Social Media Is Spreading Dangerous DIY Foundation Repair Myths That Could Cost You Thousands

In the age of TikTok tutorials and YouTube “life hacks,” homeowners are increasingly turning to social media for DIY solutions to their home maintenance problems. While some projects are perfect for weekend warriors, foundation repair is decidedly not one of them. Unfortunately, misinformation about foundation repair is spreading rapidly across social platforms, leading homeowners down costly and potentially dangerous paths.

The Most Dangerous DIY Foundation Myths on Social Media

Many homeowners enthusiastically try home fixes that save them time and money, but it’s not a good idea to try and fix a damaged foundation on their own, as they may damage the foundation further, resulting in a costlier repair. Here are the most persistent myths circulating on social platforms:

Myth 1: “Just Fill the Cracks with Store-Bought Sealant”

This is perhaps the most dangerous advice trending on DIY channels. It might seem like a good idea to fill those cracks, but unfortunately, it won’t fix the problem. The crack is just a symptom. The real problem is your foundation is sinking and settling into the earth. Filling a crack will not fix that and could lead to future damage and cost you more in the long run. Some homeowners attempt to fill cracks with store-bought sealants, but this only addresses surface-level symptoms rather than the root cause. Without proper assessment, DIY fixes can lead to further damage, resulting in more expensive repairs down the line.

Myth 2: “Foundation Problems Only Happen to Old Houses”

Social media influencers often perpetuate the myth that new construction is immune to foundation issues. However, soil does not discriminate. Whether your home is a hundred years old or one year old, soil can cause foundation problems. If your new home has been poorly graded, in an area that rains a lot, or isn’t waterproofed, you could end up with foundation problems. It doesn’t mean your home is poorly built; it means the soil your home is sitting on has a lot of movement.

Myth 3: “Watering Your Lawn Causes Foundation Problems”

This myth is 100% false. Watering your lawn will not contribute to any foundation problems. Soil expansion from overwatering would not have a large enough impact to cause hydrostatic pressure and cracking. The real culprit is clogged gutters and downspouts. Water pooling around your foundation from poor drainage systems can weaken the soil around your home over time. When soil absorbs too much water, it starts to expand. That expansion causes the soil to push up against your foundation, causing cracks and bowing walls.

Why DIY Foundation Repair Is So Risky

Foundation repair requires specialized knowledge and tools. DIY attempts often make things worse, leading to costlier fixes later. Plus, improper repairs can void home warranties or insurance coverage. DIY solutions won’t save you money on foundation repairs, either. Instead, these solutions will tide you over until something goes wrong, and then you’ll find yourself forced to pay for the solution’s removal as well as a more permanent fix from a foundation expert.

The reality is that small cracks are not always harmless; they can hint at deep-seated structural problems leading to significant damage over time. What appears to be a simple cosmetic issue could actually indicate serious structural problems that require professional assessment and repair.

The Cost of Believing Social Media Myths

Foundation problems will only get worse with time, and early intervention is key. Foundation damage will only worsen over time, and delaying repair can lead to costly and dangerous damage. Stress on your home’s structure can increase, leading to wall separation, window and door misalignment, and even electrical shock. The longer the foundation issue is left unaddressed, the more expensive and labor-intensive subsequent repairs will be.

Professional repairs aren’t as expensive as social media makes them seem. Despite the common misconception, foundation repair doesn’t have to be expensive. The cost depends on the severity of the damage and the chosen foundation repair method. For instance, a simpler approach, such as concrete leveling, costs less than using an underpinning system.

Getting Professional Help for Foundation Issues

When it comes to foundation cracks, professional assessment is crucial. For over 25 years, Diamond Masonry & Waterproofing has been the trusted name for masonry and waterproofing services. Anything from wet basements and foundation cracks to water damage, we’ve helped homeowners protect their homes with reliable solutions that last. Located in Merrick, NY, Diamond Basement Waterproofing has been servicing Long Island since 2000. Over this time, we have been able to help hundreds of customers solve their basement waterproofing needs. We are a family-owned business, and we operate efficiently without a lot of overhead like many of the larger companies servicing the Long Island market. This enables us to deliver more affordable solutions to our customers.

Red Flags to Watch For

Don’t let myths and random things you find online deter you from getting foundation repair. Our best tip when dealing with foundation problems is to find a reputable foundation repair contractor to inspect your home. They will tell you the steps you need to take to fix your home for the long haul. The good news is: Most contractors give free inspections.

Social media can be a valuable resource for many things, but foundation repair isn’t one of them. TikTok, like nearly all forms of media, is susceptible to misinformation that lures users with sensational headlines, hyperbolic language, and emotional triggers. These tactics exploit the user’s curiosity with exaggerated or misleading content that promises groundbreaking revelations, expose scandals, or offer miraculous solutions. Their design is to induce a sense of urgency, prompting users to click and engage without deeper thought.

When you notice foundation issues, resist the urge to search for quick fixes on social media. Instead, contact a licensed professional who can properly assess your situation and provide lasting solutions. Your home’s structural integrity is too important to trust to viral videos and unverified “experts” online.