They Build It, You Enjoy It

Posted on: 24 August 2023

A home's foundation is its keystone, ensuring stability, safety, and longevity. But like all aspects of a house, the foundation can succumb to wear and tear, environmental stresses, or improper construction. Addressing foundation issues promptly is essential, and this involves understanding some of the primary repair methods in the industry.

Underpinning

One of the most traditional methods, underpinning involves fortifying the existing foundation to make it more robust. This is typically done by enlarging the foundation's footprint, increasing its capacity to bear the home's weight. New supports are added beneath the existing foundation to distribute the load more evenly and provide added stability.

Piering or Piling

When soil conditions lead to foundation problems, piering or piling can be the ideal solution. This method places supports (often steel or concrete pilings) deep into the ground to connect with more stable soil layers. The home's weight is then transferred to these pilings, ensuring the foundation remains stable and level.

Grout Injection

For homes that have minor cracks or gaps in the foundation, grout injection can be a quick and effective solution. Grout injection is a thick grout mixture injected into the problematic areas, sealing gaps and strengthening the overall foundation. It's a non-invasive method that offers a quick fix for minor foundation issues.

Slabjacking

Slabjacking, also known as mudjacking, is a technique used to lift and level sinking concrete slabs. The process involves injecting a cement mixture beneath the slab. As the mixture fills the voids, it raises the concrete, bringing it back to its original level. It's especially effective for repairing sunken driveways, patios, or any part of the foundation made of slab concrete.

Carbon Fiber Reinforcement

A relatively modern method, carbon fiber reinforcement leverages the strength of carbon fiber to provide added stability to the foundation walls. Strips of carbon fiber are bonded to the interior foundation walls, preventing them from bowing or cracking further. Being lightweight and incredibly strong, carbon fiber offers a lasting solution without significant changes to the home's structure.

Understanding the method most suitable for a specific foundation problem often requires professional consultation. Factors like the extent of the damage, soil conditions, and the home's structure all play pivotal roles in determining the right approach. With modern advancements coupled with traditional techniques, homeowners today can find a solution tailored to their specific needs, ensuring their residence stands strong for generations.

Reach out to a foundation repair specialist for more information about which technique will work best for your home.