How much does it cost to repair a cracked poured concrete foundation in the GTA?

Foundation crack repair in the GTA ranges from $300 to $800 per crack for interior injection, up to $2,000 to $5,000 per crack for exterior excavation repair, depending on the type of crack, its severity, whether it is structural or non-structural, and the repair method used. Most GTA homes have non-structural shrinkage cracks that can be repaired effectively from the interior for $400 to $600 per crack.

The first step is understanding what kind of crack you are dealing with, because the repair approach and cost differ dramatically. Vertical and diagonal hairline cracks (less than 1/8 inch wide) in poured concrete foundations are almost always shrinkage cracks — they formed as the concrete cured and are non-structural. These are the most common cracks in GTA basements and are repaired with polyurethane injection from the interior. The technician drills injection ports along the crack, then injects expanding polyurethane foam that fills the crack from inside to outside, creating a flexible, waterproof seal. This method costs $300 to $600 per crack and takes about an hour per crack to complete. Polyurethane injection is preferred over epoxy for waterproofing purposes because it remains flexible and accommodates the slight seasonal movement that GTA freeze-thaw cycles cause.

Epoxy injection is used when structural bonding is needed — it essentially glues the concrete back together with a material that is actually stronger than the original concrete. Epoxy injection costs $400 to $800 per crack and is appropriate for cracks in structural elements like foundation walls that need to be restored to full load-bearing capacity. However, epoxy is rigid and can crack again adjacent to the repair if the foundation continues to move.

Horizontal cracks and stair-step cracks are a different matter entirely and typically indicate structural problems. Horizontal cracks in a poured concrete wall suggest lateral pressure from soil — particularly the expansive clay soils found throughout much of the GTA — pushing the wall inward. These cracks often appear about one-third of the way down from the top of the wall. Repair options include carbon fibre strapping ($500 to $1,200 per strap, with straps placed every 4 feet along the affected wall), steel beam reinforcement ($1,500 to $3,000 per beam), or in severe cases, full wall replacement ($15,000 to $30,000 or more). A structural engineer's assessment ($500 to $1,500) is essential before repairing horizontal or stair-step cracks, as the repair method depends entirely on the cause and severity.

For homes with multiple cracks — common in 1950s and 1960s poured concrete foundations across Scarborough, Etobicoke, and North York — many waterproofing contractors offer package pricing. Repairing 5 to 10 cracks in a single visit typically costs $2,000 to $4,500 rather than the per-crack rate, as mobilization and setup costs are spread across the job.

If cracks are actively leaking water, particularly during spring thaw or heavy rain, addressing the crack alone may not solve the underlying problem. The water is reaching the crack because of failed weeping tile, poor grading, or missing downspout extensions — all common issues in older GTA homes. A crack injection stops the leak at that point, but the hydrostatic pressure will find the next weak spot. Consider having a waterproofing specialist assess the overall foundation condition and drainage before investing in individual crack repairs. Always ensure your contractor provides a written warranty — reputable companies offer 10-year to lifetime warranties on crack injection repairs.