# Conterra Foundation & Repair Ltd. | Waterproofing & Structural Solutions > Conterra Foundation & Repair Ltd. has been the Greater Hamilton Area's trusted residential waterproofing and foundation repair specialist since 1993. We specialize in permanent solutions for wet basements, structural reinforcement, and foundation crack repairs. We provide free inspections, detailed written estimates, and fully transferable warranties. Our team consists of trained technicians (not salespeople) committed to solving foundation issues in Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville, Brantford, and surrounding areas. > ## Core Services & Solutions ### 1. Waterproofing & Drainage Comprehensive solutions to keep basements dry. - [Exterior Foundation Waterproofing](https://conterrafoundation.ca/services/exterior-foundation-waterproofing/): Excavation and membrane application. - [Weeping Tile Replacement](https://conterrafoundation.ca/services/weeping-tile-replacement/): Replacing clogged or collapsed drainage tiles. - [Sump Pit & Pump Installation](https://conterrafoundation.ca/services/sump-pit-installation/): Active water management systems. - [Window Wells & Drains](https://conterrafoundation.ca/services/window-wells-drains/): Preventing surface water entry through windows. ### 2. Foundation Crack Repair Targeted repairs for various types of foundation fractures. - [Crack Injection Repair](https://conterrafoundation.ca/services/crack-injection-repair/): Polyurethane injection for leaking cracks. - [Structural Crack Repair](https://conterrafoundation.ca/services/structural-crack-repair/): Stabilization for structural integrity. - [Exterior Crack Repair](https://conterrafoundation.ca/services/exterior-crack-repair/): Sealing cracks from the outside. ### 3. Structural Reinforcement Solutions for bowing walls and compromised foundations. - [Carbon Fibre Reinforcement](https://conterrafoundation.ca/services/carbon-fibre-reinforcement/): Non-intrusive stabilization for bowing walls. - [Foundation Reinforcement Core-Fill](https://conterrafoundation.ca/services/foundation-reinforcement-core-fill/): Filling hollow blocks for added strength. - [Rubble Foundation Repair](https://conterrafoundation.ca/services/rubble-foundation/): Specialized repair for older stone/rubble foundations common in heritage homes. ### 4. Exterior Finishes & Egress - [Foundation Parging](https://conterrafoundation.ca/services/foundation-parging/): Masonry coating for protection and aesthetics. - [Foundation Stucco](https://conterrafoundation.ca/services/foundation-stucco/): Decorative and protective finishes. - [Emergency Egress Windows](https://conterrafoundation.ca/services/emergency-egress-windows/): Code-compliant window enlarging for safety. - [Cold Rooms](https://conterrafoundation.ca/services/cold-rooms/): Repair and waterproofing for cold storage areas. ## Knowledge Base & Common Questions *Selected resources for homeowner education and troubleshooting.* * **Costs:** [Foundation Crack Repair Cost (2025 Guide)](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/foundation-crack-repair-cost-2025-hamilton-burlington-on/) * **Troubleshooting:** [Recognizing Different Foundation Cracks](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/recognizing-and-troubleshooting-different-foundation-cracks/) * **Heritage Homes:** [Rubble Foundation Repair Guide](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/rubble-foundation-repair-guide-for-hamilton-heritage-homes/) * **Water Issues:** [Why is Water Seeping Through Basement Walls?](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/why-is-water-seeping-through-my-hamilton-basement-walls/) * **Safety:** [Complete Guide to Installing Egress Windows](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/complete-guide-to-installing-an-egress-window-in-your-basement/) * **Buying/Selling:** [Should I Buy a Home with Foundation Issues?](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/should-i-buy-a-home-with-a-foundation-issue/) ## Service Area (Hamilton & GHA) We serve the following communities: * Hamilton * Burlington * Oakville * Brantford * Mississauga * Brampton --- ## Pages - [Foundation Stucco](https://conterrafoundation.ca/services/foundation-stucco/): Foundation Stucco Invest in a longer lasting, cleaner looking solution for your above grade foundation. Can I really stucco my... - [Privacy Policy](https://conterrafoundation.ca/privacy-policy/): Privacy Policy Privacy Notice Last Updated October 17, 2022 Before using our website, please read the Privacy Policy carefully. This... - [Foundation Reinforcement Core-Fill](https://conterrafoundation.ca/services/foundation-reinforcement-core-fill/): Foundation Reinforcement Core-Fill Core-Fill or Solid-Fill is a process where we fill the Foundation Block Cavity with Concrete Grout and... - [Exterior Crack Repair](https://conterrafoundation.ca/services/exterior-crack-repair/): Exterior Crack Repair Basement Waterproofing Process We begin by repairing all foundation cracks with a hydraulic cement which expands as... - [Structural Crack Repair](https://conterrafoundation.ca/services/structural-crack-repair/): Structural Crack Repair Foundation crack repair is something worth investing in. Foundation cracks are an indicator of future problems, so... - [Contact](https://conterrafoundation.ca/contact/): Contact Conterra Foundation & Repair has been serving the Greater Hamilton Area (GHA) including Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville and the surrounding... - [Cold Rooms](https://conterrafoundation.ca/services/cold-rooms/): Cold Rooms Cold rooms are all too easy to forget as they are rarely used or accessed. As the saying... - [Blog](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/): Blog - [Partners](https://conterrafoundation.ca/partners/): Partners https://conterrafoundation. ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/airvachorizontal. png Airvac Airvac provides a portable non-invasive excavation service using compressed air and a high powered vacuum.... - [Rubble Foundation](https://conterrafoundation.ca/services/rubble-foundation/): Rubble Foundation Many area homes were constructed near the 1800s with stone foundations. A stone foundation is a basement wall... - [Emergency Egress Windows](https://conterrafoundation.ca/services/emergency-egress-windows/): Emergency Egress Windows A finished basement is just not complete without an egress window. *Prices Starting at $3,499. 00 An... - [Sump Pit Installation](https://conterrafoundation.ca/services/sump-pit-installation/): Sump Pit Installation Simply put, a sump pit is a hole that collects water and fluids, usually located in the... - [Weeping Tile Replacement](https://conterrafoundation.ca/services/weeping-tile-replacement/): Weeping Tile Replacement Proper drainage from your window wells is critical to keeping your foundation strong. See details about repairing... - [Window Wells & Drains](https://conterrafoundation.ca/services/window-wells-drains/): Window Wells & Drains Heavy rainfall and the Ontario spring runoff can cause window wells and drains to fill up... - [Foundation Parging](https://conterrafoundation.ca/services/foundation-parging/): Foundation Parging When it comes to parging above grade and foundation repair for your home, be sure to trust the... - [Crack Injection Repair](https://conterrafoundation.ca/services/crack-injection-repair/): Crack Injection Repair The foundation of your home is integral to its long-term stability. Not only does the foundation provide... - [Carbon Fibre Reinforcement](https://conterrafoundation.ca/services/carbon-fibre-reinforcement/): Carbon Fibre Reinforcement You'll be happy to know that you have several options when it comes to reinforcing your foundation... - [Exterior Foundation Waterproofing](https://conterrafoundation.ca/services/exterior-foundation-waterproofing/): Exterior Foundation WaterProofing Moisture may affect your basement in different forms, either as a vapour or as a liquid. Even... - [Testimonials](https://conterrafoundation.ca/testimonials/): Testimonials Have you previously had a good experience, or are you currently working with Conterra Foundation & Repair Ltd and... - [Services](https://conterrafoundation.ca/services/) - [About](https://conterrafoundation.ca/about/): About Conterra Conterra Foundation and Repair has been serving property owners with reliable basement waterproofing & foundation crack repair services... - [Home](https://conterrafoundation.ca/): Your foundation repair specialists Trust the experienced professionals at Conterra to ensure your basement - and your valuables - stay... --- ## Posts - [Transferring Foundation Warranties (Buying/Selling Guide)](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/transferring-foundation-warranties-guide/): When buying or selling a home, foundation repairs often raise questions—and sometimes red flags. One of the most common (and... - [Is My Home’s Foundation Covered by Home Insurance in Ontario?](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/is-my-homes-foundation-covered-by-home-insurance-in-ontario/): When a homeowner in Ontario—especially in communities like Burlington—discovers a crack, leak, or shifting wall in their foundation, the first... - [The Financial ROI of Basement Waterproofing in Hamilton Real Estate](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/the-financial-roi-of-basement-waterproofing-in-hamilton-real-estate/): Investing in basement waterproofing is often viewed as a preventive maintenance expense, but in the real estate market, especially in... - [Your Pre-Winter Foundation Inspection Checklist](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/your-pre-winter-foundation-inspection-checklist/): As the vibrant colours of autumn fade and the air takes on a distinct chill, Southern Ontario homeowners turn their... - [The Real Cost of Foundation Repair in Hamilton: What to Budget For](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/the-real-cost-of-foundation-repair-in-hamilton-what-to-budget-for/): A sturdy foundation is the bedrock of your home, and any sign of trouble can feel unsettling. In a city... - [The Ultimate Guide to Foundation Maintenance for Hamilton Homeowners](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/the-ultimate-guide-to-foundation-maintenance-for-hamilton-homeowners/): Your home's foundation is its bedrock, literally. It’s the critical component that supports the entire structure, bearing the weight of... - [The Complete Guide to Installing an Egress Window in Your Basement](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/complete-guide-to-installing-an-egress-window-in-your-basement/): An egress window is more than just a pane of glass; it's a crucial safety feature, a source of natural... - [Bowing vs. Leaning Foundation Walls: What's the Difference and How to Fix Them](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/bowing-vs-leaning-foundation-walls-whats-the-difference/): A strong foundation is the bedrock of any home, literally. It supports the entire structure, keeping your living space safe... - [Rubble Foundation Repair: A Guide for Hamilton Heritage Homes](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/rubble-foundation-repair-guide-for-hamilton-heritage-homes/): Hamilton is known for its scenic escarpment views, charming downtown, and rich history. Many of the town's most beloved homes,... - [How to Choose the Right Foundation Repair Method](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/how-to-choose-the-right-foundation-repair-method/): When it comes to foundation problems, time is not on your side. Cracks in walls, uneven floors, or doors that... - [Foundation Crack Repair Cost (2025) - Hamilton & Burlington ON](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/foundation-crack-repair-cost-2025-hamilton-burlington-on/): How Much Does Foundation Crack Repair Cost? The cost of Foundation Crack Repair in Hamilton, Ontario, is between $1,400 and... - [Seasonal Changes and Exterior Foundation Cracks](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/seasonal-changes-and-exterior-foundation-cracks/): The changing seasons can have a significant impact on the integrity of your home’s foundation. In Hamilton, Burlington and other... - [How to Identify Types of Exterior Foundation Cracks](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/how-to-identify-types-of-exterior-foundation-cracks/): Foundation cracks are a common concern for homeowners, especially when they appear suddenly or worsen over time. Understanding the different... - [Long-Term Impacts of Ignoring Exterior Foundation Cracks](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/long-term-impacts-of-ignoring-exterior-foundation-cracks/): Your home’s foundation is one of its most critical components, providing stability and support for everything above it. Yet, exterior... - [The Hidden Costs of DIY Foundation Repairs](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/the-hidden-costs-of-diy-foundation-repairs/): When it comes to managing the structural integrity of your home, few issues are as critical as foundation problems. A... - [The Role of Ventilation in Preventing Foundation Issues](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/the-role-of-ventilation-in-preventing-foundation-issues/): When it comes to maintaining the structural integrity of your home, the foundation is one of the most critical elements.... - [Seasonal Maintenance Tips for Your Home’s Foundation](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/seasonal-maintenance-tips-for-your-homes-foundation/): Your home’s foundation is one of the most critical components of your property. In cities like Hamilton, where the climate... - [Foundation Repair Solutions: Pros and Cons of Different Methods](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/foundation-repair-solutions-pros-and-cons/): A strong, stable foundation is crucial for the structural integrity of any home. Over time, however, foundations can develop cracks,... - [Foundation Repair Myths Debunked: Separating Fact from Fiction](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/foundation-repair-myths-debunked-separating-fact-from-fiction/): Foundation problems can be daunting for Hamilton homeowners, but the flood of misinformation and myths surrounding foundation repair can make... - [Foundation Parging: What Southern Ontario Homeowners Need to Know](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/foundation-parging-southern-ontario/): When it comes to maintaining a home in Southern Ontario, particularly in cities like Hamilton, one aspect often overlooked is... - [Typical Problems with Older Homes](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/typical-problems-with-older-homes/): Older homes possess a certain charm and character that modern homes often lack. However, along with their unique appeal, they... - [Can I Really Stucco My Foundation?](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/can-i-really-stucco-my-foundation/): Stucco on walls and soffits is a familiar sight in cities like Hamilton, Burlington, and Oakville, where homes boast various... - [Do I Need Carbon Fibre Reinforcement for My Foundation?](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/do-i-need-carbon-fibre-reinforcement-for-my-foundation/): Carbon fibre reinforcement is a method of foundation reinforcement that offers homeowners an effective solution to address various structural issues.... - [Underpinning to Increase Usable Living Space](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/underpinning-to-increase-usable-living-space/): For homeowners in Hamilton, the basement often poses challenges due to its limited functionality. Many homeowners would like to make... - [Foundation Crack Injections: A Practical Guide for Hamilton Homeowners](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/foundation-crack-injections-a-practical-guide-for-hamilton-homeowners/): Most Hamilton homeowners will experience cracks in their home’s foundation at some point. This can be disconcerting, but the good... - [Strengthening Homes: Foundation Repair Solutions for Clay Soil Foundations](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/strengthening-homes-foundation-repair-solutions-for-clay-soil-foundations/): Clay soil, though common in many regions, poses unique challenges for Hamilton homeowners, especially regarding foundation stability. Understanding the issues... - [Understanding the Role of Gutters in Foundation Preservation](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/understanding-the-role-of-gutters-in-foundation-preservation/): When it comes to maintaining the structural integrity of your Hamilton home, it’s easy to focus on the obvious elements... - [The Importance of Drain Tile Cleaning](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/the-importance-of-drain-tile-cleaning/): A properly functioning drain tile system is crucial for safeguarding your Hamilton home’s foundation from water damage. Over time, these... - [The Role of Sump Pumps in Homes: Are They Mandatory?](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/the-role-of-sump-pumps-in-homes-are-they-mandatory/): Sump pumps are an essential component of many Hamilton homes, particularly in areas prone to heavy rainfall, flooding, or high... - [What are the First Signs of Foundation Problems?](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/what-are-the-first-signs-of-foundation-problems/): A solid foundation is the backbone of any well-constructed home, providing stability and structural integrity for your Hamilton home. However,... - [The Role of Soil Type and Drainage in Foundation Damage: How to Address These Issues](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/the-role-of-soil-type-and-drainage-in-foundation-damage/): While many obvious causes can lead to foundation damage in your Hamilton home, choosing the right soil type and drainage... - [The Impact of Weather on Your Foundation & How to Protect Your Home in Southern Ontario](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/impact-of-weather-on-your-foundation-in-southern-ontario/): The weather here in Southern Ontario can change drastically from season to season. That’s nice for those of us who... - [Occupations Associated with Asbestos and How to Stay Safe](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/occupations-associated-with-asbestos-and-how-to-stay-safe/): It used to be that workers most at risk of coming into contact with asbestos were those in the mining... - [Asbestos and The Removal Process](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/asbestos-and-the-removal-process/): Most people have heard of asbestos and that it can be harmful to your health if handled inappropriately. For owners... - [Can You Fix Foundation Problems Yourself?](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/can-you-fix-foundation-problems-yourself/): The words “foundation repair” strike fear into the hearts of many Hamilton homeowners. The idea that there is something wrong... - [Parging: Providing the "Icing on the Cake" for Your Home!](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/parging-providing-the-icing-on-the-cake-for-your-home/): Parging, which uses masonry-based mortar to cover a home’s foundation walls, has additional benefits than just making your home’s exterior... - [How to Fix your House's Foundation Problems](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/dealing-with-foundation-problems/): If you are having issues with the foundation of your home, you will certainly know it. How to remedy the... - [What to Do If the Foundation Shifts](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/what-to-do-if-foundation-shifts/): Your home is a valuable investment, so maintaining your home’s structural integrity is a high priority for every homeowner. If... - [Basement Moisture Causes and Dangers](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/basement-moisture-causes-dangers/): Homeowners are often concerned with preventing their basement from getting flooded and with good reason. It can be extremely tedious... - [How to Spot Foundation Damage](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/how-to-spot-foundation-damage/): Although often overlooked, a home’s foundation is arguably the most important part of the house. And when problems occur, costs... - [How to Get Rid of Basement Water Damage](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/get-rid-of-water-damage/): One of the worst and most damaging incidents that can occur in the home involves water damage. Water can destroy... - [Dry Up Your Wet Basement For Good!](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/dry-up-your-wet-basement-for-good/): Nobody wants to have a damp basement. Not only are they uncomfortable and a bit smelly, but that dampness can... - [Common Signs of Foundation Problems in Hamilton](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/common-signs-of-foundation-problems-in-hamilton/): The last thing that a homeowner in Hamilton wants to hear is that they have foundation problems. Repairs to foundations... - [Teetering on the Edge: Foundation Problems in Hamilton Homes](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/teetering-on-the-edge-foundation-problems-in-hamilton-homes/): Over time, foundation problems can occur in any home, however, here in Hamilton, it can seem like we have more... - [Flooding Areas in Hamilton, ON](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/flooding-hotspots-hamilton-ontario/): With spring just around the corner, flooding becomes a big concern once again for Hamilton and area residents. After winter’s... - [Sump Pump Considerations](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/sump-pump-considerations/): A wet basement is one of a homeowner's worst nightmares. While there are loads of solutions to cleaning up the... - [What is Involved in Exterior Foundation Repair?](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/what-is-involved-in-exterior-foundation-repair/): When a home’s foundation begins to crack, it is best to have it repaired sooner rather than later to prevent... - [Taking Care of Your Home's Foundation this Summer](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/taking-care-of-your-homes-foundation-this-summer/): Besides all the enjoyment that summer brings, the season can also cause problems in your home’s foundation. After spring’s heavy... - [Repair Your Weeping Tile System with High-Pressure Flushing](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/repair-your-weeping-tile-system-with-high-pressure-flushing/): Over time, your home’s weeping tile system can become clogged with sediments, soil and more. However, having a clogged weeping... - [How to Complete a Stone Foundation Wall Repair](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/how-to-complete-a-stone-foundation-wall-repair/): Your home’s foundation plays a pivotal role in keeping your home sound and stable. So, when you notice problems, it’s... - [Signs There May Be Mould Growing in Your Basement](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/mold-growing-in-your-basement/): Your home’s basement can serve many purposes ranging from a simple space where you can do your laundry and store... - [Why Are My Walls Cracking?](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/why-are-my-walls-cracking/): Finding cracks in your home’s walls can quickly lead to worry. Right away, you may start thinking about the potential... - [Help! My Parging Is Cracked. What Do I Do?](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/my-parging-is-cracked/): Your home’s foundation is relied upon to keep you and your family safe. That’s why it’s important to fix any... - [Protect Your Home with Foundation Drainage Systems](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/how-to-protect-your-home-with-foundation-drainage-systems/): You reduce fire damage by keeping your smoke detectors in working order, and you stop roof damage from happening by... - [Is My House Sinking?](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/is-my-house-sinking/): Being a homeowner can mean challenges that are scary and costly, and one of those issues could be your home... - [Soil Composition and Your Home’s Foundation](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/soil-composition-and-your-homes-foundation/): You have probably heard that a house must be built on a solid foundation, but did you know that what’s... - [The Fundamental Problem with Window Wells – And How We Can Help](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/the-fundamental-problem-with-window-wells-and-how-we-can-help/): Window wells can be an excellent solution for allowing natural light into an otherwise gloomy basement, but they are not... - [What to Expect During a Foundation Repair](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/what-to-expect-during-a-foundation-repair/): The last thing a homeowner wants to hear is that they have foundation damage, but the truth is the sooner... - [How Serious are My Ceiling Cracks?](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/how-serious-are-my-ceiling-cracks/): You’re inside your home, relaxing on the couch when you look up and notice cracks in your ceiling. Before you... - [How to Keep Your Basement Flood Free](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/how-to-keep-your-basement-flood-free/): Your finished basement is your pride and joy after spending thousands of dollars converting your concrete dungeon into a comfortable... - [Are Foundation Repairs Covered by Homeowner’s Insurance?](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/are-foundation-repairs-covered-by-homeowners-insurance/): Wear and tear of your foundation (such as soil shifting and causing cracks) is typically not covered by home insurance.... - [4 Major Signs of a Bad Foundation](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/four-major-signs-of-a-bad-foundation/): Foundation damage is never good but can be lessened if the problem is detected at its onset. Here are some... - [Signs of Weeping Tile Problems in Hamilton, Ontario](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/signs-of-weeping-tile-problems-in-hamilton-ontario/): When your weeping tile system is working correctly, your home is protected from structural instability, foundation cracks and possible basement... - [Basement Parging in the Greater Hamilton Area](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/basement-parging-in-the-greater-hamilton-area/): It is no secret that homes in Burlington, Hamilton and surrounding areas are subject to a lot of abuse from... - [Expansive Soil and Your Foundation](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/expansive-soil-and-your-foundation/): Of all the things that can have a negative impact on your home’s foundation in the Hamilton and Burlington area,... - [How much does foundation crack repair cost?](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/foundation-crack-repair-cost-hamilton/): When Hamilton and Burlington homeowners hear (or suspect) that they need foundation repair, they are often fearful that the repairs... - [Block Foundation Problems (and Their Solutions)](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/block-foundation-problems-hamilton/): There are many homes throughout Hamilton and Burlington that have block foundations. Cement block foundations are excellent for supporting a... - [French Drains: Keep Water Away From Your Home](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/french-drains-keep-water-away-from-your-home/): French Drains are a popular way to divert water away from your home. This subsurface drainage system is often used... - [Corner Wall Repair in Hamilton and Burlington](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/corner-wall-repair-in-hamilton-and-burlington/): Conterra Foundation has been serving homeowners in Burlington and Hamilton for nearly 20 years, repairing foundations, waterproofing and fixing concrete... - [Identifying the Cause of Flooding in Your Basement](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/causes-of-basement-flooding/): Dealing with a wet basement is a homeowner’s worst nightmare. Flooded basements can require a lot of time and work... - [Brick Foundation Repair](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/brick-foundation-repair/): While most of the newer homes in the Hamilton and Burlington area have foundations that are made from cement or... - [Crawl Space Repair in Hamilton and Burlington](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/crawl-space-repair-in-hamilton-and-burlington/): Most people in the Hamilton and Burlington area don’t give much thought to their crawl space. But if you are... - [How to Install a Sump Pump](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/how-to-install-a-sump-pump/): A sump pump can be a useful tool to help keep your home dry and divert water away from it.... - [What You Should Know About Cracked Foundation Inspections](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/what-you-should-know-about-cracked-foundation-inspections/): Cracks in a home’s foundation are not uncommon, but they can be worrying for homeowners in the Hamilton area. Are... - [Are Window Wells a Good Idea?](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/are-window-wells-a-good-idea/): Now that the days are getting cooler, it’s hard to ignore that winter is definitely on its way to the... - [Why Proper Landscaping is Important for Your Home’s Foundation](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/why-proper-landscaping-is-important-for-your-homes-foundation/): You may put a lot of work into ensuring the interior of your home is in excellent condition, but do... - [Can Foundation Issues Really be Fixed?](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/can-foundation-issues-really-be-fixed/): Perhaps no words strike fear into a Hamilton homeowner's heart than the words “foundation issues. ” When they hear these... - [Can a House Collapse from Foundation Issues?](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/can_a_house_collapse_from_foundation_issues/): Few words strike fear into the hearts