Seal Gap In Foundation and Concrete Patio or Sidewalk

[@evemiranda3474]

I was just quoted $60,000 to redo my driveway and to fix the gaps in back of my house. I appreciate this video thank you very much!!!!

[@evemiranda3474]

I agree!

[@kashifrana6798]

Just wanted to check if that worked for you?

[@fancythisgirl3]

You should get at least 3-5 quotes for purchases this large. Don’t ever agree to the first quote you get. And you should make sure you really understand each line item they’re quoting and cross reference on sites like your States DOT. They’ll have contract prices for things like this and you can compare the line items against what they bid out, which is usually at a slightly higher price since they’ll typically use Union

[@victorvek5227]

Use tape on both sides of joint prior to applying the self-leveling sealant if you want the job to turn out cleaner in the end.

[@zweihander7465]

You mean apply tape ontop of the backer rod once its in the gap?

[@Sloanmatthews]

⁠​⁠​⁠@@zweihander7465Apply tape, such as cement painters tape or tape able to stick to concrete (avoid duct tape) to create a straight line about 1/8 inch on both sides of the gap (edge). Apply sealant directly over backer rod filled joint , smooth if needed, remove tape carefully before it dries. Process is the same when caulking windows, bathtub, etc.

[@clipclop7962]

Thank you for creating this video. I am a retired teacher who just bought a little farm that needs some minor repairs. Most of the stuff I've never done, and I am so grateful for your help. Thanks again.

[@marc_usmc]

Use foam pipe insulation with backer rod inserted to make it solid. If the gap is huge, use different size pool noodles.

[@wrigley3885]

Thank you! If i had known that there was a KZbin video for everything before I got divorced I would have ditched Mr I don't know how way sooner than I did!

[@TrueNovice]

Why get married at all if he can't fix nothing?

[@Jalafian]

Lol

[@ineedhoez]

😂😂😂😂

[@ineedhoez]

​@@TrueNovice😂😂😂😂

[@reefonbux9432]

​@@TrueNoviceI can name 7½ reasons with reasonable girth and a lust for sucking 😺😺😺.

[@liadelvalle2722]

I wish I had come accross this video before I hired a handyman who used concrete accross all the large foundation gap. This was the video I needed.

[@ineedhoez]

Lol... I did the same. It disintegrated. I had to pull It all out

[@poptheweasel87]

A side note for inexperienced caulkers. Make sure when you’re caulking concrete that you rough up (score) the concrete where the caulk will be before applying the caulk. This will help the caulk bond to the concrete. If the concrete is smooth or slick, there’s a good chance the caulk will peel off.

[@Z-Ack]

Yea rough up that crack before hand. Let it know its an ass.. thataway the cock goes in easily..no need for any backup rod unless your a speed gunner..

[@dollywright9647]

I used an old flexible garden hose. Worked great!

[@tal_al]

Great video and tops. I would tape the sides of the concrete and remove it after the job to give it a cleaner look. Looking forward to more tips.

[@romeobear]

Thank you so much for creating this video! This idea is absolutely genius. Just purchased a home where the concrete walkway is splitting from the foundation and it was creating a lot of stress for me. I will definitely be implementing this to prevent any water damage! Definitely subscribed!

[@denisrichard3922]

I'll be doing the same just waiting to move into our newer old House

[@CornellEngineers]

Good video. Glad you talked about backing rods before caulking. It keeps the correct shape of the sealant. Nice!

