Imagine the following: You’re enjoying your morning coffee and gazing out your window, when a terrible crack begins to creep up your living-room wall find more. The foundation is a problem that no homeowner enjoys, but it happens more often than the jack-in -the-box. But underpinning isn’t the only solution. We’ll give you some options that may save your home and your wallet.
Shaky Grounds
Traditional underpinning is not for the weak-hearted. It can also burn a hole in your savings. Here’s where slab-jacking can help. Imagine this: A concrete slab has started to sink. The grout is injected with a pump using slab jacking. You can think of it as giving your floor a literal and figurative lift.
What can you do to determine if slab jacking suits you? Simple. The solution works like a charm to fix small sinking areas. You can also cook three courses in less time. You might need a heavier product if your home has suffered significant structural damage.
Mud jacking is an art.
Next up, mud jacking. It’s a similar name but slightly different. Consider it slab jacking’s cousin, who likes to play in the dirt. In place of grout, mud-jacking uses a mix of water, soil and cement. The slurry mixture is pumped through holes in the floor to lift a sunken slab.
Before you listen, take a couple aspirin: If mud jacking has made you feel like an all-rounder, reconsider. It is best for smaller areas with less weight. But heavy loads can send you right back to square 1.
Piercing: the Stalwart Solution
While we move forward, let’s discuss piering. Imagine that a knight in shining armour is lifting up your sagging basement foundation using steel piers. These piers go deep into stable ground. They do not care if your topsoil has a lot of movement; they drill down until you reach solid soil. Piering acts as an anchor to hold your house steady against the winds.
The results may be expensive but they are guaranteed to last. Piering may be your solution to foundation problems that are keeping you up at night.
Helical Piers – The Spiral that Supports
Spin through the helical pilings. The spiral shape of these piers gives them their name. They screw into the ground to provide stability. You can think of it as a giant tent peg that you can use to support your home.
Do you have any questions about this method? Helical piers can be used in light soil conditions. These helical piers are easier to install, but may not have the strength for heavy structures. Consider the quirks of your soil before you jump in.
Polyurethane Injection: Quick Fix
Imagine a cape for a super hero and some spandex. This is polyurethane. This method is remarkable for its speed and effectiveness. Foam is injected under the slab. It expands and becomes hard, raising the foundation to its original height. It’s like the genie to your foundation wobble.
Just as a fast-food fix isn’t necessarily the healthiest option, polyurethane can be used to create a temporary solution. For long-lasting durability, you should explore your options.
Carbon Fiber Reinforcement is Light, but Mighty
Carbon fiber reinforcement can be used to reinforce cracked or bent walls. This material is lighter than a bird’s feather but stronger than steel. These strips adhere to the wall holding it tight, and preventing further movements.
Want to suit up in carbon fiber? It’s easier and faster to install. Like a single shield it only works when intact.
Sinkholes & Soil: Be on the lookout
The last but not the least is that an ounce or prevention can save you a pound in cure. The best thing you can do for your foundation is to ensure proper drainage and soil stabilization. Consider landscaping with steroids. Divert water from your house and compact the soil.
Next time you spot a sneaky crack in the wall, do not panic. Choose from these alternatives. Weigh your options and decide what will give your home the strongest, longest-lasting hug.