of Hamilton homeowners as the words “foundation damage. ” At best, you may... - [What is the Code for Egress Windows?](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/code-for-egress-windows/): If you are a homeowner in the Hamilton or Burlington area – and your home has a full basement –... - [Does Foundation Repair Require a Permit?](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/does-foundation-repair-require-a-permit/): If you require repairs to the foundation of your Hamilton home, you may be wondering whether or not you will... - [Waterproofing vs. Damp-Proofing](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/waterproofing-vs-damp-proofing/): When it comes to repairing your home or even taking preventative measures to avoid damages, you may have heard the... - [What Is Polyurethane Crack Injection?](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/what-is-polyurethane-crack-injection/): If you are a homeowner in Hamilton that has noticed cracks in your basement walls, you may be worried about... - [Keeping Pipes from Freezing in your Crawl Space](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/prevent-crawl-space-pipes-from-freezing/): If you live in an older home in Hamilton or Burlington, it is possible that you may have a crawl... - [When Is Exterior Basement Waterproofing Necessary?](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/when-is-exterior-basement-waterproofing-necessary/): When it comes to a homeowner’s worst nightmare, having their basement flood is near the top of the list. Besides... - [Which basement waterproofing system is best?](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/which-basement-waterproofing-system-is-best/): One of the most overwhelming things to deal with as a homeowner is a leaky basement. There are many temporary... - [Does Basement Waterproofing Increase Home Value?](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/does-basement-waterproofing-increase-home-value/): When it comes to making home improvements, you likely want the biggest bang for your buck – especially if you’ll... - [How Long Does Foundation Repair Last?](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/how-long-does-foundation-repair-last/): If you’ve ever experienced a foundation problem such as bowed walls or massive wall cracks, you’ll want to ensure it... - [Can Tree Roots Cause Foundation Problems?](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/can-tree-roots-cause-foundation-problems/): You’ve recently bought a new home with an abundance of beautiful trees on your property. As much as you may... - [Protect Your Basement From Melting Snow](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/protecting-your-basement-from-melting-snow/): As the sun comes out and the temperature starts to rise, you will notice the snow starting to melt from... - [What's The White Stuff on my Basement Walls?](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/whats-the-white-stuff-on-my-basement-walls/): When you go down into your basement, do you notice some white stuff on the walls? It's probably been there... - [Is It Safe to Live In a House With Foundation Issues?](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/is-it-safe-to-live-in-a-house-with-foundation-issues/): Maybe you started smelling a damp odour in your basement. Or perhaps you noticed cracks forming on your ceiling and... - [Did winter cause the cracks in your foundation to grow?](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/did-the-winter-cold-cause-the-cracks-in-your-foundation-to-grow/): Hamilton, like many other Canadian cities, has some cold, harsh winters. Even though Canadians may be used to the cold... - [Do Helical Piers Really Work?](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/do-helical-piers-really-work/): If you are doing foundation work on your Hamilton home, it may be recommended that you use helical piers. But... - [Why is Water Seeping Through My Hamilton Basement Walls?](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/why-is-water-seeping-through-my-hamilton-basement-walls/): Have you ever gone down into the basement of your Hamilton home and noticed a little water on the ground... - [Do I Need Basement Underpinning?](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/do-i-need-basement-underpinning/): The basement in any Hamilton home can be a source of worry for homeowners since that is where many problems... - [Waterproof Your Foundation Exterior Properly](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/waterproof-your-foundation-exterior-properly/): When the time comes to protect your home from the elements you’ll want to consider waterproofing your exterior. Water can... - [Stop Leaky Basements with Exterior Waterproofing](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/what-to-do-with-a-wet-basement/): Why do basements leak? Outside of water traveling through cracks or other openings, the simple reason foundations leak is that... - [Do you Know the Value of a Window](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/do-you-know-the-value-of-a-window/): How windows can open doors for renting potential and property value Windows can add light and beauty to any room... - [Foundation Reinforcement Guide & Maintenance Tips](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/foundation-reinforcement-guide-and-maintenance-tips/): As it is made to carry the load of your home or other building, a weak or damaged foundation can... - [Fall Pest Prevention](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/fall-pest-prevention/): Keeping pests out of your home is not any easy task, especially as the weather cools off over the fall... - [Winter Foundation Repairs](https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/winter-foundation-repairs/): If you have a concern about the foundation of your home, it is important to act immediately, before a small... --- # # Detailed Content ## Pages - Published: 2024-03-08 - Modified: 2024-10-30 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/services/foundation-stucco/ Foundation StuccoInvest in a longer lasting, cleaner looking solution for your above grade foundation. Can I really stucco my foundation? Yes, you can stucco your foundation, but it is vital that proper preparation is made. It is important to remove any loose material from the wall and ensure debris is cleared from the area. Stucco is a great solution to freshen the look of your foundation, giving it a very clean and elegant look, and is able to be applied over various different materials like poured concrete, cinder block, masonry, and even wood. HOW IS STUCCO DIFFERENT FROM PARGING? Stucco is made up of a mixture of sand, cement, lime, and added fibers. This is mixed with water and troweled onto your foundation and applied in a number of coats depending on the current state of the existing foundation. Stucco is generally more durable than parging due to the application of a fiber mesh that is installed prior to the first scratch coat of stucco. While the end result will look similar to parging, you can be confident that a proper application of stucco will last longer. HAMILTON & BURLINGTON FOUNDATION STUCCO EXPERTSConterra Foundation & Repair offers foundation stucco services in the Greater Hamilton Area (GHA) including Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville and the surrounding areas. Call Conterra Foundation and Repair for your FREE inspection and repair quote. Since 1993 our waterproofing contractors have been servicing the Burlington and Hamilton, Ontario area. Gallery --- - Published: 2022-10-20 - Modified: 2023-02-22 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/privacy-policy/ Privacy PolicyPrivacy NoticeLast Updated October 17, 2022 Before using our website, please read the Privacy Policy carefully. This Privacy Policy is applicable to Conterra Foundation & Repair and sets out our policy on the gathering and use of information on this website. Thank you for visiting our website. We are committed to providing a safe website for all visitors, protecting your personal information and your right to privacy. If you have any questions or concerns about this privacy notice, or practices with regards to your personal information, please contact us at sales@conterrafoundation. ca. In this privacy notice, we seek to explain to you in the clearest way possible what information we collect, how we use it and what rights you have in relation to it. If there are any terms in this privacy notice that you do not agree with, please discontinue use of our Services immediately. Your continued use of our website signified your acceptance of these terms and any changes in effect at the time of use. 1. What Personal Information Do We Collect? Personal information is information about you that identifies you as an individual, such as your name, address, email address and phone number. You can visit our website without telling us who you are or revealing sensitive information about yourself. Our web server may collect information related to your visit to our website, including the IP address and domain used to access our website, the type and version of your browser, the website you came... --- - Published: 2022-10-12 - Modified: 2024-03-08 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/services/foundation-reinforcement-core-fill/ Foundation Reinforcement Core-FillCore-Fill or Solid-Fill is a process where we fill the Foundation Block Cavity with Concrete Grout and Reinforced with Rebar to Form a Solid Poured Foundation Wall. This repair is typically recommended for horizontal cracks and walls that have minimal bowing ie. (< 2" inwards) Although hollow core concrete block has high compressive strength, unreinforced hollow core block shear strength and average tensile strength is approximately 10 percent of its compressive strength. As a result, many will move due to pressures of earth loading from excessive water, frost damage or nearby passage of vehicles. Horizontal displacement or "shear failures" is very common in older homes built with 8” concrete masonry units. (CMU) Experience You Can Trust At Conterra Foundation, we have more than 25 years of experience in foundation repair and waterproofing in the Greater Hamilton Area. Our expert foundation repair professionals will come to your home and assess the issue before making a recommendation that will work for your home. We understand that your home is one of the largest investments you will ever make, which is why we strive to help you protect that investment through the best practices in foundation repair and protection. Our entire team is committed to providing you with the best in customer service and the highest quality of workmanship. Call Conterra Foundation and Repair for your FREE inspection and repair quote. Since 1993 our waterproofing contractors have been servicing the Burlington and Hamilton, Ontario area. Gallery Loading the next set of... --- - Published: 2022-10-12 - Modified: 2024-05-06 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/services/exterior-crack-repair/ Exterior Crack RepairBasement Waterproofing ProcessWe begin by repairing all foundation cracks with a hydraulic cement which expands as it cures, to eliminate the damage. We then apply a portland cement based waterproofing coating to completely fill any hairline cracks and seal mortar joints. A second layer made of a self-adhesive elastomeric membrane is then applied to the primed wall and remains pliable and expands to bridge any possible future cracking. Finally, to obtain superior and permanent protection we hang an extremely durable dimpled Delta –MS membrane. This extends from grade level over and including the footing. The plastic dimpled core provides compressive strength to keep headwater pressure off the face of the wall, and creates a drainage space (air-gap) between the surrounding soil and wall, that allows high capacity flow to the foundation drainage system. The polymeric film provides additional protection to the elastomeric waterproofing membrane and also protects it during backfill. This process effectively provides your foundation walls with three lines of defense. If you are going to have your foundation excavated, give yourself the peace of mind that comes from hiring a foundation waterproofing contractor that utilizes the most advanced materials available, and applies them with the experience needed to get the job done right once and for all. There remains a very noticeable difference in a home that has been waterproofed with our process, compared to a home that has been dampproofed with tar and plastic or other inferior methods. Successfully blocking the subsurface water from basement... --- - Published: 2022-10-12 - Modified: 2024-03-08 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/services/structural-crack-repair/ Structural Crack RepairFoundation crack repair is something worth investing in. Foundation cracks are an indicator of future problems, so it's best to take care of them before they become worse and threaten your basement's structural integrity. Foundation repairs may not be the most exciting home improvement, but it's certainly one of the wisest. Foundation crack repair is something that needs to be done properly, or you risk having structural damage to your home. Repairing cracks in your basement walls may look like a simple job, but many different problems could arise during restoration and repairing them correctly will protect your home for years to come. The foundation repair experts at Conterra Foundation & Repair have been repairing basement cracks since 1993 in the Greater Hamilton Area (GHA) including Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville and the surrounding areas. Call Conterra Foundation and Repair for your FREE inspection and repair quote. Since 1993 our waterproofing contractors have been servicing the Burlington and Hamilton, Ontario area. Gallery Loading the next set of gallery items... Load MoreNot quite sure what you're looking for? Be sure to check out these services we also offer:Foundation ReinforcementExterior Foundation Waterproofing --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2023-11-14 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/contact/ ContactConterra Foundation & Repair has been serving the Greater Hamilton Area (GHA) including Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville and the surrounding areas since 1993. Please Note: The health and safety of our employees and customers is of utmost importance to us. We are currently operating under regular business hours. 905. 679. 0263sales@conterrafoundation. ca Free Quote RequestFirst Name *Last Name *Street Address *City *Email Address *Phone Number *How did you hear about us? *-Friends/FamilyGoogle SearchBing SearchSocial MediaPrevious CustomerOther Foundation Type *-PouredBlockRubbleOther Approx. Age of House *-0-56-1011-2025+ CommentsUpload Photos (Optional)Choose FileThank you for your message. It has been sent. ×There was an error trying to send your message. Please try again later. × SUBMIT --- - Published: 2022-09-19 - Modified: 2023-02-22 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/services/cold-rooms/ Cold RoomsCold rooms are all too easy to forget as they are rarely used or accessed. As the saying goes, out of sight, out of mind. A wet cold room can cause not only structural damage to your home but can also affect the health of those living in your home. Standing water from a leaking cold room can lead to hazardous mould. What Is Wood Rot? Wood rot is a condition caused by wet and humid surfaces or wet ground where the cells of the wood cannot breathe. In cold rooms, if the water can not drain, it evaporates into the wood, where it causes decay of the wood fibres, resulting in holes and cracks at joints, nails, screws and other areas. If you have a leaky cold room, moisture can easily infiltrate your floor joists and cause wood rot. This can eventually lead to sagging or soft spots in your floors above. Wet Cold Room CausesWater can easily find its way into your cold room from heavy storms, rapid snowmelt and wet soil. If your foundation walls are cracked or not properly sealed, water may also seep in from the outside. Water leaks in your home's pipes or a malfunctioning sump pump are other potential causes and are often easier to identify due to water spots on the ceiling of your cold room, a flooded sump pit, or a costly utility bill for water usage. Repairing Leaky Cold Room ProblemsProblems can arise in your cold room when water... --- - Published: 2022-09-19 - Modified: 2022-09-20 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/ BlogTransferring Foundation Warranties (Buying/Selling Guide) When buying or selling a home, foundation repairs often raise questions—and sometimes red flags. One of the most common Read More Is My Home’s Foundation Covered by Home Insurance in Ontario? When a homeowner in Ontario—especially in communities like Burlington—discovers a crack, leak, or shifting wall in their foundation, the Read More The Financial ROI of Basement Waterproofing in Hamilton Real EstateInvesting in basement waterproofing is often viewed as a preventive maintenance expense, but in the real estate market, especially in Read More Your Pre-Winter Foundation Inspection ChecklistAs the vibrant colours of autumn fade and the air takes on a distinct chill, Southern Ontario homeowners turn their Read More The Real Cost of Foundation Repair in Hamilton: What to Budget ForA sturdy foundation is the bedrock of your home, and any sign of trouble can feel unsettling. In a city Read More The Ultimate Guide to Foundation Maintenance for Hamilton Homeowners Your home's foundation is its bedrock, literally. It’s the critical component that supports the entire structure, bearing the weight Read More The Complete Guide to Installing an Egress Window in Your Basement An egress window is more than just a pane of glass; it's a crucial safety feature, a source of Read More Bowing vs. Leaning Foundation Walls: What’s the Difference and How to Fix Them A strong foundation is the bedrock of any home, literally. It supports the entire structure, keeping your living space Read More Rubble Foundation Repair: A Guide for Hamilton... --- - Published: 2022-09-19 - Modified: 2024-06-28 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/partners/ PartnersAirvacAirvac provides a portable non-invasive excavation service using compressed air and a high powered vacuum. This can be used in many digging applications where traditional excavation methods can be challenging due to buried utilities or areas with no machine access. Bilco®Bilco® is a leading manufacturer of window and door extrusions, hardware, and sealing systems. They provide a line of residential products that will improve the function, look and safety of basement areas. Rhino Carbon Fibre®Rhino Carbon Fiber® supplies a line of basement repair enhancing products. Using Carbon Fiber, they provide the right materials to properly repair foundation walls. Carbon Fibre is the strongest, man-made material in the world so it is applied to fix foundation walls, as it is affordable and durable. Liberty PumpsLiberty Pumps offers quality, innovative pump products. We use these pump products and related products for many of our projects. Cosella-Dorken DELTA®Cosella-Dorken® provides Conterra Foundation and Repair Ltd. with quality moisture barriers. This proper foundation waterproofing material will keep your basement structure sound, dry and mold-free. Blueskin® WP200Blueskin® is a self-adhering composite membrane consisting of SBS rubberized asphalt compound, integrally laminated to a blue, high-density polyethylene film. This product provides a great waterproofing barrier for our foundation repair projects. Oak Hill Windows and Doors Inc. Oakhill Windows and Doors Inc is a family owned and operated business serving the Hamilton and surrounding area for over 30 years. We are knowledgeable and passionate about what we do. We are experienced in windows, doors and carpentry to suit your... --- - Published: 2022-09-19 - Modified: 2023-02-24 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/services/rubble-foundation/ Rubble FoundationMany area homes were constructed near the 1800s with stone foundations. A stone foundation is a basement wall that has been constructed out of rock-sized pieces of limestone, or other types of stone, which have been cemented together. Typically, they have dirt floors, although previous homeowners may have paved the floors over the centuries. Many homes built before World War One have this type of foundation. You'll also find this type of foundation in rural homes and houses that may have been used as summer getaways or cottages. The original intent of this type of basement was to hold the house's mechanical system and prevent your home from shifting due to frost heaving. Originally a stone foundation was a spot where you could plant your furnace, as well as plumbing pipes, electrical wires and a water heater. The original builders may have accounted for leakage or a small amount of flooding by putting your furnace on a raised concrete slab. Rarely will you find any weeping tile outside the foundation, making the basement further prone to leakage. Crumbling Mortar & Loose Stones RepairA stone foundation wall was a solution that worked a century ago. However, today's homeowners want to use their basement for living spaces such as laundry rooms, dens, or bedrooms, which is impossible with stone foundation walls that haven't been properly treated. Stone foundations that are not properly sealed leave homeowners more vulnerable to flooding that could cause substantial homeowner expenses. Stone Foundation ProblemsEven small leaks can... --- - Published: 2022-09-19 - Modified: 2024-03-08 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/services/emergency-egress-windows/ Emergency Egress WindowsA finished basement is just not complete without an egress window. *Prices Starting at $3,499. 00 An egress window in your basement serves several purposes. It brightens up the room, provides an emergency exit, and offers you the opportunity to use your basement as a rental property. Another added benefit is that you can add potted plants on the steps leading out of the emergency egress, providing a great view from your new bedroom, office or game room. Conterra Foundation and Repair is extremely familiar with the local building codes of the Greater Hamilton Area (GHA) including Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville and the surrounding areas. We will ensure your egress window meets all required codes. If you are adding bedrooms in the basement or renting out the basement space, you want to guarantee your guests' safety, which is why we take every possible measure to ensure our egress window wells are suitable for emergency exits. Conterra Foundation and Repair specializes in basement waterproofing, so you will never have to worry about your window egress leaking if installed by us. This includes water leaking through the window seams, or water pooling in the egress well. Our egress window wells will have proper drainage, meaning they’ll stand up to the abuse of heavy rainfall or spring thaw. With that said, you’ll also want to ensure your eaves, and landscape grading are also in proper condition. Egress Window InstallationAnother benefit of having Conterra Foundation and Repair install your basement egress window is... --- - Published: 2022-09-19 - Modified: 2024-03-11 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/services/sump-pit-installation/ Sump Pit InstallationSimply put, a sump pit is a hole that collects water and fluids, usually located in the basement. Their job is to prevent your basement from flooding! Properly installed sump pits will contain a sump pump that removes water from the pit on a regular basis. Without a pump, your sump pit is in danger of overflowing and flooding your basement despite its good intentions! Water can end up in your basement as a result of many circumstances: faulty window wells, a leaking foundation, heavy rainfall, spring runoff, etc. A sump pit will help make sure that this excess rainwater or groundwater doesn’t cause costly damage. Sump pits sit inside of a basin (also known as a sump) that collects water. Water is directed into the pit via a grill or grate. Your sump pump discharge pipe should be routed outside of your home. The pump is activated by a floating device that tells it when the water level in the pit is getting too high. We make sure that you can also activate the pump manually. It’s a good idea to periodically drain the sump pit. Sump Pit CleaningIn addition to being completely drained, sump pits should be regularly cleaned, too. Debris, mould, algae, and more can accumulate in a sump pit leading to unpleasant odours and even hazardous health effects. During a sump pit cleaning, the sump pump tubes should also be checked for clogs and blockages. All sump pits should be cleaned once per year,... --- - Published: 2022-09-19 - Modified: 2023-02-22 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/services/weeping-tile-replacement/ Weeping Tile ReplacementProper drainage from your window wells is critical to keeping your foundation strong. See details about repairing window well drainage. Adequate window well drainage is made up of properly sealed window treatments, good drainage down the PVC drain out, and a well-maintained weeping tile. Since the weeping tile is located on the outside of your home, it is subject to the elements and will require replacement from time to time. Malfunctioning weeping tiles cause many basement leaks! Depending on the age of your home, the weeping tile may be made of clay in the case of a historic home or more durable materials like perforated plastic drainage piping in contemporary homes. Over time, both styles will require replacement. Replacing Weeping TileTo replace a weeping tile, we will remove the soil at the foundation of your home to reveal the footing. We will remove the weeping tile and replace it with a brand new one. At this point, we will also have the chance to assess the state of your foundation and make repairs as necessary. In addition to exchanging the drainage pipe, the weeping tile itself will need to be replaced. It is located directly below the basement floor slab. If there has been damage to your basement floor, it is wise to fix it at this point as well. Usually, this means cutting and removing narrow sections of the concrete floor and replacing it with new concrete. Ensuring that the weeping tile is doing its job will... --- - Published: 2022-09-19 - Modified: 2023-02-23 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/services/window-wells-drains/ Window Wells & DrainsHeavy rainfall and the Ontario spring runoff can cause window wells and drains to fill up with water that ends up on your basement floor. Once there, it wreaks havoc on your foundation and can be unhealthy for the occupants of your home. Proper window well drainage is crucial to ensuring your below-grade windows don’t end up looking like aquariums! If the basement window wells in your home are not draining properly, retrofitting proper drainage is a simple procedure. Window Well InstallationWe will start by excavating from the window well to the weeping tile. Once the window well has been removed and the area has been excavated, we install two 4" perforated lengths of weeping tile running vertically from your drain layer to your window sill. The weeping tile will be filled with 3/4" clear stone, ensuring proper drainage inside your window well. Fix Your Leaky Basement WindowsProper installation and maintenance of a window well drain are simple yet vital. If left unattended, water damage resulting from poorly draining window wells can cause damage to your entire foundation leading to a much more costly repair. Older homes in Hamilton may have had window wells that were never properly installed, or several decades have caused a clogged drain. If your existing window wells are not draining correctly and have flooded with standing water, Conterra Foundation and Repair can help. Our Window Well Drainage Repair procedures are designed to ensure proper window well drainage at all times. We will... --- - Published: 2022-09-19 - Modified: 2024-03-08 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/services/foundation-parging/ Foundation PargingWhen it comes to parging above grade and foundation repair for your home, be sure to trust the work of an experienced professional. Foundation parging above grade is an approach of applying a fresh coat of masonry-based mortar or foundation parging mix to the visible exterior masonry blocks and stone walls of your home’s foundation walls. Parging on the exterior is intended to protect the structural aspect of the foundation. The parging material can be applied to many types of foundation walls, including concrete-block foundation and poured concrete foundation walls. Benefits Of Foundation PargingMany homeowners invest in above-grade parging for their foundation wall because it offers a large aesthetic appeal, enhancing your property’s image. Parging provides a nice, smooth look, compared to unfinished exterior foundation walls, which may show formwork marks and surface imperfections. Other benefits of parging include improving foundation wall insulation from the elements and further protection against rodents and bugs. Is Basement Parging The Same As Waterproofing? Although parging is not meant for waterproofing, it does create a water-resistant barrier, offering protection against weather elements, such as rain and snow. If you are a homeowner with a block foundation, parging above grade can provide extra weather protection as the foundation block joints will be covered completely with the parging mix, creating an air-tight barrier. Why Is My Parging Crumbling? Parging above grade is a popular home upgrade, however, it is important to consult an expert for foundation parging above grade services, as you need to ensure... --- - Published: 2022-09-19 - Modified: 2024-03-08 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/services/crack-injection-repair/ Crack Injection RepairThe foundation of your home is integral to