[@genecarden780]

Twisting and doubling the backer rod is not a good solution. The rounded backer rod gives the sealant the proper profile to per form correctly . Also it needed to be wire brushed and primed. It also should be tooled both directions to insure a proper bond. I installed sealants professionally for 40 years and can’t remember how many times I have been called out to fix sealant a homeowner installed. It is not really difficult but there are basic things that need to be followed if you don’t want to replace the sealant every couple of years. With just a few improvements this would have been installed correctly. Get the right size backer rod, at least10-15 percent bigger than the joint. It has to be a very snug fit They make it all the way up to 4”.this is far more critical than most people think.As a professional if a tech rep from the manufacturer found the wrong size backer the warranty would be void. Wire brushing the sides of the joint is absolutely essential, we do it even on brand new concrete. And it only takes minutes. Finally every quality sealant ( like Sika) makes primers for their sealant and concrete. Use it. Just go to the manufacturer web site and find the data sheet for the sealant.Most sealants say something to the effect of “ no primer needed on most substrates” but if you take the time to read their product literature they all have primers and say to test adhesion first. Again one of the first things tech reps look for. Finally don’t use a water hose to clean the joint. The reason for not twisting or doubling the backer rod is that the optimum profile for sealant is an hourglass shape “) (“ Where the top and bottom of the diagram are the sides of the joint. Since the sealant is self leveling the top of the joint won’t be concave so it is critical that the bottom is.

[@LaRod72]

I have the same issue as this guy. However, the joint between my concrete patio and foundation is about 6" deep and about 1.5" wide at the widest point. I've been seeing videos of guys putting sand at the bottom of deep joints to fill gaps and to raise the bottom for the backer rod. Is that the correct way to raise the bottom or is there a better method?

[@genecarden780]

@@LaRod72 it is not correct. The proper way to use backer rod is to buy the correct size that will compress a little and fit snuggly in the joint. There is absolutely no need for sand. If you need sand to keep the backer rod at the right depth the backer rod is too small and won’t function properly. Backer rod is available from 1/4”” that will fit in very small joints all the way up to 4” that will fit up to about 3 3/4” ( or slightly bigger) If you search out SofRod it is softer so that it compresses more easily and 1 size can fit a wider variety of joints than closed cell backer rod ,which is much harder to use in joints that vary in size. Think about putting sealant in vertical wall joints. Those are impossible to “fill” with sand to keep the backer rod at the proper depth.

[@AL-pu7ux]

@@genecarden780How does one go about finding an expert such as yourself? I am in DFW.

[@genecarden780]

@ unfortunately it I’d cost prohibitive for home owners. All I can do is give you information to be kbpnowledgeable when someone does an inferior job

[@whitesoxsue]

This totally answered a question that 3 home depot guys couldn't. And shocker, they sent me home with the wrong stuff! I HAD a self leveling calk in my hand and they steered me to something different. UGH ! Miss the days when there were skilled tradesmen at the Depot. Thanks so much Hammers Home Reno!

[@joevsyou]

whitesoxsue anyone whos skilled isn't going to be working at homedepot or any big box store at least on the floor. Are there employees who has had some experience in repairs on different things here and there? Sure. Anyone skilled is going to be making $40-100 an hour, not $10-15hr at home depot I would love to see big box stores hire 1-2 general contractors per store who is very skilled. Where you walk up to a counter, explain your issue & point you down a path.

[@teresadias6217]

whitesoxsuewhat is backer rod. The thing you put on the strip

[@conniegammon9790]

Home depot pays crap for wages that's why all the good tradesmen are gone from there

[@akins3339]

Fantastic and so helpful. I was in the process of paying someone to do a task I am more than capable of doing after watching this guy's video. Thanks

[@jessijuniper7687]

Thank you! Just bought my home and sealing the parameter is my number one project.

[@Exodus26.13Pi]

Great attitude and information. Being confident and humble at the same time is a skill few have. Oh ya the information is solid too.

[@Bnguyen276]

Thanks bro, I’ve been having roaches just chilling in between here and nesting. I’ve always have to spray pesticide every couple of months. Now I can keep them out for good.

[@hammershomereno]

Fix that problem and save some money! Get it get it

[@willdavids7075]

Going to do this before it gets cold outside. Double up if the crack is big squeeze your caulk inside the crack. Let dry for 24 hours. Thanks for the tips!

