Tips on repairing cracks in basement

[michiganb'sment]

My house was built in 1940, and I had an interior trench system (instadry) installed last year to prevent some seepage on the floor. Then there was one hairline zig zag crack in between the foundation blocks from the wettest place, now there are several horizontal cracks in the mortar as well. There is no bowing of the walls. The people that installed the trench have recommended grip-tite anchor systems for about 3500, with a 25 year transferrable warranty. Do I have to do this or can I just repair the cracks? Did the drilling to put in the trench cause this? Is the anchor system a good system? Thanks.

[TJ1962]

Usually drilling weep holes will not cause cracking. Contractor must be careful when trenching not to undermine the foundation footer. Although it sounds as if these are minor cracks.

Normally once you see one area cracking others will follow. Re-tuckpointing cracks looks good but adds no strength in tension so re-cracking will occur.

Investigate all options. Contractors tend to recommend what they prefer. There are vaious tie-back systems, steel I-beams and carbon fiber reinforcement systems to choose from.

Monitor cracks for a short period of time. However, reinforcement before foundation begins bowing inward is the best option for the value of the home.