its long-term stability. Not only does the foundation provide your home with a solid foothold, but it also seals in heat and keeps out moisture. When cracks start to appear, the efficiency and stability of your home are compromised. Foundation cracks can happen for many reasons. During the construction of your home, the use of non-porous backfills like clay and organic matter will attract water over time resulting in foundation cracks during freezing and thawing; or if during the pour, the concrete was not properly cured, interrupted or not poured over properly tamped crushed stone. Even if your foundation was built perfectly, cracks could still occur. They might be hairline cracks, diagonal cracks, or horizontal cracks. The most common suspect for cracking is plain old water. The moisture of all kinds accumulates around the foundation causing the soil to expand. Cracks appear when the expanding soil puts pressure on the foundation walls and footings. Over time you may also spot hairline cracks, which are often harmless but should be monitored to ensure proper structural integrity. Foundation Crack Repair InjectionsThere are several options for foundation crack repair. One solution is called crack injections, where we fill the cracks with fast-curing epoxy. We begin the process by examining the crack which needs to be repaired in the foundation wall. Next, we mark any areas on the wall where the crack is not continuous. Laying down plastic material to keep our work area... --- - Published: 2022-09-19 - Modified: 2024-03-08 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/services/carbon-fibre-reinforcement/ Carbon Fibre ReinforcementYou'll be happy to know that you have several options when it comes to reinforcing your foundation that don't include tearing down the old one. Reinforcing a pre-existing foundation has its benefits. It is more cost-effective, takes less time, and requires fewer permit reviews. At Conterra Foundation and Repair, we employ carbon-fibre Kevlar technology, which is used in a wide range of applications to reinforce existing structures. When it comes to concrete reinforcement of existing structures, nothing beats our carbon fibre kevlar sheet straps. Besides being lightweight and resistant to corrosion, our foundation reinforcement straps are also of a high strength-to-weight ratio and can withstand extreme force without substantial deformation. Concrete reinforcement with carbon fibre sheet straps is a time-tested method of reinforcing existing concrete and masonry structures for the purposes of repair or to strengthen the integrity and load tolerance of existing structures. If the integrity of your foundation is compromised, such as cracked or bowed, consider carbon fibre as the solution. Carbon fibre straps are suitable for both poured concrete foundation walls, brick and mortar, and cinder block walls. Since 1993, Conterra has been reinforcing foundations new and old throughout the Greater Hamilton Area (GHA) including Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville and the surrounding areas. Call Conterra Foundation and Repair for your FREE inspection and repair quote. Since 1993 our waterproofing contractors have been servicing the Burlington and Hamilton, Ontario area. Gallery Loading the next set of gallery items... Load MoreNot quite sure what you're looking for? Be... --- - Published: 2022-09-19 - Modified: 2024-03-08 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/services/exterior-foundation-waterproofing/ Exterior Foundation WaterProofingMoisture may affect your basement in different forms, either as a vapour or as a liquid. Even when water is effecting your basement, however, you may not see obvious evidence. A basement structure can retain a high moisture content prior to water becoming evident. The damage which is happening is slow, subtle and detrimental to your basement. Conterra Foundation and Repair permanently solves wet basement problems through our proven process. This process can vary slightly depending on the circumstances, type of foundation, geographics and the condition of your building. Our foundation waterproofing is covered by a lifetime transferable warranty. Exterior Basement Waterproofing & Foundation RepairWaterproofing your leaky basement walls requires excavation to the foundation footing, or the bottom of the foundation. Regardless of your circumstances, whether you are experiencing seepage or dampness through the walls, exterior waterproofing will always solve your problem. If suggested otherwise, you are being sold on a stand-alone interior water control system. This method of dewatering does not waterproof a basement, it only prevents water from appearing on your floor. Water and moisture still enter the building structure and is simply redirected. If you’re using an interior de-watering method you are actually contributing to the deterioration of the concrete because the concrete cannot breathe. Waterproofing a foundation completely eliminates water and moisture penetration through the walls into a basement. For a basement to be absolutely waterproof, it needs to have protection from subsurface water for all of the below grade walls preferably on the... --- - Published: 2022-09-12 - Modified: 2024-11-21 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/testimonials/ TestimonialsHave you previously had a good experience, or are you currently working with Conterra Foundation & Repair Ltd and want to share your story? Click Here to Submit a Testimonial “I hired Conterra for exterior excavation and waterproofing of a leaking concrete block foundation and am very pleased. This is an excellent company. Simon and his crew were professional and friendly, the price was reasonable, clean up was great. I would recommend them to anyone. Thank you for a job well done! ” Dina E. , Hamilton, ON “Top Quality Service. After receiving many quotes and having bad experiences one after the other with our home, Conterra came and provided the best quality of work and service you can ask for. Thank You Simon, for showing me that there are still some good trustworthy and honest people out there. I recommend Conterra if you value honesty, trust and quality above all else. ” Micaine, Hamilton, ON “We spoke with several contractors about a basement leak problem we were having. We got 6 repair estimates and we were given a wide range of job scope, work involved and cost. Conterra's estimate was detailed but reasonable. We agreed to go ahead with them and they did what they said they would do when they said they would do it with no surprises. Can't ask for more than that. ” Ross, Ancaster, ON “After calling several contractors we were pleased to hire Conterra foundation. They provided us with a detailed estimate and as... --- - Published: 2022-09-12 - Modified: 2022-09-19 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/services/ Services - Conterra Foundation Skip to content Toggle NavigationAboutServicesFoundation WaterproofingExterior Foundation WaterproofingWeeping Tile ReplacementSump Pit InstallationWindow Wells & DrainsEmergency Egress WindowsCrack RepairsCrack Injection RepairStructural Crack RepairExterior Crack RepairFoundation RepairFoundation Reinforcement Core-FillCarbon Fibre ReinforcementRubble FoundationCold RoomsFoundation PargingFoundation StuccoTestimonialsPartnersBlogContact Servicesadmin2022-09-19T18:09:18-04:00 GET A FREE QUOTE TODAY!Contact Company InfoProudly serving Burlington, Hamilton, Brantford and surrounding areas since 1993. ServicesToggle NavigationExterior Foundation WaterproofingWeeping Tile ReplacementSump Pit InstallationWindow Wells & DrainsEmergency Egress WindowsCrack Injection RepairStructural Crack RepairExterior Crack RepairFoundation Reinforcement Core-FillCarbon Fibre ReinforcementRubble FoundationCold RoomsFoundation PargingFoundation StuccoContact905.679.0263 [email protected] © 2026 Conterra Foundation & Repair Ltd. | Privacy Policy Page load link Go to Top --- - Published: 2022-09-12 - Modified: 2023-02-23 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/about/ About ConterraConterra Foundation and Repair has been serving property owners with reliable basement waterproofing & foundation crack repair services since 1993. When excavating the side of your house’s foundation, we know how critical it is to get the repair done right the first time. Here’s why you should choose us for your foundation repair work: We use only the best products with proven waterproofing methods for wet, seeping, damp or mouldy basements. We complete our work right – the first time. Your satisfaction is our priority! You deal with trained technicians, not salespeople. Together, we determine the best and most cost-effective solution for your propertyWe offer free inspections, written estimates, and transferable written warrantiesWe’re fully licensed and have liability and WSIB insurance coverageWe are a licensed drain repair company. Foundation waterproofing is our specialty. We offer a free inspection service and estimate and have the solutions to fix your foundation at competitive prices. We quote only the necessary work with no high-pressure sales pitches and include a lifetime transferrable warranty for your peace of mind. Many problems that relate to water entering your basement start outside your home above the ground and are easily remedied. You may find that very simple things like improper roof drainage, improper ground slope or even your neighbour’s drainage may be causing your problem. We will help you diagnose your problem and assist you as needed. Conterra Foundation and Repair services customers in the Greater Hamilton Area (GHA) including Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville and the surrounding... --- - Published: 2022-09-08 - Modified: 2025-05-20 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/ Your foundation repair specialistsGET A FREE QUOTE TODAY! Contact Trust the experienced professionals at Conterra to ensure your basement - and your valuables - stay dry. With over 25 years experience, Conterra Foundation and Repair has earned the distinction as the most trusted solution for permanent wet basement solutions in the Greater Hamilton Area (GHA) including Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville, Mississauga, Brampton, and the surrounding areas. Contact us today to request your free inspection and quote! OUR SERVICESExterior Foundation WaterproofingFoundation waterproofing eliminates water and moisture that could penetrate through and cause damage to your basement. Professional exterior waterproofing protects your basement from subsurface water from grade level down to the foundation. More InfoFoundation ReinforcementReinforcing your foundation is more cost effective, takes less time, and requires fewer permit reviews than tearing it down and replacing it. Ultrasonic testing is used to determine the state of your foundation’s reinforcing steel and create a reinforcement plan. More InfoCrack Injection RepairWe specialize in drainage systems that eradicate foundation seepage issues that lead to cracks. We will seal any cracks in your foundation, apply a self adhesive membrane, and install a new sump pump to direct excess water away from your home. More Info “I hired Conterra for exterior excavation and waterproofing of a leaking concrete block foundation and am very pleased. This is an excellent company. Simon and his crew were professional and friendly, the price was reasonable, clean up was great. I would recommend them to anyone. Thank you for a job well done!... --- --- ## Posts - Published: 2026-01-19 - Modified: 2026-01-19 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/transferring-foundation-warranties-guide/ When buying or selling a home, foundation repairs often raise questions—and sometimes red flags. One of the most common (and important) questions buyers may ask is: “Is the foundation repair warranty transferable? ” For homeowners in Hamilton and across Southwestern Ontario, a foundation repair warranty transfer can be the difference between hesitation and confidence at the closing table. Whether you’re selling a house with previous foundation repair or buying a home that’s already been stabilized, understanding how transferable warranties work protects both your investment and your peace of mind. This guide breaks down what buyers and sellers need to know about transferable foundation warranties, why they matter in real estate transactions, and how Conterra Foundation and Repair supports smooth home transfers. The Value of a “Lifetime Transferable Warranty” in Real Estate A lifetime transferable warranty foundation repair is more than paperwork—it’s a powerful trust signal. From a buyer’s perspective, previous repairs can feel risky. From a seller’s perspective, they can feel like a liability. A transferable warranty bridges that gap by providing documented assurance that: The repair was completed by a qualified contractor The issue was permanently addressed Future owners remain protected In competitive markets like Hamilton, buyers are increasingly cautious and well-informed. A transferable warranty turns a potential concern into a value-add, demonstrating transparency and long-term accountability. In many cases, homes with documented foundation repairs and transferable warranties are more attractive than homes with unresolved or undisclosed issues. For Sellers: Using Your Warranty as a Selling Point If you’re... --- - Published: 2025-12-16 - Modified: 2025-12-16 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/is-my-homes-foundation-covered-by-home-insurance-in-ontario/ When a homeowner in Ontario—especially in communities like Burlington—discovers a crack, leak, or shifting wall in their foundation, the first question is almost always the same: “Is foundation repair covered by insurance? ” It’s an understandable question. Foundation repairs can be expensive, and many homeowners hope their policy will ease the financial burden. Unfortunately, the truth is more complicated than a simple yes or no. In many cases, the answer leans toward no—but there are important exceptions every Ontario homeowner should understand. This guide breaks it all down clearly, honestly, and with the goal of helping you make informed decisions about your home and your next steps. The Hard Truth: When Is Foundation Damage Typically Not Covered? Before diving into the scenarios where insurance might help, it’s important to understand the most common exclusions. Most foundation problems—especially the ones that develop slowly—are not considered covered perils under a standard homeowners insurance policy. The “Settlement and Earth Movement” Exclusion In Ontario, insurers universally exclude damage caused by: Natural settlement of the home Soil shifting or shrinkage Frost heave Hydrostatic pressure General earth movement These are all considered natural, predictable processes that occur over time, not sudden accidents. If your Burlington home develops horizontal cracks or bowing walls because of expanding clay soil or years of moisture pressure, insurers categorize that as maintenance, not an insurable event. For more details, see the Insurance Bureau of Canada’s explanation of policy exclusions. The Problem With “Gradual Damage” Another major exclusion is anything classified as... --- - Published: 2025-11-28 - Modified: 2025-11-28 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/the-financial-roi-of-basement-waterproofing-in-hamilton-real-estate/ Investing in basement waterproofing is often viewed as a preventive maintenance expense, but in the real estate market, especially in a region like Hamilton, it can deliver a measurable return on investment (ROI). From enhancing usable square footage to boosting resale value and buyer confidence, a waterproofed basement is more than just a safety upgrade: it’s a strategic financial decision. Why Basement Waterproofing Matters Protecting Structural Integrity and Health Unaddressed water intrusion, whether from seepage, hydrostatic pressure, or shifting soil moisture, can gradually undermine a home’s foundation. Over time, this may lead to foundation cracks, subtle shifting, and even structural settlement. A professionally installed waterproofing system helps preserve the foundation, arguably the most important component of your home’s structure. Beyond structural risks, moisture and persistent dampness can lead to mold growth, a serious health hazard and a major deterrent to prospective buyers. Waterproofing, particularly when combined with proper drainage and ventilation or a sump system, reduces the risk of mold and mildew, improving air quality and lowering the likelihood of costly mold remediation or health-related complaints. Transforming Basement from Liability to Asset (Usable Square Footage) A dry, waterproofed basement can quickly shift from being a dank storage area to a functional, livable space such as a home office, recreation room, guest suite, gym, or extra bedrooms. Many buyers view basements as valuable “bonus space,” and with waterproofing, that perception becomes reality. Because usable square footage is a key metric for appraisers and buyers, converting your basement into a reliably dry,... --- - Published: 2025-10-30 - Modified: 2025-10-30 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/your-pre-winter-foundation-inspection-checklist/ As the vibrant colours of autumn fade and the air takes on a distinct chill, Southern Ontario homeowners turn their minds to preparing for the harsh winter ahead. While we often focus on furnaces, roof eaves, and sealing drafts, one of the most critical and often overlooked aspects of fall home maintenance is a thorough inspection of your foundation. A small investment of time now to prepare the foundation for winter can save you from catastrophic damage and the expense of major repairs come spring. The foundation is the very bedrock of your home’s structural integrity. When exposed to the freezing and thawing cycles typical of our region, it becomes vulnerable to significant winter foundation problems. Being proactive is not just smart; it’s essential to protecting your most valuable asset. Why Fall is the Critical Season for Foundation Health in Southern Ontario Southern Ontario’s unique climate, with its heavy snowfalls, dramatic temperature swings, and freeze-thaw cycles, poses a direct threat to concrete and soil. The primary culprit for winter foundation problems in our area is frost heave. Frost heave occurs when the ground, saturated with moisture from autumn rains or earlier precipitation, freezes. As water turns to ice, it expands, pushing up on anything in its path, including your foundation, concrete slab floors, and driveways. This movement puts incredible stress on your foundation walls and can easily lead to new structural damage. Furthermore, any existing minor cracks in the foundation can widen as water seeps in, freezes, and expands, creating... --- - Published: 2025-09-18 - Modified: 2025-09-18 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/the-real-cost-of-foundation-repair-in-hamilton-what-to-budget-for/ A sturdy foundation is the bedrock of your home, and any sign of trouble can feel unsettling. In a city like Hamilton, with its diverse soil types and varying weather patterns, foundation issues are a common concern for homeowners. When you notice a crack in your basement wall or a sticky door that won't close, the first question on your mind is often, "How much is this going to cost me? " Why "How Much Does It Cost? " is a Complicated Question The price of a foundation repair is not a one-size-fits-all number. It's an estimate, a range, and a final quote based on a comprehensive assessment. Think of it less like buying a new appliance with a fixed price tag and more like a medical procedure. The "cost" depends on the diagnosis, the severity of the issue, and the specific treatment plan. A small, non-structural crack that can be fixed with a simple crack injection is going to be a fraction of the cost of a major structural issue that requires extensive underpinning. That's why providing an accurate price without a professional inspection is impossible and unethical. Any contractor who gives you a flat rate over the phone is likely not providing a thorough or reliable service. Factors That Influence the Cost of Foundation Repair Several key factors will directly impact your foundation repair estimate. Understanding these variables will help you budget more effectively and evaluate quotes from different contractors. The Type and Severity of the Problem This... --- - Published: 2025-09-02 - Modified: 2025-09-02 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/the-ultimate-guide-to-foundation-maintenance-for-hamilton-homeowners/ Your home's foundation is its bedrock, literally. It’s the critical component that supports the entire structure, bearing the weight of walls, floors, and roof, and protecting your living space from the ground up. For homeowners in Hamilton, where varied soil conditions and often unpredictable weather patterns prevail, understanding and implementing robust foundation upkeep practices is not just advisable; it's essential. Neglecting your foundation can lead to a cascade of problems, from damp basements to significant structural damage, all of which can be incredibly costly to repair. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about preventative maintenance for your home's foundation. Why Proactive Foundation Maintenance is Crucial for Your Hamilton HomeThink of your foundation as your home’s immune system. When it’s strong and healthy, it can withstand external pressures. When it’s compromised, your entire home becomes vulnerable. Proactive foundation maintenance helps you identify and address minor issues before they escalate into major, expensive repairs. It protects your home’s structural integrity, preserves its value, and provides invaluable peace of mind. In a city like Hamilton, where properties range from historic homes to new builds, and where freeze-thaw cycles are a regular occurrence, consistent care is paramount. A small crack or an ignored drainage issue today could become a substantial problem tomorrow, impacting everything from your basement's dryness to the alignment of your doors and windows. Your Seasonal Foundation Maintenance ChecklistEffective foundation upkeep requires a year-round approach. Each season presents unique challenges and opportunities for care. Spring Foundation Care:... --- - Published: 2025-07-29 - Modified: 2025-07-29 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/complete-guide-to-installing-an-egress-window-in-your-basement/ An egress window is more than just a pane of glass; it's a crucial safety feature, a source of natural light, and a key to unlocking the full potential of your basement. Whether you're planning a basement renovation to add new living space, or simply looking to enhance basement safety, understanding the intricacies of egress window installation is paramount. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from building code requirements to the installation process and the benefits of a professional approach. What is an Egress Window and Why Do You Need One? An egress window serves as an emergency exit from a basement. In the event of a fire or other emergency, it provides a safe and accessible escape route, which is vital for the safety of anyone occupying the basement, especially if it's used as a bedroom or a habitable living area. This critical safety feature is mandated by building codes in many jurisdictions to ensure occupant well-being. Beyond its life-saving function, an egress window dramatically transforms a basement. It ushers in abundant natural light, transforming a once dim and often dreary space into one that feels open, inviting, and more integrated with the rest of your home. Improved ventilation is another significant benefit, helping to mitigate humidity and reduce the risk of mold and mildew growth, contributing to a healthier living environment. Understanding Ontario Building Code Requirements for Egress WindowsIn Ontario, building code requirements for egress windows are stringent due to their role as... --- - Published: 2025-06-18 - Modified: 2025-08-25 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/bowing-vs-leaning-foundation-walls-whats-the-difference/ A strong foundation is the bedrock of any home, literally. It supports the entire structure, keeping your living space safe and sound. However, foundation walls can fall victim to various pressures, leading to distress signals like bowing or leaning. While both indicate underlying issues that require professional attention, understanding the distinction between bowing vs leaning foundation walls is crucial for proper diagnosis and effective repair. Understanding the Culprits: Bowing vs. Leaning Though often used interchangeably, bowing and leaning describe different forms of foundation wall distortion, each with its own primary causes. Bowing Foundation Walls: A bowing wall is characterized by an inward curve or bulge, typically occurring near the center of the wall. Imagine a stretched bowstring, pushed inward by an unseen force. This phenomenon is almost always the result of excessive hydrostatic pressure from the soil outside. Here's why it happens: Expansive Soils: Soils rich in clay absorb water, swell, and exert immense pressure against basement or foundation walls. When they dry, they shrink, creating a cycle of expansion and contraction that gradually weakens the wall. Poor Drainage: Inadequate grading, clogged gutters, or improper downspout placement can lead to water pooling around the foundation. This oversaturation increases the weight and pressure of the soil against the walls. Heavy Surcharges: Placing heavy objects or structures (e. g. , driveways, large landscaping features, or even excessive snow accumulation) too close to the foundation can also contribute to external pressure. Leaning Foundation Walls: A leaning wall, also known as a tipping wall,... --- - Published: 2025-06-04 - Modified: 2025-06-10 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/rubble-foundation-repair-guide-for-hamilton-heritage-homes/ Hamilton is known for its scenic escarpment views, charming downtown, and rich history. Many of the town's most beloved homes, especially in areas like Ancaster, Dundas and Flamborough, were built with materials and methods of their time—most notably, rubble foundations. These unique stone-and-mortar foundations give heritage homes much of their character, but they also present distinct challenges when it comes to repair, stabilization, and waterproofing. Whether you're a homeowner looking to preserve your property's historic charm or planning a restoration project, understanding how to care for your rubble foundation is critical. In this guide, we'll walk through the basics of rubble foundations, the challenges they pose, the best methods for repair, and what it costs to fix them in Hamilton. Understanding Rubble FoundationsA rubble foundation is built using irregularly shaped stones of varying sizes, set in place with mortar. Unlike modern concrete foundations, rubble foundations don't rely on uniformity or engineered precision. Instead, their strength comes from the skill of the original builders, who placed and packed the stones to form a stable base for the home. These foundations can be made of: Fieldstone Limestone Sandstone Mixed river rocks While durable when maintained, rubble foundations are more porous and irregular than concrete or block foundations, which makes waterproofing and stabilization more complex. Why are Rubble Foundations Common in Heritage Homes? Hamilton's early homes, especially those built before the 1940s, often used rubble foundations because the materials were locally available, and concrete technology had not yet become widespread. Builders of the... --- - Published: 2025-04-09 - Modified: 2025-06-09 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/how-to-choose-the-right-foundation-repair-method/ When it comes to foundation problems, time is not on your side. Cracks in walls, uneven floors, or doors that won’t close properly may be signs of something serious happening below the surface. Choosing foundation repair in Hamilton isn’t just about fixing what’s broken—it’s about preserving the long-term stability of your home. With several professional foundation repair methods available, it’s important to understand your options so you can make the best decision for your specific situation. Understanding Foundation Repair Methods Here are some of the most common professional foundation repair methods, along with their pros and cons: 1. Steel Piers This technique involves driving galvanized steel pipes deep into the ground to stabilize the foundation. Pros: Long-lasting, excellent for large structures or areas with unstable soil. Cons: Higher cost and requires heavy equipment. 2. Helical Piers Helical piers look like large screws and are twisted into the soil. They're ideal for lighter structures or where soil conditions prevent the use of driven piers. Pros: Can be installed quickly with minimal disturbance, and works well in poor soil conditions. Cons: Not suitable for extremely heavy structures. 3. Concrete Piers Pre-cast or poured concrete piers are driven or placed under the foundation to provide support. Pros: A tried-and-true method, often more affordable. Cons: Installation is slower and more invasive, especially with poured piers. 