[@GenNairick1]

this is awesome.. I came looking for this exactly and it doesnt' cost an arm and a leg or my first born!! thanks sooo much.

[@laurdessvalentino5849]

Thanks for posting this. I also noticed your tattoo. I was in the 8th Division. Pretty cool.

[@Mav...]

I was thinking of using leveling cement and then calk over it. Not sure if I can find Backer Rod but that sure is cheaper. 50 lb bag of leveling cement is about $50. Thanks buddy.

[@pearlperlitavenegas2023]

I used copper pipe insulation (plumbing dept)noodles for 1 & 2 inch wide gaps instead of twisting backer rod. Also cheaper. I recommend wire brush & pressure washing first

[@mlscrmmcc7679]

Thank you.. I am currently lakhs miles away from your location.. Internet helped me to reach out.. Thank you for your idea.. It's worked out very cool.. I will post my video very soon to u

[@robertwalker9679]

Thanks so much! I was going to pay someone $400 to do this. I can definitely handle this.

[@conniegammon9790]

Sounds like someone was gonna jip you out of alot of money

[@elaine3642]

Exactly what I needed. Gap between garage and sidewalk. Will do this today.👊👍

[@tamaraleitte6656]

Very cute when you can’t find your words. Thanks very helpful video.

[@kashifrana6798]

Great video. When concrete was laid out then expansion joints with becker roads should be there in first place?

[@RugbyIke]

Thanks for the great demo. Helped me figure out how to tackle the gap between the concrete porch and house on my side garage door.

[@hammershomereno]

That’s exactly where this gap was. Has held up flawlessly

[@teresadias6217]

RugbyIke what his backer rod.

[@psmith1349]

Dude, exactly what I needed. Didn't roll no doobies though. My mind already messed up. But like, really, appreciate it!

[@yechihast]

Saved my basement, thanks a million.

[@Stulic91]

If you have a large gap, could you use spray foam? (ie. great stuff). Then go over with the caulk?

[@andrewfrodo2086]

Rodents, squirrels will eat the foam, plus its not waterproof, snow proof or hail proof..... backer rod foam with the self leveling is the way to go

[@shaviartha504]

Can direct cement can be poured in gap. Like dry cement add water according to consistency.

[@Tinyteacher1111]

Thank you! This is what I was thinking of doing to my new house before the weather changes. I appreciate your honesty and the tips on how to do this. I’m not sure if my house needs it, but I’ve been around the building trades as long as I can remember, since we had builders, architects, and appraisers in my family. I’m always looking for potential problems that I can deal with myself. I’m a single woman in my 60’s, and I’m tiny! I need simple ideas! Thanks again! Does anyone have a video on sealing a basement window on the inside? It’s finished, but I see holes and bugs are everywhere!

[@angelabeavin755]

Kathryn Willette. I’m 63, and my hubby is handicapped so I DIY as much as I can or am physically able. I feel I’m in pretty good shape and can bend and move about. Anyway, I have checked my windows which have a concrete mortar connection to the exterior stone wall. I just finished doing mortar repair around all the cracked stones and a gazillion small holes I found. We’ve battled drafts and bugs for too long and I was recently taught the solution. After the mortar on my home is caulked (I’ll be done today), I’ll use a waterproof and PAINTABLE silicone caulk by DAP. If you need to do the mortar repair, buy tube(s) of Sakrete Mortar Repair...with acrylic in it from Lowe’s in the building, lumber or masonry section at the PRO desk). Next, I have a large gap between the stone wall and the driveway slab and I’ve already bought my supplies. This video was a huge help for my confidence level! Good luck. Fixing your holes for drafts and bugs is a snap/easy. Let’s “git r dun!” Respectfully, Ange’

[@chipdouglas2298]

Caulk in hand

[@NeyBethSton]

Haha... I caught that too

[@robguitarwizard]

Just dont get it in your mouth!

