Aprendamos Construction Best Methods For Repairing Foundations

The health of the whole building is literally rooted in the health of its foundation.

No type of structure is immune to having foundation issues. Also, contrary to popular beliefs, age is not the determining factor of whether a foundation will have issues.

There are various methods of foundation repair. Some factors to consider are the soil condition, structure damage, sinkhole activity, and drainage patterns.

The best method of foundation repair for a specific foundation issue is usually decided upon by a geotechnical engineer.    

• DRILLED PIERS

Also known as caissons, drilled piers are large-diameter cylindrical concretes made by pouring concrete into a drilled shaft.

Drilled piers have greater bearing capacity and offer great resistance to uplift. The best way to use drilled piers to repair a foundation is to install it directly against the structure’s walls.

• GROUTING

Grouting is effective for stabilizing the soil. It is done by first drilling a grouting hole. Next, the grout casing is inserted in the hole. Then, a low slump compaction grout mix is pumped through the grout casing. Finally, the casing is withdrawn stage-by-stage until the hole is completed.

• FOUNDATION UNDERPINNING

Underpinning is a foundation repair method that lifts and stabilizes settling foundations using steel piers. It can be used to repair almost all types of foundation problems including cracks, uneven floors, jamming doors or windows, and foundation leaks. 

• STEEL PIERS

Steel piers are one of the best materials for repairing faulty foundations. They can be driven deeper into the soil than other repair methods. Hence, steel piers are usually more stable and secure than other methods. They are also cost-effective, time-efficient, and hassle-free to install.

• HELICAL PIERS

Also known as anchors, helical piers are deep foundations systems used to secure and stabilize foundations. They are highly convenient and efficient to install. They significantly minimize the excavation work needed. Aside from minimizing the installation time, they require little soil disturbance. Most importantly, they effectively transfer the structure’s weight to load-bearing soil. 

• PUSH PIERS

A push pier system is used to secure the building from settlement. It stabilizes sinking or settling foundations using a load transfer bracket and high-strength round steel tube sections.

Push piers do not rely on skin friction. This means that they are not affected by the surface of the soil. They also provide greater safety as they are load-tested individually during installation. 

TIPS FOR HIRING A FOUNDATION REPAIR INSPECTOR

Foundation issues are serious concerns that require professional care. However, one must also be vigilant in getting an inspector for foundation repair.

Unfortunately, the foundation repair industry is fraught with inconsistency and errors. A client must be able to recognize conflicts of interest by the inspector. One way to do this is to hire someone who is not being paid by selling the services or products of a certain foundation repair company.

East Houston Foundation Repair in Sugar Land, Texas received training from different suppliers. This is so that their diagnosis and recommendation is not limited to the services or products offered by one supplier.

To ensure a quality inspection, the analysis must at least be overseen by a professional licensed engineer.