4. Slabjacking (Mudjacking) This technique lifts a sunken concrete slab by pumping a mixture of cement, soil, and water underneath it. Pros: Cost-effective and minimally invasive. Cons: Not a... --- - Published: 2025-03-26 - Modified: 2025-03-26 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/foundation-crack-repair-cost-2025-hamilton-burlington-on/ How Much Does Foundation Crack Repair Cost? The cost of Foundation Crack Repair in Hamilton, Ontario, is between $1,400 and $3,000 per crack. The cost varies due to the size and type of the crack, as well as the amount of labour involved. For example, a horizontal exterior crack that requires digging will cost more than a vertical crack located above the ground. Foundation cracks can be a serious issue for homeowners in Hamilton, leading to water infiltration, structural instability, and costly repairs if left unaddressed. Understanding the costs associated with exterior foundation crack repair can help homeowners make informed decisions about their property. In this article, we break down the key factors affecting crack repair pricing, compare professional solutions, and highlight potential hidden costs. Factors Affecting Repair Costs The cost of exterior foundation crack repair varies based on several factors, including: Size of the Crack: Larger cracks require more materials and labor, increasing the cost. Location: Cracks in hard-to-reach areas, such as behind landscaping or under a driveway, may require additional excavation and labour. Severity of the Damage: Minor cracks can often be sealed with epoxy injections, while larger or structural cracks may need reinforcement, increasing repair costs. Soil Conditions: Clay-heavy or water-retentive soils around the foundation may require additional waterproofing measures. Extent of Waterproofing Needed: External waterproofing systems can add to the overall cost, but they provide long-term protection against water damage. Average Costs for Professional Foundation Repairs In Hamilton and the surrounding areas, like Burlington and Oakville,... --- - Published: 2025-02-11 - Modified: 2025-08-25 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/seasonal-changes-and-exterior-foundation-cracks/ The changing seasons can have a significant impact on the integrity of your home’s foundation. In Hamilton, Burlington and other regions with fluctuating temperatures, seasonal foundation crack changes are a common concern for homeowners. Understanding how the weather affects your foundation and taking preventive measures can help protect your home from freeze-thaw damage, summer soil expansion, and other seasonal issues known to affect foundations. How Seasonal Changes Affect Foundation Integrity Foundations are constantly exposed to temperature fluctuations, which can lead to cracks and structural issues. In winter, freezing temperatures cause the moisture in the soil to expand, exerting pressure on foundation walls. This freeze-thaw damage can create or widen existing cracks. Conversely, in summer, soil often dries out and contracts, leading to settlement and further stress on the foundation. The cycle of expansion and contraction throughout the year often results in noticeable seasonal crack patterns that can weaken your home’s foundation over time. Steps to Protect Foundations During Winter and Summer To prevent winter foundation issues and mitigate summer soil expansion effects, homeowners should take the following steps: Winter Protection: Ensure proper drainage around your home to prevent water accumulation, which can freeze and exert pressure on the foundation. Seal foundation cracks before winter to minimize water infiltration. Insulate basement walls to regulate temperature and reduce the impact of freezing conditions. Keep snow and ice away from the foundation to prevent excess moisture seepage when it melts. Summer Protection: Maintain consistent soil moisture levels by watering around your foundation during... --- - Published: 2025-01-08 - Modified: 2025-01-08 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/how-to-identify-types-of-exterior-foundation-cracks/ Foundation cracks are a common concern for homeowners, especially when they appear suddenly or worsen over time. Understanding the different types of foundation cracks and what they signify is essential to maintaining the integrity of your home. Whether you're in Hamilton, Burlington or beyond, identifying cracks early can save you from costly repairs down the road. Here, we'll explore common types of foundation cracks, their causes, and how to address them effectively. Types of Cracks and Their Causes 1. Horizontal Cracks Cause: Horizontal cracks often result from excessive pressure exerted on the foundation walls, typically due to soil expansion or hydrostatic pressure. Implication: These cracks are often serious and may indicate structural instability. 2. Vertical Cracks Cause: Vertical cracks are usually caused by natural settling of the house or minor shrinkage of the concrete during curing. Implication: Most vertical cracks are minor and not a cause for immediate concern, but they should still be monitored. 3. Hairline Foundation Cracks Cause: Hairline cracks often form due to shrinkage during the curing process. Implication: These are typically superficial and rarely pose a structural threat. 4. Diagonal Cracks Cause: Diagonal cracks may occur when one side of the foundation settles more than the other, often due to uneven soil conditions. Implication: These cracks vary in severity and require evaluation to determine their impact. 5. Stepped Cracks Cause: Found in brick or block foundations, stepped cracks often result from differential settlement. Implication: While some may be minor, others could signify structural issues and need... --- - Published: 2024-12-09 - Modified: 2024-12-09 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/long-term-impacts-of-ignoring-exterior-foundation-cracks/ Your home’s foundation is one of its most critical components, providing stability and support for everything above it. Yet, exterior foundation cracks—whether minor or significant—are often overlooked by homeowners. In Hamilton, where weather fluctuations and soil conditions can exacerbate foundation issues, ignoring these cracks can lead to severe structural and financial consequences. Let’s explore why timely action is essential and what you should do if you notice foundation cracks. Consequences of Leaving Cracks Unrepaired Foundation cracks rarely stay stagnant. Over time, they tend to widen and deepen, compromising the structural integrity of your home. This can result in: 1. Structural Damage Cracks that go unchecked can allow water to seep into your basement or crawl space, leading to moisture-related issues like mould and wood rot. Over time, the structural components of your home, such as walls and floors, may begin to shift or settle unevenly. This can result in warped door frames, slanted floors, and cracks in walls and ceilings. 2. Financial Burden Repairing small cracks early is far less expensive than addressing significant foundation failures down the line. In Hamilton, major repairs could cost tens of thousands of dollars, especially if they involve extensive excavation or underpinning. Secondary costs, such as water damage remediation and increased heating or cooling bills due to air leakage, can also pile up if cracks are ignored. Warning Signs of Worsening Cracks Spotting the signs of worsening cracks early on can save you time and money. Keep an eye out for: Expanding Cracks: Hairline... --- - Published: 2024-11-13 - Modified: 2025-03-26 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/the-hidden-costs-of-diy-foundation-repairs/ When it comes to managing the structural integrity of your home, few issues are as critical as foundation problems. A solid foundation supports your home’s weight, maintains its shape, and protects against external forces like water and soil movement. Although DIY foundation repairs might seem like a way to save money upfront, they can introduce a range of hidden costs and long-term risks that many Hamilton homeowners don’t anticipate. Short Term Costs of DIY Foundation Repair When faced with foundation issues, the initial foundation repair costs may seem high, leading some to attempt DIY solutions. However, foundation repairs are complex tasks that often require specialized tools, materials, and knowledge. Costs start accumulating when homeowners realize they need to purchase or rent equipment to dig, reinforce, and seal foundation areas properly. Tools for concrete levelling, foundation piering, or polyurethane injection can run hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars. The upfront DIY cost savings can quickly erode as these expenses add up. Moreover, foundation repairs often demand high-quality materials to ensure durability. It’s easy to be tempted by cheaper options, but lower-grade materials can lead to recurring problems, creating an endless cycle of repairs. For homeowners in Hamilton, using the right materials is especially important, as freezing temperatures and thaw cycles can weaken poorly done repairs. DIY vs. Professional Foundation Repair: The Risk Factor Foundation repairs are highly technical, requiring an understanding of load-bearing structures, soil conditions, and waterproofing. A miscalculation or missed step can lead to costly consequences. DIY enthusiasts may... --- - Published: 2024-10-08 - Modified: 2024-10-08 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/the-role-of-ventilation-in-preventing-foundation-issues/ When it comes to maintaining the structural integrity of your home, the foundation is one of the most critical elements. However, many homeowners in Hamilton may not realize that poor ventilation can contribute to a wide range of foundation issues, particularly those related to moisture. Proper ventilation plays a vital role in preventing moisture buildup, mould growth, and even structural damage to your foundation. In this blog, we’ll explore how ventilation helps protect your foundation and provide practical tips to improve airflow in problem areas. How Ventilation Impacts Your Foundation Foundations are often exposed to moisture, which can seep through the ground or accumulate in areas like basements and crawl spaces. Without proper ventilation, this trapped moisture has nowhere to go, leading to condensation and creating an environment where mould, mildew, and wood rot thrive. Over time, this can weaken the structural elements of your home and contribute to foundation cracks, sagging floors, and other problems. In Hamilton, where the climate includes hot, humid summers and cold, damp winters, homes are particularly susceptible to moisture-related foundation issues. Inadequate ventilation in crawl spaces or basements can trap humidity, causing wood beams and support structures to warp, shift, or even decay. These issues are compounded by the fact that moisture in the soil around your home’s foundation can expand and contract with temperature changes, adding further stress to your foundation walls. The Benefits of Proper Ventilation Proper ventilation helps control the amount of moisture that builds up in and around your foundation.... --- - Published: 2024-09-09 - Modified: 2024-09-09 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/seasonal-maintenance-tips-for-your-homes-foundation/ Your home’s foundation is one of the most critical components of your property. In cities like Hamilton, where the climate can vary dramatically between seasons, regular maintenance is key to preventing foundation damage. Here are some seasonal maintenance tips to help protect your home’s foundation year-round. Spring: Prepare for Thaw and Rain As winter gives way to warmer temperatures, Hamilton often experiences increased rainfall and snowmelt. This can lead to excess moisture around your foundation, which can cause soil erosion and put pressure on the foundation walls. Spring maintenance should include: Inspecting Gutters and Downspouts: Ensure that gutters and downspouts are clear of debris and functioning properly. Direct downspouts at least five feet away from the foundation to prevent pooling water from seeping into the soil around your home. Check for Cracks: Inspect the foundation for any visible cracks that may have developed over the winter. Even small cracks can expand over time and lead to more serious issues if left unaddressed. Address Grading: Make sure the soil around your foundation slopes away from your home. Proper grading helps divert water away and reduces the risk of water pooling near the foundation, which can lead to cracks or leaks. Summer: Focus on Soil and Moisture Levels The hot, dry summers in Hamilton can cause the soil around your home to shrink, which may lead to foundation settlement and shifting. Taking steps to maintain consistent soil moisture is vital. This includes: Watering around Foundation: During particularly dry periods, it’s important to... --- - Published: 2024-08-09 - Modified: 2025-01-15 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/foundation-repair-solutions-pros-and-cons/ A strong, stable foundation is crucial for the structural integrity of any home. Over time, however, foundations can develop cracks, settle unevenly, or even begin to crumble. If you’re a homeowner in the Hamilton area, these issues can be particularly concerning given the region's diverse soil conditions and fluctuating weather. Fortunately, several foundation repair solutions are available to address these problems, each with its own set of pros and cons. In this blog, we’ll explore four common methods: Foundation Reinforcement Core-Fill, Carbon Fibre Reinforcement, Parging, and Stucco. Foundation Reinforcement Core-Fill Pros: Foundation Reinforcement Core-Fill involves injecting a specialized material into the hollow blocks or cavities of a foundation. This method increases the structural strength of the foundation by filling gaps and binding the foundation walls together. One of the main advantages of this technique is its ability to restore structural integrity without the need for extensive excavation. Additionally, it can be a cost-effective solution for addressing severe foundation damage. Cons: The effectiveness of Core-Fill depends on the condition of the foundation before the repair. If the foundation is too severely damaged, Core-Fill alone may not be sufficient. Also, the process can be messy if you are inexperienced with this process. Furthermore, the material used must be carefully selected to ensure compatibility with the existing foundation materials. Carbon Fibre Reinforcement Pros: Carbon Fibre Reinforcement is a modern solution that involves the application of carbon fibre strips or sheets to the foundation walls. These materials are incredibly strong, yet lightweight, making them... --- - Published: 2024-07-08 - Modified: 2025-01-08 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/foundation-repair-myths-debunked-separating-fact-from-fiction/ Foundation problems can be daunting for Hamilton homeowners, but the flood of misinformation and myths surrounding foundation repair can make the situation even more confusing. It's crucial to understand the facts about foundation repair to make informed decisions about your home. Let's debunk some of the most common myths and get to the heart of what foundation repair truly entails. Myth 1: Foundation Repair is Always Expensive One of the biggest myths about foundation repair is that it always comes with a hefty price tag. While some repairs can indeed be costly, not all foundation issues require extensive work. Minor cracks or settling can often be addressed with more affordable solutions. The key is to catch problems early before they escalate into more significant issues. Myth 2: All Foundation Cracks Are a Sign of Major Problems Not all foundation cracks are created equal. Some cracks, especially those that are small and vertical, can be quite common and not necessarily indicative of serious structural issues. These minor cracks can result from natural settling and do not always require major repairs. However, larger cracks, especially those that are horizontal or zigzagging, may be a sign of more serious problems. It's essential to have a professional evaluate the situation to determine the severity of the issue. In Hamilton, the clay-rich soil can cause foundations to shift, making it all the more important to distinguish between benign and serious cracks. Myth 3: DIY Foundation Repair is Just as Good as Professional Work With the... --- - Published: 2024-06-06 - Modified: 2024-06-06 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/foundation-parging-southern-ontario/ When it comes to maintaining a home in Southern Ontario, particularly in cities like Hamilton, one aspect often overlooked is the condition of the foundation. The foundation is literally what your home is built on, and its integrity is crucial to the overall health and longevity of your property. One way to ensure your foundation remains in top shape is parging. In this article, we will dive into what foundation parging is, why it’s important, and what Southern Ontario homeowners need to know. What is Foundation Parging? Foundation parging is the application of a thin coat of a cement-based mortar to the visible (above-grade) portion of your home’s foundation walls. This layer serves both aesthetic and protective functions. It smooths out the surface, covers small cracks and imperfections, and provides a barrier against water and other elements. Why is Parging Important? Aesthetic Appeal: Parging gives your foundation a clean, uniform appearance, enhancing the overall curb appeal of your home. In older homes, this can significantly boost the property’s visual appeal. Protection Against Moisture: Southern Ontario’s climate, with its wet springs and cold winters, can be tough on foundations. Parging adds an extra layer of protection, helping to keep moisture out. Water infiltration can lead to serious issues like mold growth, basement leaks, and structural damage. Preventing Pest Infestation: Cracks and gaps in the foundation can be inviting to pests. Parging seals these entry points, reducing the risk of unwanted critters finding their way into your home. Common Issues with Parging... --- - Published: 2024-05-09 - Modified: 2024-10-30 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/typical-problems-with-older-homes/ Older homes possess a certain charm and character that modern homes often lack. However, along with their unique appeal, they can also come with a set of challenges, particularly when it comes to the foundation. In cities like Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville, and surrounding areas, where historical homes abound, homeowners frequently encounter various issues related to their aging foundations. Here are some of the typical problems we often encounter in older homes. 1. Improper Window Well Drainage Improperly designed or maintained window wells can lead to water leakage and basement flooding, especially during heavy rainfall or snowmelt. In older homes, window wells may have deteriorated over time, allowing water to seep into the basement and compromise the foundation's integrity. 2. Clogged Weeping Tiles Weeping tiles play a crucial role in directing groundwater away from the foundation of a home. However, over time, these drainage systems can become clogged with debris, tree roots, or sediment, causing water to accumulate around the foundation and potentially lead to structural damage. 3. Deteriorating Stone Foundations Many older homes in Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville, and surrounding areas feature stone foundations, which were commonly used in construction before more modern building materials became available. While durable, stone foundations are susceptible to deterioration due to factors such as moisture, soil movement, and freeze-thaw cycles. 4. Settling and Foundation Settlement As homes age, they may experience settling, where the soil beneath the foundation shifts and compresses. This settling can lead to uneven floors, cracks in the walls or foundation, and... --- - Published: 2024-04-05 - Modified: 2024-04-05 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/can-i-really-stucco-my-foundation/ Stucco on walls and soffits is a familiar sight in cities like Hamilton, Burlington, and Oakville, where homes boast various architectural styles. But what about stucco on foundations? This question surfaces frequently among homeowners contemplating renovations or repairs. So, can you stucco your foundation? Yes, You Can Stucco Your Foundation In short, the answer is a resounding yes. Stucco can indeed be applied to a foundation, provided it's properly prepped and applied. Whether your home sports concrete, cinder blocks, bricks, or even wood, stucco can be a viable option for enhancing its appearance or addressing structural issues. Why Stucco Your Foundation? The motivations for stuccoing a foundation typically boil down to two reasons: aesthetics and maintenance. If you're aiming to enhance the curb appeal of your home or align its design with a specific aesthetic, applying stucco to the foundation can be a straightforward process. On the other hand, if your foundation is exhibiting signs of wear and tear, such as cracking or leaking, you'll want to repair any major issues. Applying stucco to an already cracked foundation is likely to lead to the exterior stucco cracking in the future. Consider Your Foundation Material Most foundations are constructed from materials like concrete or cinder blocks, making them ideal candidates for stucco application due to their durability and compatibility with stucco materials. However, whether your foundation is made of foam, cement board, or other substrates, proper preparation, including base and finish coats, is essential for optimal results. The Role of Your... --- - Published: 2024-03-25 - Modified: 2024-03-25 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/do-i-need-carbon-fibre-reinforcement-for-my-foundation/ Carbon fibre reinforcement is a method of foundation reinforcement that offers homeowners an effective solution to address various structural issues. Unlike traditional methods such as steel beams, carbon fibre reinforcement straps provide a discreet and space-saving alternative, making them increasingly popular among homeowners in Hamilton and surrounding areas. Maximizing Usable Space One of the primary advantages of carbon fibre reinforcement is its ability to maximize usable space within the basement. Unlike steel beams, which protrude into the basement area, carbon fibre reinforcement straps adhere directly to the foundation wall, allowing homeowners to reclaim valuable space for storage or living areas. Preventing Further Movement Once installed correctly, carbon fibre reinforcement straps play a crucial role in preventing further inward movement of foundation walls. This is particularly beneficial for addressing four common foundation issues: Bowed Foundation Walls: Whether constructed of concrete block or poured concrete, bowed foundation walls can be effectively stabilized using carbon fibre reinforcement straps. Sheared Foundation Walls: In cases where foundation walls have sheared due to external pressure or other factors, carbon fibre reinforcement offers a reliable solution for restoring stability. Pushed Foundation Walls: Carbon fibre reinforcement straps can also be used to address pushed foundation walls, restoring structural integrity and preventing further displacement. Cracked Foundation Walls: Cracks in foundation walls, whether in concrete block or poured concrete constructions, can be reinforced using carbon fibre reinforcement, reducing the risk of further damage. Additional Considerations Before the installation of carbon fibre reinforcement straps, certain preparatory measures and additional repairs may... --- - Published: 2024-02-08 - Modified: 2024-05-22 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/underpinning-to-increase-usable-living-space/ For homeowners in Hamilton, the basement often poses challenges due to its limited functionality. Many homeowners would like to make better use of the space – such as adding a family room, etc. , but the space itself just feels too cramped. One solution to gaining more usable living space is underpinning. This construction process not only has the potential to address structural concerns but also serves as a key to unlocking valuable living space within a home. What is underpinning? Underpinning is a process designed to fortify and stabilize the foundation of older buildings. Beyond its primary objective, this method has become an investment for homeowners aiming to maximize their living areas. When to consider underpinning The decision to undergo underpinning is typically driven by two factors: First, it is important to remember that many older homes were not originally built with the intention of using basements as livable spaces. These basements often have low ceiling heights and obstructive ductwork, rendering them less than ideal for kicking back with friends and family. Underpinning, though, can alleviate the situation by lowering the basement floor to create additional vertical space. This newfound room opens doors to possibilities such as home offices, extra bedrooms, or even areas that can be rented out. The process, often referred to as basement lowering, can even transform previously unusable crawl spaces into functional rooms. Secondly, underpinning may be used to modernize a home's infrastructure. Older homes often have outdated plumbing, electrical systems, and insulation. Underpinning not... --- - Published: 2024-02-06 - Modified: 2025-01-15 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/foundation-crack-injections-a-practical-guide-for-hamilton-homeowners/ Most Hamilton homeowners will experience cracks in their home's foundation at some point. This can be disconcerting, but the good news is that most foundation cracks are minor, and repair is simple. Addressing these issues promptly, however, is crucial for maintaining the structural integrity of your home and preventing further damage. One effective solution is foundation crack repair. Understanding Foundation Crack Injections: What Is It? Foundation crack injections involve injecting specialized materials like epoxy or polyurethane into foundation cracks to seal and strengthen them. This process addresses existing cracks and helps prevent future water intrusion and potential structural damage. When Do You Need It? Consider foundation crack injections if you notice cracks in your basement walls. These cracks can result from various factors, including soil settlement, temperature changes, and water infiltration. Timely intervention is critical to preventing further deterioration. Advantages of Foundation Crack Injections: Cost-Effective and Time-Efficient: Compared to traditional methods like exterior waterproofing, foundation crack injections are more cost-effective and less time-consuming. The repair process is often completed within hours, saving homeowners time and resources. Versatility: No matter the size or location of the crack, foundation crack injections can be tailored to suit your foundation's specific needs. The injected material expands to fill the entire crack, creating a watertight barrier. Waterproof Seal: Hamilton's climate, characterized by cold winters and occasional heavy rainfall, makes waterproofing a priority. Foundation crack injections provide a reliable waterproof seal, protecting basements against moisture intrusion and preventing the growth of mould and mildew. What's Involved... --- - Published: 2023-12-18 - Modified: 2024-05-22 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/strengthening-homes-foundation-repair-solutions-for-clay-soil-foundations/ Clay soil, though common in many regions, poses unique challenges for Hamilton homeowners, especially regarding foundation stability. Understanding the issues associated with clay soil and implementing effective repair solutions is crucial for maintaining a structurally sound home. Let's explore foundation repair solutions tailored to homes with clay soil foundations. The Challenge of Clay Soil Understanding the challenges accompanying clay soil foundation will provide a more comprehensive overview of the best solutions for addressing it. We encourage you to read about the role of soil type and drainage in foundation, but clay soil, in particular, can lead to long-term risks. Clay soil has a high capacity for expansion and contraction with changes in moisture levels, leading to foundation movement. With that, Hamilton homes built on clay soil are susceptible to settlement issues, resulting in foundation cracks and structural damage. Common Signs of Foundation Problems Visible Cracks: Check for cracks in the foundation, walls, or floors, indicating potential structural issues. Uneven Floors: Measure and observe floors for any noticeable unevenness, a sign of foundation settlement. Sticking Doors and Windows: Difficulty in opening or closing doors and windows may signal foundation movement. Foundation Repair Solutions Basement Waterproofing Utilize soil stabilization methods, such as chemical injections or moisture barriers, to prevent the clay soil's moisture from leaking in. Preventive Measures Proper Drainage Systems: Install efficient drainage systems to redirect water away from the foundation, preventing excessive soil moisture. This would include grading your yard and ensuring your eavestroughs are in working condition. Professional Assessment... --- - Published: 2023-11-15 - Modified: 2024-11-15 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/understanding-the-role-of-gutters-in-foundation-preservation/ When it comes to maintaining the structural integrity of your Hamilton home, it's easy to focus on the obvious elements like the foundation itself, the walls, and the roof. However, there's a crucial component that often goes unnoticed but plays a significant role in preserving your home's foundation – gutters. Understanding the importance of gutters in foundation preservation will help you recognize why they should not be underestimated. Preventing Soil Erosion Gutters are designed to collect rainwater that runs off your roof and channel it away from your home. Without gutters, rainwater can accumulate near the foundation, causing soil erosion. This erosion weakens the soil's stability, which can lead to foundation settlement and structural damage. Gutters prevent this erosion by directing water to a safe distance from your house, preserving the integrity of the surrounding soil. Understanding how the role of soil type impacts your drainage will help you make informed decisions for your property. Preventing Basement Flooding One of the most immediate and visible consequences of inadequate gutters is basement flooding. When rainwater is not properly diverted, it can pool around the base of your home, infiltrating your basement. This not only results in property