Cracked walls, water leakage, and frequent plumbing issues; the signs are visible. Your property’s foundation is problematic. The trouble has begun and requires attention.
But how to repair foundation cracks? Is there a single method or formula that works for all? Not really.
Different factors determine the type of foundation repair method that would be best for your home or property. The type of foundation built, soil type and climate along with other problems sum up to determine the method that would be best to fix your foundation cracks.
Types of Foundation Repair Methods:
A consultation with an expert team is extremely crucial in this context. They are responsible for identifying the cause of foundation cracks and then treating them accordingly.
However, being familiar with the different methods that can be used is always a good idea. It helps you understand the process in a much better manner and further aids you, in keeping tabs on the process too.
Understanding the problem with DIY foundation repair can save you from potential pitfalls and ensure that you choose the right professional method for your specific needs. Several methods are available for foundation repair, including slab jacking, piering, and underpinning, each suited for different types of foundation issues. Consulting with a professional can help you determine the best approach based on the specific condition of your foundation.
Bowing basement wall repair is one such method that addresses specific foundation issues. Various methods, such as piering and underpinning, are used to stabilize foundations that have been compromised. These techniques ensure that the foundation remains strong and stable over time, preventing further damage and maintaining the structural integrity of your property.
1. Slab Jacking:
Slab jacking is one of the best methods for sinking or uneven concrete issues. This method is also referred to as concrete lifting or slab leveling. It is often used when the task is small. For example, slab jacking helps raise decks, porches, driveways, and garage floors.
When the soil underneath your foundation shifts, your slab foundation also sinks or moves away from its actual position. With the right set of tools and equipment, professionals use slab jacking methods to set them right.
There are several types of foundation repair methods, each tailored to address specific issues that can arise with your home’s foundation. One common method is Concrete Jacking, which is effective for fixing sinking or uneven concrete surfaces. This method involves pumping a mixture of cement, sand, and other materials beneath the concrete slab to lift and level it back to its original position. Concrete jacking is particularly useful for smaller jobs, such as lifting driveways, patios, and walkways, where the soil underneath has shifted, causing the concrete to settle unevenly.
To fix uneven concrete slabs, professionals often use methods like slab jacking or mud jacking, where a grout mixture is pumped under the slab to raise it. Additionally, polyurethane foam injection is a modern approach that involves injecting high-density foam under the concrete to achieve the desired level. These methods not only restore the appearance of the surface but also prevent further structural damage.
2. Piling:
There are different types of piles that are used for fixing foundation cracks. Steel piling, concrete piling, and pressed piling are some of the most common ones that offer a long-lasting solution to foundation dilemmas.
Piling is well-known for offering a great outcome in bringing the foundation back to its original position. However, each property and foundation type is different and your consultant team will determine the type of piling that would be used for your project specifically.
3. Sealant and Masonry Patches:
As the name suggests, this method is focused on patching the cracks and sealing them with waterproof masonry. Vinyl concrete, hydraulic cement, and silicone are some of the most common sealers for repairing foundation cracks. However, the severity of the mixture is highly dependent on the severity of your issue. The professional team analyzes the crack position and then determines the seal and patch severity accordingly.
The Bottom Line
It is best to not avoid cracks and frequent plumbing leakage issues to ensure that the foundation cracks are addressed and resolved in their very early stages. Foundation problems are common. Soil can shift and change due to environmental alterations, causing the foundation to move as well.
There are different solutions to this issue as well and promise long-term relief too. Hire the right foundation experts for the task and your foundations will be fixed, in no time.
