With time, the structure and the foundation of your property may develop problems like water leak, structural damage, and deterioration. Homeowners must take necessary measures to keep the property free from damage, water leaks and other issues. A small leak can cause irreparable damage to the foundation therefore it is advisable to maintain your property well particularly the foundation which provides support to the overall structure. If you are someone who lives in an older house, then you must have your property inspected from time to time to see if there is any repair or foundation waterproofing services required. Depending upon the area where you live, you have to invest in timely and routine inspection of your property as per the local building codes. Let’s understand more about foundation repair, causes, signs and its solutions!

What is Foundation Repair?

Foundation repair refers to planned repair work which includes providing supports, fixing water leak issues and adding strength to the structure for longer life of the overall building structure. It includes reshaping the foundation back to its original position and thus securing it the way it should be. Foundation repair work is most needed when the underlying foundation of a property, building, or structure gets damaged and in turn needs necessary repair. The foundation waterproofing repair work is often carried out to the core structure of the building.

What are the main Causes for the damage?

Most foundation problems happen due to accumulation of water in the basement and the foundation. Whenever there is too much water, the soil erodes and swells causing structural damage to the foundation. Similarly when there is lack of water or extreme dry conditions, the soil shrinks and starts to erode. Both of these reasons are the main causes of foundation damage and often lead to serious problems for your home’s foundation. This is why fixing leak issues in the basement and near the foundation is advisable as soon as you witness it. Make necessary arrangements for basement waterproofing so you can avoid these common issues.

Exterior/Interior Signs

There are plenty of visible signs that you carefully have to look for before deciding whether you need to repair your Foundation or not. These signs can be external or sometimes internal. They are as follows:

Some of the Exterior Warning Signs are

• Wall rotation
• Cracked bricks
• Separation around garage door, window, or walls
• Cracked foundation
• Displaced moldings

 

Interior Warning Signs are

• Misaligned windows and doors
• Cracks in floor
• Uneven floors
• Poor Water Drainage
• Cracked sheetrock
• Little or too much Moisture in Your Crawlspace.

 

Methods for House foundation repair

There are different types of foundation repair methods available which are used for the foundation waterproofing repair. But this solely depends on the soil type, foundation quality, climate, and any underlying problems such as water leaks. Let’s find more on what are some of the common methods to repair the foundation and how effective they are:

Sealants and Masonry Patches

With this method, cracks and patches present in the foundation can effectively be repaired by patching and covering the crack with waterproofing sealer. It is important to timely spot the cracks and repairs them before it gets too late. It is best to repair the crack early by using sealers for minor and small cracks. You can use hydraulic cement, epoxies, silicone, polyurethane or vinyl concrete. It is extremely important to fix the foundation timely because it gives support to the entire structure.

Piering or Piling

Another effective method to treat the foundation is the piering or piling technique. This is one of the best methods to fix the foundation and provide much needed strength. Usually, concrete or steep pier is used to support the foundation. The only difference between piercing and piling is that in piering, excavation is needed while piling can be done by using piles into the ground as support. There are different sub methods available which are sent depending upon the soil conditions and level of foundation support needed.

Concrete piers, bell bottom and piers steel pressed piling are the most commonly used examples of piling for house foundation repairs. It is one of the best methods when it comes to foundation repair since it offers long lasting results.

MudJacking

Mudjacking is another repair method which can be used to lift the uneven concrete to level it. It is also commonly called Slab jacking, usable levering or concrete lifting. It is often used for small foundation works.

Soil Modification in Foundation

Soil modification, also referred to as, soil stabilizing is the process which makes the soil a bit stiffer and stable than before. Hollow spaces are filled with chemicals and other materials. This method bears some kind of similarity to slab jacking since it has a similar nature of work. This method is not very common since it involves increased cost of work and maintenance.

How to fix foundation repair?

You should not delay the foundation repair or waterproofing since your home needs it. The sooner you do it, the better it is for the safety and wellbeing of everyone living in your family. If you are looking for a good trustworthy contractor for foundation repair and waterproofing projects, then you are at the right place. You can contact Harris Waterproofing today. Harris Waterproofing has been offering high quality foundation repair and waterproofing services in the surrounding areas. Our professionals provide affordable yet effective solutions that ensure you enjoy the driest basement in town. We are known for our great reputation that we have built over the years because of our quality work, reliability and dedication to every project.