damage but can also create an environment conducive to mould growth and compromise the structural stability of your foundation. Gutters play a crucial role in preventing basement flooding by carrying water away from the house. Maintaining Consistent Soil Moisture A consistent moisture level in the soil around your foundation is essential for its stability.... --- - Published: 2023-10-16 - Modified: 2023-10-16 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/the-importance-of-drain-tile-cleaning/ A properly functioning drain tile system is crucial for safeguarding your Hamilton home's foundation from water damage. Over time, these systems can become clogged with debris, potentially leading to serious issues. Understanding the significance of drain tile cleaning and having a step-by-step guide on maintaining this vital component of your home's infrastructure will help bring you peace of mind. Why Drain Tile Cleaning Matters Prevents Foundation Damage: A functioning drain tile system directs water away from your home's foundation. When it becomes clogged, excess water can accumulate, increasing the risk of foundation damage, including cracks and shifting. Read about recognizing the first signs of foundation problems here. Avoids Basement Flooding: Clogged drain tiles can result in water backing up into your basement. This can lead to costly damage to your belongings and the structural integrity of your home. Ensures Proper Home Drainage: Clean drain tiles ensure that rainwater and groundwater are efficiently channelled away from your property, reducing the risk of water-related issues like mould and mildew growth. Maintains Curb Appeal: A well-maintained drain tile system helps preserve your property's landscaping by preventing soil erosion and unsightly water puddles. Steps for Effective Drain Tile Cleaning: Inspection Begin by inspecting the drain tiles to identify signs of clogs, damages, or obstructions. Clearing Debris Remove any visible debris, dirt, or roots from the drain tiles using appropriate tools and equipment. High-Pressure Water Jetting Utilize high-pressure water jetting to dislodge stubborn clogs and buildup within the drain tiles. Chemical Treatments Apply specialized drain... --- - Published: 2023-09-15 - Modified: 2024-05-22 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/the-role-of-sump-pumps-in-homes-are-they-mandatory/ Sump pumps are an essential component of many Hamilton homes, particularly in areas prone to heavy rainfall, flooding, or high water tables. These devices play a crucial role in preventing water damage and protecting the structural integrity of your property. However, the question often arises: are sump pumps mandatory in homes? Let's explore the reasons why sump pumps are considered essential by many homeowners and experts. Protection Against Basement Flooding Sump pumps are primarily installed in basements or crawl spaces to safeguard these vulnerable areas against flooding. When heavy rain or melting snow causes groundwater to rise, a sump pump activates to pump out excess water, preventing it from seeping into your home. Without a sump pump, the following can occur: Basement flooding Costly repairs Damage to belongings Health hazards Mould and mildew growth. Preserving Property Value Homes with a sump pump system in place often have higher property values because they are less susceptible to water damage. This helps to ensure the value of your personal belongings and property structure remain undamaged. A dry, well-maintained basement can be a significant selling point for potential buyers. Read more about how sump pump installation and maintenance works to appreciate how it protects your property value. Ensuring Insurance Coverage In certain flood-prone areas, insurance companies may require homeowners to install a sump pump to maintain coverage. Having a sump pump can help reduce the risk of making expensive insurance claims related to water damage. Mitigating Health Risks Water damage from flooding can... --- - Published: 2023-08-14 - Modified: 2023-08-14 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/what-are-the-first-signs-of-foundation-problems/ A solid foundation is the backbone of any well-constructed home, providing stability and structural integrity for your Hamilton home. However, even the most well-built foundations can develop issues over time. Detecting foundation problems in your Hamilton home early is crucial to prevent further damage and costly repairs. Let's explore the first signs of home foundation problems and how addressing them can help avoid expensive damage. What Are Some Signs of Foundation Problems? While there are many indications of potential foundation problems, here are some of the most commonly found indicators. Cracks in Walls and Floors One of the most common early indicators of foundation issues is the appearance of cracks in walls, floors, and ceilings. Here are the types of cracks to look out for: Vertical cracks that are wider at the top can suggest settlement or sinking. Horizontal cracks might signify excess pressure against the foundation due to soil expansion or poor drainage. We encourage you to learn more about the impact of soil on your foundation. While it might seem obvious, it's important not to overlook any cracks directly in the foundation itself. Even hairline cracks can expand and worsen over time, leading to more extensive problems. Regularly inspect your foundation for any visible cracks and seek out a professional if you see potential structural cracks. Uneven or Sagging Floors When you start noticing your floors sloping or feeling uneven, it could be a sign of foundation problems. Uneven floors occur when the foundation settles unevenly, causing parts... --- - Published: 2023-07-14 - Modified: 2025-01-15 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/the-role-of-soil-type-and-drainage-in-foundation-damage/ While many obvious causes can lead to foundation damage in your Hamilton home, choosing the right soil type and drainage solution can make or break the integrity of your foundation. While we encourage you to review the risks of foundation problems, let’s explore how to address the potential issues these decisions may have on your property. How Does Soil Impact Your Foundation? The soil surrounding the foundation of your home heavily impacts its ability to stand the test of time. It acts as a support system to build upon, and surround laying down the actual foundation of your property. Here are some examples of how different soil types affect your foundation: Peat: Peat soil is one of the more commonly known soil types. While it is great for many planting and renovation projects on the surface of your property, it is arguably the worst option for foundation support. It holds significant amounts of water but becomes extremely dry and unstable during the summer heat resulting in poor support to your property's foundation. Loam: Loam combines the properties of various soil types to provide the most balanced, long-lasting option for your property's foundation. Its ability to support water consistently makes it less likely to expand, crack, or result in other issues. Sand/Gravel: This type of soil is a combination of multiple particle types from different soils. If compacted properly, it can act as a functioning option for the foundation because it doesn't hold water. However, if it is not compressed appropriately,... --- - Published: 2023-06-06 - Modified: 2024-10-30 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/impact-of-weather-on-your-foundation-in-southern-ontario/ The weather here in Southern Ontario can change drastically from season to season. That’s nice for those of us who enjoy both cold weather and warm weather activities, but it can be hard on the foundations of our homes. Obviously, we want to do what we can to protect our home’s foundation, so it’s important to be aware of the impact that the weather can have. Here are a few ways that Southern Ontario weather can affect your foundation and what to do about it. Hot Weather While we only get a few months of hot weather, it can get hot, and the ground can quickly become parched and dry. During hot, dry spells, the soil around your home will contract or shrink. As the soil dries out, it may cause your home to settle, which may cause cracks in your foundation. Cold Weather A typical winter in Southern Ontario often consists of several freeze-and-thaw cycles. When snow and ice thaw, the meltwater will seep into the soil, but when it gets cold again, it will freeze into ice and expand the soil. This cycle can occur numerous times throughout the winter. This expansion that occurs with each freeze-thaw cycle can put pressure on your foundation, which can lead to cracks and potentially even structural damage. Heavy Rainfall and Foundation Damage Excessive rainfall is another condition that can affect the foundation of your home. During heavy rain, the soil will become saturated with rainwater and swell up, putting pressure on... --- - Published: 2023-05-05 - Modified: 2023-05-05 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/occupations-associated-with-asbestos-and-how-to-stay-safe/ It used to be that workers most at risk of coming into contact with asbestos were those in the mining sector – particularly in the 1960s and 70s when it was not widely known how hazardous the material can be. Since asbestos-related diseases may take ten to forty years to manifest, proper safety measures took some time to be developed. Asbestos was a common building material in Hamilton and the surrounding areas prior to 1990 (although its use started to decline since the 1970s) because it was known to offer long-lasting, strong, fire and weather resistant protection along with noise-dampening qualities. Common material in older homes that may contain asbestos includes insulation, cement and plaster, siding, and floor and ceiling tiles. But don’t panic – even if you live in an older home with asbestos, it is not necessarily a problem. The problem occurs when the material is disturbed, and asbestos particles become airborne, where they can be inhaled into the lungs. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that the most common occupations at risk for asbestos exposure today are those in the construction trade – particularly those involved with repair, renovation, and maintenance. You never want to remove asbestos, either, unless you are fully qualified. Fortunately, there are ways that employers can help to keep their workers safe. Methods for controlling exposure: If asbestos is suspected, workers must avoid disturbing potential sources until the area can be assessed and controlled. Workers should never eat, drink, or smoke where... --- - Published: 2023-04-06 - Modified: 2023-04-06 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/asbestos-and-the-removal-process/ Most people have heard of asbestos and that it can be harmful to your health if handled inappropriately. For owners of older Hamilton homes, you might be worried about the presence of asbestos when doing renovations around your home. If you are looking into doing a project that requires the removal of asbestos, you will need to ensure that it is done properly and follows the right safety and regulatory guidelines. Here’s what you need to know. Use a Professional You may feel as though you can easily remove the asbestos from your Hamilton property, but there are professionals in this field that know what they’re doing and are up to date on all the regulations they need to follow to remove the asbestos properly. The cost of doing so may seem high, but asbestos is almost invisible to detect with just your eyes, yet breathing even a little of it in can lead to long-term and potentially fatal health issues. If you have asbestos in your home, trusting professionals with the removal can save some major health concerns down the line. How do you know if you have asbestos? Asbestos can be found in several older products (late 70s or older) – from construction materials to car parts, and it was even found in some oven mitts! In regard to your foundation, you might have found Asbestos used in the insulation material found on your basement walls and ceilings as well as in any crawl spaces. Products that contain... --- - Published: 2023-03-07 - Modified: 2023-04-19 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/can-you-fix-foundation-problems-yourself/ The words “foundation repair” strike fear into the hearts of many Hamilton homeowners. The idea that there is something wrong with your home’s foundation can bring to mind images of crumbling walls and huge repair bills. And while foundation repair can be pricey, it’s often not as expensive as you might think – especially if the problem is caught early on. Still, you may be wondering if foundation repair is something that you can do yourself. The answer? It depends. Here are a few tips to help you decide if your foundation issue can be solved through the DIY route or whether it’s time to call a foundation repair professional. Hairline cracks are no big deal Especially if you have a new home, you will likely notice hairline cracks on basement walls forming within the first year of construction. These cracks can be typically found near windows and doors and in corners, and they occur because of normal “settling” as the concrete shrinks slightly. As long as they are only hairline cracks, they are nothing to worry about, and you can fix them by simply applying a coat of paint that is suitable for masonry. New foundation cracks If you notice a new crack that is bigger than hairline but still not more than 1/8th of an inch, it is still probably because of settling and nothing to worry about. But before you reach for the crack sealer, you’ll want to be sure. Monitor the crack by making a pencil... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2024-01-31 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/parging-providing-the-icing-on-the-cake-for-your-home/ Parging, which uses masonry-based mortar to cover a home’s foundation walls, has additional benefits than just making your home’s exterior more attractive. Although it’s not technically meant for waterproofing, parging does create a water-resistant barrier and helps the home remain dry. With a parge coat, the home’s masonry will become more protected from the elements and shield the home’s foundation from snow and ice. If a home has a concrete foundation that shows imperfections, parging can help make those blemishes disappear. At the very least, parging can act as the “icing on the cake” to finish off a home’s exterior look! Ensure Your Parging is Done Correctly... Or Else! Like any other work you do to your home, there’s a wrong and right way of parging, too. The right way will reap numerous benefits, as discussed earlier. The wrong way, however, can lead to big problems down the road. Not only can water become trapped between the parge coat and the wall, but your home could stand a chance of having moisture damage. Parging incorrectly could quickly become a homeowner’s nightmare. Trust the Parging Experts at Conterra Foundation and Repair We at Conterra Foundation and Repair are here to help you complete parging right the first time. Since 1993, we have been providing quality, reliable basement waterproofing and foundation crack repairs. As experts in parging, we have the skills and experience to ensure this specialized technique will be done correctly. We are so confident in our parging abilities that we... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2023-11-07 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/dealing-with-foundation-problems/ If you are having issues with the foundation of your home, you will certainly know it. How to remedy the problem will likely be less clear. There are many things that can go wrong with a foundation, especially one that was built more than 50 years ago. There are also terrific solutions to these foundation problems that will reinforce the foundation of your home. Reinforcing a foundation that is failing comes only after you identify the problem. A foundation that no longer protects your home can have one or more problems. Cracked moldings Windows and doors won't open Sloping or uneven floors Cracks in walls Cracks in Brick Cracks in the exterior foundations Falling Bricks If your home is suffering from any of these symptoms, you likely have a problem with your foundation and will need to find a way to reinforce it. How much this reinforcement will cost is variable and greatly depends on the kind of foundation problem you are having, how accessible the problem is and the method of repair that is used. In the past, the best reinforcement method used was to jack up the home and pour new concrete. This was disruptive and expensive. An alternative is to inject concrete into the affected areas or using steel for reinforcement. All these methods are highly disruptive to the house and everyone in it, as well as being costly. Modern Foundation Repair Today's technology has brought about new, more affordable and less disruptive ways of reinforcing a... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2023-12-06 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/what-to-do-if-foundation-shifts/ Your home is a valuable investment, so maintaining your home’s structural integrity is a high priority for every homeowner. If the structural integrity of your house has been compromised, several problems can occur and needs your immediate attention. All homes experience some settling to varying degrees, but how do you know the difference between normal wear and a more severe problem? Foundations are generally constructed of concrete that is hardened over steel, but over time all concrete will crack to some degree. The steel reinforcement is used to hold the foundation in place. Normal wear, natural changes, and settling may create cracks to some extent. A new home will sink even further over time and contractors take the climate and soil into account when overseeing a home’s construction. Soil Preparation for Foundation Shifting: Soil preparation is an important part of foundation construction, and damage can occur if this is not done properly. Extreme weather conditions are another cause of foundation damage, so temperature reliability and weather conditions should be taken into account by a contractor before construction begins. The main factor in settling is soil expansion and contraction because as soil loses or gains moisture when exposed to the elements and shifts beneath the weight of the structure. The soil and earth around your foundation is in constant flux and the weather where you live can also affect the soil around your foundation in a very big way. Even though a bit of soil expansion is to be expected, this... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2024-02-28 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/basement-moisture-causes-dangers/ Homeowners are often concerned with preventing their basement from getting flooded and with good reason. It can be extremely tedious and time-consuming to recover from basement flooding causes such as pipe leaks, sewer overflows or foundation leaks and flooding from natural conditions like excessive rainfall, snow melt, etc. Preventing basement leaks involves locating and fixing the cause of your basement leak, drying your basement out completely to prevent the buildup of mildew and mould; and then repairing or replacing anything that may have been altered, such as drywall. However, it’s more common for basement spaces to get impacted by moisture problems, which are also far less noticeable and often not noticed. Basement mould Dangers A damp basement area is more than just an annoyance. Whether your basement is unfinished and used largely for storage, a finished living space, or simply a crawl space; excessive moisture here can lead to: The growth of mildew, mould or other biological growth that has the potential to cause a range of health problems In more severe cases, these conditions can result in rot and structural damage. Unlike flooded basements, damage from moisture occurs over a much longer period of time. Signs of Basement Moisture Because your basement is under the ground level, it will naturally have more moisture than the upper stories of your home. So, how do you identify if you have a moisture problem? Here are some of the obvious signs to look out for: A musty, unpleasant odour and a feeling... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2024-01-11 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/how-to-spot-foundation-damage/ Although often overlooked, a home’s foundation is arguably the most important part of the house. And when problems occur, costs can quickly add up. Avoid the headache, stress, and expense of foundation damage by checking for potential trouble before it becomes a major issue. Here’s how: 1. Notice Cracked, Crumbling or Compromised Foundations As a home owner, hopefully, you’re doing routine inspections of both your home’s basement and along all exterior surfaces of the foundation. If not, start now! During the inspection, pay special attention to the foundation itself. There should not be any noticeable signs of structural damage, including: hairline fractures or cracks in any direction, sloping, buckling or sagging foundation floors or walls, gaps or ruptures and/or crumbling or flaking concrete. Noticing any moisture such as pooling water, mould and stains is another sign of foundation damage. 2. Water Damage and Soil Shifting One of the leading causes of foundation damage is improper water drainage. During rainfall, the soil surrounding your home quickly expands, and during dry spells, it contracts. This process can lead to unnatural soil shifting, which can cause extensive pressure on the foundation. Besides being a cause of foundation damage, improper water drainage is also a sign that foundation failure has already occurred. Foundation cracks can redirect water to lower soil levels, which results in major moisture accumulation around the property. Homeowners can check for signs of water damage by checking the soil around the home to see if it is wet (when there hasn’t... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2024-02-28 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/get-rid-of-water-damage/ One of the worst and most damaging incidents that can occur in the home involves water damage. Water can destroy everything in its wake. Getting rid of water damage is your end game and water damage cleanup is key to restoring your wet basement and everything in it. First and foremost, if it has become obvious that your home has suffered water damage, you will want to prioritize your actions going forward. When water is present, so too are mould spores. The longer water is allowed to sit in your home, the more at risk you and your loved ones are to the effects of mould in the home. Depending on how long the water has been around, you will need to act quickly. First on your list of do’s is to call your insurance company. They will be able to guide you through the claims process and often offer valuable advice as to your best next steps. In the meantime, there are things you can do to reduce damage and begin the cleanup process. Basement Flooding Cleanup Process Unplug and remove all electronics immediately. Do this, of course, after power to the home has been cut. Water and moisture will wreak havoc on anything electronic. The faster they are removed, the better the chance of them surviving. If you have enough water and have run out of dry towels, get out the shop vac or any wet/dry vacuum you have. The idea is to remove the water as quickly... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2024-01-31 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/dry-up-your-wet-basement-for-good/ Nobody wants to have a damp basement. Not only are they uncomfortable and a bit smelly, but that dampness can lead to problems such as mould, rotten wood, and damaged belongings. Fortunately, it is possible to dry up that wet basement for good. And it doesn’t have to cost you a fortune either. In this article, we’ll explain what you can do to dry up your basement. Identify Source of Dampness First things first. Before you can stop leaky basement walls, you need to know where it is coming from. Dampness can either come from indoor humidity or from the outside, such as through cracks in the foundation. You need to stop the water at its source. In other words, if water is coming in from outside, you need to stop it outside. Eliminate Humidity and Condensation If humidity is the source of the dampness, you should be able to solve the problem by preventing sources of humid air. Make sure that leaky dryer vents are sealed with foil tape. If you have a bathroom in your basement, make sure there is a vent fan installed and that it is turned on whenever the shower is being used. After your shower, be sure to run the fan until the mirrors are no longer steamy. When the outside weather is humid, make sure that basement windows are closed. And of course, run a dehumidifier when you need to. Another indoor source of dampness can be condensation dripping from pipes. To prevent... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2024-02-28 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/common-signs-of-foundation-problems-in-hamilton/ The last thing that a homeowner in Hamilton wants to hear is that they have foundation problems. Repairs to foundations can be costly, and if left unaddressed, they can lead to much worse structural problems which can be even more expensive to address. The best defence is a good offence. Signs of foundation issues can appear in a number of places throughout the home. By catching some of the most common signs of foundation problems early, you can avoid larger, more costly repairs down the road. Here are some of the most common foundation problems in Hamilton. 1. Foundations that are cracked and crumbling When a foundation is compromised, you may begin to notice telltale signs such as hairline fractures, gaps or slopping, sagging floors or walls. A foundation crack may be horizontal, vertical or in a zigzag pattern. Another sign could be mould stains or actual pooling water. These early signs may be found either inside the basement or outside on the exterior wall. 2. Improper water drainage and soil shifting Two of the major reasons for foundation problems in Hamilton are poor water drainage and soil shifting. When soil shifts around the outside of a home, it can affect the way that water drains away from the foundation. This can cause pressure to build up causing cracks and buckling. Damage due to water should be addressed immediately and may require the expertise of both a plumber and a foundation expert. 3. Warped floors and ceiling Not every sign... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2023-12-06 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/teetering-on-the-edge-foundation-problems-in-hamilton-homes/ Over time, foundation problems can occur in any home, however, here in Hamilton, it can seem like we have more than our fair share. Located on part of the Niagara Escarpment, this beautiful city is home to more than 100 waterfalls along or near the Bruce Trail and breathtaking views of the city and harbour from “Hamilton Mountain”, but living on or near a slope is not without its problems. As many residents are now discovering, homes which are built too close to the edge of the Escarpment are destined for trouble. In areas such as Red Hill Valley and other parts of the city located along the Escarpment, Hamiltonians are noticing more and more cracks in their walls and basements. Floors are becoming sunken and uneven. In the worst case scenarios, homes are being condemned by the City as they inch dangerously close to the edge of creek valleys and slopes. Why are Hamilton homes shifting? There are a few reasons for the foundation problems occurring in Hamilton homes, but for the most part, it boils down to poor planning over 50 years ago when many homes were simply build too close to the edge of the Escarpment. That, along with climate change which has accelerated the problem, are the main culprits. According to the Hamilton Conservation Authority’s hazard land map, there are hundreds of homes, particularly in the east end of the city, that back onto creek valleys. Over time, this will prove to be a problem for... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2024-01-31 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/flooding-hotspots-hamilton-ontario/ With spring just around the corner, flooding becomes a big concern once again for Hamilton and area residents. After winter’s heavy snowfalls, certain areas still have large areas of snow needing to melt. Add in the expected rain throughout the spring season and this can be the recipe for a flooding disaster! Do you know if the area you live in is at risk of a springtime flood? Are you wondering what preparations can be done in advance? Read our tips below to find out more. The City of Hamilton’s Flooding Hot Spots Due to rainfall and snowmelt, nearby streams, ditches and roadways can easily become overwhelmed by water. Stormwater inlets and outlets can back up or overflow, potentially causing sewer backup problems, too. The City of Hamilton has identified a total of 900 flooding “hot spots” throughout the city, identifiable to city staff by GIS coordinates. These are particular locations where city crews inspect and clear prior to a big storm to hopefully prevent/limit flooding. Because they were built without storm sewers, the older areas of Hamilton are especially at risk of flooding. The following areas have the most drainage hot spots: Dundas, Ancaster, and Binbrook. Plus, the lower city is flood-prone, especially in areas surrounding the Woodward Wastewater Treatment Plant. Certain areas in or around the Red Hill Valley are also designated as high priority. Preparing your Home for Floods Now’s the time to complete preparations for a potential flood in Hamilton, Ontario. These preparations include: Researching if... