Foundation cracks are one of the most common warning signs of a problem that needs professional attention. They can be caused by uneven soil settlement or water infiltration. Warning signs include wall cracks that widen, a zigzag pattern or gaps, doors or windows that stick or don’t open easily and uneven flooring.
Whether you have a foundation crack or sagging floors, a professional inspection can help you determine the best repair method for your home or commercial building. It can also protect your investment and improve the value of your property. Contact Foundation Repair Plano for professional help.
Foundation inspections start with an evaluation of the problem’s extent. Professionals will examine the entire property for signs of foundation damage, including cracks in walls and ceilings. They will also check for sagging floors and doors that don’t open or close properly. These are early indicators of shifting or movement in the foundation, and prompt detection can prevent serious structural problems.
The next step involves examining the surrounding landscaping and drainage systems to see how they affect the foundation. It is important that the ground around the foundation slopes away from the foundation to avoid pooling water and further deterioration of the soil. It is also a good idea to regularly clean gutters and downspouts so that water flows freely and away from the foundation.
Once the inspection is complete, professionals will take pictures of everything that looks like a foundation issue. They may also use a Ziplevel altimeter to measure the height of the floor at various points in the house, which can help them spot uneven settlement.
Foundation inspections are usually required by mortgage lenders before approving a loan for a new home or commercial building. They want to know that the foundation is in good condition before investing in it, so they require a certification from a structural engineer or qualified contractor specializing in foundation assessments. Homeowners and building owners should also get regular inspections to catch small issues before they become major problems, as these can often be more costly to repair than the original problem.
Polyurethane Foam Jacking
Foundation issues can send homeowners into a panic, with visions of sky-high repair bills and complex construction work. However, modern repair techniques are addressing these concerns by providing effective and diverse solutions that suit different soil conditions. From using steel piers to combat unstable soil to polyurethane foam jacking for raising sunken concrete slabs, these innovations are making foundation repair less invasive and costly than ever.
This technique involves drilling small holes into a concrete slab or foundation, then injecting high-density polyurethane foam. As the foam expands, it fills voids and lifts concrete to its original level. It also compacts and strengthens the underlying soil, helping prevent further sinking and stabilizing the concrete.
Unlike mud jacking, this process is non-toxic and environmentally friendly. It uses a low-pressure pump to inject the foam, and it will not damage or displace surrounding water. It’s the perfect solution for soil conditions that are too loose to support a foundation or concrete slab.
It’s important to choose a qualified contractor with the right experience for your project. They will ensure the quality of work and use the right materials for your specific needs. This will help you get the most out of your investment and extend the life of your foundation repair.
If you’re in need of foundation repair, contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help. We’ll schedule a consultation and inspection at your home or business, and provide you with a detailed proposal for your consideration. You can also call us to discuss any questions or concerns that you might have about our foundation repair services. We look forward to hearing from you!
Slab Jacking
When a concrete slab sinks or settles, it can create uneven surfaces that make walking unsafe and cause doors and windows to misalign. In many cases, these problems can be corrected without major disruption with a process known as slab jacking.
Slab jacking, sometimes called poly jacking or concrete leveling, involves injecting a foam mixture beneath a sunken slab to lift it back up to its original position. Unlike traditional mudjacking, which uses a cement, sand and water slurry to raise the slab, this method relies on a lightweight, durable foam that can withstand heavy loads and resist corrosion.
First, the foundation repair specialist locates any voids or weak soil under the slab. Then, he or she drills small holes into the concrete where it needs to rise. The jacking material is then injected through these holes, raising the slab and filling the void at the same time. Finally, the holes are filled with a cement-like material to make the area as good as new.
This method is effective for many issues that arise from soil movement, including changes in moisture levels. However, it’s important to address underlying factors that contribute to these problems as well. This may involve making grading adjustments or installing drainage systems to prevent excessive water buildup near the foundation.
Another common way to improve a foundation is by waterproofing the concrete and implementing proper maintenance routines. This includes thorough surface cleaning to avoid exacerbating pre-existing damage and removing accumulated dirt and residue. It’s also a good idea to apply a premium sealant to fend off moisture and environmental damage. A successful sealant is one that’s tailored to the specific environmental conditions of the foundation and formulated with a long curing time.
Concrete Piers
Piers are critical structural supports contractors use to strengthen foundations, counteract soil pressure, minimize differential settlement, and enhance the load-bearing capacity of a structure. Combined with proper assessment, professional installation, and routine maintenance, they offer a long-lasting solution to foundation problems that may require repair.
Concrete piers consist of big solid cylinders of reinforced poured concrete. They’re built to withstand extreme loads and can be tailored to suit specific soil conditions, allowing for optimal foundation support. They’re also more cost-effective than other types of foundation repairs.
When choosing a foundation repair contractor, research their reputation and customer satisfaction. Ask for references, testimonials, and memberships with reputable industry associations. Additionally, look for an established professional who offers a warranty on their workmanship and a range of affordable services.
To install concrete piers, the crew will dig holes beneath the grade beam that extend beyond the frost line (the point at which the soil ceases to freeze in winter). Then, they’ll drill shafts into the bedrock or stable soil until the pier is fully embedded. Then, the crew will place a pile cap on top of the pier to complete the job.
Stacked concrete piers are more versatile than concrete piles, and they’re an excellent option for structures with basements. They’re a cost-effective solution that provides stability and versatility. They’re also easy to install and can be driven into the ground using a hydraulic pier system. However, they’re not as strong as other types of piers, so they’re not recommended for structures that require significant structural support.
Steel Piers
Steel piers are considered the backbone of modern foundation repair. They are used to stabilize and support many structures, including quaint suburban homes and large commercial buildings. They are designed to go deeper into the soil than other piering systems, reaching load bearing strata and then resting on bedrock. By transferring the weight of the structure to the steel pier, they protect against further structural problems like shifting and cracking.
The installation of steel piers is quick and simple. The area around the foundation is excavated and the piers are inserted either using a hydraulic ram or by helical screw. The piers are then loaded in a way that simulates the weight of the structure, which allows them to be tested for strength and accuracy.
Unlike concrete piers, which can be prone to heaving due to the movement of the soil underneath them, steel piers are solid and will not shift or degrade over time. They can also be installed without the need for shims, which reduces their risk of being displaced by further movement. They are also less invasive than other piering systems and will not affect the aesthetics of your home.
While there are a variety of different methods to repair foundation issues, it is important to choose the right one for your situation. A reputable professional will assess your home’s specific needs and recommend the best solution. Make sure to compare quotes and look for a balance of expertise, quality and cost-effectiveness. It is also important to check the warranty provided by the professional and any aftercare services that may be available. By following these tips, you can be confident that your repaired foundation will last for years to come.