Understanding Your Structural Foundation: The Bedrock of Any Strong Building

Every building, from a small home to a towering skyscraper, relies on a strong Structural Foundation. This critical part of any structure carries the entire weight of the building and transfers it safely to the ground beneath. Think of it as the bedrock that supports everything above, ensuring stability and long-term durability. Without a properly designed and maintained Structural Foundation, a building cannot stand strong against the forces of nature, soil changes, or the simple passage of time. Understanding how foundations work, why they are important, and what signs indicate potential issues is essential for any property owner or manager. This knowledge helps protect your investment and ensures the safety of those who use the building.

What Exactly Is a Structural Foundation?

A structural foundation is the lowest part of a building, usually built below ground level. Its main job is to support the weight of the entire structure above it. This includes the weight of the walls, floors, roof, and everything inside the building, like furniture and people. The foundation then spreads this weight out over a larger area of soil. This spreading of weight prevents the building from sinking or settling unevenly into the ground. A well-built foundation also protects the building from moisture, ground movement, and changes in temperature. It acts as a barrier, keeping the building stable and dry. The design of a foundation depends on many factors, such as the type of soil, the climate, and the size and weight of the building it needs to support. Engineers carefully calculate these factors to ensure the foundation can handle all the forces placed upon it. This careful planning is what makes a building safe and long-lasting.

Exploring the Different Types of Structural Foundations

Foundations come in various forms, each suited for different soil conditions, building types, and budgets. We can broadly categorize them into two main types: shallow foundations and deep foundations.

Shallow Foundations

Shallow foundations are those that transfer building loads to the earth at a relatively shallow depth. They are typically used when the soil close to the surface has enough strength to support the building’s weight.

1. Slab-on-Grade Foundation: This is one of the most common types, especially in areas with warm climates. It involves pouring a concrete slab directly onto a prepared base of gravel or sand on the ground. The edges of the slab are often thicker to form a footing, which provides extra support. This type of foundation is quick to build and can be very cost-effective. It offers good protection against pests and requires less excavation. However, it can be difficult to access plumbing or electrical systems buried within the slab if repairs are needed.
2. Crawl Space Foundation: With a crawl space, the building is raised slightly above the ground, creating a shallow space between the bottom of the floor joists and the earth. This space allows for easier access to plumbing, wiring, and ductwork for maintenance or repairs. Crawl spaces typically use concrete block walls or poured concrete walls that rest on footings. Proper ventilation and moisture control are crucial in crawl spaces to prevent mold, mildew, and wood rot. Without proper care, moisture can lead to significant structural problems over time.
3. Basement Foundation: A basement foundation creates a full-height living or storage space below ground level. This type of foundation involves digging deeper into the earth, pouring concrete footings, and then constructing full-height walls, typically from poured concrete or concrete blocks. Basements offer a large amount of extra usable space and provide excellent insulation, helping to keep the building warm in winter and cool in summer. However, they are the most expensive type of shallow foundation to build due to the extensive excavation and waterproofing required. Effective waterproofing is vital to prevent water intrusion, which can cause significant damage and health issues.

Deep Foundations

Deep foundations are used when the soil near the surface is too weak or unstable to support the building’s weight. These foundations transfer the building’s load to stronger soil layers or rock much deeper underground.

1. Piers: Piers are columns made of concrete or masonry that extend deep into the ground to reach stable soil or rock. They are often used for lighter structures or when specific load points need extra support. Piers can be drilled and filled with concrete (drilled piers) or pre-fabricated and driven into the ground (driven piers). They provide excellent stability by bypassing problematic surface soils.
2. Piles: Similar to piers, piles are long, slender columns that are driven or drilled deep into the ground. Piles are typically used for very heavy structures or when the stable soil layer is extremely deep. They can be made of concrete, steel, or timber. Piles work by either friction with the surrounding soil or by resting directly on a strong bearing layer. They are a robust solution for challenging ground conditions.
3. Caissons: Caissons are large, cylindrical concrete shafts that are drilled into the ground and then filled with concrete. They are essentially very large drilled piers. Caissons are often used for extremely heavy structures, such as bridges or very tall buildings, where massive loads need to be transferred to deep, strong soil or rock layers. They offer high load-bearing capacity and stability.

Choosing the right type of foundation is a complex decision that requires careful evaluation of soil reports, structural loads, and local environmental conditions. Expert engineers play a crucial role in making this determination.

