Plano Foundation Repair is about more than just fixing cracks. It’s about bringing your house back to the original elevation it was built at so that everything else can work as it was originally intended.
Proper landscaping is also important, especially by keeping plants and trees away from your home to prevent drying of the soil and voids under the foundation.
Steel piers are an important part of the foundation repair process. They support the load, counteract soil pressure, minimize differential settlement, and prevent further damage to concrete structures. These heavy-duty supports are driven deep into stable strata and bedrock, far below the active clay layer. This prevents future movement and provides a stronger, longer-lasting fix than shallow repairs.
Unlike other foundation repair methods, piers don’t require extensive excavation and have a minimal impact on property structure and landscaping. They’re also versatile enough to be used in a variety of soil conditions and foundation types. When properly installed by a professional, they can help stabilize a wide range of residential and commercial buildings.
Foundation piers consist of steel rods encased in concrete, and they’re designed to transfer the weight of a building from unstable surface soils to the deeper ground beneath. During the installation process, they’re driven into the earth using hydraulic equipment, and they’re interlocked as they’re driven into the ground. They’re also treated to resist corrosion, making them a long-lasting, durable solution for any property.
There are a few different types of foundation piers, including straight shaft, belled, and underpinning piers. Each has its own benefits and limitations, so it’s important to understand the difference between them before selecting the right one for your needs. Straight shaft piers are direct and linear, and they’re typically used in situations where the load-bearing layers of soil are relatively deep. Belled piers are more circular and have a flared base, and they’re typically used in situations with shallower load-bearing layers of soil.
If you’re considering using foundation piers to repair your foundation, it’s essential to work with an experienced contractor who’s familiar with local soil conditions and regulations. They should perform thorough soil testing to determine the appropriate type of pier and the best installation method for your unique situation. They should also be able to offer a competitive estimate and stand by their work. They should also be able to address any questions or concerns you have throughout the repair process. Choosing the right contractor for your foundation repair project will ensure that you get high-quality results and a long-lasting, durable solution.
Concrete Injection
When it comes to foundation repair, concrete crack injection is a quick and effective method. The process involves filling cracks with a specialized epoxy material that creates a strong, long-lasting seal that preserves the load-bearing capacity of the structure and prevents moisture infiltration.
A specialized injector is used to apply the epoxy to the crack, which is then injected with pressure from the opposite end of the crack. The injection port is then covered with a paste-over to ensure that the epoxy does not leak out. A small amount of crack widening may also be necessary to prepare the crack for injection. Once the epoxy is injected, it is allowed to dry and harden before the injector ports are removed.
Concrete crack injection is ideal for narrow fissures that do not extend far beyond the surface of the concrete. It is not recommended for large, deep or long-running cracks. Often, these types of cracks are indicative of serious structural problems that require the assistance of helical piles or slab jacking in conjunction with crack injection to provide long-lasting support for the structure.
Before completing concrete crack injection, the applicator must clean the area surrounding the crack and remove any debris or dirt. It is also important to note that any surface coatings, paint or sealants on the concrete must be stripped before performing the injection. If a coating is left in place, it could lift under the pressure of the injection and cause further damage to the foundation.
After the crack is cleaned, a pre-mixed epoxy material is injected into the crack using a specialized injector. The injection system is calibrated to slowly introduce the epoxy through each port until the crack is completely filled. The applicator must monitor the injection for signs that the crack is reaching refusal (the point at which the epoxy begins to ooze out of the backside of the crack). If the crack does not reach refusal, additional ports may need to be added in order to fully repair the crack.
For homeowners who prefer to perform their own crack injection, there are kits available for purchase. However, it is always best to leave these types of projects to a professional. Homeowners should always wear safety equipment, work in a well-ventilated area and carefully follow manufacturer instructions.
Mudjacking
A less invasive solution to sinking concrete slabs, mudjacking (also called “slab jacking”) involves injecting a specialized mixture under the sunken area. The grout slurry lifts the concrete and fills voids in the soil beneath, restoring stability to the structure. This technique is an effective and cost-efficient repair option for homeowners with uneven concrete surfaces on their property, such as sunken sidewalks, driveways, patios, and garage floors.
Mudjacking is commonly used to repair tripping hazards or uneven walkways. By lifting and restoring these concrete areas, it alleviates stress on the foundation and prevents cracks from widening. However, it is not a permanent solution to structural problems. If the underlying soil continues to shift and expand, more intense repair methods such as piering may be needed.
Before beginning the mudjacking process, a contractor will drill a series of holes into the concrete slab. The holes will be spaced evenly or in a regular pattern, and they should always be in targeted locations to best lift the concrete. Then, a nozzle is inserted into the holes and a liquid-like substance is pumped into them through the holes in the concrete. The slurry will lift the concrete up from underneath, allowing for a smoother surface and eliminating any potential tripping hazards.
After the slurry has been injected into the concrete, it takes a few hours for it to dry and cure, at which point the surface should be safe to walk on again. As a result of the drying time, mudjacking isn’t as quick or convenient as other concrete repair methods such as polyurethane foam injection.
While mudjacking is an effective and affordable option for elevating sunken concrete, it’s important to consult with an expert before taking this route. If you’re experiencing major cracks, severe shifting or other damage to the foundation, a more intensive repair method such as piering or underpinning is probably required. The professional contractors at Anchor Foundation Repair will be able to assess your home’s unique situation and recommend the best solution for you. Contact us today to schedule a free evaluation and receive an estimate.
Wall Patching
The most common and cost-effective method of foundation repair is through wall patching. This involves filling and sealing the cracks in your foundation walls with a special material that is designed to withstand the pressure of movement. The material is usually poured in layers, with each layer being reinforced by steel rods to ensure the structural integrity of the wall. Once the material has cured, it is then covered with a concrete overlay, which further reinforces and protects the repaired area from further damage.
While many homeowners are capable of performing some forms of DIY foundation repair, complex issues such as significant cracks in the foundation require professional expertise and equipment. The expert technicians can identify the root cause of the cracks and recommend the right repair solution for your home.
Repairing Your Home’s Functionality
There are a number of ways that foundation problems can affect the functionality of your home, including preventing doors and windows from opening and closing properly, allowing moisture, pests, and debris to enter your house, and even leading to sagging floors. Fixing foundation problems can restore the original functionality of your house and help prevent future problems, making it a more comfortable and safe place to live for you and your family.
Another major reason to perform foundation repairs is to improve the resale value of your property. A house with a damaged foundation can be difficult to sell, as potential buyers may be put off by the sight of cracks in the basement walls. Repairing these cracks can significantly increase your chances of selling your home and getting a good price for it.
When hiring a foundation repair contractor, make sure to consider their experience and track record. Ask for testimonials or reviews from past clients to get an idea of the quality of their work and how satisfied they were with the service. It’s also important to verify that the company is licensed and insured, which can help protect you from liability in the event of any damage caused during the repair process.
Make sure to have the right patch and repair supplies on hand to tackle your next renovation project. For small repairs, look for spackling compounds that are easy to use for homeowners and pros alike. These products can quickly and easily cover up nail holes, as well as smaller scratches and dings in your walls. They come in a variety of colors, so you can find the perfect match for your current color scheme.