Category: Contractor Services

Foundation Repair Bismarck ND is a crucial process that ensures stability and prevents damage to other areas of your home. It also protects and maintains your home’s value.

There is no clear line between what is deemed normal settlement and a need for foundation repair. It’s often a feeling.

During the process, homeowners can stay inside their homes. Here are some of the most common repair methods:

High-Density Polyurethane Foam is a modern, cost-effective solution for foundation repair that can be used for residential and commercial applications. It is injected into cracks or voids beneath sunken concrete, then expands and hardens to lift and stabilize the structure. This technique can be used to fix concrete sinking, basement floors, garage floors, sidewalks, driveways, and patios. The foam is made from a combination of petroleum-based polyol and diisocyanate, two chemical building blocks that form a durable, lightweight material. The foams are available in a variety of thicknesses, densities, and compression deflection values. They can also be modified with flame retardants to meet the requirements of specific applications.

Concrete lifting using polyurethane foam is faster and cheaper than traditional mudjacking methods. The injection process is 80% quicker, and the polyurethane material can be put back into service within minutes. This is because the injection holes required by urethane foam are only 3/8″ in diameter, which is significantly smaller than the injection holes required by other concrete raising methods.

Polyurethane foam is waterproof, which means that it will not be affected by the moisture content of the soil in which it is injected. This is important because excessive moisture can cause the concrete to crack and crumble, and it can also lead to deterioration of the reinforcing steel in the concrete. The fact that urethane foam is waterproof helps to protect the steel from corrosion and extend the life of the concrete.

In addition to its waterproof properties, urethane foam is also very strong and rigid. This makes it a good choice for structural support and a strong substitute for metal or wood. It is also much lighter than other concrete repair materials, which can reduce the overall load on a foundation and make it less likely to sink or crack over time.

If you’re facing issues with cracked, sunken or uneven concrete around your home, contact the team at Stabil Solutions today to find out more about how we can use polyurethane foam to raise and stabilize your concrete slab. Our innovative concrete repair services are faster, smarter, and more efficient than traditional mudjacking techniques, and we can help you achieve long-term stability and peace of mind for your home or business.

Mudjacking

Mudjacking is a concrete leveling and slab foundation repair technique that uses a mixture of water, sand and Portland cement to fill soil voids and lift sunken concrete. The slurry mixture is pumped under the concrete through holes that are drilled into the surface. The slurry expands to raise the concrete back into place, and the soil beneath is also filled so that future sinking is prevented. The process is quick and efficient, requiring no excavation or disruption of household living space.

Mudjacking can be used to repair a wide variety of concrete surfaces, including walkways, stoops and patios. It can also be used to lift garage floors, pool decks, driveways, slab homes and warehouse floors. It can be a more cost-effective solution than other methods of concrete foundation lifting, such as poly leveling or piles and piers. However, it is important to evaluate the extent of the problem and its cause before choosing this method of repair. If the underlying issue is not addressed, the concrete could sink again in the future.

Although mudjacking can be a good option for most concrete foundation problems, it is not recommended in situations with loose or unstable soils. It is also not appropriate for heavy structures like commercial buildings or houses. Furthermore, the slurry mixture can seep into porous or sandy soils and damage the structure underneath. It is important to hire a professional for a thorough inspection of the concrete and the soils in which it sits.

Another disadvantage of mudjacking is that it can leave behind unsightly holes in the concrete’s surface, and it requires drilling access holes that are bigger than those used for poly leveling. These larger holes can cause damage to the surrounding landscaping and may need patching after the repair. Additionally, sloping or uneven concrete creates tripping hazards and increases the likelihood of personal injury. Although mudjacking can raise concrete to eliminate these hazards, it cannot eliminate cracks or prevent them from recurring. If the sagging concrete is due to a weak or unstable soil, it is best to use a more permanent repair such as piers or pilings.

Concrete Piers

Concrete piers are a traditional repair method that offers stability and prevents future settlement. They’re also a good option for damp climates because they keep structures away from excessive water buildup, which could put pressure on the foundation and lead to further damage.

Concrete foundation piers are thick, heavy structural supports that can stabilize homes and other buildings even when the soil underneath is unstable. They are typically installed by excavating holes that are then filled with a mix of concrete and steel reinforcement. In some cases, a concrete post base is positioned in the center of the pier for added support and strength.

This repair technique is most commonly used for foundations that have settled or heaved, but it can also be used to lift structures like porches and sheds. Unlike other concrete repair methods, foundation piers are designed to stabilize and strengthen the entire structure, not just the affected area.

