What Causes the Sinking of Concrete Foundation Walls and What Can You Do About It?
If you notice that your concrete foundation walls are sinking, you may wonder what causes them to sink and what you can do about it. There are many different reasons why a basement may be sinking, and there are several things you can do to remedy the problem.
Expansive soils with a lot of clay or peat
Expansive soils are a serious problem that can cause serious damage to your property. It can lead to foundation cracks, subsidence and more. The first step to solving this issue is to determine the underlying cause.
A soil's ability to store water can determine whether it will expand or contract. This is why expansive soils shrink and expand when it is wet and dry.
Clay has a small particle size, which allows moisture to flow between the particles. In turn, it becomes pliable when moist. However, when it is dry, it becomes a stiff material.
During the summer, peaty soil is usually extremely dry and can become a fire hazard. This type of soil is also very porous and easily compressible.
It can be devastating if a faulty foundation is not properly restored.
Poor compaction
Poor compaction is one of the causes of sinking foundations. It can also cause a number of other problems, such as concrete cracks, a hollowed out chimney and a sagging baseboard. The good news is that there are many ways to correct a sagging foundation.
The first step is to figure out which one of the following is causing your foundation to sink. Some examples include a loose base, poor drainage, and soil saturation. Once these problems are remedied, you will be back on solid ground. You might even be surprised to see how well your home holds up under the weight of a heavy car.
Excess moisture in the load-bearing strata
If you have a basement or an elevated house, you may have noticed that the foundation is sinking. This can be a serious problem. It can cause structural damage, such as sticking doors, windows, and chimneys. The best way to avoid such damage is to prevent water from getting near your house.
One of the most important layers of soil is bedrock. It supports many of the world's largest structures. Bedrock is also referred to as load bearing strata, because it can carry the weight of the structure.
In addition to supporting the structure, bedrock provides the foundation with an anchor. When the foundation shifts or falls, it can result in cracks, gaps in chimneys and other walls, and even separation from the house above.
Drywall cracks
If you're experiencing drywall cracks, you're not alone. The problem is, these small cracks can become big problems over time. They can degrade the structural integrity of your home. While some of these cracks can be repaired on your own, it's much more efficient to hire an expert to get the job done right the first time.
There are many different types of foundational cracks. These include surface level and vertical cracks. Vertical cracks are less difficult to repair than horizontal ones.
There are also many different ways to fix these problems. Temporary solutions, such as caulking, hydraulic cement, or polyurethane sealant can be helpful for short-term solutions. However, they don't address the underlying issues.
Slabjacking
Slabjacking is a foundation repair method that is often used for driveways, patios, and garage floors. It is a cost-effective solution to concrete problems that provides better support for the foundation. However, it is important to know how slabjacking works and what to expect when it is performed.
Slabjacking involves drilling small holes into the concrete slab. The holes are strategically placed to match the existing concrete. These are typically 1.5" or 2" in diameter.
A special mixture of sand, water, and cement is pumped into the holes. This mixture is then pressurized to raise the sunken slab.
Often, these processes can be completed in a single day. However, it is also possible for them to take a couple of weeks.
Follow these tips to hire a quality foundation repair contractor.
Piering
If you've noticed your concrete foundation walls starting to sink, it's time to call a foundation repair company. These services offer several options for fixing the problem.
The process involves lifting the concrete slab to a more even level. This can be done by professional mud jackers. It is important to note that this process isn't always a quick fix. There may be some damage to the foundation that needs to be repaired before the slab can be raised.
Another way to raise the weight of the concrete is by using the Atlas Resistance system. This technology uses hydraulic pressure to push piers into the ground.
Foundation Repair Akron
694 N Main St #3
Akron, OH 44310
330-294-9731