Foundation Repair Methods: Which One Is Right For You?

Read this before deciding on a foundation repair method

While a solid foundation is essential for the structural integrity of a building, occasional foundational problems are not uncommon. However, the repair method depends on soil type, climate, and foundation build. Therefore, choosing the right method is crucial to address the issue effectively. This article highlights different foundation repair methods to help you choose the one that is right for you.

Sealants And Masonry Patches for Cracks

• One effective method for repairing cracks in the foundation involves the use of sealants and masonry patches. This method helps patch the cracks and apply a waterproof masonry sealer to ensure long-lasting protection. However, promptly addressing these cracks is crucial as the foundation bears the weight of the entire home.

Hydraulic cement, vinyl concrete, epoxies, silicone, or polyurethane are commonly used sealers for minor cracks. The sealer type depends on the severity and the specific requirements of the crack. Nevertheless, early detection and prompt repairs prevent water seepage and further damage in every situation.

Slab Jacking for Uneven or Sinking Concrete

• It is an effective technique used to lift uneven or sinking concrete. Slab jacking is suitable for small-scale projects such as decks, walkways, porches, garage floors, etc. Also known as concrete lifting, mud jacking, and slab leveling, this method effectively raises concrete surfaces to their appropriate levels. Over time the slab foundations can sink or tilt due to the shifting of underneath soil, thus creating empty spaces.

However, professional foundation contractors have the expertise and equipment to address foundation settlement issues based on local soil characteristics. For slab jacking, 2-inch holes are drilled through the concrete foundation to reach the sunken areas below. Then, a solution of cement and soil is injected through the holes to fill the space. The sunken slab gradually rises to its original level as the solution expands, solving the issue.

Concrete Pressed Piling

• It is a widely employed foundation repair technique and offers an effective solution for stabilizing house foundations. Concrete-pressed piling involves the strategic placement of concrete cylinders, also known as concrete piles, below the foundation. This process is relatively simple. Concrete cylinders, 6″ in diameter and 12″ in height, are driven into the soil beneath the foundation.

Factors such as the structure’s weight and the soil’s condition determine the piles required. However, professional contractors usually use a string of eight or more concrete piles to ensure sufficient stabilization. This is done to drive the piles deep into contact with the soil to ensure the stability of the structure. Pressed piling is one of the trusted and popular methods for addressing various foundational issues. It allows homeowners to achieve a stable foundation and ensure the long-term structural integrity of their homes.

Stabilizing Foundation With Steel Piers

• Using steel piers is one of the most effective foundation repair techniques. It is used for addressing settlement or instability issues. Each steel pier section has a galvanized steel pipe attached to a hydraulic jack. The piers are driven below the foundation until they reach stable soil.

This is done with the help of a hydraulic torque motor which propels the piers into the ground until the piers reach soil with adequate stability. Once in position, hydraulic jacks lift the foundation to its optimal elevation.

Are you dealing with foundation issues? Let our experts from Crack-X take a look at your foundation. We offer a transferrable warranty on most foundation repairs. Crack-X is a structural repair company located in Maine and New Hampshire. Call us at 877-727-2259 to get started.