete remains level – no sinking or rising of the slab in the vicinity of the cracks.
What is a slab jacking?
Slab-jacking – Material, often polyurethane foam, is injected through holes drilled into the slab. The material is under enough pressure to raise the concrete slab back into place.
Why does concrete crumble when poured?
This problem won’t affect the structure of the floor, but it does indicate the concrete had too much water in it when poured. Water rises in the mix and weakens the surface, so it crumbles under weight. If spalling occurs in a floor you paid to have installed, call the contractor and expect them to provide the remedy at their cost – usually a resurfacing of the floor.
How long does it take for a concrete floor to crack?
Small surface cracks, aka hairline cracks, are common and nothing to worry about. They are the first to show up – often within a year of when the concrete floor was poured. As the concrete fully cures over months, minor shrinkage causes the surface to crack.
Can you spall a slab?
There is no perfect fix for spalling short of tearing out the slab and starting over. Since that’s not gonna happen – and there is no need for it – you’ve got the same choices as those for dealing with minor cracks which is to say resurface your concrete or install a floor covering using, typically, a basement floating floor system.
About Epoxy
Epoxy has long been in use for a variety of construction-related problems.
Why Epoxy is great for Fixing Basement Floor Cracks
Certain features make epoxy easily stand out as an effective repair material for cracked basement floors. First off, it’s chemical and solvent resistant.
What other things can Epoxy be used for?
In our discussion so far, your level of curiosity might have increased regarding other uses of epoxy. Asides from fixing cracked basement floors, epoxy can be used to fix leaks in pools, reservoirs, and tanks.
Is any Tool Needed for Applying Epoxy on Basement Floor?
There’s a need for a caulking gun when applying epoxy for basement floor crack repair. This accompanies certain epoxy products while others will require getting one.
The Best Epoxy Products to Buy
One of the good things about using epoxy is that a lot of options are available.
How to fix a crack in a wall?
Scrub the damaged area with a wire brush and water. Dip the brush in water and scrub every part of the crack or hole. This gives the bonding material a greater surface area to adhere to. Make sure you get all the edges, sides, and the bottom of the damaged area.
How to fix a crack in concrete?
Brush a concrete bonding agent into the crack or hole. Bonding agent is a liquid that helps concrete stick better. Dip a paintbrush into the bottle and spread an even layer into the damaged area. Cover every part of the crack or hole. Then let the bonding agent dry for 1 hour.
Why won't my mortar bond?
If the mortar is too watery, it won’t bond well. Add more dry mortar to make it thicker if you have to.
How to straighten a crack in a wall?
The bonding material won’t stick as well to rounded edges. Take a chisel and hammer and tap any rounded edges to straighten them out .
How much does cement all cost?
Cement-all is the best. It does not need a bonding agent, and is especially strong. It costs about $20 USD per bag at most hardware and home improvement stores. It was designed to fix driveways and cement stairs, and is easy to work with, but the area must be clean of all soap, oil and dust, and cannot be too smooth.
What to do if water comes through crack in concrete?
If you mean that there's water coming through the crack, then you may have a damaged pipe beneath the concrete. Call a contractor or plumber to inspect the damage as soon as possible.
How to protect yourself from concrete dust?
Put on goggles, gloves, and a dust mask to protect yourself. This job sends a lot of dust and concrete debris into the air. Prevent injuries by wearing goggles and a dust mask. Protect your hands with a thick pair of work gloves.
