Unlike foundation replacement, foundation repair addresses the root causes of the problem. Ultimately, this can end up saving you money in the long run!
Foundation contractors reestablish support for the home using methods such as hydraulic jacks and steel piers. These solutions lift the sunken parts of the foundation and stabilize them. Speak with Apex Plano Foundation Repair for quality solutions.
While cracks in foundations are not a direct indication that your house is in danger of collapse, they can signal problems with your home’s structure or soil. In some cases, these cracks can be fixed by filling and painting them, but in other situations you may need more substantial structural repairs. In general, the sooner you address foundation cracks, the better. This will help prevent them from growing larger and causing more damage.
If you notice a thin crack that hasn’t changed in size, it is likely due to shrinkage during the concrete curing process and poses no serious structural threat. These cracks can often be repaired by cleaning the area around the crack and widening it slightly with a hammer and chisel to allow for better bonding. You can then use a commercial epoxy or polyurethane to fill the crack and let it dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
When it comes to larger cracks, a professional inspection is necessary to determine what the cause of the cracking is and how it can be fixed. Most cracks are caused by water infiltration and settlement of the soil beneath a home’s foundation slab. The soil moves and changes shape over time, putting pressure on the foundation in ways it wasn’t designed to handle. These cracks are more serious and can lead to collapse if left untreated.
To repair these cracks, a professional will dig down to the foundation footing and remove any dirt or debris from the hole. A vapor barrier is then installed to protect the waterproofing tar as experts backfill the foundation.
Structural cracks are a sign that your house’s foundation is buckling due to structural problems. These cracks are usually horizontal or diagonal and can appear across floors, walls, or ceilings. They often have one wider end and a narrow or tapering end, resembling a stair-step pattern. These types of cracks are the most common and can be repaired by using carbon fiber staples or a 2-part epoxy injection.
Water Infiltration
Water infiltration into a foundation can be an indication of a serious problem, as moisture can corrode metal parts of the building, lead to mold growth and even cause structural damage. It is important to act fast and take preventative measures to protect the integrity of your home. These measures can include repairing broken pipes, sealing cracks and making sure that your gutters are working properly. Additionally, it is important to check your sewer lines and drainage systems regularly to ensure they are not clogged or damaged.
Foundation problems usually show up in the form of small signs, such as doors that no longer open or close properly, gaps around windows and doors, sagging walls or floors, or moisture in basement walls and floors. If you notice these signs, contact a professional immediately. A reputable foundation repair company will be able to inspect the problem and recommend the right solution for your situation.
The most common way water infiltrates a foundation is through cracked or porous concrete. This occurs when the concrete expands when it is wet, pushing against adjacent blocks or slabs. The water can also seep through cove joints or through the space between piers and beams. It can also enter through plumbing leaks and flood vents.
Another way water gets into the house is by infiltration through soil. This may occur due to heavy rains, a flood or even a burst pipe. Over time, this water can erode the soil and cause damage to the foundation. Fortunately, this problem can be prevented by ensuring that the landscape grading of the area surrounding your foundation carries water away from the house.
Water can also infiltrate the foundation by traveling through cracks in the concrete or through the voids created when hydraulic cement is used for installation of plumbing. This is because the hydraulic cement will eventually break down, leaving gaps for outside water to enter. This can be avoided by hiring a contractor that uses high-quality, long-lasting hydraulic cement during construction. Another way to prevent water infiltration is by performing regular inspections of your foundation and addressing any issues as they arise.
Structural Damage
Structural damage refers to issues that affect the integrity and stability of your foundation, and these can be extremely serious. Some structural damage can even be deadly to your family if left untreated, and this is why it’s so important to recognize and know the signs of this type of damage.
There are several causes of structural damage to your home’s foundation, and these include soil movement, expansive soils, voids under the foundation, and improper construction techniques during initial construction. When the soil around a house shifts or becomes unstable, it can cause cracks in walls and floors, as well as a leaning of the foundation. If your foundation is experiencing any of these problems, you should contact a professional immediately to schedule an inspection and begin repairs as soon as possible.
Fortunately, most structural damage can be repaired using concrete or masonry repair techniques, including carbon fiber strips and steel reinforcements. These solutions are typically more cost-effective than traditional methods and can be done quickly, without requiring major excavation or demolition of your home. If the problem has been ongoing for a long time, however, it may be necessary to rebuild part or all of your foundation.
Another solution for serious foundation damage is to raise the foundation of your home. Often, this process is also called “house leveling,” but it’s actually about performance and functionality rather than bringing your home back to its original, pre-construction elevation. This process involves removing and replacing the dirt under your home’s foundation with more compact and durable materials that are more suitable for supporting your structure.
Some homeowners choose to use helical piers to stabilize their foundation, which are similar to push piers but screw into the ground instead of pushing against it. This method is less invasive than replacing the foundation, and it’s usually only used for new construction or to support lighter structures. It isn’t a good option for older homes with large, heavy walls. In these cases, a full foundation replacement is the only option. However, this is a more involved process that can take longer to complete.
Cost
There are a number of factors that affect the cost of foundation repair. Most repairs begin with an assessment of the foundation and the surrounding environment. Evaluators use tools to take various measurements around the house and check for movement in the soil. This helps determine the extent of damage and where it has taken place. They also look at bodies of water and the landscaping around a home to see if these have contributed to the issue.
Once the evaluator has identified the issue and the solutions required, it’s time to get started with the actual work. In some cases, this involves digging holes for hydraulic piers to be installed beneath the foundation. This is the best way to support a sagging or sinking foundation. It can be quite costly, though, so it’s important to shop around for the best quote from a qualified contractor.
The amount of work that needs to be done will affect the final cost, as well. Generally, it’s best to address any problems as soon as they appear. Delaying foundation repair can lead to more extensive and expensive repairs down the road. Keeping a close eye on any signs of trouble, such as doors that don’t open or shut easily, cracks in the drywall or gaps developing in trim work, is key.
Some of the most common causes of foundation problems include poor soil conditions, heavy construction loads and leaks. These issues can have a significant impact on a foundation’s stability and integrity. Regular maintenance, such as gutter cleaning and keeping the landscaping trimmed, can help prevent water damage and protect a foundation from the effects of flooding, erosion and excessive soil swelling.
It’s best to find a contractor that specializes in foundation repair. This is because these contractors will have the skills, equipment and expertise necessary to properly diagnose and repair foundation issues. In addition, they’ll know how to keep the costs down and provide an affordable solution. They may also offer financing options, which can be a great option to help mitigate upfront costs and make it easier to budget for this type of project.