If you notice long horizontal cracks, bowing or leaning walls, or cracks that allow water to enter the basement, these are signs of a serious issue with the foundation. While some other projects can wait, a foundation restoration is something that cannot wait. Foundation restoration is a complex process and should be handled by experts.
Before Beginning Foundation Restoration
Before you proceed with foundation restoration it is important to know the different techniques used for the process. The choice of the right method will depend on the following factors:
· Soil type
· Foundation construction
· Climate
· Any existing problem
Signs of Foundation Problems
If you notice the following signs, it can mean that there is a problem with your building’s foundation and it requires professional restoration or repair:
· Exterior Signs: Signs include cracked bricks, wall rotation, cracked or broken foundation, separation around windows, garage doors, or walls, or displaced moldings.
· Interior Signs: Signs include cracked sheetrock, uneven floors, misaligned windows, and doors, or cracks in the floor.
Foundation Restoration Techniques
Some of the commonly used foundation restoration techniques are as follows:
1. Using Steel Piers
When you have a damaged foundation, steel piers may be suggested for repairing or stabilizing it. Steel is more effective in reinforcing buildings that have started to slope or settle down. Besides, it can last long and can hold extremely heavy weights.
2. Using Helical Piers
If your home is in an area with tricky soil, your foundation restoration project may involve the use of helical piers. This technique provides all the reinforcement benefits that come with other steel-based options. The procedure involves the use of steel containing helices. The beams are driven deep into the soil, helping stabilize your building.
3. Using Concrete Piers
When it comes to the use of concrete piers, the process involves custom-made piers that will work with the soil. These piers go deep underground. Similar to steel piers, these piers will also provide the building with durable support, lasting for many years. Concrete piers are considered ideal for areas with warm and temperate conditions.
4. Slab jacking
If there is a sunken concrete slab, the slab jacking technique involves the process of lifting the slab. This involves the use of a substance that is pumped to lift the slab, with polyurethane foam being the most commonly used material. The process involves drilling access holes into the concrete and filling the voids.
Slab jacking is the most widely used technique for foundation repair. It offers many advantages over other methods in terms of:
· Cost savings
· Time savings
· Appearance
5. Using Polyurethane Foam
Emergency foundation problems are often addressed with high-density polyurethane foam. The material is readily available and works by rising quickly. Besides being used to lift residential foundations, it is also used for raising highways. There are almost a dozen types of polyurethane foams that can be used for this type of foundation restoration.
6. Using Sealants
In some cases, sealants and masonry patches can also be used to fix the foundation. Vinyl concrete patch materials are considered ideal for such a job. These materials have excellent adhesive features and fast drying times. They use vinyl resin and cement to reinforce the concrete foundation.
7. Using Spot Piers
When it comes to lighter surfaces, such as attached patios or outdoor porches, spot piers can help with foundation restoration. The process involves digging before concrete is inserted. This helps in stabilizing the damaged or vulnerable areas of the foundation.
8. Using Segmented Piers
This method involves the use of small, cylindrical concrete tubes that are pressed into the underlying soil. Segmented piers are more cost-effective alternatives, helping you save in the thousands.
So, these are some of the commonly used methods for foundation restoration. If you notice any signs of a problem with the foundation, it is recommended to get professional help to get the right type of repair.
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