Written by

Tara Farmer

July 11, 2025

Edited by

Tamatha Hazen

Fact-checked by

Kristen Cramer

Basement wall crack repair cost by type

Basement wall crack repair costs $250 to $800+ per crack for most minor, non-structural repairs or $1,000 to $5,000+ per crack for larger, horizontal cracks or cracks that are part of a bigger structural issue. Basement crack repair costs also depend on your location, the crack's size and type, and if the repair involves structural work or additional repairs.

Hairline and vertical cracks

Hairline and vertical cracks are among the most common foundation issues, often appearing within the first year of a new build due to settling or drying of concrete. These cracks are usually cosmetic and can be repaired with epoxy or polyurethane injection, costing $250 to $800+ per crack when done professionally. Prompt sealing prevents water intrusion and further widening.

Horizontal or step cracks

Horizontal cracks or stair-step cracks (in block foundations) signal more serious foundation movement, often from hydrostatic pressure or soil shifts. Repairing these cracks involves epoxy or polyurethane injections plus reinforcement, such as carbon fiber straps or wall anchors, with costs ranging from $1,000 to $5,000+ per crack. Addressing these cracks early is important to prevent structural compromise and expensive future repairs.

Cracks with bowed walls

Cracks accompanied by bowed basement walls are a sign of significant structural stress, often caused by prolonged soil pressure or drainage problems. Solutions may include carbon fiber reinforcement, wall anchors, helical tiebacks, or steel braces. Repair costs for bowed walls can range from $5,000 to $15,000+, depending on the method and wall length. These repairs stabilize the wall and prevent collapse or further movement.

Basement crack repair cost by method

The cost to repair a basement crack will vary significantly based on the extent of the damage, the chosen repair method, and whether the repair addresses cosmetic issues or more serious structural concerns. The table below lists popular repair methods, their costs, and the types of basement cracks they address most effectively.

Epoxy or polyurethane injection

Using an injection method to repair a basement wall crack costs $250 to $800+ per crack. A professional injects a liquid resin (either epoxy or polyurethane) directly into the crack. The resin fills the gap, bonds the concrete, and forms a flexible seal, preventing leaks and further deterioration. The process is quick and minimally invasive, making it a popular choice for many homeowners.

Best for: Hairline to moderate, non-structural cracks

Carbon fiber reinforcement

Carbon fiber reinforcement costs $900 to $2,000 or more per crack, depending on its length. After sealing the crack (often via injection), carbon fiber straps are bonded over the affected area. These straps add tremendous strength, preventing further movement or widening of the crack. Carbon fiber is lightweight, non-intrusive, and does not rust or deteriorate over time.

Best for: Cracks showing wall movement of less than 2 inches or basement walls beginning to bow

Wall anchors

Wall anchors cost $500 to $1,000 each, including labor, and are installed every 5 feet. Wall anchors consist of steel plates connected by rods, with one plate attached inside the basement wall and another buried in the yard approximately 10 feet away. The rod is tightened to pull the bowing wall back into position.

Best for: Bowed or bulging basement walls with structural concerns.

Helical tiebacks

Helical tiebacks cost $1,000 to $3,000 per unit to install every 4 to 5 feet. These screw-like steel shafts with helical plates are mechanically drilled at an angle through the foundation wall into stable soil. They create superior holding capacity through the helical plates' interaction with soil, requiring no exterior excavation.

While wall anchors are the go-to choice for most situations due to cost-effectiveness, helical tiebacks become necessary when space constraints, soil conditions, or severity of damage demand their superior engineering capabilities.

Best for: Bowed or bulging basement walls with significant structural concerns.

Exterior waterproofing

Exterior basement waterproofing costs $10,000 to $15,000+ and is the most comprehensive approach for basement wall crack repair caused by moisture or drainage issues.

Contractors excavate around the foundation, apply waterproof membranes, and improve drainage systems. This approach addresses the root cause of water intrusion and is the gold standard for persistent leaks or severe water issues.

Best for: Persistent leaks and severe water intrusion problems

Underpinning

Underpinning costs range anywhere from $2,000 to $30,000+, depending on the severity of the issue, soil conditions, and project complexity.

