repairing the foundation ???

[Cheri in NY]

I haven't done anything like this and want it to be done correctly, of course: there are several places in the foundation above ground where there are cracks, small holes, etc. Want to cut down on the places where mice (and chipmunks) can come into the house. Husband moved out almost 2years ago and DS22 is busy working to help out (he's a hard worker). Also have DS16 still home, but at school. What do we buy to do the job?? Should the weather be warmish outside or does it matter??? How long does it take to dry?? It may seem like a simple job to some of you, but we are learning to do all sorts of things that weren't being "kept up". thanks for the help

[Darren]

What are you working with, wood, concrete, cement block?

[Cheri in NY]

it's a block foundation, sorry, that would've been good to tell 'ya :-)

[TnAndy]

Great Stuff......foam in a can that gets hard, and great for just what you're doing. DON'T put too much in, it expands a LOT !

Available at any building supply place.

[rancher1913]

like th andy said but get the foam for stone and water features, same looking can and dispensing but its black and lasts outdoors in the weather.

[||Downhome||]

Mice will just chew through the foam.

Hydraulic cement would be my choice.

[rambler]

It should be above freezing either way - foam or concrete patch.

Concrete is hard on the hands, but, get a 60 lb bag of the _sand_ premixed stuff, put some in a tub add a little bit of water, keep stirring until it gets all damp but _not_ runny, and chink it in the holes.

I suppose it's more to it than that, but that's really the basics. Two keys - don't add too much water, add little bit until it gets wetted all the way through, but still a firm mix. and be sure to get the sand mix, all the boxstores will carry the regular concrete mix that has gravel size rocks in it, you don't want that it won't fit in holes and cracks well, you want the sand mix.

There are also concete patch materials, acrylic stuff, for smaller cracks and pinhole stuff.

Kinda depends on what you are trying to patch, bigger or hairline stuff.

--->Paul

[Cheri in NY]

thanks, guys for all the advice, probably doing it this weekend, been already in the 30's a few nights here so we can't wait too much longer. Also have an outside window sill that needs new caulk and paint...to be done before freezing weather, right?? I don't like asking at the local hardware store because I don't want them feeling sorry for me and offering to do work here (kinda creepy). Already had an issue with the well pump and never got a bill for that (but it probably saved me $75 or so). And all the guys that work there know the former resident IDK...just seems embarassing for me. But, slowly the boys and I are doing what needs to get done...God has a plan for our home.