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2023-12-06 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/sump-pump-considerations/ A wet basement is one of a homeowner's worst nightmares. While there are loads of solutions to cleaning up the mess and restoring your living area, prevention is always favourable. A good sump pump is often all that is required to provide this prevention. The key to keeping a basement dry and your home safe in the event of a flood is not always about keeping water away from the home but controlling its flow. This where a sump pump comes in. It can be said that all households should have one in Ontario due to unexpected heavy rainfall, or snow melt. Most of us don’t know exactly how they work, we’re just glad they do. As long as it’s doing its job, we rarely think about the sump pump. But without it, water will find it’s way into the living spaces of the home. Sump Pumps Provide Storm Protection When it rains or snow melts around your home, water will sink in around the walls and into the foundation. Without someplace for this water to go, it will find the point of least resistance. As water pressure builds up around your house, water will find a crack and move in. Whether it be a crack in the foundation or simply where your walls meet the concrete floor, make no mistake, if there is water around the home, it will find a way in. A sump pump controls this water. A pit called a sump about one foot deep will... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2024-02-28 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/what-is-involved-in-exterior-foundation-repair/ When a home’s foundation begins to crack, it is best to have it repaired sooner rather than later to prevent the problem from getting worse. In many cases, it makes the most sense to repair the crack from the inside using a pressurized resin injection. In other circumstances, however, the repair should be made from the exterior. This article will explore what is involved in exterior foundation repair. Exterior foundation repair should be done when: The crack is located behind the furnace, hot water heater, electrical panel, etc. When the homeowners do not want the finished basement walls opened up. When there are other permanent features that prevent access to the crack from the inside. What is involved in exterior foundation repair? The first step in repairing a foundation from the outside is to locate hazards such as electrical and gas lines. Locating these lines is paramount for safety reasons, and it is also required by law. This step is done by technicians that work for the utilities companies. In Hamilton or Burlington, for example, you or your contractor would call Ontario One Call. Once utility lines have been located and marked, the next step is to expose the crack in the foundation by excavating the area around it. It is important to expose the entire crack which means we must often dig right down to the footing of the foundation. If there are multiple cracks, excavation will have to be done in several places. Next, the foundation wall must... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2024-02-28 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/taking-care-of-your-homes-foundation-this-summer/ Besides all the enjoyment that summer brings, the season can also cause problems in your home’s foundation. After spring’s heavy rains and moderate temperatures, summer’s hot, dry weather can create foundation damage in the form of cracks and more. The good news? There are some preventative actions that you can take to prevent any foundation damage from occurring in your home this summer! Foundation Damage Increases During the Summer Months After spring’s mild, moist temperatures, the soil has become saturated and swollen. When this happens, the wet soil expands and becomes dense around and under your home’s foundation. Eventually, cracks will develop in your yard as the soil pulls away from your foundation. Vertical cracks are created due to uneven settlement caused by different soil moisture levels around your home. Besides foundation cracks, damage can occur in basement floors and drywall. Protecting Your Home’s Foundation Over time, the pressure created by rapidly changing temperatures and moisture levels between seasons adds strain to your home’s foundation. Although the foundation’s concrete was designed to withstand this stress, sometimes the pressure becomes too much, and foundation damage occurs. Although you can’t do anything about seasonal temperature fluctuations, you can reduce the likelihood of summer foundation damage. The most effective strategy is to keep consistent moisture levels around your home. This can be achieved by watering the soil and the foundation itself when temperatures are greater than 90 degrees Fahrenheit. If you’d rather conserve water, strategic planting of your trees and bushes can help... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2024-01-31 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/repair-your-weeping-tile-system-with-high-pressure-flushing/ Over time, your home’s weeping tile system can become clogged with sediments, soil and more. However, having a clogged weeping tile system does not always mean that you need a replacement! High-pressure flushing provides an effective, more cost-efficient alternative. The Importance of a Properly Functioning Weeping Tile System Ensuring that your basement stays dry relies on your home’s weeping tile system. A weeping tile system acts as a drainage system that’s installed at the base of a foundation wall. Groundwater that accumulates along the building’s footing builds up pressure (known as hydrostatic pressure). Your weeping tile system’s purpose is to drain water away from your home before any moisture problems occur. Identifying when Your Weeping Tile System Needs Attention Sometimes, blockages in the form of clay, sediment, minerals and soil can build up throughout your weeping tile system. Wondering if this is the case at your home? Check for the following signs below: Inspect your basement or crawlspace for foundation wall cracks Check for leaks in your basement or crawlspace Pay attention to unusual odours – ie. musty or damp smells Look for mould or mildew on joists, walls and flooring; note stained or peeling drywall, panelling or paint and lifted flooring Check for water pooling around your home’s foundation and inside your window wells Ensure your sump pit is filling with water; if you notice basement moisture and the pit’s not filling, it’s a sign The best way to know if you have a weeping tile system problem is... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2025-06-27 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/how-to-complete-a-stone-foundation-wall-repair/ Your home’s foundation plays a pivotal role in keeping your home sound and stable. So, when you notice problems, it’s best to act fast to find a solution. Here’s what you need to do if you notice that your stone foundation wall requires repairs. Stone Foundations Often Found in Homes 100+ Years Old Modern concrete foundations involve pouring concrete in a single batch, which is not possible in homes featuring stone foundations. In stone foundations (or rubble foundations), mortar is the support that holds numerous stones together. Although they are meant to be strong and last many years, the joints between the stones often require repairs. If repairs are not completed right away, problems that start in the home’s foundation will eventually travel upwards – potentially causing massive damage. Setting the Groundwork for a Smooth Stone Foundation Repair To see exactly what you’ll be dealing with, you will first have to remove anything that blocks your view of the stone, even drywall. Like any repair work, having the right tools at your fingertips makes the job go that much easier. For a stone foundation repair, you’ll need a chisel, mortar, hydraulic cement, a trowel, spare stones and a vapour barrier. Now that your stone foundation wall is exposed, and your tools are gathered, you’re ready to begin repairs. Step #1: Complete an Inspection To find out which repairs are necessary, an initial inspection will need to be completed. Check the walls for signs of any damage. Are all the blocks... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2023-12-06 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/mold-growing-in-your-basement/ Your home’s basement can serve many purposes ranging from a simple space where you can do your laundry and store your Christmas decorations to the ultimate entertainment room. But, whatever you use your basement for, it is also the space that is most susceptible to mould. This is because sitting on your home’s foundation, the basement is the place in your home where water is most likely to seep into. Mould can grow gradually, so it can be easy to miss the signs – but in order to protect your property and your family, it is best you know what those signs are and inspect for them on a regular basis. So, how do you know if mould is starting to grow in your basement? Here are the three main signs to be on the lookout for. Musty Smell From Mould Are you greeted by a dank, musty odour whenever you venture down into your basement? That could be an indication that seen or unseen moisture is lingering behind walls or under the flooring. And where there is standing moisture, mould is not far behind. While basements are typically not known for being the best smelling parts of your home, they shouldn’t smell unpleasant either. If they do, you might want to start inspecting for areas where moisture may be finding its way into your home. Water Stains Every once in a while, it is a good idea to inspect your basement for water stains. No doubt you’ve seen those... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2024-10-30 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/why-are-my-walls-cracking/ Finding cracks in your home’s walls can quickly lead to worry. Right away, you may start thinking about the potential damage that could be created if a repair is not completed soon. Then your mind may start to estimate the cost involved with fixing the said cracks. But more than likely, you’re also wondering how the cracks got there in the first place. Here are four of the most common reasons why wall cracks may have appeared in your home. Wall Shrinkage Foundation Cracks Wall shrinkage foundation cracks usually appear wider at the top of the crack and then decrease in width as they travel vertically down the wall. They are predominately located below basement windows, above doors, at step-down areas and in the centre of long walls if control joints are absent. Normally uniform in width, they also can appear as V-shaped cracks. Although crack lengths vary, they stop before reaching the bottom of the wall. Shrinkage is formed due to a poor mix, drastic temperature change, rapid curing or improper or missing steel reinforcement during the concrete curing process. Wall Settling Cracks The most common wall settling crack displays vertically. These cracks are wider at the bottom and continue to increase in both length and width. Horizontal wall cracks commonly appear in concrete block construction. Although less common, diagonal cracks can arise at a corner of a concrete wall. Wall setting cracks are caused when there are poorly prepared foundation footings and improperly placed or omitted steel stabilizers.... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2023-12-06 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/my-parging-is-cracked/ Your home’s foundation is relied upon to keep you and your family safe. That’s why it’s important to fix any cracks that appear right away in the foundation’s parging. Here’s why parging cracks happen and what to do if they happen to you. What is Parging? Parging is made up of mortar and cement mix and is used to protect your foundation from the weather elements. This protective coating is applied to the foundation after it has been constructed. Other than acting as a moisture barrier, parging improves the appearance of your home’s walls. Although the parging usually is only visible above grade, it typically goes all the way down the wall to the footing. Why Do Parging Cracks Appear? Although used as a moisture barrier, parging itself can sometimes become wet. When this happens, the water inside the parging can freeze and expand – resulting in cracks. Parging reacts differently to the freeze/thaw cycle depending on whether that section of the wall is above or below the frost line. Above the frost line, the crack will appear due to both the parging and the adjoining soil freezing/thawing. When cracks appear in the parging, it is important to note whether the cracks appear in the parging or the foundation itself. If you’re uncertain, it’s best to consult with a foundation crack repair expert. How to Repair Parging Cracks Once you’ve determined that the cracks on your walls are from the parging itself, it’s time to start repairing them. Step 1:... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2024-01-31 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/how-to-protect-your-home-with-foundation-drainage-systems/ You reduce fire damage by keeping your smoke detectors in working order, and you stop roof damage from happening by getting your roof replaced. But did you know that homeowners usually overlook one of the leading causes of structural damage to a home? Expansive soil damage – one of the number one causes of structural damage to residential properties – can result in massive foundation issues. Here’s what you should know about proper foundation drainage systems to prevent this from happening at your home. Creating Your Home’s Foundation During a home’s construction phase, a flat surface for the foundation is produced using heavy machinery. When the foundation walls are built, there is a space left between the exterior edge of the foundation wall and the surrounding earth. Excavated dirt is commonly used by contractors as backfill material within this space. Whenever it rains, more water collects in this area of your foundation than anywhere else. Pressure is exerted against the foundation walls as the water accumulates. Without a proper foundation drainage system, the buildup of water will exit any way possible including through foundation wall cracks, the basement, or foundation wall-floor joints. Not only can thousands of dollars of damage occur, but the structural integrity of your home becomes compromised. Natural Foundation Drainage Systems Minimize Structural Damage After living in your home for several years, foundation soil grading might be necessary. When your home’s foundation begins to settle, a dip may be created around the foundation’s edge where water pools.... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2024-02-28 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/is-my-house-sinking/ Being a homeowner can mean challenges that are scary and costly, and one of those issues could be your home sinking into the ground. Sometimes the ground under and around a home can shift which can cause a house to sink over time. There will be signs if your home is sinking, but some homeowners might feel it’s not obvious until it’s too late. If you’re worried that your home might be sinking, here are a few signs to look for so you can address the issue sooner rather than later. Cracks in the walls When your home sinks, it is going to sink in some spots more quickly than others. If this happens, there will be an immense amount of pressure put on the walls and doorframes of your home. Eventually, cracks will surface on your walls. If you see random cracks in your paint and drywall around the house, it could mean your home is sinking. It’s important to keep an eye on the cracks and determine if they’re expanding over time. If the cracks are getting bigger, it’s worth it to consult a professional and determine the cause. Exterior Cracks Interior cracks on the walls might be a little more obvious, but there can be exterior cracks that form due to the unevenness of a sinking foundation. Exterior cracks can develop in the foundation, bricks or window frames when a home is sinking. It is important to take some time every season and walk around your house... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2024-01-31 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/soil-composition-and-your-homes-foundation/ You have probably heard that a house must be built on a solid foundation, but did you know that what’s underneath that foundation is equally if not more important? Different geographic areas have different types of soil, and some are better suited to building than others. Some soil compositions can shift and crumble around a home, and that can cause issues for the structure. Now, you can’t always control what type of soil your house is built on – but when you understand the kind of soil that you are dealing with, you will be better prepared to protect against potential problems that may be associated with that type of soil. Here are the most common types of soil and what you need to know about them. Clay Clay soil does not drain well. During the spring when there is a large amount of rainfall, puddles can remain for a long time as the soil becomes saturated with water. When the weather is dry, clay tends to contract and crack. Clay soil may result in a home’s foundation shifting as the soil expands and contracts. Homeowners should also take measures to ensure water is drained away from their home as clay tends to hold on to water. Rock Various types of rock such as limestone, bedrock and sandstone can be good for building on because of the support and stability that they provide. It is a good option for foundations provided that the rock is level. Like clay, rocky soil... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2024-02-27 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/the-fundamental-problem-with-window-wells-and-how-we-can-help/ Window wells can be an excellent solution for allowing natural light into an otherwise gloomy basement, but they are not without their problems. While you may appreciate having the extra light while you are doing a load of laundry or working out in your makeshift gym, certain issues may make you wish that you could trade in your window wells for some artificial light for the basement instead. If you have window wells in your home, you are no doubt familiar with how easily they can fill up the leaves, debris and even critters. Window wells can be tricky to clean because they require you to reach down below ground level causing frustration and often an achy back. But there is a worse potential problem with window wells – and that’s water. Unlike the glass in an aquarium, windows are not designed to be completely leak-proof, so if your window wells are not draining properly, the result could be water leaking into your basement. This could end up damaging drywall, flooring and other items in your basement and it could even be the beginning of some pretty serious foundation problems. Frequently, when people notice that water is entering their basement through the window wells, they have their windows replaced needlessly. The spend time and money only to become frustrated when they realize that replacing their windows hasn’t solved the problem. The actual problem had to do with the window well drainage system – or lack thereof. Maintenance of window wells... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2024-01-11 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/what-to-expect-during-a-foundation-repair/ The last thing a homeowner wants to hear is that they have foundation damage, but the truth is the sooner an issue is caught and addressed, the less costly it will be to repair. The extent of work needed to complete a foundation repair varies from home to home depending on several factors including how much the ground is shifting around the house, the age of the home and how early the problem was addressed. There are, however, a few things that you should expect in almost any foundation repair. 1) Permits and Permissions must all be in place first If you suspect foundation problems, it is important to have your foundation inspected as soon as possible, but that doesn’t mean that work will begin immediately. Since foundation repair is an involved process, there are several permits and permissions that have to be in place first. When you hire Conterra Foundation to conduct your foundation repair, we will take care of this for you including getting any necessary engineering reports, municipal permits and permissions from utility companies. 2) There will be some degree of “mess. ” Conducting a foundation repair typically involves excavating the property surrounding the home, and unfortunately, this is going to mean the homeowner will have to put up with a certain amount of mess while the repair is taking place. This can include dust and debris, holes and piles of dirt on the property, and holes in concrete, flooring and decks. At Conterra Foundations, we will... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2024-01-31 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/how-serious-are-my-ceiling-cracks/ You’re inside your home, relaxing on the couch when you look up and notice cracks in your ceiling. Before you start to panic, know that many homes have ceiling cracks caused by a home’s natural settling. As such, not all ceiling cracks are problematic – some are merely age-related. Here’s how to determine whether your ceiling cracks are caused by structural damage or are purely cosmetic. Inspect the Cracks The size, direction, location and colour of a ceiling crack can provide a lot of clues about whether your ceiling cracks are severe or not. In general, cracks more substantial than 1/16 inches wide are indicative of structural damage. Spiderweb cracks are a common type of crack caused by a home’s natural ageing process. Other than the ceiling, this type of crack can be found on walls, floors, grout joints and concrete slabs and, if small, are mainly cosmetic in nature. Use a thin layer of drywall compound to conceal this type of blemish. Matching vertical cracks are located along the same line in both the ceiling and down the wall. Normally caused by a weak wall stud or the settling of a home over time, matching vertical cracks can be severe and need to be addressed by a professional. Horizontal cracks between interior walls and the ceiling can indicate truss uplift. To repair this issue permanently, the drywall panels need to be attached to clips or blocks on top of interior wall plates instead of nailed or screwed to the... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2024-10-30 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/how-to-keep-your-basement-flood-free/ Your finished basement is your pride and joy after spending thousands of dollars converting your concrete dungeon into a comfortable living space. The last thing you need is a tidal pool of groundwater or sewage infiltrating your newly refinished living quarters. If your basement has ever flooded or experienced any water damage, this can be extremely stressful. A heavy downpour over days can develop into a flash flood. A cresting creek can transform your new carpeting into a massive, mouldy sponge. It’s important to remember that your basement isn’t "finished" without some flood prevention steps. These are prevention actions to protect your home when flooding does occur. It’s also important that you have an emergency plan to provide for your family's welfare until you can return to your home. With a few simple maintenance tips and a few layers of protection, you can adequately safeguard your family, property and can greatly reduce your risk of flooding. Here are seven ways you can prevent basement flooding Clean & Maintain Gutters & Downspouts: Cleaning your gutters and maintaining your downspouts is an essential part of maintaining your home. By keeping your gutters free of debris and ensuring downspouts are properly positioned away from the foundation, water from rain and storms will flow freely, rather than pooling up against your home. Properly Landscape Your Yard: The slope of your yard, or the shape of your flower bed, could be contributing to your water issues. If the slope of your yard directs water towards... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2025-05-08 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/are-foundation-repairs-covered-by-homeowners-insurance/ Wear and tear of your foundation (such as soil shifting and causing cracks) is typically not covered by home insurance. However storm damage or flood damage might be covered depending on your policy, insurance provider and if you have signed up for that particular coverage. Events that may have caused foundation damage, such as a fire, explosion, or perhaps a car veering off the road and crashing into your home may be covered. Be certain to read your fine print. In a lot of instances, you'll need to be proactive in these situations to get proper coverage. For example, for storm damage you might be required to have a battery backup sump pump, in case you experience a power outage during a storm. Furthermore, for flood damage, your provider may not provide you coverage they access most of the water came in through cracks in your foundation that should have been fixed years ago. With weather patterns getting more volatile in Canada, flood insurance is becoming more popular, we've had several flash floods in downtown Hamilton and Dundas this past decade, as well as in Burlington where many homes are located along Lake Ontario. Types of Foundation Damage Although a home’s foundation plays a pivotal role in keeping a home upright, strong and dry, many homeowners don’t even consider it until a structural issue appears. And when it appears, it’s never good. Whether it’s cracking, sinking/subsiding or showing other types of damage, a foundation issue can lead to extensive structural... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2024-10-30 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/four-major-signs-of-a-bad-foundation/ Foundation damage is never good but can be lessened if the problem is detected at its onset. Here are some of the most common tell-tale signs of a bad foundation and what do if you notice them in your home: #1) Wall Cracks and Fractures As a house settles in its early years, it’s common for tiny hairline cracks (approximately 1/16” in size) to develop in the foundation or on the brick exterior of your home. Although wall cracks that run vertically aren’t usually an issue, large cracks and horizontal cracks are a particular cause for concern. These problematic cracks are serious and indicate that your home’s foundation is either under a lot of pressure or there is excessive settling occurring. Soil expansion and contraction, inclement weather and improper building, can often be to blame for foundation crack problems. Problematic fractures that occur in brick exteriors are usually located near the corner of exteriors and run vertically. Bricks that protrude from the wall could also indicate a foundation problem. Sometimes, fractures don’t indicate foundation damage; however, it’s still best to get them examined by a foundation expert. #2) Foundation Settling or Sinking Poor construction techniques involving improperly compacted soils are often to blame for foundation movement. When a foundation becomes increasingly out of level, a sinking or settlement issue may be the cause. Although less likely, your home may have been built on a sinkhole. Uneven sinking that starts small can quickly settle into the earth two to four inches.... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2023-12-06 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/signs-of-weeping-tile-problems-in-hamilton-ontario/ When your weeping tile system is working correctly, your home is protected from structural instability, foundation cracks and possible basement leaks. But when it fails, it’s not long before you will find yourself in significant trouble during a heavy Hamilton rain or flood. Here are the major warning signs to look for in your weeping tile system and what to do if you notice any weeping tile damage. What is a Weeping Tile? Unlike the name suggests, a weeping tile is a six-inch plastic pipe with several small holes or slits. Located along your home’s footing and around its outer edge, it’s responsible for collecting water from the soil near your foundation wall and taking it to the sump pump pit. Sometimes they stop working properly. A common cause of clogging in weeping tile is tree roots. Debris such as soil can also get trapped in the pipes and create blockages over time. As weeping tiles age, damage and misalignment can occur. Regardless of how your weeping tile damage was caused, it will soon lead to a major flood if left unrepaired. Signs of Weeping Tile Problems When mildew forms or stagnant water collects in your weeping tile system, a musty smell will develop. Mould or mildew may also form on walls and flooring, so check for stained or peeling drywall. When water doesn’t drain away from your home quickly enough, your foundation will come under pressure. This can lead to horizontal, vertical or diagonal walls cracks in your basement... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2024-10-30 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/basement-parging-in-the-greater-hamilton-area/ It is no secret that homes in Burlington, Hamilton and surrounding areas are subject to a lot of abuse from the elements. Heavy rains and melting snow often lead to damp basements that can result in all kinds of damage. There are a number of things that homeowners can do to help keep their homes dry and to prevent moisture from seeping into their basements, which can potentially lead to mould, mildew and other damage. One common technique for protecting a home’s basement from moisture is basement parging. What is basement parging? Basement parging is a protective coating that is applied to the portion of your home’s foundation that is above the ground. This coating may be applied either to the exterior or interior of the home. Many homeowners mistakenly think that parging is for cosmetic purposes because it covers up cracks and imperfections in a home’s foundation. But while parging may indeed make a home look better, that is not its primary purpose. Parging protects foundation walls and stone and block walls from the elements using a masonry-based mortar. Is basement parging the same as waterproofing? Although basement parging does help to protect your home from moisture, it is not the same as waterproofing and parging alone is not sufficient to keep your home dry. Waterproofing generally requires excavation around your home’s foundation and may be necessary if you are having severe problems with leaks coming into your basement. Who should you hire for basement parging? Although basement parging... