Cracked foundation interior waterproofing stone foundation repairs water

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9787670006

Cracked foundation interior waterproofing stone foundation repairs water

Revitalize your property with quality restoration solutions.

Get a Free Estimate

9787670006

We bring stability back!

Experienced Professionals

At Old Stone Foundation Solutions, we are dedicated to restoring the strength, stability, and safety of your home or business. Serving communities across Massachusetts, our team of skilled professionals specializes in foundation repairs, waterproofing, and structural support, ensuring your property stands the test of time.

We understand that a solid foundation is the backbone of every building, which is why we provide reliable, affordable, and efficient solutions tailored to your specific needs. Whether you’re dealing with cracks, leaks, or settling issues, you can trust us to restore the integrity of your foundation and give you peace of mind.

With years of experience, advanced technology, and a commitment to customer satisfaction, Old Stone Foundation Solutions is here to protect what matters most to you. Let us help you safeguard your investment with top-notch foundation services that ensure your property remains strong for generations to come

An historic fieldstone foundation located in Concord Massachusetts

Types of foundations!

Rubble Stone Foundation

Most common in 18th–19th century homes.
Made from irregular, rough fieldstones fitted together with mortar (often lime-based originally).
Often looks rough and uneven.
Prone to water infiltration if not repointed or sealed over time.

Cut Stone (Ashlar) Foundation

Stones are cut into more uniform, rectangular shapes.
Tighter fit, more refined appearance—used in higher-end or later 19th-century homes.
Better structurally and more resistant to water than rubble stone.

Dry-Laid Stone Foundation

No mortar used—stones are carefully placed and balanced.
Found in very old or rural buildings like barns or colonial homes.
Prone to shifting over time unless maintained.

Granite Block Foundation

Used in late 1800s–early 1900s as granite became more accessible.
Large, heavy, squared-off granite blocks laid in rows.
Extremely durable and still seen in many historic homes in Massachusetts

Failing foundation lime coating failing needs repointing and a waterproof

Why fix your foundation?

Fixing a historic stone foundation is important for several reasons—both practical and preservation-related:

Structural Stability

A damaged or deteriorating stone foundation can lead to uneven floors, cracked walls, or worse—partial or total structural failure.
Moisture intrusion through cracks or gaps can weaken the foundation over time.

Preserving Historic Integrity

The foundation is part of the original craftsmanship and architectural style. Repairing it properly helps maintain the building’s authenticity and value.
Inappropriate fixes (like using Portland cement instead of lime mortar) can actually damage the stone and cause faster deterioration.

Preventing Moisture and Pest Issues

Cracks or gaps can allow water to seep in, leading to mold, mildew, and rot in wooden elements.
Rodents, insects, and other pests can enter through deteriorating foundation areas.

Legal and Insurance Reasons

Some historic buildings must meet preservation codes or guidelines for restoration.
Foundation issues can affect your homeowner’s insurance or resale value.

Energy Efficiency

Gaps and cracks can let in drafts, making the home colder in winter and harder to cool in summer, increasing energy

Foundation fully repointed preparation for final waterproofing coat

How to repair foundation!

Step-by-Step Process:

Inspect the Wall:
- Before you begin repointing, thoroughly inspect the masonry to determine how much mortar needs to be removed. Look for cracked, crumbling, or deteriorated mortar.

Prepare the Work Area:
- Set up a ladder or scaffolding, ensuring it is stable.
- Lay down a drop cloth or tarp to catch any debris or mortar.

Remove the Old Mortar:
- Using a mortar rake or angle grinder, carefully remove the damaged or deteriorated mortar. Be sure not to damage the surrounding stones or bricks.
- Aim to remove about ¾ of an inch (2 cm) of the old mortar, or more if needed, to ensure a solid bond for the new mortar.
- If using a chisel and hammer, tap the chisel to break away the old mortar, working carefully to avoid damaging the masonry.

Clean the Joints:
- After removing the old mortar, use a wire brush to clean the joints of any remaining debris, dust, or particles. You can also use a vacuum to remove smaller debris.

Moisten the Joints:
- Before applying the new mortar, lightly dampen the joints with water using a spray bottle or sponge. This helps the mortar adhere better and prevents it from drying too quickly.

Prepare the Mortar Mix:
- Prepare a mortar mix that matches the original composition (whether it’s lime-based, cement-based, or a blend) and color of the old mortar. Use a mortar mix designed for masonry repairs. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the mixing ratio.
- Mix the mortar with water until it reaches a consistency that is thick but workable, similar to peanut butter.

Apply the New Mortar:
- Using a pointing trowel, fill the joints with the new mortar. Push the mortar deep into the joint to ensure it’s fully packed.
- Work from the bottom of the wall to the top, filling one section at a time. Overfill the joint slightly, as the mortar will settle once it dries.

Tool the Joints:
- Once the mortar is applied, use the trowel or a jointing tool to smooth and shape the mortar to match the profile of the surrounding joints.
- The goal is to make the new mortar joints look as close as possible to the original ones in terms of size, shape, and texture.

