Before & After Photos

This Glendale, AZ home was showing clear signs of stem wall failure, including peeling paint, exposed rebar, and concrete spalling along the foundation edge. These issues are extremely common in the Phoenix metro area due to high soil salts, moisture infiltration, and oxidizing rebar inside the concrete.

Our team restored the structural integrity of the stem wall by removing deteriorated material, treating the corroded rebar, rebuilding the damaged sections with high-strength repair mortar, and finishing it with a clean protective coating. The final result strengthens the foundation, prevents further corrosion, and restores the home's curb appeal.

This repair helps protect the home from future cracking, moisture intrusion, and ongoing stem wall deterioration — delivering long-term stability for Arizona soil conditions.

In Glendale, Arizona, a homeowner noticed troubling horizontal cracks forming on the exterior foundation walls of their house. These cracks, though initially small, began to expand over time, signaling potential structural issues. Recognizing the urgency of the problem, the homeowner contacted Arizona Foundation Solutions for a comprehensive evaluation and repair plan.

Ted, our experienced Design Specialist, conducted a thorough inspection of the property. He identified that the cracks were due to oxidizing rebar within the concrete stem walls. If left unaddressed, the stem walls would continue to deteriorate, compromising the integrity of the foundation. Ted explained to the homeowner that traditional repair methods like patching, epoxy injection, and standard rebar replacement would not provide a long-term solution, as these methods are prone to recurring oxidation issues.

Felix, our skilled Foreman, led the repair project using Arizona Foundation Solutions’ innovative Heavy Concrete Stem Wall Patch system. This advanced system offers a cost-effective and reliable solution, specifically designed to prevent future oxidation and ensure long-term stability. Desirae, our attentive Customer Care Representative, ensured smooth communication and scheduling throughout the process, making the experience seamless for the homeowner.

The Heavy Concrete Stem Wall Patch was meticulously applied, addressing the existing cracks and fortifying the stem wall against future damage. This system not only repaired the visible damage but also reinforced the foundation, providing peace of mind to the homeowner.

Arizona Foundation Solutions takes pride in delivering high-quality, lasting solutions for foundation issues. If you are experiencing similar problems with your stem walls, don’t wait until the damage worsens. Contact us today to schedule your free estimate in Phoenix, Mesa, Gilbert, and nearby Arizona areas!

Why Most Concrete Stem Wall Repairs Fail:

Foundation wall cracks generally stem from the porous nature of concrete, which allows moisture to build up and oxidize the rebar inside. This oxidation causes expansion and cracking that worsen over time. Traditional repair methods, such as patching, epoxy injection, and standard rebar replacement, often fail because they do not address the root cause of the problem – moisture and oxidation. Even advanced methods like electrical cathodic protection systems, though effective, are prohibitively expensive and impractical for residential use.

What Sets Our Stem Wall Repair System Apart:

Our concrete stem wall repair system is a reliable and cost-effective solution for residential homes experiencing stem wall failure. Unlike traditional methods, our system prevents future oxidation, ensuring the long-term stability and safety of your foundation.

Opening – The Breaking Point
A homeowner in Glendale, AZ noticed fine, horizontal cracks along their stem wall just weeks after a heavy rain. Over time, those cracks widened and a small seepage of damp soil appeared at the base. What began as a minor cosmetic issue quickly became a source of real concern about structural safety, potential water intrusion, and long-term damage to the home’s foundation.

The Search for a Solution
Initial attempts with a handyman’s epoxy injection proved temporary—the cracks reappeared within months. A generic concrete patch didn’t hold either, and it became clear that stem wall repair requires more than surface fixes. Lasting success depends on addressing rebar corrosion and chloride-induced concrete deterioration at their source.

Why Arizona Foundation Solutions?
A neighbor’s five-star recommendation led to Arizona Foundation Solutions (AZFS). Their free, no-pressure inspection involved a specialist using a laser level and soil probe. In straightforward terms, the inspector explained how chloride ions migrate through concrete, corroding embedded rebar. As steel rusts, it expands, creating pressure that fractures the concrete; meanwhile, the concrete’s pH drifts toward acidity, speeding up decay. AZFS follows International Concrete Repair Institute (ICRI) guidelines to remove this underlying cause, rather than simply covering it up.