[@gus4024]

@@robguitarwizard 😂😂

[@marcusgee4078]

Thank you for your awesome advice!

[@SupaLilMommy]

I have this in gap between my house & cement walk way. Does it mean there is something wrong with the structure of the house/ foundation?

[@ANe-ut5rl]

Can use a barker rod to fill a gap between concrete an asphalt? Thanks.

[@hammershomereno]

Yep! It gives flexibility when temperature changes. Thanks for watching!

[@jakejames3299]

My washroom is made of stucco and chicken wire and it was added on to the south side of a brick house. There's over an inch gap on the top between the brick and stucco and then coming down to the sides they taper down one side more than the other thought would this be the same concept as far as trying to patch it up? Cuz I have a real problem with my hands but it's up in the air it's not on the ground

[@wenjunli2006]

you have done termite treatment under concrete steps. I saw the 3-inch-away holes on your concrete, which were drilled for pouring termido SC into the soil under you steps

[@MushroomGuy]

Dude I love your caduceus tattoo!! 🔥🔥🔥

[@hammershomereno]

YESSS thank you 🫡. Been feeding the addiction and adding to it lately

[@Beachdog369]

Thanks for the video. Now I know how to get the job done that's been an ongoing problem.

[@joshh115]

The gap I have isn't very deep, so should I skip using the backer rod?

[@vinylbeast]

How many tubes did you need? My crack looks similar in width and length, just trying to get an idea how much to buy....

[@stellacarlin933]

About to start this project. My driveway is running on the long side of the foundation. I was thinking I would fill the crack with sand and then some small pebble rock then more sand yet no one seems to mention rock. Why is the backer rod better than rock?

[@hammershomereno]

Backer rod’s form and shape allow it to expand and contract with the different temperatures and seasons through out the year. Rock will not allow this and will eventually lead to cracks from the expansion and contraction from temp fluctuations

[@anthonynotarino7793]

Can you resurface over the caulk ? Only so it matches , if you are doing concrete resurfacing

[@victorylane22882]

Can I use hydronic quick stop cement instead?

[@superjtrdr]

I had 19 ft in length and 6ft wide sidewalk added to the side of my house. The contractor used rebar, but just mended the new sidewalk slab to my existing garage slab, which was built in 1967. This new sidewalk slab won't mend with my garage slab. Right? It looks like it did, but I am being told it will not.

[@mark_omega]

How does this work in -40degrees Celsius

[@Paula-vr5rm]

Will that hold water. I have a area by my front door concrete that butts up to my door so will that hold water

[@Mackandal-]

Thank you, just what the Doctor ordered

[@PKShader]

Ow did you clean up?

[@nunkap8874]

Thank you handsome man! this was so helpful

[@pearlperlitavenegas2023]

Sprinkle some sand or cement powder after letting it level 15 minutes it blends better with your existing concrete color.

[@mak6371]

If the gap is too big, can you use a pool noodle?

[@copwatchnl2618]

I just read a commenters post that suggested backer rod inside of foam pipe insulation to fill larger gaps to keep the pipe insulation firm, and another that suggests pool noodles - presumably over something like the backer rod/pipe insulation to keep it firm and convex (rounded up, not sunken in a 'U') - which another commenter said was the ideal shape. Others provided tips such as scoring both sides of the gap, cleaning with a wire brush, and applying a clear primer for concrete to bind to the concrete flex sealant. And a few suggested sprinkling with sand after to make the smooth sealant blend in better.

[@kovacs1299]

Hello, If I want a sidewalk next to an XPS plinth, do I still have to leave a gap? Can I fill it with bitumen? Thanks

[@Crsquared24]

Best way to clean it up? You mentuoned coming back to do some clean up. Best ways to get caulk off concrete?

[@copwatchnl2618]

Several suggest using a wire brush.

[@edwardl4866]

How did this hold up?

[@lewisx410]

Would this type of gap ie; between the pathway and the outside wall, cause damp? And if so would this method stop any further damp rising?

