How to Seal a Leak in Concrete

Leaks in concrete can be a major headache to any homeowner. Cracks in concrete walls and foundations can often lead to harmful leaks which can cause expensive water damage. Water damage from such leaks can lead to thousands of dollars in repairs. If, however, you have the proper tools and instructions and can seal a concrete crack yourself, you can save a lot of money -- both immediately and in the long run.

Wire brush
Damp cloth
Pointing trowel
Work gloves
Hammer
Chisel
Water-based epoxy
Epoxy resin
Fiberglass cloth
Safety goggles
Safety mask
Garden hose
Plastic sheet

Instructions

- 1
  Wet the leaky area of the concrete with a garden hose for several minutes. This will help the old concrete bond to the patch you will be applying and will make obvious any loose chips of concrete.
- 2
  Clean the crack with a wire brush, brushing away any loose bits of concrete. Use a hammer and chisel to lightly chip away any other loose bits that the wire brush cannot remove.
- 3
  Wipe down the leaky crack with a damp cloth. Make sure the crack has been cleared of any concrete dust and loosened bits.
- 4
  Apply water-based epoxy to the crack with a pointing trowel. Coat the leak completely, without missing even the tiniest spot. Apply three coats. Let it cure.
- 5
  Take a piece of fiberglass cloth and put it over the seal you have just created with the water-based epoxy. Apply epoxy resin over the fiberglass cloth to bond it to the seal. Use three coats of epoxy resin.
- 6
  Cover the repaired leak with a plastic sheet. Keep it covered for five days.

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