The Repair Process

• Set-up: Protective barriers shielded landscaping and ensured safe access around the work area.

• Excavation & Removal: A shallow trench was dug to fully expose the damaged stem wall down to the footing.

• Rebar Preparation: Crews sand-blasted corroded steel back to bare metal, then applied an ion-blocking epoxy coating to prevent further chloride penetration.

• Concrete Repair: An anodic-based repair mortar was troweled on in a uniform band, feathering at the edges to blend seamlessly with existing concrete and neutralize pH.

• Verification & Cleanup: Level readings confirmed the repair met strict alignment specifications. The site was fully cleaned and back-filled, all within two days and without disturbing the home’s hardscape or plantings.

Transformation – The After
Pre-repair, the homeowner dealt with widening stem wall cracks, damp spots in the garage, and doors that stuck in their frames. Post-repair, the wall is solid and crack-free, floor slopes are corrected, and every door closes smoothly. The clean line between stucco and soil enhances curb appeal, and the work is backed by a transferable warranty for added peace of mind.

Emotional Engine – Why Act Early?
Unchecked stem wall damage allows moisture and soil movement to worsen, making future repairs more extensive. Arizona Foundation Solutions emphasizes transparent estimates, certified crews, and a lifetime service policy—so small issues are resolved before they become major headaches.

New Era – A Win for Everyone
This restoration not only secured the homeowner’s foundation but also helped maintain property values throughout the Glendale neighborhood. Many Arizona families have since relied on AZFS to keep their homes safe, stable, and built to last.

This family down in Glendale, Arizona, was very worried about the longevity of their concrete, especially because of the many oil stains on it. They were looking for something to protect it from the arid summers in AZ. Additionally, the family wanted a fresh new look for their concrete without compromising the integrity of their concrete.

Foreman Anthony assessed the situation, noting the mismatched and stained concrete surfaces that dotted the property. The driveway showed signs of wear and tear, with unsightly stains marring their appearance. Anthony understood the importance of addressing these issues not only for aesthetics but also for the durability of the concrete against the harsh Arizona climate.

After Project Description:

With Foreman Anthony at the helm, the concrete sealing project in Glendale, Arizona, was a resounding success. Anthony and his team utilized DecoShield™ Concrete Sealer to rejuvenate the family's concrete surfaces, providing both protection and visual enhancement.

The process began with meticulous surface preparation, using a special etching liquid to ensure maximum adhesion of the sealer. Next, the concrete was power washed to remove any dirt, grime, and oil stains, leaving behind a clean canvas. Once dry, the team applied the tinted DecoShield concrete sealer in multiple coats, allowing each layer to cure before proceeding to the next.

The result was striking. The once dull and damaged concrete surfaces now boasted a translucent tint that not only enhanced their appearance but also provided robust protection against chemicals, moisture, and UV rays. The family's worries about the longevity of their concrete were alleviated, knowing that their surfaces were now fortified against the harsh elements of an Arizona summer.

Thanks to DecoShield's wide array of concrete stain colors, the family was able to achieve the fresh new look they desired without compromising the integrity of their concrete. The mismatched and stained concrete floors were transformed into a cohesive and visually appealing feature of their home, boosting curb appeal and leaving a lasting impression on visitors.

In conclusion, Foreman Anthony and his team demonstrated their expertise and dedication to delivering exceptional results, leaving the family in Glendale, Arizona, delighted with their beautifully sealed concrete surfaces. With DecoShield Concrete Sealer, they can now enjoy their outdoor spaces with confidence, knowing that they are both protected and aesthetically pleasing.

This Glendale home had a large interior slab crack.

We cut stitches into your cracked foundation's concrete, drop carbon fiber laminates into the cuts and adhere with low viscosity polyurea. This system is stronger, faster and more cost-effective than the more traditional embedment of rebar dowels into the concrete. Crack Stitching is a reliable way to repair concrete & foundation cracks running along your floor.