As your home settles back to its original position, small cracks may form. These are normal and can be repaired with caulk or putty. You may also need to repair any weakened mortar in brick walls.

The severity of your foundation damage will determine the right type of repairs and methods to use. Contact Foundation Repair Plano for professional help.

Foundation repair is an essential step to ensure the structural integrity of your home and prevent further damage. The first step is to identify the issue. This can be done by inspecting your house for cracks in walls and ceilings, uneven or sloping floors, sticking doors and windows, and gaps around windows and doors. You should also look at the exterior brick of your home for signs of sagging or leaning. It is important to notice these issues early, as they will only worsen with time.

If you have noticed any of these issues, it is a good idea to contact a professional for an inspection as soon as possible. A foundation specialist will be able to determine the best course of action to take based on your specific situation.

Depending on the severity of the damage, there are various repair methods that can be used. One of the most popular is underpinning. This involves putting supports underneath the foundation to help stabilize it. This is particularly effective for sagging or sinking foundations, and can be accomplished using either pilings or piers.

When choosing a contractor to perform underpinning, it is important to choose a company with experience and a proven track record. It is also helpful to choose a local company that has familiarity with the soil and climate conditions in your area, as this can help reduce costs. 

Once the repair plan has been determined, it is time to begin the process. This involves digging and drilling holes to install the support, which is usually a steel bar or pilings. For small jobs, the repair can be completed in a few days. For larger jobs, the timeline will depend on the extent of the damage and how difficult it is to access the area.

In addition to underpinning, other methods for repairing foundation problems include helical tiebacks and concrete push piers. These are more effective than traditional shims and can be installed more quickly. In addition, they are resistant to corrosion and can be installed in a wide variety of soil conditions.

Underpinning

In some cases, foundations may need to be underpinned. This is a process of strengthening the existing foundation by digging out some of the footings and then adding more support underneath. This is typically done when the original foundation has become too weak due to changes in soil conditions or structural damage over time. It is also a common procedure used during construction to support new floors or provide additional depth for subsurface space.

There are several different methods of underpinning a foundation. It is important to consult with a professional to determine which option is best for your situation. They will take into account factors such as the type of soil and the extent of the damage to the foundation. Steel piers and bell-bottom piers are some of the most durable options.

It is important to understand that underpinning a foundation can be an expensive undertaking. However, it is crucial to invest in this work early on to avoid more costly repairs in the future. It can also help maintain or even boost the resale value of your home.

Most contractors recommend that a structural engineer be involved in the assessment of any underpinning projects. This is to ensure that the underpinning solution addresses the specific issues at hand and not other factors that may be influencing the building. For example, if the footings are moving because of an unsupported basement floor, it would be inappropriate to underpin them as this could cause a shift in the basement floor which would be difficult to reverse.

The most common underpinning method is the use of piers. These are concrete columns that are driven into the ground to provide added support for the foundation. They are available in a variety of forms including drilled piers, pressed pilings and pre-cast concrete piles.

These piers are driven into the ground using hydraulic pressure. They are usually installed in a series of pairs to create an interlocking system that provides very strong support for the foundation.

Repairing Cracks

Foundation cracks are a common problem and can range in severity from hairline to wide. Depending on the size and severity, a number of methods can be used to repair them.

It is important to understand how to distinguish between non-structural and structural cracks, which are typically more serious and need professional attention. Non-structural cracks are less than a coin’s width and don’t compromise the foundation’s stability. Structural cracks are accompanied by other signs of foundation problems, such as wall bowing and doors or windows that won’t close.

In many cases, cracks can be repaired using a polyurethane or epoxy injection. A concrete caulk can also be used to fill cracks wider than a hairline, though it’s a good idea to clean the area and make sure you’re down to bare concrete before applying any sealants.

A more in-depth approach to fixing cracks involves a process called underpinning. This involves installing support systems under the foundation to prevent further movement and damage. Depending on the severity of your case, you may need to add piers along the perimeter of your home or install a system under the middle of the structure.

The first step in the underpinning process is to locate the crack and excavate around it. This will expose the entirety of the crack to the repair team and ensure they can address the issue fully.

During the underpinning process, you will likely be given a choice between pressed pilings or bell-bottom piers. The pressed piling method is quicker and more cost-effective, but it doesn’t offer as much strength or durability. The bell-bottom pier method is more expensive but offers a superior level of quality and longevity.

After your foundation is repaired, it’s a good idea to waterproof the walls to avoid moisture penetration, which can further weaken the structure and lead to more extensive damage down the road. It’s also a good idea to schedule regular inspections to keep an eye out for new cracks or any other issues that may develop.

While you can try to fix minor cracks on your own, it’s important to work with a trusted professional when dealing with serious damage. A reputable company will have the expertise and tools to diagnose and resolve your foundation issues quickly and permanently.

Choosing a Contractor

When evaluating potential contractors, it’s important to request detailed estimates. These provide an accurate breakdown of costs and help you compare quotes. Be sure to note the scope of work, including any materials used and expected timeline. This will help you avoid being blindsided by any unexpected expenses or delays. Additionally, be sure to ask about any warranties offered by the contractor. A good warranty will add value to the estimate and demonstrate a commitment to customer satisfaction.

The selection of a foundation repair specialist is a crucial step in safeguarding your home’s structural integrity. Many homeowners who fail to carefully vet their contractors regret their decision later. Take your time and evaluate the credentials, experience, quality of work, and customer service of each candidate. This analytical approach will ensure that you choose the best contractor for the job and preserve your home’s structural integrity.

A thorough inspection by a qualified professional will reveal the extent of any damage and the underlying causes. It will also determine the best repair method and timeline. Choosing a contractor with the latest technologies and innovative methods will ensure that you receive a high-quality, minimally invasive repair that is both durable and cost effective.

While some degree of house settling is normal, excessive or uneven settling can lead to serious problems. Untreated settling can cause cracking of the foundation and lead to severe and costly structural damage. Therefore, it’s important to hire a qualified foundation repair expert as soon as you notice signs of damage.

Before hiring a foundation repair company, make sure to check their licenses and insurance. A reputable contractor will have liability insurance and workers’ compensation. They should also be able to provide you with references and testimonials from previous clients. In addition, you should also consider the contractor’s reputation and online reviews. Lastly, you should also consider the type of foundation repairs they specialize in. Some contractors only offer repair services for pier and beam foundations, while others are more skilled at repairing concrete slabs. Choosing a specialist who is experienced and knowledgeable in your specific type of foundation will guarantee a successful repair.