Foundation fractures and problems
Foundation can become fractured or damaged due to movements such as soil settlement, sinking, floods, and earthquakes. Such movements cause the foundation to develop cracks or sink into the social. Foundation fractures can be repaired whether the damage done is excessive or little. However, it needs to be done by a professional because they have the expertise to repair the foundation. Foundation repair varies depending on the damage caused and the geographic area. A while ago the main repair for the foundation was using concrete, but over the years they have evolved. The following are some of the types of repair foundations that are used today by professions.
1. Sealants and patches
This type of foundation repair is used to cover cracks in the foundation. A professional first deciphers the cracks to identify its cause. The cracks can be caused by a drop in the foundation, shrinking, and upward movement of the foundation among other reasons. Only a professional can inspect the crack and identify what caused it. If the crack was caused by shrinkage, sealants or patches will be used. Hydraulic cement is filled into the crack, and as it dries, it expands. Masonry repair epoxy is also a product used to fill the cracks. Shrinkage cracks need to be filled to avoid water slipping into the foundation.
2. Piering
This type of repair is also known as piling, and it uses steel pilings to rectify foundation settlement. There are three main types of piling that can be used in repairing the foundation. These are:
- Steel piers: these are steel pipes that are coated with epoxy, and they are driven into the ground with a hydraulic ram. Steel piers are effective because they take less time to repair and do not cause as much disturbance to the landscape as concrete piers. Steel piers that are used nowadays are more data-driven and technical making their installation process convenient.
- Helical piers: these are helical piles that are attached to steel shafts. During the installation, a hole is dug around the concrete. The helical pier is then driven into the ground. Hydraulic jacks are used to raise the foundation by attaching them to the helical piers. The helical piers are locked to keep them intact.
- Drilled bell piers: these piers use hand dug piers with concrete filled in them. They are drilled into the foundation. It is efficient for use in light loaded areas. The shaft that is filled with concrete provides solid new support for the foundation.
Other types of piering that are done include spot piers and segmented piers. Only a professional can recommend which type of piering repair is needed for the foundation settlement after inspecting the structural issue. For instance, some piering repairs cannot be done in heavy loaded areas because they will not be able to hold up the foundation.
3. Slabjacking
This method is used to repair foundations that are sinking. A hole is drilled into the foundation strategically and a mixture of fly ash, additives and cement are pumped into the hole created. The hole will become filled and allow the concrete slab to float back to its original position. This method requires the use of professional equipment and thus should be done by a professional. Slabjacking is also known as mudjacking, and it is a way of leveling the concrete. While it may require one to drill a hole in their house, the hole can be easily repaired once the concrete leveling is done.
Ultimately
Repairing the foundation in a person’s house is essential to avoid further structural damages to the property. Hiring a professional is essential to ensure the job is done right.