When selecting a professional for your foundation repairs, it’s important to choose a company with a solid reputation and experience. Check to see if they’re members of industry associations or have any certifications to demonstrate their commitment to excellence. You should also ask about their warranty period and aftercare services, as these can help protect your investment.

While a number of factors can affect which type of pier is best for your property, the length, weight, and location of your building are usually the biggest considerations. In general, concrete piers are better suited for lighter structures than steel ones. This includes sheds, shops, and small storage facilities. Steel piers are typically used to support larger structures, such as multi-story office buildings, skyscrapers, and data centers.

To install foundation piers, contractors use hydraulic jacks to drive the steel pipes into the ground until they reach the load-bearing strata beneath the structure. Once the piers are in place, they’re then used to lift the structure back to its original position. This process is repeated as needed to restore the foundation’s structural integrity and prevent further movement or damage. When properly inspected and maintained, piers can provide lasting stability and enhance the load-bearing capacity of your home or other construction.

Steel Piers

Steel piers are another cornerstone of modern foundation repair, providing stability to a building’s structure and re-elevating the concrete that has settled or sloped over time. The piers are made of high-strength steel and are designed for the specific soil conditions where they will be installed, meaning that you’ll get an expert solution that’s tailored to your unique situation.

Like concrete piers, the steel piers are driven into the ground beneath your home or commercial building’s foundation to transfer its weight from unstable surface soils to load-bearing soil or bedrock deep underground. As they are driven down into the earth, each pier interlocks with the next to create a strong, reinforced support column that is capable of bearing a significant amount of weight without shifting or settling.

Typically, the process starts with a site survey to locate where each pier will be installed and a complete excavation of each hole to allow for installation. Then, each pier is driven into the soil with a hydraulic jack and locked into place. Then, a hydraulic lift is used to raise or stabilize the foundation, depending on your specific needs.

The advantage of steel piers is that they are more durable and able to reach deeper into the ground than concrete piers, which means they have a greater load-bearing capacity and can resist environmental damage that affects other foundation materials. They are also a more cost-effective solution than other methods of repairing your foundation, and they have a low environmental impact.

Steel piers primarily fall into two categories: push steel piers and helical steel piers. The former uses steel pipes with plates attached to them, which are then hydraulically driven into the soil. The latter, on the other hand, consists of steel rods with metal plates attached to the end. They are screwed into the soil, similar to the way that helical anchors work.

Both types of piers offer superior strength and durability to ensure long-term stability for your foundation, making them the ideal choice for homeowners who need a permanent solution to their foundation problems. Contact us today to learn more about how steel piers can be used in your foundation repair and how they compare to other options.

Whether you’re looking to sell your home or just want to keep it safe and comfortable, a professional foundation inspection is essential. You’ll need either a home inspector or structural engineer, depending on what kind of problem you have. Contact Foundation Inspections Plano for professional help.

Uneven floors, cracks in walls, and sticking windows or doors are all signs that your foundation is moving. A quick ball test can confirm these observations.

The foundation is a critical part of any building. Whether a home or commercial building, if the foundation is not in good condition it can cause problems throughout the rest of the structure. That is why it is important to find a professional inspector that specializes in foundation inspections. There are several ways to find an inspector, including online reviews and word of mouth from friends and family. Once you have narrowed down your list of candidates, ask them to provide you with samples of their work and training materials. This will give you an idea of how much experience they have and what their approach to a foundation inspection will be.

The first step in a foundation inspection is to examine the exterior of the property, looking for any cracks or discoloration that may indicate structural movement or damage. Inspectors will also look at the drainage around the house to see if there is any standing water that could lead to erosion or settlement. They will also check the landscaping and trees, as roots that grow into or under the foundation can also contribute to shifts in the structure.

Once the inspector has examined the exterior, they will move inside the home and inspect the floors for any signs of buckling or warping. They will also look at the windows and doors to make sure that they open and close easily. Inspectors will also take a closer look at the walls, looking for any cracks or discoloration. If there are any cracks that are horizontal, it is often a sign of hydrostatic pressure build up behind the wall. This can be caused by water accumulation or poor drainage and can weaken the concrete and reinforcement of the walls over time.

It is also a good idea to get an inspector who can perform a pre-pour inspection on new construction. This inspection can help ensure that the foundation is being poured correctly, and can identify any potential problems before they become serious. This can save a lot of money and hassle down the road.

Preparing for the Inspection

Whether you’re buying or selling a property, it’s a good idea to get your foundation inspected regularly. This can help spot problems early and prevent more serious damage down the line. It can also help you make the best decision about how to proceed with your renovations.

During the inspection, a specialist will examine the exterior of your home to check for signs of leaks and cracking. They will also look for sagging or leaning walls. They’ll also test the level of your floors and walls. If they aren’t level, this could indicate a shifting foundation.