Clean Excess Mortar:
- After tooling the joints, clean off any excess mortar from the stones or bricks with a damp sponge. Be careful not to disturb the newly filled joints.

Allow Mortar to Set:
- Let the mortar set for several hours or as per the manufacturer’s instructions. During this time, avoid disturbing the joints to allow for proper curing.
- Depending on the weather conditions, you may need to lightly mist the mortar with water over the next few days to ensure it cures properly.

Final foundation restoration waterproof coating

Materials and lime

What is Lime Mortar?

Lime mortar is a traditional building material made from lime (usually slaked lime or hydrated lime), sand, and water. Before the 20th century, it was widely used in masonry construction—think old brick, stone, and plasterwork.

Why Use Lime in Historic Restoration?

When restoring historic buildings, using lime mortar is important because:

Breathability: Lime allows moisture to escape from masonry walls, reducing trapped water and potential damage.
Flexibility: It accommodates minor building movement better than modern Portland cement.
Compatibility: Lime mortar is softer than modern cements, making it less damaging to old bricks and stones.
Aesthetic Match: It provides an authentic look and feel for historic structures.

Types of Lime Used

Non-hydraulic lime (lime putty): Sets by carbonation (slowly absorbs CO₂); ideal for soft, old masonry.
Hydraulic lime (NHL 2, 3.5, 5): Sets with water and is more durable; good for exterior or damp conditions.
Hot lime: Quicklime mixed with water and aggregate in a hot mix—closest to traditional historic methods.

Waterproofing!

1. Understanding the Unique Challenges

Historic homes often have:

Stone or brick foundations with lime-based mortar (which breathes differently than modern cement).
Poor or nonexistent drainage systems.
Materials and construction techniques that require different waterproofing methods than modern homes.

2. Exterior Waterproofing (Preferred if Possible)

This involves excavating around the foundation and:

Repairing cracks and repointing mortar with lime-based products.
Installing a drainage system (like French drains).
Applying a breathable waterproof membrane—modern rubberized coatings can trap moisture, so vapor-permeable options are often preferred.

3. Interior Waterproofing

If exterior work isn’t possible (due to cost or preservation laws), interior options include:

Installing a sump pump system.
Using interior drainage channels along the footing.
Applying vapor-permeable sealants to the interior walls (avoid non-breathable sealants on old masonry).
Dehumidifiers and climate control to reduce interior moisture.

4. Preservation Best Practices

Consult with a preservation architect or structural engineer familiar with historic properties.
Use materials compatible with the home’s era (e.g., lime mortar, traditional stone).
Avoid irreversible alterations (e.g., heavy cement parging or full encapsulation).
Ensure that grading and gutters are working correctly—this often solves 80% of moisture issues.

5. Warning Signs to Watch For

Efflorescence (white powdery residue)
Musty smells or mold
Bowing walls or deteriorating mortar
Persistent dampness in basement walls/floors

Brick stairs before grind and repoint and repair

Masonry repairs!

Masonry repair services typically include foundation contractors a range of solutions to fix and maintain structures made from brick, stone, concrete, or other similar materials. These services can address issues like cracks, water damage, or structural instability. Common masonry repair services include: stone restoration interior waterproofing

Brick and Stone Replacement: Replacing damaged or deteriorated bricks or stones while ensuring the structural integrity of the building is maintained.
Crack Repair: Filling or sealing cracks in masonry to prevent water infiltration and further damage. This may include the use of special sealants or epoxy injections.
Tuckpointing: The process of removing old mortar from joints and replacing it with fresh mortar to restore the appearance and strength of brickwork.
Waterproofing: Applying waterproofing sealants or membranes to prevent water from seeping through masonry walls.
Repointing: Replacing old, crumbling mortar between bricks or stones to enhance the stability and aesthetic of the structure.
Foundation Repair: Addressing issues like settling or shifting foundations that may affect the masonry above.
Chimney Repair: Repairing or rebuilding masonry chimneys, including flue liners, bricks, and mortar joints.

If you’re looking for masonry repair services in your area, it’s a good idea to look for professionals who specialize in masonry and have experience working with the specific materials and issues you are dealing with.

Why Choose us?

When it comes to foundation work, you need someone who brings more than just tools—you need trust, skill, and experience. Here’s why I’m the right choice for your foundation restoration:

Experience That Shows: I’ve worked on a wide range of foundation issues, from minor cracks to full structural stabilization. I know what to look for, how to fix it, and how to prevent future problems.
Quality Workmanship: I take pride in doing the job right the first time. My attention to detail and use of proven methods means long-lasting results you can count on.
Clear Communication: I’ll explain exactly what’s going on, what needs to be done, and what it will cost—no surprises, just honest work.
Affordable and Fair Pricing: I offer competitive rates without cutting corners. You’ll get high-quality service that fits your budget.
Respect for Your Property: I treat every home like it’s my own—clean, careful, and considerate of your space and time.

Old Stone Foundation Solutions

Cracked foundation interior waterproofing stone foundation repairs water

Cracked foundation interior waterproofing stone foundation repairs water