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2024-02-28 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/expansive-soil-and-your-foundation/ Of all the things that can have a negative impact on your home’s foundation in the Hamilton and Burlington area, perhaps one of the worst is something called expansive soil. Expansive soil is soil that changes depending on how much moisture there is. When the soil is very wet, it expands. And when the soil dries again, it contracts. As you can imagine, this can wreak havoc on your home’s foundation. How do I know if I have expansive soil? One of the most obvious characteristics of expansive soil is that it either develops large cracks or a popcorn-like texture when it is dry. It is often clay-like and feels sticky to the touch when it is wet, and it becomes hard and brittle when it is dry. Unfortunately, it is not as easy to identify as you might assume because the lack of these characteristics does not necessarily mean that your soil is not expansive. Since expansive soil is quite common in valleys and areas that were once covered by water, it can be found throughout the Hamilton and Burlington area. To know for certain whether you have expansive soil, you may need to hire a soil expert who can perform a test, or if a test has been performed in the past, you may be able to get the information from your municipality. Can expansive soil be controlled? In order to control expansive soil around your home’s foundation, you need to be able to control how much water... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2023-11-07 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/foundation-crack-repair-cost-hamilton/ When Hamilton and Burlington homeowners hear (or suspect) that they need foundation repair, they are often fearful that the repairs are going to be more than they can afford. While foundation repair can be expensive however it doesn’t necessarily have to break the bank. The repairs vary widely in cost depending on exactly what needs to be done. Since prices range so greatly, we can’t tell you in a blog what your foundation repair will cost, but we can give you an idea of some of the factors involved in determining the price. Structural vs. Non-Structural Damage Small non-structural damage is the least expensive damage to repair. Signs of non-structural damage are very thin vertical or diagonal cracks in the basement walls or floors. This type of repair typically costs a few hundred dollars depending on how many cracks need to be filled. If you need to replace the basement floor, this can cost several hundred more. Structural damage is more serious and more costly. Indicators of structural damage include horizontal cracks in the walls, cracked tiles, uneven flooring and windows and doors that stick. You may need to get a report by a structural engineer and or a soil analyst and foundation repairs for structural damage usually require piering or underpinning. The cost of repairs will depend on the size of your home and how much labour is required. Major foundation repairs also require some degree of excavation around your home and may require disturbing or removing shrubs, flowers... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2023-11-07 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/block-foundation-problems-hamilton/ There are many homes throughout Hamilton and Burlington that have block foundations. Cement block foundations are excellent for supporting a heavy vertical load, but unfortunately, they don’t do nearly as well when there is a horizontal load pushing against these blocks. Because many homes with cement block foundations used to be built without reinforcement, they are susceptible to movement. This means certain problems can occur which may require block foundation repair. The following is a list of some of the most common cement block foundation problems that we see in Hamilton and Burlington homes: Bowed foundation walls Usually, this happens when there is very wet clay soil surrounding the foundation. The clay soil exerts too much pressure against the block foundation and walls will begin to bow inward. It is important to catch and repair this kind of problem early. At Conterra Foundation, we recommend reinforcing these bowed walls to prevent further bowing. Sheared foundation walls A sheared foundation wall is when the second row of blocks begins to edge over the first row of blocks. If you notice this starting to happen (and it can be by as little as an eighth of an inch), it means the exterior soil is moving the blocks. In this scenario, you will need a structural engineer to make sure that too much damage hasn’t been done. As long as the damage is minimal, we will be able to begin a foundation repair, which will require some excavation around the exterior of the... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2024-02-28 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/french-drains-keep-water-away-from-your-home/ French Drains are a popular way to divert water away from your home. This subsurface drainage system is often used when a lawn is prone to flooding or if you have a feature like a pond and drainage is required. Believe it or not, this effective means of drainage has been around for thousands of years! French drains can be found on many properties throughout Hamilton because they are so effective in keeping water away from your home which helps protect your foundation and basement. Damp basements can be a big problem because they can lead to the growth of hazardous mould, rot and even structural damage in severe cases. Conterra Foundation Specializes French Drains If your yard is one that floods easily, or if you have a source of water that has the potential to run toward your home, then having a French drain installed is worth considering as an alternative to open ditches or storm sewers. At Conterra Foundation, our experts specialize in all forms of waterproofing, including installing French Drains. Our meticulous professionals are committed to providing a top-quality job every time to ensure customer satisfaction. Basic Set-Up The basic set up of a French drain starts with a trench that is sloped away from the house. A perforated pipe is inserted into the trench with the holes facing down into the gravel. When there is an abundance of rain, and the water table rises, the water will enter the pipe from underground and be diverted away... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2024-02-28 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/corner-wall-repair-in-hamilton-and-burlington/ Conterra Foundation has been serving homeowners in Burlington and Hamilton for nearly 20 years, repairing foundations, waterproofing and fixing concrete walls. And at Conterra Foundation, we have the knowledge and technology to repair the damage that may be occurring in your corner walls. Over the years, the technology for repairing corner walls has changed. The old way involved using steel I-beams, and while this method is still appropriate in some situations, newer and better methods have emerged. Using carbon fibre for corner wall repair in Hamilton and Burlington One of the best methods of repairing corner walls is to use carbon fibre. And our team of professionals use Rhino brand, which is a top of the line carbon fibre repair kit. The Rhino Carbon Fibre Corner Wall Repair Kit strengthens damaged corner walls with its 560 GSM bidirectional or 400 GSM unidirectional carbon fibre straps. The kit ensures that you’ll have a strong bond with your wall’s concrete or masonry with its RCF Saturant Adhesive Spray. Compared to old methods, the installation of carbon fibre is quick and easy. The area where the carbon fibre strip is to be applied is ground flat, and then a high-strength epoxy is applied. The strip is then embedded to the wall to strengthen it. The completed repair is hardly noticeable once it has been painted, and it does not take up any additional space inside your home. To ensure the stability of your home’s foundation, it is necessary that the finished corner wall... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2023-12-06 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/causes-of-basement-flooding/ Dealing with a wet basement is a homeowner’s worst nightmare. Flooded basements can require a lot of time and work to repair – not to mention expense. To avoid having a flooded basement in the first place, it’s best to complete prevention measures. Here are some of the most common causes of basement flooding. Faulty Basement Equipment If your home has a sump pump, excess water can be safely pumped out and away from the foundation. However, that’s only possible when the sump pump is working properly. When a sump pump’s faulty or fails, the groundwater surrounding the foundation can increase and eventually spill onto the basement floor. Like a sump pump, a faulty hot water tank or water supply-line can also lead to flooding issues. When hot water tanks get old or are installed incorrectly, cracks can occur, leading to hundreds of gallons of water spilling onto your basement floor. Downspout and Gutter Debris Used to direct water away from your home and its foundation, gutters only work properly when they are clear of remains. When leaves, twigs, and other debris clog up the gutter system, water is prevented from moving off the roof, through the downspout, and away from your home. If your downspouts aren’t properly installed at least five to six feet away from the basement wall, water can pool next to your home and slowly seep into your basement. Having your property graded will ensure the water from your downspouts ends up where it should. Overflowing... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2024-02-27 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/brick-foundation-repair/ While most of the newer homes in the Hamilton and Burlington area have foundations that are made from cement or cinder blocks, some older homes have brick foundations. Brick foundations, when constructed properly, can be incredibly strong and durable however, you need to keep in mind that most homes with brick foundations are going to be 75 years old or older. Brick foundations were extremely popular in the early 1900s, and these are now reaching the end of their lifecycle. At some point, you can expect that a brick foundation repair will be necessary. But how do you know if your home is in need of a brick foundation repair? Here are three telltale signs. Vertical Cracks in Foundations Vertical cracks are most commonly caused by a home settling. Although this is the least serious type of damage, it should not be ignored. Over time cracks can become worse, and as they deepen, you could experience problems with flooding or mould. Brick foundations especially are susceptible to this kind of damage because of the pressure caused on the mortar areas, which are weaker than the brick. Cracks start out small, but as they grow worse, they can actually cause the walls to rotate. Step Cracks Cracks that look like a set of stairs are called step cracks. These indicate that the soil around the foundation is moving, which can be caused either by soil that is too loosely packed or by dirt that has poor drainage. You will require a... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2024-02-27 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/crawl-space-repair-in-hamilton-and-burlington/ Most people in the Hamilton and Burlington area don’t give much thought to their crawl space. But if you are noticing that your home has a musty odour or that insects seem to appear in your home from out of nowhere, your crawlspace could be the problem. For homes that do not have a basement, the crawl space is an important feature – particularly in damp areas. It raises the home about 1 to 3 feet off the ground to help keep it dry. It can also be where important features of the home are kept such as the HVAC system and plumbing – making for easy access for repairs, etc. But when water gets into a crawl space and it becomes damp, it can lead to mould and mildew which can irritate health conditions like asthma and allergies. If left unattended, it can also lead to other damage within the home which can be costly to repair. At Conterra Foundation and Repair, we are experts in crawl space repair. If you’ve noticed that your crawl space has become damp or has a strange smell, it is important to get it assessed and repaired as soon as possible so that water can be diverted away from it. Remember, that keeping your crawl space in good repair will help to prolong the life your home’s foundation as well! Crawl space waterproofing in Burlington and Hamilton If your crawl space needs repair, the team at Conterra will likely recommend one of the... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2024-02-27 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/how-to-install-a-sump-pump/ A sump pump can be a useful tool to help keep your home dry and divert water away from it. While you can hire a professional to install the sump pump in your Hamilton home, this is a job that you can do yourself if you are comfortable with DIY projects. The following are the steps you, or a professional, will have to take to install a sump pump. Find the Right Location Before installing a sump pump, you need to find the right location for it. You will need to find a location where the water collects in your home, as the point of the pump is to get rid of the water. You will need to make sure the location is close enough to a Ground Fault Interrupter Outlet. If you don’t have one in the area where water collects, you can have an electrician come into your home and install one for you. Dig the Sump Pit You will need to dig a hole that is about 6 inches deeper and 10 inches wider than the pump itself. Then you should place about 3 inches of gravel or other stones in the bottom of the hole and place the pump into the hole. After you do this, and the sump is placed in the hole appropriately, you’ll begin to put more gravel around it. You need to leave a couple of inches at the top of it exposed. Once you’ve done this, you’re going to be getting... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2024-11-15 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/what-you-should-know-about-cracked-foundation-inspections/ Cracks in a home’s foundation are not uncommon, but they can be worrying for homeowners in the Hamilton area. Are these cracks normal? Do they indicate that there is a larger problem that possibly requires a costly repair? The only way to know for sure is to have a foundation inspection. What is involved in a foundation inspection? The home foundation inspector starts by walking around the foundation looking for signs of problems. They will look not just at the foundation itself but places where things like tree roots and water runoff could be causing issues. Once inside, the inspector will look for problems in the foundation wall such as cracks, bulges, divots and signs of water damage. Signs you need a foundation inspection If you notice any of these signs, it is advised that you get a foundation inspection: Large cracks on the exterior of the home. Cracked drywall – especially if the cracks are in a zigzag pattern. Uneven floors Cracks above doorways Doors and windows that are pulling away from the frame. Prevention is the best cure Although it can be worrisome if you notice a crack or other problem in the foundation of your Hamilton or Niagara area home, it is best not to avoid the issue. Rather than try to convince yourself that the crack is a result of settling and nothing more, it is always best to have it evaluated by a professional. Either you will learn that the crack truly is nothing to... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2024-10-30 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/are-window-wells-a-good-idea/ Now that the days are getting cooler, it’s hard to ignore that winter is definitely on its way to the Burlington and Hamilton area. With winter’s darkness also arriving, you may be looking for ways to bring more light into your house. Window wells may be just what you’re looking for – but it’s important to know all the facts before deciding for sure. What Are Window Wells? A window well is a solid barrier around a basement window positioned via a semi-circular excavation. Constructed out of metal, masonry, plastic, or wood, window wells can be great for allowing more light into a dark basement. However, they can cause some problems if they’re not properly installed and maintained. Potential Problems Created by Window Wells While this may seem like an inconvenience for some homeowners, window wells have to be cleaned often since they are prone to fill up with leaves, small critters, and/or debris. There is the potential for a bigger problem, too – water damage. As one may expect, windows are not designed to be completely leak-proof. If they’re not draining properly, you could end up having water leak into your basement. This could eventually lead to damaged drywall, flooring, or even foundation problems. Solving Common Window Well Problems One of the easiest ways to prevent any problems caused by your window wells is to ensure you’re completing proper maintenance. This means regularly inspecting and cleaning them before too much debris accumulates. To reduce the amount of cleaning required,... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2023-11-07 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/why-proper-landscaping-is-important-for-your-homes-foundation/ You may put a lot of work into ensuring the interior of your home is in excellent condition, but do you apply that same level of care to the outside of your home? Taking proper care of the exterior of your house is just as important as the inside – and one good place to start is with the landscape. Proper landscaping is vital for your home’s foundation, and a good foundation is essential for your home's general functionality. What is Proper Landscaping? According to Dictionary. com, the definition of landscaping is “to improve the appearance of (an area of land, a highway, etc. ), as by planting trees, shrubs, or grass, or altering the contours of the ground. ” What classifies as proper landscaping may be different depending on who you ask. However, all homeowners should note that some landscaping choices can potentially cause damage while others can protect your property. In general, ensuring your property is properly landscaped is crucial for regulating the temperature of your home, keeping moisture out, and keeping your home stable. One of the most common culprits that will negatively impact the foundation of a home is water. Luckily, there are some landscaping tips you can employ to minimize the risk of foundation water damage. Ground Sloping One way to prevent water from hurting your home is to landscape your property with a small slant of at least six inches over a distance of 10 feet (with your foundation being at the higher level).... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2024-01-11 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/can-foundation-issues-really-be-fixed/ Perhaps no words strike fear into a Hamilton homeowner's heart than the words “foundation issues. ” When they hear these words, most people immediately imagine the worst-case scenario – their home falling apart around them. Thankfully, most foundation issues can be fixed – although the cost to do so will vary depending on the extent of the damage. How to tell if your home has foundation issues. If you suspect that your Hamilton home has foundation issues, here are a few telltale signs that to look for: Cracks on the walls and floors – while it is normal for homes to develop tiny cracks in the basement over the first couple of years, horizontal cracks and cracks larger than 1/16th of an inch could indicate a problem. Sagging or uneven floors or ceilings – if you notice this, there is a good chance that your home has a foundation problem. Slab leaks – this occurs when there is a leaky pipe in the home’s foundation. When the pipes leak, water can back up under the slab. You may not notice this happening at first, but if your water bill is going up when your usage isn’t, this may be the cause. Other signs include the sound of running water and warm spots on the floor. Damage to exterior walls – any damage occurring to the exterior walls could be a sign of a problem. In particular, pay attention to crumbling brick or cement. Sticky windows and doors – When a... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2025-06-27 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/can_a_house_collapse_from_foundation_issues/ Few words strike fear into the hearts of Hamilton homeowners as the words “foundation damage. ” At best, you may be thinking there are some unexpected repair bills ahead, and certainly, a fair bit of inconvenience as the foundation repair crew works to stabilize your home. At worst, you may have visions of your home falling down on top of you. But is this a concern? Here is what you need to know. Will my house collapse? No, it probably won’t. Homebuilders in the Hamilton area are incredibly conscientious and built their homes in accordance with Ontario building regulations. Homes in the area are designed to withstand a number of stresses, including weather, erosion, and even minor tremors. Even if one of your basement walls were to collapse, it would be unlikely to take out the entire house. It would, however, cause significant structural damage. It could also damage your plumbing and cause extreme water damage. It would certainly be unsafe for you and your family to continue living in your home until the structural engineer could properly assess the damage. What are the warning signs of foundation damage? There are several warning signs that Hamilton homeowners can look for that would indicate that there may be issues with the foundation. These include: Cracks located on the exterior of the home. Windows and doors that “stick” or do not open and close easily. Cracks in the drywall around windows and doors. Long cracks in basement or crawl space walls. Bowing... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2025-04-08 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/code-for-egress-windows/ If you are a homeowner in the Hamilton or Burlington area – and your home has a full basement – then you should strongly consider installing egress windows for your basement. Egress windows are simply windows that can be easily opened from the inside without keys or tools. Basement egress windows are beneficial for several reasons. First, they allow light into your basement, which makes it nicer for you and your family to spend time in the basement – but even more importantly, they can be used as an emergency exit if necessary. Ontario Building Code Means of Egress Because of their importance, it is no surprise that egress windows are heavily regulated by the Ontario Building Code. For example, every bedroom in your home must have an egress window – so if you are planning to add a bedroom or apartment to your basement, it will be necessary to ensure that you have egress windows installed. According to the building code, egress windows must meet the following criteria: They must be easy to open from the inside without the use of tools. They must open to a minimum area of 0. 35 m2. Each dimension of the opening must be at least 380 mm. Must be able to stay open without the need for added support. The sill height cannot be more than one metre (the exception to this rule is egress windows in basements). For egress windows that have window wells (i. e. , egress windows in basements),... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2023-11-07 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/does-foundation-repair-require-a-permit/ If you require repairs to the foundation of your Hamilton home, you may be wondering whether or not you will need to obtain a permit from the city before work can commence. Generally speaking, minor repair work such as waterproofing does not require a permit however other more extensive repairs, such as those that require excavation and underpinning do. If a contractor ever tries to tell you that this kind of work does not require a permit, it should be a big red flag. If you are employing a reputable contractor such as Conterra Foundation & Repair, they will be able to tell you whether or not your specific foundation repair will require a permit, and most contractors will even apply for the permit on your behalf. Why getting a permit for foundation repair is important: A permit ensures that the job is going to be performed safely and be done according to the Ontario Building Code. Foundation repair can do a lot to increase the value of your home – but only if that repair is properly permitted. If you begin a foundation repair on your home and you do not have a permit, the City of Hamilton enforcement officers could insist that all work be ceased until the proper permits are obtained. And you do not want to find yourself in a situation where excavation has begun around your home, and the project suddenly gets delayed by several days or even weeks while you work to resolve the... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2024-01-11 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/waterproofing-vs-damp-proofing/ When it comes to repairing your home or even taking preventative measures to avoid damages, you may have heard the terms waterproofing and damp-proofing. Both of them involve keeping the moisture out of your home, but they aren't the same thing, and there are important differences to make sure your Hamilton home stays dry. Here's what you need to know about the differences in waterproofing and damp-proofing your home. What is damp-proofing? Damp-proofing has been done on buildings for decades and is often mistakenly referred to as waterproofing. This technique keeps soil moisture out of the basement of your home using a coating process. The coating is often asphalt-based and can either be applied by hand (painted on) or sprayed onto the exterior basement walls. In many residential developments and newly built homes, this technique isn't as common, but it can still be an effective treatment in many situations. What is waterproofing? The process of waterproofing a home is very similar to what happens during damp-proofing, but it's much more thorough in making sure that soil moisture and liquid moisture don't get into the home. Waterproofing can expand to bridge any cracks in the home's foundation and prevent water from getting into the basement. Waterproofing is easiest when building a new home as the soil around your foundation is already dug up. When retrofitting a house with waterproofing methods, things get a little trickier. For example, decks, air conditioners, trees and landscaping can get in the way, slowing down the... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2024-10-30 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/what-is-polyurethane-crack-injection/ If you are a homeowner in Hamilton that has noticed cracks in your basement walls, you may be worried about what the cost of repairs will be. But before you start to panic, take a breath. The cost may be less than you think if the job is suitable for polyurethane crack injection. What is polyurethane injection? Polyurethane injection is a method of repairing basement cracks that works by injecting cracks with a foam rubber seal. This method works best on concrete walls and slabs, but is not suitable for block construction. It is the most cost-effective means of repairing leaking basement cracks provided that the basement is unfinished and that the cracks are easily accessible (no excavation required). When injected into a crack, the polyurethane provides a permanent seal to keep out leaks. How does polyurethane crack injection work? We start by drilling angled holes into the wall on one side of the crack, which are approximately 4 inches deep. The idea is for the hole to pass through the crack approximately in the centre of the width of the wall. These holes are drilled along the length of the crack, and nylon injection points are installed in each hole. The next phase is to use a high-pressure pump to force water and acid into the crack. This cleans out any loose debris. The crack is then flushed out with water again before we inject the polyurethane. As the polyurethane reacts with the water inside the crack, it begins... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2024-02-27 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/prevent-crawl-space-pipes-from-freezing/ If you live in an older home in Hamilton or Burlington, it is possible that you may have a crawl space. And if you do, then one of the problems that you must try to avoid, it to have the water pipes within that crawl space freeze, as this can lead to flooding and other plumbing issues that may be expensive to repair. The reason why water pipes in crawl spaces are so prone to freezing is that these spaces allow cold air in to circulate around the pipes. The good news is, there are some simple steps that homeowners in Hamilton and Burlington can take to help prevent freezing of these pipes. How to Prevent Frozen Pipes: Crawl spaces have vents built into them, which you can open and close. When you know that the temperature is going to drop or be cold for some time, be sure to close these vents. Then, when the weather is warmer, you can open these vents back up to allow for air circulation and help prevent excess humidity. You can also help prevent freezing by insulating your pipes. Foam pipe insulation can be purchased at your local hardware store. It is inexpensive and can be effective in preventing freezing. If your kitchen sink is located near an outside wall, a simple trick is to open the cupboard door while there is a threat of freezing. In doing so, you will be allowing warm air from the house to circulate around the pipes,... