When repairing a foundation, the type of soil and climate present in the area must be considered. These conditions can lead to cracks in the foundation, including structural cracks caused by settling soil and nonstructural cracks caused by concrete expansion. Other possible causes of foundation damage include water logging issues and poor drainage around the foundation. Additionally, a flood or earthquake can damage a home’s foundation.
Slab jacking
Slab jacking is a house foundation repair method in which a contractor pumps a concrete mixture under a slab to raise it. The mixture contains cement, fly ash, and other additives. The contractor uses a portable pump and drills holes in the concrete slab. Once the holes are drilled, the contractor pumps the concrete mixture into the holes. In some cases, polyurethane foam may be used instead of mud. The foam expands over time, lifting the foundation gradually.
This method is less destructive than pouring a new foundation. With the former method, the old foundation must be removed and replaced. With slab jacking, only a thin Foundation repair Ottawa dust and a small amount of foam are left. In addition, the repair process does not generate construction noise. It is an effective method to fix a sagging slab, but it may not be appropriate for every foundation.
Another option is soil modification, which involves adding chemicals to the soil to make it more stable and stiffer. This method is similar to slab jacking but requires more experience and a trained guide to doing it properly. It is also costly and requires regular maintenance. However, it is a good choice for a fast response and long-term results. It is also an environmentally friendly method.
Slab jacking involves drilling access holes through the slab and filling the area with cement and additives. This process can take a few hours and is effective in most types of weather. Additionally, it does not require concrete removal, making it easy to complete. However, some types of slab jacking are more complex than others, and getting a licensed and insured professional to do it is essential.
Another method of house foundation repair involves the installation of steel or concrete piers in the ground. This method is a long-term solution and may be better than slab jacking. This type of house foundation repair can be expensive, so it’s important to make sure you decide which option is best for your home and your budget.
Helical steel piers
Helical steel piers are a good way to reinforce the foundation of a house. These steel piers are welded on the shaft, and the helical blades are attached to the piers. The helical blades are designed to allow the piers to penetrate the soil, transferring the weight of the home to deep layers. The helical piers can be installed outside or inside the home, depending on the situation.
The helical steel piers are made from heavy-duty galvanized steel and are not susceptible to rusting. They can last up to 100 years, depending on the soil type and building size. Although they are not a replacement for slabjacking or other methods, they can improve the stability of the foundation.
The cost of helical steel piers is determined by several factors, including the number of helical steel piers used and the size of the foundation. The foundation repair contractor must be able to calculate the required loads and the size and type of the helical steel piers.
Helical piers are a cost-effective, permanent solution for house foundation issues. Because they can be installed beneath a foundation, they can solve many problems. However, the effectiveness of helical steel piers depends on the weight of the building. Helical steel piers may not be the best option if the building only supports light fixtures. For sidewalks and other structures, less intensive methods may be more appropriate.
Another method that is effective but less costly is concrete piers. This technique involves pouring concrete into holes drilled under the existing foundation. However, the process is messy and requires time. It is also less expensive to install compared to steel piers. But it can be difficult to determine when the piers have reached the load-bearing ground.
If the soil conditions surrounding the foundation are difficult or even impossible to stabilize, helical steel piers can be the solution. This foundation repair method is an inexpensive option for homeowners who don’t want to invest in expensive large excavations. Another benefit of helical piers is that they don’t disturb the soil surrounding the building.
Prop-Lift arrangement
Proper Prop-Lift arrangements for house foundation repairs can help restore stability to your home. During this process, utilities are exposed to the foundation so the lift can reach them. Then, the lift moves house to the proper level. The new level is confirmed by checking gaps and patches.