What Is Foundation Repair?
Important Point
The foundation is the main thing in our building component. But sometimes these foundations are getting damaged. When this type of situation appears then we implement house foundation repair.
When the settlement is uneven then it will be very problematic, then we need foundation repair. We need to care about the house’s foundation arises before severe damage to the building. That’s why we adopt House foundation repair methods.
Can a House Foundation Be Repaired?
Yes, a house foundation is repaired, by using sealant, which is the easiest technique to repair the foundation. This sealant consists of hydraulic cement, which helps the foundation to repair.
Helical tieback anchors are also used to repair house foundations. So, these are types where a house foundation is repaired.
Also Read: What Is the Step Foundation Repair Process
House Foundation Repair Techniques
Some effective and best house foundation repair methods are-
Sealants and Masonry Patches
Cracks and patches found in the foundation are repaired by patching the cracks and covering them with waterproof masonry sealer. We need to repair those cracks as soon as possible because it supports the whole building structure.
Generally, the sealer is used to repair minor cracks which include vinyl concrete, hydraulic cement, epoxies, silicone, and polyurethane. This is used to repair several cracks.
In minor cracks, at first chipping process is done and then a sealer is applied. We need to find out the cracks and repair Them as soon as possible before starting the action of water. Sometimes minor cracks are also neglected when it is with the masonry patches.
Mud Jacking
This is one type of very useful and popular method which is used to lift concrete that is uneven or sinking. This process is also termed slab jacking, concrete lifting, or slab leveling.
This method is very useful for small works like raising steps, porches, decks, walkways, garage floors, and driveways. When the underneath soil shifts or collapses, then the slab foundation tilts or sinks.
In the slab jacking method, two holes are made to lift the concrete foundation to provide space below the foundation. After that, some natural materials like soil, cement, etc are injected to fill the void.
After that the solution expands and the fallen slab is raised back into place. In the alternative method, the slab jacking method is also a polyurethane injection method.
In this process, polyurethane is injected into the concrete to fill the void spaces. For filling purposes naturally, lightweight, dense elements are used.
The two slab lifting method is also a similar type of method, where it is widely applied on smaller projects. Here, injected materials are heavy due to new soil compression beneath the slab.
Advantages of Mud Jacking
- The main advantage of mud jacking is the low-cost process when it is compared to replacing the whole structure.
- The place can be used in one hour after the slab jacking process is done, so it is a very fast process.
- This is very suitable in any weather condition.
- No color change is observed below the old slab layer.
- Another advantage of this method is we do not clean the previous place.
Piering or Pilling
In this method, a steel or concrete pier is used to resettle the foundation. The main difference between piercing and pilling is that piercing is done by excavation work but pilling is done by driving or ramming the pile.
Steel pre-stressed pilling, concrete piers, and bell bottom piers are examples of some foundation repair techniques. Poured concrete piers: This is another foundation repair method where piles are driven to 10 feet depth. This will take about 7 to 10 days to cure the foundation.
Installation time is also less than pressed concrete piling. Belled concrete piers: The installation process of belled concrete per i is the same as poured concrete pier.
The bottom part of this pier is like a foot shape to provide extra stability to the structure. After the excavation process concrete is poured into this type of repair system and steel is placed.
Advantages of Belled Concrete Piers
- It provides good strength.
- The foot-like shape at the bottom prevents the unwanted movement of the foundation.
Also Read: How to Fix a Settling Foundation?
Concrete Pre-Stressed Pilling
In foundation repair works, pre-stressed concrete piling is the most durable technique. Minimum 12 feet deep height is required to install the pile and gain its proper strength and stability.
At first, drill holes are done, and then those are filled with reinforcement and concrete. Sometimes precast concrete is also used.
Advantages of Concrete Pressed Piling
- It does not require any heavy equipment and the cost is very low.
- Does not need any skilled labor.
Steel Pressed Pilling
Steel pilling is a highly preferable method in house foundation repair techniques. Steel piles are very strong, and they can go to 100 feet below the ground to provide extra stability to the building. These piles are driven to the bedrock level.
Advantages of Steel Pressed Pilling
- The installation cost is very low.
- These steel piles are driven into the deep soil stratum and help to support the structure.
- Steel piers can bear heavy loads with compare to concrete piers.
Helical Steel Piers
Helical steel piers and anchors are ideal for repairing lightweight concrete slab foundations. It is also used to install new building foundations. These piles can bear all pre-determined loads and transfer them to the subsoil.
Soil Modification in Foundation
This is the technique where we make the soil stiffer, more stable, and more durable. Voids are filled with some chemicals. This process is quite similar to the slab jacking process.
This is not a very popular method because it requires highly trained labor and the maintenance cost of this is also high.
Advantages of Soil Modification
- The main advantage of this process is its very fast and long-lasting process.
- It does not harm the original structure, and it’s an environmentally friendly method.
Also, Read: How Do I Water My Foundation Correctly?
House Foundation Repair Estimate
Generally, the price of a house foundation estimate may vary from place to place, but here is some general value for a house foundation repair estimate.
| Underpinning system | Cost (INR) |
| Steel pier | 70,000-1,20,000 |
| Helical pier | 1,05,000-1,55,000 |
| Drilled pier | 50,000-70,000 |
| Pressed piling | 60,000-1,00,000 |
| Cable lock | 80,000-95,000 |
So, this is the total house foundation repair estimate cost.
Also Read: How Does Installing a French Drain Around Foundations Prevent Damage?
House Foundation Repair Companies in the Us
House foundation companies are very important companies. Some house repair companies are-
- AFS Foundation and Waterproofing specialist
- Olshan
- Ram Jack
- Alpha Foundation
So, these are some popular and well-known house foundation repair companies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What Is Foundation Repair?
Foundation repair addresses issues that cause damage to a building’s foundation. It involves techniques to fix uneven settlement, cracks, and other structural problems to ensure the stability and safety of the building.
Can a House Foundation Be Repaired?
Yes, a house foundation can be repaired. Minor cracks can be addressed with sealants like hydraulic cement, while more extensive issues might require techniques such as helical tieback anchors, mud jacking, or piering.
Can Foundation Problems Affect My Entire House?
Yes, foundation problems can compromise the structural integrity of your entire house, leading to issues like cracks in walls, uneven floors, and doors and windows that don’t close properly. Addressing foundation issues promptly is crucial to prevent more severe damage.
What Is the Role of Soil Modification in Foundation Repair?
Soil modification involves stabilizing and strengthening the soil beneath the foundation by filling voids with chemicals. This technique is fast, long-lasting, environmentally friendly, and does not harm the original structure. However, it requires highly trained labor and has high maintenance costs.
How Long Does It Take to Repair a Foundation?
The time required to repair a foundation depends on the method used and the extent of the damage. Minor repairs with sealants can be completed in a few hours, while more extensive repairs like piering can take several days to complete and cure.
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