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2024-02-27 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/when-is-exterior-basement-waterproofing-necessary/ When it comes to a homeowner’s worst nightmare, having their basement flood is near the top of the list. Besides being messy and inconvenient, a basement flood can cause significant damage – and extensive repair costs. One of the best ways to prevent a flood from happening is by completing exterior basement waterproofing. Here’s what you should know about this process and how it can help prevent a disaster from happening in the first place. Exterior Basement Waterproofing and Foundation Repair Whether you have seepage or dampness occurring through your basement walls, exterior foundation waterproofing is a great solution. The process involves applying an application of a quality multi-layer foundation seal. The protection is multi-layer, consisting of hydraulic cement, Portland cement, self-adhesive elastomeric membrane, and dimpled Delta-MS membrane. It spans from grade level down to the foundation footing or somewhere deeper than the basement floor. The end result eliminates the opportunity for water and moisture to permeate through the basement walls – something that’s not possible with an interior de-watering method. When To Consider Basement Waterproofing If possible, you should waterproof the exterior walls of your basement when building your home. If your house is older and you are unsure if the external walls have been treated with external waterproofing, here are some signs to consider: Water Stains Staining on the basement floors or walls is an indication of water damage. One of these causes is groundwater seeping through basement wall cracks – and should be addressed immediately. Unpleasant Odours... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2024-01-31 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/which-basement-waterproofing-system-is-best/ One of the most overwhelming things to deal with as a homeowner is a leaky basement. There are many temporary fixes, but when there’s a big rain or the snow melts in the spring, you may find there are some places where water is getting in, and your basement is damp again. Taking the time to research your waterproofing options as a Hamilton homeowner can save you a lot of money in the long run and keep your basement dry so you can enjoy all of the space your home has to offer. There are generally three approaches to waterproofing a basement – so how do you choose the best one for you? Here’s what you need to know. Cracked Basement Wall Injections This solution involves injecting sealants and/or epoxy into the cracks of your basement/foundation. This kind of solution is usually considered to be a band-aid solution to a leaky foundation and is much more budget-friendly for homeowners who may not have the money available to install a complete drainage system. When not done properly, one of the problems commonly experienced with this solution is that epoxy can crack when the foundations expands and contracts with the weather. Thankfully, there are solutions which uses a flexible sealant in combination with an impermeable membrane to prevent these leaks from happening with the changes in weather. This system can be a holdover for a drainage system – but it is important to also consider installing a drainage system. Interior Drainage for... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2023-12-06 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/does-basement-waterproofing-increase-home-value/ When it comes to making home improvements, you likely want the biggest bang for your buck – especially if you’ll be selling soon. To help select the best renovations to complete, you’ll want to think about which ones will provide you with the biggest Return on Investment (ROI). Potential home buyers want to feel confident that a prospective home is protected from water damage. With basements being one of the most common places for water leaks to occur, getting your basement waterproofed is a great selling feature. It’s also a great way to increase the value of your home! Here’s why you should consider completing exterior foundation waterproofing. It Strengthens Your Property’s Foundation Being surrounded by wet earth, basements are susceptible to water damage – and this damage is not always apparent right away. Over time, some water can create slow, subtle damage that can cause expensive repairs and create a structurally weak home. Well-sealed foundations, coupled with a good backup system and sump pump, create stronger foundations. They’re less likely to shift and crack during inclement weather, such as sweltering heat and frigid temperatures. Prevent any shifting by fortifying your foundation with steel or concrete underpinnings. It Adds Additional Living Space Waterproofing your basement creates another functional floor in your home for your family to spend time. This additional living space can be used for many possibilities – including another bedroom, family living room, playroom, or entertainment area. It’s a great area for a wine cellar, food storage pantry,... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2024-01-31 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/how-long-does-foundation-repair-last/ If you’ve ever experienced a foundation problem such as bowed walls or massive wall cracks, you’ll want to ensure it never happens again. Fortunately, there are long-term foundation repair solutions available that should last a minimum of a few decades and come with a lifetime warranty. Here’s what you should know about getting a quality foundation repair that will last. Choosing the Best Foundation Repair Method If the proper repair method is chosen – and done right – your foundation problem should be eliminated for years to come. When you hire a foundation expert, they’ll be able to recommend the best repair method for your foundation problem. Common repair methods include the following: Epoxy Fills If you’re a DIY homeowner, epoxy fills may be tempting to complete on any foundation issue spotted. Although they’re great at repairing hairline cracks and other minor surface damage for at least five years, more extensive damage requires an alternate repair method. Carbon Fiber Straps/Wall Anchors Repairing a bowed wall is commonly done with a heavy-duty carbon fibre strap/wall anchor. They’re suitable for poured concrete foundation walls, brick and mortar, and cinder block walls. Polyurethane Lift Injecting polyurethane foam into the ground below the damaged foundation can help restore the foundation to a level position. Being a permanent solution, it doesn’t deteriorate or weaken over time. Helical Piers When a foundation supports less weight, such as a porch or garage, helical piers are commonly used as a repair method. These giant, screw-like solutions twist into... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2024-01-31 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/can-tree-roots-cause-foundation-problems/ You’ve recently bought a new home with an abundance of beautiful trees on your property. As much as you may love trees, you worry when they’re too close to your home. After all, won’t their roots lead to costly foundation problems? Although it’s common to think that tree roots can damage a foundation, they’re actually not the true culprit – it’s the surrounding soil. Here’s what you should know about tree roots and their potential effects on your home’s foundation. How Trees and Soil Interact Like any other living organism, trees need water to survive. To receive this water, they extract it from the soil surrounding them. Depending on the soil type on your property, this action can lead to extensive soil shrinkage. Clay soil is especially well-known for this, particularly during long periods of dry weather. That’s because it expands substantially when wet, placing extensive pressure against foundation walls and creating foundation cracks. A contraction can cause a separation from the supporting soil around or under a foundation during dry weather. As a result, the foundation settles unevenly and leads to cracks. Tree Roots and Foundation Settlement Mature tree growth underneath the foundation structure can create foundation settlement. Depending on how significant this movement is, the overall stability of your home may be at risk. Support beams can shift, walls may sink or crack, and ceilings can become uneven. Luckily, there are ways to repair foundation damage, including installing certain underpinning products such as steel or helical piers. Other... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2024-02-28 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/protecting-your-basement-from-melting-snow/ As the sun comes out and the temperature starts to rise, you will notice the snow starting to melt from your home. This sign of melting snow gives us some reprieve from the winter blues, but melting snow can also be harmful to your Hamilton home. Here’s what you need to know about protecting your home from melting snow and how to make sure you keep water outside your home where it should be. Why Is Melting Snow a Foundation Issue? As snow melts, it becomes water. Water runoff can sneak through any cracks that you may have in your foundation. This can lead to basements flooding and ruining furniture and your possessions. In addition to water leaking through the cracks, Hamilton winters have often seen melting and then sudden freezing again. If there is still water in the cracks of your foundation, and it suddenly drops below freezing again, this water will freeze in place. Over time, this makes any cracks you have in your foundation bigger. In order to prevent flood basement or growing cracks, it’s important to take care of any foundation issues you may have with your Hamilton home now. Inspect your Home's Foundation Have you noticed that there is a little bit of dampness or water pooling in certain areas of your basement? This could mean there is water or moisture leaking into the basement through cracks or openings in your foundation. This can happen very slowly, and you may not even notice it at... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2023-12-06 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/whats-the-white-stuff-on-my-basement-walls/ When you go down into your basement, do you notice some white stuff on the walls? It's probably been there for a long time, and you notice it every time, but do you stop to think what it could be? Taking care of your Hamilton home can involve a lot of upkeep, but it's worth it to make sure your home is a safe place for your family. Here's what you need to know about the white stuff on the walls in the basement of your Hamilton home. Does the White Stuff Have a Name? The name for the white, chalky substance on your basement walls is efflorescence. In French, this means "to flower out," and it is called that because it is fluffy. Is Efflorescence Harmful? While the substance of efflorescence is not dangerous or toxic, it is a sign of water problems in the basement of your home. How Does Efflorescence Get There? Efflorescence forms when water evaporates and water-soluble salts are deposited on the masonry in your home. It is usually found in places where there is Portland cement in your home. After the moisture or water evaporates, the salts will crystalize and become the substance known as efflorescence. This substance needs water for it to form, which usually makes it a seasonal problem. You may notice it more in the winter since there is often more snow and sleet during that time; however, it can happen during other times of the year as well. Is Efflorescence... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2023-12-06 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/is-it-safe-to-live-in-a-house-with-foundation-issues/ Maybe you started smelling a damp odour in your basement. Or perhaps you noticed cracks forming on your ceiling and walls. However it came to be, you now know that you have foundation issues in your home. Before you begin to panic, here’s what you should keep in mind about foundation problems and safety risks. Foundation Issues and Consequences Over many years, a home can settle due to unstable soil and weather conditions. Sometimes, these forces create structural issues throughout the house ranging from ceiling cracks to foundation failure. A foundation problem may seem minor at the beginning – such as a door that starts sticking. But if these problems go undetected for too long, there can be severe consequences. Excessive moisture can create mould and mildew, leading to harmful effects on your family’s health. Structural damage can also occur, creating massive and costly damage such as flooded basements and collapsed walls. The more serious the foundation problem is, the more likely the home’s stability is at risk. Signs of Foundation Problems To prevent the need for massive house foundation repairs, you need to identify signs of potential problems. Below are indications of possible foundation damage. If you are experiencing any of them in your home, you should contact a foundation repair expert as soon as possible. Gaps, cracks, and fractures in the foundation, walls, ceiling, and/or floors Foundation sinking or setting Foundation upheaval Doors that fail to open properly Spaces around window frames or exterior doors Sagging or uneven... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2024-01-11 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/did-the-winter-cold-cause-the-cracks-in-your-foundation-to-grow/ Hamilton, like many other Canadian cities, has some cold, harsh winters. Even though Canadians may be used to the cold weather our winters bring, the foundations of our homes have a hard time adjusting to the freezing temperatures. When you've had issues with your foundation, you may wonder if the cold will make those issues worse or if you can wait until the next year to fix them. Here's what you need to know about the cold and your foundation issues. Frost heaves You may not have heard of these before, but frost heaves can cause major issues for your foundation or exacerbate existing ones. There is moisture and water in the soil surrounding your home, and when the temperature drops, it will cause the soil to freeze and expand because of the water in it. This expanded soil will push against your home's foundation and create pressure on the walls of your home. This can cause new cracks to form or make existing cracks much worse. Frozen pipes The other major culprit that can cause cracks in your foundation is frozen pipes in the winter. If the pipes are on the outside wall of your home and are exposed to frigid temperatures, then you may be at risk for frozen pipes. In some cases, with older Hamilton homes, pipes will be located in between the concrete foundation walls and a finished wall – like drywall. When these pipes burst, they can cause major issues with your foundation and make... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2023-11-07 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/do-helical-piers-really-work/ If you are doing foundation work on your Hamilton home, it may be recommended that you use helical piers. But what are they, and do they really work? This article will discuss why helical piers may be the right solution for your foundation problem. What are Helical Piers? Essentially, these piers act as anchors to secure your home’s foundation. A helical pier looks much like a giant “screw” that goes through your home’s foundation into the ground to hold your foundation in place. They are commonly used on homes with sagging foundations, but they can also be used in various other repairs, including those on chimneys and stairways. What are the Advantages of Using Helical Piers? They are versatile – helical piers can be used in a variety of foundation repair scenarios, including both residential and commercial. They are strong – helical piers can support extremely heavy loads, making them ideal for foundation repair applications. They are easy to install – helical piers are relatively easy to install. The installation can be done quickly with minimal vibration and disruption to your home or yard. Helical piers are load tested before installation, and the load of the structure can be transferred as soon as the pier is installed. Drawbacks of Using Helical Piers Cost – when it comes to using helical piers, they are one of the pricier options. Requires professional installation – helical piers should only ever be installed by a skilled professional – this is not a DIY job!... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2023-11-07 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/why-is-water-seeping-through-my-hamilton-basement-walls/ Have you ever gone down into the basement of your Hamilton home and noticed a little water on the ground or walls? Water seeping into the basement of homes, especially older ones, is a widespread problem, but it can cause a lot of damage to your home and your belongings if you don't get it looked at and fixed. There are a variety of reasons this could be happening, and here are some common causes: Window wells If your home has window wells at the ground level, this could be a prime cause of water seeping into your basement. If the window well doesn't have proper drainage or isn't sealed properly, you may find that moisture or water is leaking into the basement. When water has nowhere to go and pools in the window well, it will eventually seep into your basement, so proper drainage is paramount for ensuring you do not get leaking. Ground moisture The ground around your home will always have moisture in it, which will freeze and thaw with the seasons. Heavy rainfall can cause extra moisture to be retained in the soil, which will then expand and push against your home's foundation. If there are cracks in the foundation or any weak spots, this may cause the moisture to leak into your basement, and you will see the water on the interior walls of your Hamilton home. When leaks go untreated If you have a lot of moisture in your basement and do not have... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2023-11-07 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/do-i-need-basement-underpinning/ The basement in any Hamilton home can be a source of worry for homeowners since that is where many problems are likely to occur. Issues with a basement or foundation of a home can cause a lot of headaches and can be costly to repair. One of the best things a homeowner can do is be proactive and address any small issues before they become big ones. One process of preventing bigger issues from happening is called underpinning. Here’s what you need to know. What is underpinning? Underpinning is a process by which the foundation of an older building or structure is strengthened and stabilized. This process will help preserve and improve the structural integrity of a building. Why would a home need underpinning? There are usually two main reasons a Hamilton homeowner will select to have underpinning done on their home. In most older homes, the basement was not designed to be a living area like in more modern homes. This means the ceiling heights are often lower, and there is ductwork in the way that makes it difficult to use it as living space. The process of underpinning can increase the useable living space in your home. The second reason is usually to upgrade the home’s mechanics. In older homes, underpinning can expose old plumbing, electrical and even insulation. This means that you can bring your home up to today’s building codes. How do I know if my home needs underpinning? There is a time when underpinning becomes... --- - Published: 2022-09-19 - Modified: 2024-02-27 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/waterproof-your-foundation-exterior-properly/ When the time comes to protect your home from the elements you’ll want to consider waterproofing your exterior. Water can enter your home, especially through the basement, as either a vapour or a liquid. By failing to waterproof your home it could be sustaining damage on a regular basis, even if it isn’t immediately evident. In this post we’re going to explore the benefits of waterproofing the exterior of your home, as well as, illustrate how our unique process will protect your home for years to come. Benefits of Home Waterproofing By taking the time to waterproof your home you’ll be able to get rid of all dampness or wet basement problems. 1. Complete Elimination of Basement Dampness Our process will completely eliminate any basement dampness. Dampness can lead to a whole host of problems for your home. Including structural and health issues. Dampness can even occur when there are no visible signs of water damage. Basement dampness can lead to cracked foundation walls and footings, wood rot, and even the destabilization of your home’s foundation. 2. Prevents Costly Future Repairs When your home has problems with dampness and flooding this will lead to a ton of repairs in the future. Especially, if you let the problem worsen. By waterproofing the exterior you’ll be able to ensure your home won’t become flooded or continue to incur water damage into the future. 3. An Overall Healthier Home When your basement is damp this can lead to the infestation of mould, mildew... --- - Published: 2022-09-19 - Modified: 2023-12-06 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/what-to-do-with-a-wet-basement/ Why do basements leak? Outside of water traveling through cracks or other openings, the simple reason foundations leak is that concrete is very porous and all the foundation elements are underground. Dampness and flooding is caused by the following: the failure of an existing external waterproofing and bridging/wicking due to the raising exterior water levels below and beside the foundation. How do you protect yourself and your family from a wet basement? Exterior waterproofing is the answer. Exterior waterproofing is your best solution to a wet or damp basement. The first step in the process is to excavate and haul all earth from around the walls being treated. The main benefit to the homeowner is the removal of the expansive clay which eliminates the pressure that causes wall cracking. The goal of exterior waterproofing is to prevent water from entering foundation walls and seams with the hope of preventing the wicking and moulding of any building materials. Exterior drainage systems are most often based on 4 inch perforated PVC pipes to collect water from around the outside of the footer and drain it to another nearby location. Ideally these locations are substantially lower than the footer they are trying to drain. If there is not adequate pitch it is possible for the drains to actually add water to the foundation rather than drain it from the foundation. Without proper discharge, the water will not be able to drain in time causing back up at the footer. Another problem is that... --- - Published: 2022-09-19 - Modified: 2025-09-25 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/do-you-know-the-value-of-a-window/ How windows can open doors for renting potential and property value Windows can add light and beauty to any room in your home, creating a more open and spacious feel improving your quality of life while adding value to your home. If you are looking for the most value when completing home renovations, windows can make a real difference beyond resale value. By installing Egress window walls, a homeowner can turn a dark basement into a valuable rental space. This is a great way to earn additional income in the Hamilton, Burlington and surrounding areas. Egress windows will brighten any basement, but they are also mandatory by law if a room is being used as a bedroom. They act as an emergency exit that will guarantee your tenant’s safety. Conterra Foundation is extremely familiar with local building codes in Hamilton and Burlington to ensure that your egress window satisfies all of the requirements set by law. Rent your Basement to Students With McMaster University, Mohawk College and Redeemer University all located in Hamilton, many students are looking for rooms to rent from one to four years while they complete their post secondary education. If you have a larger space to rent to a couple of students, or if your rental space could use some updating, students may be the perfect tenants for your space. Student rental rooms will go for anything from $600 to $900 per month in the Hamilton area, with full apartments between offered from $1,200 and $1,900... --- - Published: 2022-09-19 - Modified: 2025-09-25 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/foundation-reinforcement-guide-and-maintenance-tips/ As it is made to carry the load of your home or other building, a weak or damaged foundation can lead to a number of problems. Fortunately, there are foundation reinforcement options available to strengthen the integrity of the structures. Reinforcing a building’s foundation is especially important if you want to build an addition. You will want to make sure that the foundation is strong enough to handle the additional weight. Reinforcement also makes the material more durable so that it is better able to resist moisture and prevent cracking. Benefits of Reinforced Concrete If your foundation is in need of repair, reinforced concrete is a popular option. It’s not necessary to tear down the current foundation, thanks to carbon-fiber Kevlar technology. Featuring carbon-fiber sheet straps, this type of concrete makes foundation repair easier. Whether the project requires whole sheets of material, straps, or any other reinforced concrete product, the structural components of your home will be strengthened. Some of the benefits of using reinforced concrete for your foundation include: Inherent material properties. Inherencies include fire resistance, thermal mass, low floor-to-floor heights, etc. It’s easy to exploit this material to create a custom building system that can fit your foundation. Tensile Strength. Concrete and other older masonry materials have a low tensile strength. However, with the inclusion of the reinforcement material, that low tensile strength is counteracted. Reinforced concrete can withstand a surprising amount of tensile strength. Environmental-friendliness and Sustainability. This is an energy-efficient material, as its inherent thermal mass... --- - Published: 2022-09-19 - Modified: 2024-01-31 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/fall-pest-prevention/ Keeping pests out of your home is not any easy task, especially as the weather cools off over the fall season. This is the time of year when small rodents, birds and other critters try to find a way into your home for protection and warmth. Sometimes an animal may even find a place to hibernate for months at a time in the comfort of your home! Taking care of the exterior of your home is crucial, so make sure to apply some of these pest prevention strategies to your house before any critters are tempted to find a way to make your house into their new home. Pest Prevention Strategies: Foundation problems are the perfect entryways for small rodents to enter your home. Gaps and holes found on the underside of siding that meets the ground can be filled and sealed with cement filler to ensure that your external walls is secure. If there are any visible holes or cracks in your home’s foundation, this should be repaired immediately. Not only can these openings act as easy access for small animals, this also might mean there is some structural damage to the home that can affect long term stability and keeping in heat. Keep your foundation clean to deprive bugs of moisture in close proximity to your home. By raking moisture-wicking soil and mulch away from the edges of your home, you will likely deter most insects and pests from nesting close to your foundation. Also, turn any mulch... --- - Published: 2022-09-19 - Modified: 2024-02-27 - URL: https://conterrafoundation.ca/blog/winter-foundation-repairs/ If you have a concern about the foundation of your home, it is important to act immediately, before a small problem becomes a major issue. Some home owners are hesitant to make repairs to their foundation in winter months, but it is important to understand that foundation repairs or remedies in the winter can be very effective with proper knowledge, techniques and equipment. Winter weather can bring on damage to your foundation. While soil contracts in the summer due to a lack of moisture, in the winter soil will expand because of cold temperatures and higher volumes of moisture and ice. As soil expands it can push your foundation upwards, creating pressure that can be damaging to an old or worn out foundation. Damage in the winter time can also occur due to a pipe freezing. Although normal freezing isn't usually a problem, if a pipe freezes and bursts, permanent water damage can have long-term effects on your home's foundation. This is most likely to happen if your pipes are directly exposed to outside temperatures (either outdoor sinks/washrooms or unprotected crawlspaces under your home) or if exterior faucets are not properly turned off before the cold temperatures hit. Foundation cracks or other damage to your foundation are particularly detrimental in winter months, as your foundation is responsible for keeping in the heat and keeping out any moisture. The efficiency and stability of your home can both be compromised with this type of damage. Although repairs will usually require the installation... --- --- > **Contact Information:** * **Phone:** 905.679.0263 * **Email:** sales@conterrafoundation.ca * **Inquiries:** [Request a Free Quote](https://conterrafoundation.ca/contact/) **Company Highlights:** * Established in 1993. * Fully licensed with liability and WSIB insurance coverage. * Licensed drain repair company. ---