Water Damaged Cinder Block Walls

Signs of Water Damage

• Cinder block walls may show signs of leakage on the blocks themselves or between blocks on the mortar. Generally, water leakage occurs at the wall and floor joint. This leakage does not require waterproofing as it is the relief valve that prevents the water from building up in the blocks. However, any cracks at these points should be repaired to prevent large amounts of water from seeping through the walls, creating other moisture problems.

Diverting Water From Cinder Block Walls

• Another problem that can cause water damage around cinder block walls is poor drainage. This problem occurs when the ground level slants downward toward the foundation. Rainwater seeps directly onto the foundation wall surfaces and may enter through any cracks or holes. To remedy this problem, build up the soil around the foundation of your home to allow the water to drain away from the foundation walls. Check gutters to ensure that they allow rainwater to flow away from the house, installing extensions if necessary to carry water away from the house.

Damage To Cinder Blocks

• Cinder blocks themselves are rarely damaged by water alone. The cementitious material is hard and absorbs and releases water naturally because water is one of its ingredients. The damage can occur in the mortar that is applied between the blocks, however, which can deteriorate, chip and loosen. Of course, broken cinder blocks can also let in water. Replacement of individual blocks can be done with a cold chisel and hammer, chipping out all pieces of the block, as well as the mortar. A new block can then be installed and mortared securely into place.

Damage to Mortar Around Cinder Blocks

• Water damage to the mortar that holds the cinder blocks in place should be repaired periodically to prevent further water intrusion. Mix mortar to fill cracks and holes with one part cement to two parts of sand, mixed with enough mortar to make a stiff consistency. Chip out the broken areas of mortar and clean the area well. Apply the mortar to the crack, pushing it into the depression firmly, removing all air from the repaired portion.