You’re in the middle of a basement project or just doing some routine home maintenance when you spot it — a crack running along your foundation wall or floor. Maybe it’s thin as a hairline, maybe it’s big enough to fit a coin inside. Either way, your heart sinks.
A cracked foundation can feel like a nightmare waiting to happen, but with the right approach, you can stop the problem in its tracks and protect your home for years to come. At Hardaker Concrete, we’ve been helping Kamloops homeowners repair, restore, and reinforce their concrete for over 25 years, and here’s exactly what you should do next.
Step 1: Don’t Ignore It
In Kamloops, foundation cracks aren’t something you can “wait and see” on. Our unique climate — from freeze-thaw cycles in winter to dry, shifting soils in summer — puts stress on concrete year-round.
Even a small crack can:
- Let in water, leading to basement flooding or mould growth.
- Widen over time due to soil movement.
- Compromise your home’s structural integrity.
The earlier you act, the simpler (and less expensive) the repair.
Step 2: Figure Out the Type of Crack
Not all cracks are created equal. Some are just cosmetic, while others signal a deeper problem.
Common types we see in Kamloops:
- Hairline shrinkage cracks: Usually appear soon after concrete cures. Often harmless, but worth sealing to prevent water ingress.
- Vertical cracks: Often caused by settlement. If narrow and stable, they can be repaired fairly easily.
- Horizontal cracks: More serious — often a sign of pressure from soil or water on the outside of the wall. These require immediate professional attention.
- Stair-step cracks: Typically appear in block foundations and can indicate significant movement.
Step 3: Look for Other Warning Signs
A crack on its own tells part of the story. Look around your home for other red flags:
- Doors and windows are sticking or not closing properly.
- Floors that slope or feel uneven.
- New gaps between walls, ceilings, or trim.
- Damp spots or water stains in the basement.
These signs help determine whether your crack is a symptom of a bigger structural issue.
Step 4: Document and Monitor
Before you call in help, take clear, dated photos of the crack.
- Measure its length and width.
- Mark the ends with a pencil or tape to track growth.
- Note any changes after heavy rain, snowmelt, or seismic activity.
This information helps professionals assess urgency and choose the right repair method.
Step 5: Call a Concrete/Foundation Specialist — Not Just a General Contractor
This is where many homeowners take a wrong turn. While general contractors are great for renovations, foundation repair is a specialized skill set.
At Hardaker Concrete, our Repair & Restoration team knows how to:
- Diagnose the root cause of the crack.
- Recommend solutions that actually last in Kamloops’ conditions.
- Handle both the visible repair and the underlying structural fix.
From epoxy crack injection to full foundation stabilization, we’ve got the tools and experience to do it right the first time.
Step 6: Explore Your Repair Options
Depending on the cause and severity, repairs might include:
- Crack injection: Fills and seals the crack to keep water out and restore structural continuity.
- Wall reinforcement: Carbon fibre straps or steel bracing to stop further movement.
- Exterior excavation and sealing: Addresses water pressure and improves drainage.
- Full foundation replacement: In rare cases of extreme damage.
We’ll walk you through each option and help you choose the one that fits your needs and budget.
Step 7: Prevent Future Foundation Problems
Once your crack is repaired, you’ll want to keep it that way.
- Ensure proper grading so water flows away from your home.
- Keep eavestroughs and downspouts clear and draining far from the foundation.
- Schedule seasonal inspections, especially after a hard winter or heavy rain season.
The Bottom Line
Foundation cracks in Kamloops are common — but they’re never something to ignore. The sooner you bring in a concrete repair specialist, the more likely you are to avoid costly, disruptive repairs down the road.
If you’ve spotted a crack in your foundation, call Hardaker Concrete today. Our Repair & Restoration experts will assess the damage, explain your options, and get your home back on a solid foundation.
Hardaker Concrete — Concrete Solutions Built to Last.