3 Proven Concrete Foundation Repair Techniques For Sinking Foundations
3 Proven Concrete Foundation Repair Techniques For Sinking Foundations
Introduction
Sinking foundations are a common problem in many homes. If you have a sinking foundation, it is important to act quickly to repair the problem. Ignoring a sinking foundation can lead to further damage to your home, including cracks in walls and floors, doors and windows that stick, and difficulty opening and closing doors.
There are a number of techniques that can be used to repair a sinking foundation. In this article, we will discuss three of the most common and proven concrete foundation repair techniques. If you have a sinking foundation, we encourage you to read on to learn more about these repair methods!
Causes of Sinking Concrete Foundations
Sinking concrete foundations can be caused by a variety of factors. The most common cause is when the soil beneath the foundation has become unstable, resulting in the foundation slowly settling into the ground. The cause of this can be due to a number of things such as poor soil compaction, soil erosion, poor drainage, and even plumbing leaks. Other causes of sinking concrete foundations can include poor construction practices, faulty materials, freeze/thaw cycles, or even structural problems such as inadequate footings.
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Piering Method
Piering is a term used to describe a combination of foundation repair techniques. This type of concrete foundation repair method involves the process of installing foundation supports. These supports are installed under the foundation in order to raise it back to its original level.
The most common type of foundation pier is the steel pier. A steel pier is basically a long steel support column that is installed under the foundation. These piers are made of high-grade steel and are designed to stay in place and provide a strong, stable base for the foundation.
Other types of foundation piers include concrete piers, helical piers, and screw-pile piers. Concrete piers are deep foundation stands that are made of concrete and are driven into the soil until they reach the appropriate depth or until they reach the bearing strata. Helical piers and screw piles are deep foundation foundations made from spiral-shaped steel augers that are driven deep into the ground until they reach the bearing strata.
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Slabjacking Method
Slabjacking is another common concrete foundation repair method. In this method, a mix of polymers andPortland cement is injected under the slab of your foundation. This injection helps to fill voids and to stabilize the slab. The polymer/Portland cement mixture acts as a 'cushion' between the soil and the foundation slab and prevents the foundation from sinking further into the soil.
The most important factor in slabjacking is making sure you have the right type of Portland cement. You need to use a Portland cement that is specifically designed for foundation repair. This will help ensure your foundation remains stable and solid.
Once the mixture is pumped under the slab, it will dry and harden, which will help to stabilize the slab in its new position. This method may require the installation of additional support posts and beams in some cases. Slabjacking is a cost-effective way to repair and prevent further sinking of your foundation.
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Geotechnical Engineering
Geotechnical engineering is a field of engineering that looks at the physical properties of soil and rock to determine foundation stability. Geotechnical engineers assess the subsurface conditions to determine suitable foundation conditions for a building or structure.
Geotechnical engineers can inspect the site and recommend solutions to improve the stability of the soil, such as piers, ground anchors, and grout injection systems. They also can conduct deep surveys and tests to measure soil subsidence, compaction, and moisture content.
These experts use special instruments to take readings to determine the stratigraphy or layers of soil or rock at the site. They use this information to devise a plan to improve the stability of the soil beneath the foundation. This can help prevent further sinking of foundations and ensure the stability of a structure.
In addition to assessing subsurface conditions and recommending solutions to improve soil or rock stability, geotechnical engineers are also responsible for the design and construction of underground structures, such as retaining walls, canals, tunnels, and dams.
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Appropriate Foundation Design
Creating an appropriate foundation design for a given area is the key to preventing further damage to a structure. Geotechnical engineers recommend foundation designs based on the soil or rock conditions at the site.
Foundation designs should be deep enough and wide enough to support the weight of the structure. Common foundation designs include spread foundations, pile and caisson foundations, or shallow footing foundations.
Spread foundations rely on bearing capacity to support the structure and are less expensive than other foundation designs. Pile and caisson foundations use piles or columns driven deep into the subsurface to anchor the load-bearing members. Shallow footing foundations are usually applied on flat terrain and used to provide additional stability in expansive soils.
Geotechnical engineers also may recommend additional techniques, such as soil compaction, underpinning, and concrete grouting. Soil compaction involves compacting soil with heavy machinery to reduce space and prevent cracking. Underpinning involves casting a concrete pier beneath an existing foundation to reduce subsidence. Concrete grouting involves injecting cement grout into the soil to reinforce the foundation and increase its load-bearing capacity.
The right foundation design can help reduce costs, ensure proper construction, and provide stability to a structure. Geotechnical engineers consider soil types, stratigraphy, groundwater, and other factors when recommending foundation designs that suit a given area.
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Stonehouse Foundation Repair - Foundation Repair Experts in San Antonio
Concrete foundation repair is a big task that requires a deep understanding of the foundation and the soil beneath it. A professional foundation specialist should be consulted to ensure the job is done properly and efficiently.
A combination of different methods can be used to avert a potentially dangerous and costly foundation repair situation. By understanding the basics, homeowners can be proactive in preventing foundation issues and safeguarding the value of their homes.
The most common methods of concrete foundation repair include leveling the foundation, repairing cracks, stabilizing soils, waterproofing, inserting new support columns or beams, and using underpinning. All of these methods require careful planning, accurate diagnoses, and efficient execution.
The complexity of the job and the cost of materials vary from situation to situation, but professional foundation specialists understand the necessary steps needed to ensure the safety and integrity of a structure remain intact.
Concrete foundation repair is not something that should be taken lightly. Careful consideration and experienced help should be sought out to ensure the job is done properly and for the long-term protection of a home.
We understand the importance of having a strong foundation in your home. That's why we offer quality pier and beam foundation solutions that will never compromise the structural integrity of your home.
We want to ensure that your home is as safe and sound as possible, so if you're ever in doubt about the condition of your pier and beam foundation, please don't hesitate to give us a call. We'll be more than happy to provide you with a free consultation and estimate.
Give us a call at 210-879-8521 if you have any questions, or book a free inspection online HERE.
8719 Business Circle Building #1, Converse, TX 78109