[@anthonynotarino1996]

Can you resurface over the caulking

[@copwatchnl2618]

A few people recommended sprinkling sand over the smooth caulking.

[@AnnLippert1]

i need to do this on my back porch. thanks, for the video!!

[@hammershomereno]

Go get it! Good luck!

[@AnnLippert1]

@@hammershomereno just bought both items at Lowes, thanks to your video. I've never even heard of Backer Rod!?. but I have it now

[@c9sus4]

as far as sealant concern, anything that is flexible, will last longer

[@johntexan4165]

I think I’ll just use waterproof expanding foam sealer and cut it level after it cures. I thought it was funny how you recommended not to twist it, yet that is what you did. LoL not a bad way of doing it, I just think it’s a little more tedious than it needs to be.

[@salmanali76]

This is very helpful. Thanks buddy.

[@hammershomereno]

Love to hear! Thanks for watching

[@svddwd]

My gap is just above 1 inch. Can I still use this method?

[@ajhmakki]

how many tubes of sealant did you use on just that side ? thanks

[@demodemo9698]

Just saw your video. Thanks! It’s been 4 years since uploading. Is it still holding up. Going to try this method

[@kingshearer2]

great video well explained.

[@svddwd]

Why not use cement itself to fix. that gap?

[@dogcomb47]

Real genius to put a patio right next to the house.

[@timgile8144]

How is it holding up? I see you did this video in 2017.

[@gilbertespinoza7955]

I'll put sand on top of culk it gives a good look try it out

[@annemabry49]

Will this prevent water from seeping into my basement during huge storms? Are the materials for waterproofing or just aesthetic purposes?

[@weip9328]

It won’t. For water issues you may need to look at other things such as your draining system, foundation, or a sump pump, etc.

[@philmaro84]

nice work buddy, next time try using a painters tape strip to get that straight edge!

[@hammershomereno]

Good advice! Make it much cleaner and less hassle afterwards

[@kazijami7501]

Thanks buddy, this is very helpful. That's what I was in need.

[@powerofknowledge7771]

What lead you to seal this off??? Was water leaking into your basement?

[@Hoyts_Hillside_Farm]

You said caulk in hand. 😂 Thanks for the video...having this same problem.

[@tewest86]

What’s in your hand?

[@jtslim32]

For the larger gaps, consider using sand as a filter instead of backer rod. Way cheaper and you don't have those ridges from twisting the backer.

[@tiwarivikram]

good video. You should put links to all the tools/items you used to fix it? So that its easier to identify at Home depot/Lowes.

[@samsharif560]

Looks good

[@HeathBar124]

This question is coming from the girl who had to KZbin how to open a caulk tube. So far so good, but... How did you end up cleaning up the mess? I happen to have caulk on the concrete and the house.

[@hammershomereno]

I used a putty knife and razor blade to clean or trim off any areas of excess. To clean, a good option would be a wire brush! Those do wonders. Welcome to the DIY world! You’ve already came a long way from just learning how to open a caulk tube 😂👍🏼

[@HeathBar124]

Haha. Thank you. Note to newbies - wear gloves or prepared to be sticky.

[@kaiguevara3272]

What has caused the crack? Does it have anything to do with subsidence?

[@majorwilliams8826]

Very good method love your idea! I'm gonna do just that this weekend

[@arniebasket4861]

How many tubes of caulk did you use?

[@Indigital6]

I prepped the crack... im standing at the back door with Caulk in hand ... now what?

[@hawkvb]

What do you do if the crack is so small it is hard to put backer rod in?

[@jpz6072]

Then just use the chalk directly. After applying the chalk, Dip your finger into dish soap (so the chalk doesn't stick to your finger) then press the applied chalk to push it into the crack.