Underpinning is a major structural repair for basement cracks caused by significant settling or shifting of the home's foundation. This process involves extending the foundation to a deeper, more stable soil layer using piers or concrete supports installed beneath the existing footings. It's a long-term solution that stabilizes and lifts the foundation, preventing further cracking and structural damage.

Best for: Severe settlement issues, recurring or widening cracks, and homes with uneven floors or significant structural movement.

What affects basement crack repair costs?

Several factors can influence the cost to repair a foundation crack in a basement wall:

• Crack size and length: Longer or wider cracks require more material and labor, raising the price.

• Clean crack vs. patched: Contractors may charge more to repair cracks that were previously patched due to the extra time required to remove the old repair.

• Crack direction: Vertical cracks are easier and cheaper to fix than horizontal or stair-step cracks, which may signal more serious foundation movement.

• Repair method: Simple injections are less expensive than reinforcement or exterior waterproofing.

• Accessibility: If the crack is behind finished walls or in a tight spot, labor costs can rise.

• Severity: If the crack is part of a larger issue (like bowing or settling), expect higher costs. The cost to repair a foundation with major structural issues is often in the thousands, as opposed to a few hundred to seal a minor crack.

• Labor rates: Labor costs vary by region, with professionals charging more in areas with a higher cost of living.

• Inspection fee: Some companies charge a fee to evaluate the problem and propose a solution. Most foundation inspections cost $400 to $750, but the company may deduct this from the repair cost if you move forward with repairs.

• Permit fees: Foundation repairs often require a permit fee. These fees range anywhere from $75 to $1,000+, depending on the location and the extent of the repair work.

Signs you need basement wall crack repair

Basement wall cracks should be addressed right away, as delayed repairs can lead to much higher costs down the road. Watch for these warning signs that indicate your basement wall and foundation needs professional repair:

• Cracks wider than 1/8"

• Cracks growing over time or changing direction

• Cracks located close to a corner

• Horizontal or stair-step cracks

• Multiple cracks appearing

• Water seeping through cracks

• Bowed or bulging walls

• Sticking doors or windows above the basement

• Uneven floors

Basement wall crack repair FAQs

Are all basement wall cracks serious?

Not all basement wall cracks are serious. Hairline vertical cracks from settling or shrinkage are common and often just need sealing. However, horizontal or widening cracks, or those that leak, should be inspected by a professional.

Who fixes cracks in basement walls?

Foundation repair contractors or basement waterproofing specialists can fix cracks in basement walls. These professionals have the expertise, tools, and materials needed to properly assess the type and severity of the crack, determine if it's a structural issue, and recommend the right repair method.

How long does a typical crack repair take?

Most single crack repairs are completed in 2 to 4 hours. Larger crack repairs or those requiring reinforcement may take a day or more.

Will insurance cover basement wall crack repairs?

Homeowners' insurance rarely covers foundation cracks unless caused by a covered event, like a burst pipe. Check with your insurance provider or refer to your specific policy terms for coverage details.

Can I repair a basement wall crack myself?

While some hardware stores sell epoxy kits, these solutions lack the durability, strength, and warranty of professional repairs. It's best to hire someone with the right experience and qualifications to determine whether the crack is a minor problem or a sign of something more serious.

Getting estimates from basement wall crack repair contractors

Follow these guidelines to help you find a qualified foundation repair contractor near you:

• Get quotes from at least three companies to compare repair techniques and associated costs.

• Verify the company's experience in working with homes and foundations like yours.

• Confirm they are licensed, bonded, insured, and have a solid track record for foundation repair.

• Check HomeGuide and Google for foundation repair contractors with good reviews.

• Ask for references from previous clients and contact them for feedback.

• Verify the estimate includes all labor, materials, and cleanup.

• Ensure you have a written contract that details the costs, project timeline, and warranty information.

Questions to ask a foundation repair contractor

To find the right contractor for your repair, ask these important questions:

• Are you properly licensed, bonded, and insured to perform foundation repairs?

• What's your experience in basement and foundation repair work?

• What's your experience with fixing homes and foundations like mine?

• What type of repair method will you use?

• Does your estimate include all labor, materials, and cleanup?

• How long do you expect the repair to take?

• Can I be inside the home while you're doing the repair?

• May I contact some of your past clients for referrals?

• May I have a written estimate, contract, and timeline for the repairs?

• What if the damage is greater than your initial assessment?