Foundation Repairs: Know Your Options

Foundation repairs are never something you look forward to. They are costly and disruptive, and they can be very stressful. However, taking the time to do your homework and understand your options can significantly reduce stress and help you make the best decision for your home.

Types of Foundation Repairs

You may not often think about your home’s foundation, but it should be one of your most important priorities. If your home’s foundation begins to crack, you’re in serious trouble. Luckily, you can do a few different types of foundation repairs to avoid costly damages.

Drilled Pier

A drilled pier is made by drilling a hole in the ground and then filling it with concrete. The pier is usually reinforced with steel rods or cables. Drilled piers support the foundation when the soil is too weak to support the weight of more lightweight structures.

Helical Pier

A helical pier is a steel shaft with a series of helical-shaped blades screwed into the ground. It supports the foundation when the soil is too weak to support more fragile structures. Helical piers are used in both residential and commercial applications. They are also used to support retaining walls, decks, and other structures.

Mud Jacking

Mud jacking, also known as slab jacking, is used to level concrete slabs or sunken foundations over time. The process involves drilling holes in the sunken slab and pumping a slurry of concrete, sand/topsoil, and water under the slab. The slurry lifts the slab and levels it with the surrounding ground.

Patching

The type of sealant or patch used will depend on the damage’s extent and the repair’s location. Common types of sealants include silicone, acrylic, and urethane. Common types of masonry patches include hydraulic cement, epoxy, and polyurethane.

Polyurethane Injections

Polyurethane injections are a type of foundation repair used to fill voids and cracks in the foundation. The injections are made of polyurethane resin that expands when it meets water. The expanding resin fills the gaps and cracks and bonds with the surrounding concrete to create a water-tight seal.

Steel Pier

Steel piers are among the most used foundation supports. A steel pier is a 12-inch steel pipe that is driven into the ground and then filled with concrete to support the weight of a structure. Since they can be driven into the ground up to 75 feet deep, they are used to support foundations in areas that are difficult to dig or where the soil is too weak to support a structure. It also makes them one of the more permanent solutions for foundation problems.

Steel Transition Pier

A steel transition pier is an excellent option for those having trouble deciding between a concrete and steel pier. They are a hybrid of concrete and steel and are an ideal solution for long-lasting foundation support. This option consists of a double-walled steel pipe that is filled with concrete. These piers are strong and can be drilled deeper into the ground than other options.

Understand Your Foundation Repair Options

These are just a few of the many options available for foundation repair. Consult with a professional to determine the best solution for your problem. Many factors need to be considered when choosing a foundation repair option, including the type of foundation, the damage’s severity, the repair’s location, and your budget. A professional can evaluate your situation and recommend the best solution for your needs.

Need help assessing your foundation and your options for repair? Contact Pinnacle Foundation Repair today.