The specialist will then move inside your home and use specialized tools to look for signs of moisture, such as leaking windows or doors. They will also look at your foundation’s overall structure, including the state of the support beams and columns.

If there are any problems with your foundation, the inspector will compile a detailed report and recommend any necessary repairs or further evaluations. They’ll also give you a rough estimate for the cost of the repairs. You should carefully review this report to make sure you understand all of the details and recommendations.

Foundation professionals often use Pre Pour Foundation Inspection Checklists during construction to verify that all components of a foundation are in compliance with design specifications and building regulations. Construction managers also review the report to see if they should hire experts to make any necessary repairs.

You can also find Pre Pour Foundation Inspection Checklists online, which you can fill out on a tablet or smartphone. This allows you to save time and money by eliminating the need for paper-based documentation and streamlining data collection. This also gives you access to the results of your inspections, which you can share with other project stakeholders.

Before the inspection, it’s a good idea to compile a list of any concerns or questions that you want to discuss with your engineer. You can also provide them with any previous inspection reports or repair records. Having this information can help your engineer provide you with the most accurate and comprehensive inspection possible.

During the Inspection

As part of the home inspection process, professionals carefully examine the foundation for signs of deterioration. This may include assessing visible cracks, looking for bowing or leaning walls, checking the levelness of floors, and examining the condition of support beams. They may also look for gaps between the foundation and doors or windows, which could indicate a shift in the foundation.

If the professional notices any cracks, they’ll take careful note of their location, size, and direction to determine whether or not they’re a cause for concern. For instance, horizontal cracks often signify a structural deficiency or hydrostatic pressure buildup. This happens when moisture accumulates in the soil surrounding your foundation, causing it to shift and put unintended stress on your walls. Similarly, vertical cracks can be caused by movement of your foundation over time or a faulty drainage system.

Other concerns that the inspector may look for are sloping floors, which can be a sign of shifting or movement in the foundation. This is especially true if the floor slopes in multiple directions or has an overall bowl shape. To check this, the inspector will typically roll a ball across the surface of the floor. If the ball rolls easily and quickly in more than one direction, the floor is likely not level.

In addition, the inspector will carefully examine the crawlspace underneath your house, paying special attention to the condition of the support beams and piers. If they’re wet, rotting, or covered in mold, it’s important that these issues are addressed as soon as possible to protect the health of the structure and its occupants.

The inspector will then write a detailed report detailing their findings, including recommendations for repair or maintenance. This information will be helpful for construction managers as they decide how to proceed with the project. In some cases, if the issue is serious or complicated, it’s best to consult with a structural engineer to get more in-depth information about the situation.

Using technology like Xenia, an advanced construction management software, can help construction teams simplify their inspection processes and ensure that all necessary steps are taken to keep projects on track. By storing documents and communication in one central location, Xenia helps teams stay organized, efficient, and up-to-date on all aspects of their work.

Post-Inspection Recommendations

The next step after the inspector finishes their visual examination of your home is to gather additional data. For example, they might use a Ziplevel altimeter to measure heights and identify any slopes in the foundation or basement floors. These measurements help engineers determine the extent and cause of any movement or damage. They may also recommend structural stabilization techniques to prevent future movements and ensure the integrity of the building.

If you’re buying a new home, it’s a good idea to have a foundation inspection conducted before you close the deal. This will give you a better idea of the condition of the home’s foundation and will allow you to negotiate any repairs with the seller. In addition, a solid home inspection can increase the value of your property and make it easier to sell later on.

Even if you don’t plan on selling your home, a foundation inspection can protect it from structural issues and other problems. A regular inspection can also help you maintain the value of your property and keep up with any maintenance requirements.

A residential home’s foundation is essential for the structure’s stability and safety. It distributes weight evenly throughout the home’s soil layers to prevent uneven settlement, and it keeps moisture, varmints, and other elements from invading the structure. However, if your foundation is damaged, the entire house can be compromised. This could lead to expensive repairs and a reduction in the property’s value.

Unlike a home inspector, who has a general understanding of construction practices and building codes, structural engineers have specialized training in the forces that act on a foundation. As such, they are better suited to evaluating the strength and integrity of a building’s foundation. They can identify potential problems and provide a thorough report with photos to help you decide whether to make repairs as part of your home purchase.

Many commercial buildings are managed by professional building or asset management teams, rather than individual owners. While these companies often manage large portfolios of properties, they still need to have a clear understanding of the condition of their foundations. Regular inspections can help them identify and address potential problems before they become too serious to resolve, allowing them to protect their investments and the wellbeing of their tenants.