Innovative Methods of Repairing a Foundation

Repairing foundation problems requires certain techniques to get the job done. The major cause of foundation damage is water. Water creates numerous foundation problems and it does this in a number of ways.

For instance, it can either lead to contraction or expansion of the soil on which a foundation sits. Water can also seep into the floors through the slab or foundation and create moisture problems in a home.

Once the foundation heaves or buckles as a result of soil contraction or expansion underneath, heaves and cracks form and they can become water entry points.

 

There are several types of soils. A soil which is rich in clay expands most when soaked with water. Expansion of clay soil accounts for most heaving problems. Inadequate or improper compaction of other types of soils when preparing them for a foundation can also lead to settling. Both settling and heaving require repair.

In the past, repairing concrete foundations relied on techniques that introduced steel, concrete, and wood materials beneath the slab or foundation to try and jack it to fix the problem. However, these techniques were often ineffective. Today, there are innovative techniques that have proven to be more effective in repairing weak or damaged foundations.

For instance, mud jacking, also known as slab jacking, is an innovative technique that involves injecting or pumping concrete beneath the damaged slab or foundation to jack it up back into its original place. This technique is also effective in that it fills any spaces that might be beneath the foundation. This makes the foundation resist water in future.

In this method, soil and lime can also be included in a concrete mixture. The benefit of including lime is that it assists in stabilizing the soil. This assists the slab or foundation to regain its original soil grade, such that it becomes stable enough to prevent future damage and shifting.

Piering or piling is another technique of repairing a foundation, whereby some adjustable supports are used beneath the damaged foundation. Large piers are drilled into the soil under the foundation using hydraulics.

Helical auger pilings are then twisted mechanically into the soil until they reach a more stable soil or rock below. Once this is done, hydraulic jacks are used to jack the foundation into place.

When using this method to repair your home’s foundation, the piles have to undergo thorough testing to ensure that they can support the load.

Although the cost of repairing a foundation tends to be quite expensive, it’s better doing it than staying in an unsafe home. The repair process is also a hassle considering the time it will take to complete and the risks involved in jacking it to make a new foundation. These are valid not just for residential homes, but also for a guesthouse.

However, never shy away from spending your money to repair your home. Before the walls start fracturing as a result of soil pressure and other foundation issues, make plans of repairing it soonest possible. Foundation problems are not something to ignore. They should be addressed immediately especially when the signs are clear.

Otherwise, mildews may form or cracks and fractures will deteriorate. Whenever you notice cracks on the bricks, contact an expert immediately. You can always find a reliable contractor by doing a simple search on the internet.

Contact us to know more about our foundation repair services in Melbourne. Visit the homepage to know more about our reblocking services.