Foundation Repair Greensboro NC can be a long and expensive process. It’s important to find a contractor that can get the job done right and for the long term.
If you see cracks in the walls of your home, it’s a sign of damage to the foundation. Fortunately, there are several different ways to fix it.
Piers are one of the most effective tools in a repair crew’s arsenal. When properly installed, they provide a reliable long-term solution for foundation displacement and settlement. However, not all piers are created equal and each type is best suited for different situations. So, before you begin your foundation repair project, be sure to understand which piers are the right choice for your home and why.
Concrete piers are often used for residential foundation repair because they offer a cost-effective and durable alternative to other forms of support. Their versatile nature allows them to accommodate a wide range of soil conditions and load requirements.
To install these support piers, a contractor will drill a hole into the ground beneath your foundation. Then, the piers are constructed by pouring high-strength concrete into the hole. Once the piers are in place, the contractor will add steel reinforcement to stabilize and strengthen the structure.
Another common form of concrete pier is the injection pier. Similar to push piers, this method involves drilling into the ground using hydraulic equipment and placing a bracket at the footing of your foundation. To complete the installation, a contractor will inject aggregate-free concrete into the pipe through perforated openings. The concrete will then push up through the attached bracket and lift your building’s foundation.
Another option is helical piers, which look like large screws and are driven into the ground by a hydraulic device. These piers require less excavation than other types of pier and can be installed more quickly. They can also be used to correct drainage issues by directing water away from the foundation. However, due to their vulnerability to moisture swelling, helical piers may not be the best option for areas with clay soils.
Steel Piers
Piers are a reliable solution for stabilizing homes and structures that have suffered from foundation movement or shifting. They are also useful for counteracting soil pressure and minimizing differential settlement. When properly installed, they are an effective, durable, and cost-effective method of foundation repair. They are often used to fix homes and structures with concrete foundations that have shifted or settled due to issues with the soil beneath them. However, they can also be used to stabilize foundations that have been built on clay soil and are experiencing similar problems.
While repairing a foundation using either type of piers is a viable option for most property owners, it’s important to consider the depth of the soils in your area before making a decision. For instance, areas in Tarrant County with deeper soils are more likely to require steel piers for effective foundation repair than properties with shallower soils.
Both concrete and steel piers can be a good choice for foundation repairs, but it’s vital to find a professional with the right experience, reputation, and expertise to perform the service. When researching professionals, read reviews and testimonials, as well as their certifications and memberships with industry organizations. Ask about the level of professionalism they provide and whether or not they offer a warranty on their work.
When the job is done, the team usually practices load testing to ensure that the weight of the building has been transferred to the new piers. They then backfill and tamp the dirt that was excavated and seal any visible access points. If necessary, they may address any other damage to the home at this time. These structural repairs typically last for the life of the home, so they can be a smart investment for property owners.
Mudjacking
Mudjacking is a common method used to lift sunken concrete slabs. It involves drilling a series of holes in the concrete and using a slurry mixture to fill the void and raise the slab back into position. This method is typically less expensive than pouring a new concrete foundation. However, it is not a long-term solution for problems with foundational instability. In these cases, piering or other more extensive repair methods may be needed to provide long-term stability and support.
Mudjacking also has some drawbacks, including a lengthy curing process and the potential for additional damage during the lifting process. Additionally, it is not suitable for lifting sagging or severely uneven concrete slabs. However, mudjacking can be an excellent option for those who have slab foundations that have settled due to soil erosion or shifting.
The first step in mudjacking is to mark the area where the concrete needs to be lifted. The repair team will then drill a series of holes into the concrete. Typically, these holes will be spaced at a regular interval. For example, every six to eight feet. The holes will then be filled with a special slurry mixture made of cement mix, sand or loam, and water. The slurry will then expand and lift the concrete slab.
The advantages of mudjacking include its ability to quickly and effectively lift concrete, and the fact that it is non-invasive. The slurry mixture used is also environmentally friendly. Additionally, it is more affordable than removing the old concrete and replacing it. However, it is important to note that mudjacking is not appropriate for all situations, and it should only be performed by an experienced and qualified professional.
Hydraulic Cement
Hydraulic cement is a material that is used for foundation repair. It can be mixed with water to create concrete that is highly durable and waterproof. It is also able to withstand heavy loads and harsh weather conditions.
There are several different types of hydraulic cements that are used for different applications. They all have the same basic properties, but they differ in how they are manufactured and their chemical composition. Ultimately, the type of hydraulic cement used for a specific application depends on its intended use.
Portland cement is the most common hydraulic cement. It is a composite material that consists of cementitious materials (Portland cement and other supplementary cementitious materials), aggregates, and water. The properties of concrete depend on the ratios of these ingredients, as well as the characteristics of coarse and fine aggregates. It also depends on the chemical admixtures that are added.
Moderate sulfate resistant hydraulic cement remains sturdy around sulfates, which can cause other types of concrete to break down and crumble. It is often used for structures built near coastlines, since they are likely to come into contact with sulfates more frequently than the average structure.
High sulfate resistant hydraulic cement is more durable than moderate sulfate resistance, but it has a lower strength than standard Portland cement. This type of hydraulic cement is useful for projects that will be exposed to sulfates in large quantities, such as docks.
HP hydraulic cement has the ability to set quickly and is suitable for a variety of applications. It can be used for leaks in walls, pools, junctions, static cracks, and faults, and around inserts like sleeves and pipes. It is non metallic and can be applied above or below ground level.
Waterproofing Sealant
Waterproofing sealant can be applied to foundation walls and basements. It helps prevent leaks and moisture intrusion, and it can be used in conjunction with other methods of repair to provide comprehensive protection against water damage. A professional contractor can assess your foundation’s needs and recommend the best waterproofing solution for your home.
Proper waterproofing requires preparation to ensure the sealant adheres properly. This includes cleaning the surface to remove any dust, dirt or other debris. A broom or pressure washer works well for this purpose. The surface must also be clean and dry before applying the sealant, as any wet spots can cause problems with adhesion. Different products require different drying times, so it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Foundation waterproofing is important because concrete doesn’t have natural moisture barriers, and the exterior of a building is the only thing that protects it from groundwater and soil moisture. Waterproofing products block moisture, but they can’t stop a leak if hydrostatic pressure builds up against the foundation wall and cracks it. Clay-heavy soil swells when it’s wet and shrinks when it’s dry, and this constant movement forces foundation cracks over time.
Waterproofing products can help, but if the foundation has significant cracks or seepage, it’s best to consult a professional for expert evaluation and repairs. Ignoring the problem is a sure-fire ticket to mold, structural damage and expensive repairs down the road. Contact a foundation repair company today to learn more about real solutions for cracks in your wall and basement. They’ll provide a free inspection and quote, and they’re guaranteed to fix the leaks or wall cracks for good. That’s a deal you can’t afford to pass up!