[@dingorun1]

Thank you sir for your very informative video! However, a very important step was missed here. On both surfaces inside the crack you need to apply a clear primer. This soaks into both surfaces and acts as two-sided tape. This is used to prevent the separation of the caulking. Good luck my friends!

[@Irandom97]

Could you give some examples of a clear primer?? Maybe one at home depot I can grab?? Thank you for your comment!

[@jemrawc]

Hey Steven, tried to leave you a comment previously but have no idea where it was sent. Apparently not here lol. I’m a 44 year old woman who is at the very beginning of a long road to learning how to do proper home repairs and maintenance for the first time as I’m now on my own. Will you please let me know which type clear primer I should look for to buy in store? Also read in the comments that many people suggest “roughing up” the concrete. Does this mean a light sanding like you need to do with hard plastic before painting? Lastly, should I do both the roughing up and primer? Or is only one of these recommended? Sorry to ask you, especially so many questions, but this project will be my very first time attempting home repairs so I really want to make sure it’s done correctly. I’m very eager but definitely lacking confidence. Any help, ideas or suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thank you Steven! From Shannon in Canada 🇨🇦 *edited to change wording in hopes my questions make sense

[@Crsquared24]

​@alextaylor2320 did you ever do this or find out what kind of primer?

[@DaMadpenciler]

Can I use same method to seal a huge gap between the window borders and the wall of a room? It's so big a mouse can actually run around and stick his head out. Any advice?

[@cayrick]

I have a concrete block compartment built on a foundation that extends beyond the edges of the compartment. There are leaks and I am looking for a solution. since I don't have a gap as in your example, could I just put the sealant along the base at the side wall or is the product likely to flow and lie flat since you state that it is self levelling?

[@ms8172]

Can you just pour concrete down in the crack in the level it off?

[@BeautyofNaturalHair]

Marty Summers good question

[@mzbeegrier539]

Somebody told me that...scanning this thread to see if anyone else heard that

[@danielcoetzee5793]

It is not really a crack, is it? It is an opening or gap which was deliberately created between the foundation / wall and the paving slab when it was layed down. This space / gap is essential because the concrete paving needs to expand and contract with the changes in temperature. If it has no room to expand, the paving will crack and break up. If you want to fill in the gap to stop it from filling up with debris or to prevent weeds from growing inside it or if you simply just want it to look better, then you have to use A FLEXIBLE SEALANT which could accommodate the expansion /contraction. To answer your question: You cannot pour concrete in the gap to seal it because concrete will dry and harden and won't be able to flex with the expansion and contraction of the concrete paving. The filler will crack and break up. You also run the risk of the paving itself cracking and breaking up because it has no room to expand in hot weather.

[@dmtycn]

Just found same situation in one side of my house, big gaps! Will went to buy something to repair it!

[@ChasenGunzOutdoors]

Enjoyed the video keep up the hard work. Be blessed

[@SHOGUNS85]

how did this hold up after the years?

[@user-yl6yy2yj3n]

A Structural engineer is the last book worm I would ask 😂

[@pauldhadialla]

Which brand of self-levelling sealant is good? I've seen some from SIKA. It has to say self-levelling right? Great video - thanks.

[@kcollinsgallhollcom]

Paul Dhadialla you only need sika self leveling

[@kkw2219]

Seems easy to do for DIYer like me. Not quite like how the result looks because of the color difference of the filler and the sidewalk. Is there any chance you can stain the side walks and fillers using the same concrete stain? I have the same problem on my front porch. Thanks so much!

[@jonnyquest29]

Sprinkle a little sand on the caulk before it dries. It will blend better with the concrete.

[@tito5714]

What brand did you bought ?

[@tommmarree3689]

Not the best presentation, but you get the idea and it works....GOOD JOB !!

[@johnlin2023]

Genius! Thank you!

[@sayedbahari3269]

why not fill with concrete mortar?

[@pearlperlitavenegas2023]

It will crack again slabs move especially in Texas😂

[@conniegammon9790]

Thank you for the video it helps alot