The Unwavering Importance of a Robust Structural Foundation

A strong Structural Foundation is not just a part of a building; it is the most critical element ensuring its long-term health and safety. Its importance cannot be overstated for several key reasons:

1. Ensuring Safety and Stability: The primary role of a foundation is to keep the building stable and prevent it from collapsing or shifting. It evenly distributes the massive weight of the structure, preventing parts of the building from sinking or moving more than others. This stability is vital for the safety of everyone inside and around the building. Without it, walls could crack, floors could buckle, and the entire structure could become unsafe.
2. Protecting Structural Integrity: A solid foundation protects the entire framework of the building. When the foundation moves or settles improperly, it puts stress on the walls, roof, and interior finishes. This stress can lead to cracks in drywall, misaligned doors and windows, and even damage to the roof structure. Maintaining foundation integrity means maintaining the integrity of the entire building.
3. Enhancing Longevity and Durability: Buildings with strong foundations last longer. They are better able to withstand the test of time, including natural forces like earthquakes, floods, and strong winds. A well-built foundation reduces the need for frequent and costly repairs to the upper parts of the building, contributing to its overall durability for decades, even centuries.
4. Preserving Property Value: The condition of a building’s foundation directly impacts its market value. A property with known foundation problems can be difficult to sell and may significantly decrease in value. Conversely, a building with a well-maintained and stable foundation is a more attractive investment and retains its value over time. Lenders and insurance companies also view properties with stable foundations more favorably.
5. Preventing Moisture Damage: A properly constructed foundation acts as a barrier against ground moisture. It helps keep basements and crawl spaces dry, preventing issues like mold, mildew, wood rot, and pest infestations. Effective drainage systems around the foundation are crucial for diverting water away, protecting the structural components from water-related damage that can compromise their strength.
6. Protecting Against Soil Movement: Soils can expand, contract, or shift due to changes in moisture content, frost heave, or seismic activity. A robust foundation is designed to withstand these movements, minimizing their impact on the building above. This resilience is particularly important in regions with reactive soils or significant temperature fluctuations.

In essence, investing in a high-quality foundation and maintaining it properly is an investment in the entire building’s future. It provides peace of mind, knowing that the structure is safe, stable, and built to last.

Common Issues That Can Affect Structural Foundations

Even the strongest foundations can face problems over time due to various factors. Recognizing these issues is the first step toward effective resolution.

1. Soil Settlement: This is perhaps the most common foundation problem. It occurs when the soil beneath the foundation compacts or shifts, causing the building to sink or settle unevenly. Uneven settlement can be caused by poorly compacted fill dirt, changes in soil moisture content (like drought or excessive rain), or even the natural decomposition of organic matter in the soil. Signs include cracks in walls, floors, and ceilings, or doors and windows that stick.
2. Expansive Soils: Some types of soil, particularly those rich in clay, expand when wet and shrink when dry. This constant swelling and shrinking can exert immense pressure on the foundation, causing it to heave upwards or settle downwards. This movement can lead to significant cracking and structural damage. Proper drainage and moisture management around the foundation are critical in areas with expansive soils.
3. Water Damage and Poor Drainage: Water is a foundation’s worst enemy. Poor drainage around a building can lead to water pooling near the foundation, saturating the soil and increasing hydrostatic pressure against basement walls. This can cause cracks, leaks, and even bowing walls. Over time, constant moisture can weaken concrete and masonry, leading to significant structural compromise. Leaking pipes under the slab can also cause localized settlement.
4. Tree Roots: Large trees planted too close to a foundation can pose a significant threat. Their roots seek out moisture, and during dry periods, they can draw water from beneath the foundation, causing the soil to shrink and leading to settlement. Conversely, roots can also grow directly under a foundation, exerting upward pressure and causing heave. It is important to maintain a safe distance between large trees and the building’s foundation.
5. Plumbing Leaks: Hidden leaks from water or sewer pipes located beneath the foundation or within the slab can saturate the surrounding soil. This localized saturation can wash away soil particles, creating voids, or cause the soil to swell, leading to foundation movement. Undetected leaks can cause significant damage before they are noticed, making prompt repair essential.
6. Poor Construction Quality: Sometimes, foundation problems stem from errors made during the initial construction. This can include inadequate soil preparation, improper concrete mixing, insufficient reinforcement, or incorrect footing design. These issues might not appear immediately but can lead to long-term structural instability and costly repairs.
7. Frost Heave: In cold climates, water in the soil can freeze and expand, pushing the foundation upwards. When the ground thaws, the soil contracts, and the foundation settles back down. This repeated freezing and thawing cycle, known as frost heave, can cause significant damage over time, especially if the footings are not placed below the frost line.

Addressing these issues early is key to preventing more severe and expensive problems down the line. Regular inspections and understanding the signs of trouble are crucial for maintaining foundation health.

Recognizing the Signs of Structural Foundation Problems

Spotting foundation issues early can save significant time, money, and stress. Property owners should be vigilant and look for these common indicators:

1. Cracks in Walls: Look for cracks in interior drywall, plaster, or exterior brickwork and stucco. While small hairline cracks can be normal with a building’s natural settling, larger, zigzagging, or stair-step cracks, especially those wider than a quarter-inch, often point to foundation movement. Vertical cracks are usually less concerning than horizontal cracks or those that run diagonally, which often indicate uneven settlement.
2. Sticking Doors and Windows: If doors or windows suddenly become difficult to open or close, or if they appear to be out of square (meaning they don’t fit perfectly into their frames), this can be a sign of foundation shift. As the foundation settles unevenly, it distorts the door and window frames, leading to misalignment.
3. Uneven or Sloping Floors: A noticeable slope or sag in floors can indicate that the foundation beneath is settling unevenly. You might feel like you are walking uphill or downhill in certain areas of a room. This can be particularly evident in older homes but can also occur in newer constructions if there are foundation issues.
4. Gaps Around Window and Door Frames: As a foundation moves, it can pull away from the framing around windows and doors, creating noticeable gaps. These gaps might appear between the frame and the wall or between the frame and the window/door itself.
5. Bowing or Leaning Walls: In basements or crawl spaces, foundation walls might start to bow inward or lean outward. This is often caused by excessive hydrostatic pressure from saturated soil outside the wall. If left unaddressed, bowing walls can eventually collapse.
6. Cracks in the Foundation Slab or Basement Floor: Visible cracks in the concrete slab of a basement floor or a slab-on-grade foundation are direct indicators of stress. While minor surface cracks are common, wide, deep, or actively growing cracks suggest significant underlying movement.
7. Water in the Basement or Crawl Space: Any standing water, dampness, or persistent musty odors in these lower areas are serious warning signs. They indicate that water is penetrating the foundation, which can lead to structural damage, mold growth, and poor indoor air quality. This often points to drainage issues or cracks in the foundation walls.
8. Separation of Chimney or Porch from the House: If a chimney or an attached porch begins to pull away from the main structure of the house, it suggests that its independent foundation is settling differently from the main building’s foundation. This separation can create significant gaps and instability.

If you notice any of these signs, it is wise to contact a professional foundation expert or structural engineer. Early detection and intervention are critical to preventing minor issues from becoming major, costly repairs.

The Process of Foundation Inspection and Assessment

When signs of foundation problems appear, a thorough inspection and assessment by qualified professionals are crucial. This process helps pinpoint the exact cause and extent of the damage.

1. Initial Visual Inspection: A foundation specialist typically begins with a comprehensive visual inspection of the property, both inside and out. They look for all the common signs of foundation distress, such as cracks in walls, floors, and ceilings, sticking doors and windows, sloping floors, and any visible damage to the foundation itself. They also examine the exterior for proper drainage, gutter function, and landscaping that might affect the foundation.
2. Elevation Measurements: Using specialized tools like a laser level or a transit, the inspector takes precise elevation measurements across the foundation slab or the main floor. These measurements help determine if the foundation has settled unevenly and by how much. A detailed elevation map can clearly show the areas of greatest deflection or heave.
3. Soil Analysis (if necessary): In some cases, especially for severe or recurring problems, a geotechnical engineer might be brought in to perform a soil analysis. This involves taking soil samples from beneath and around the foundation to understand the soil’s composition, moisture content, bearing capacity, and potential for expansion or contraction. This information is vital for designing an effective repair solution.
4. Structural Analysis: A structural engineer may be consulted to assess the overall structural integrity of the building. They evaluate how the foundation problems are affecting the rest of the structure, including the framing, load-bearing walls, and roof. They use engineering principles to calculate loads and stresses, ensuring that any proposed repair will adequately support the building.
5. Moisture Testing: Inspectors often use moisture meters to check for hidden dampness in walls, floors, and crawl spaces. This helps identify sources of water intrusion and assess the extent of moisture-related damage, which is often a primary contributor to foundation issues.
6. Detailed Reporting and Recommendations: Following the assessment, the professional provides a detailed report outlining their findings. This report typically includes a description of the problems, their likely causes, and a recommended repair plan. The plan will specify the type of repair needed, the materials, the estimated cost, and the projected timeline. This comprehensive report empowers property owners to make informed decisions.

A thorough inspection is the cornerstone of effective foundation repair. It ensures that the chosen solution addresses the root cause of the problem, providing a lasting remedy rather than just a temporary fix.

Effective Foundation Repair Techniques

Once a foundation problem is identified and assessed, various repair techniques are available to restore stability and integrity. The chosen method depends on the type of foundation, the nature of the damage, and soil conditions.

1. Underpinning: This is one of the most common and effective methods for stabilizing a settling foundation. Underpinning involves extending the foundation deeper into the ground to reach more stable soil layers. This is typically done by installing new supports, or “piers,” beneath the existing foundation.
2. Steel Piers: These are heavy-duty steel pipes driven hydraulically deep into the ground until they reach bedrock or a stable load-bearing stratum. Brackets are then attached to the existing foundation, and the structure’s weight is transferred onto the steel piers. This method provides a very strong and reliable solution for significant settlement.
3. Concrete Piers (Pushed or Drilled): Concrete piers can be either pre-cast concrete cylinders pushed into the ground or concrete poured into drilled holes. They function similarly to steel piers by transferring the load to deeper, more stable soil. Drilled concrete piers are often reinforced with steel rebar for added strength.
4. Helical Piers: These are steel shafts with helical (spiral) plates welded to them, resembling large screws. They are screwed into the ground using hydraulic equipment until they reach a specified depth and torque, indicating stable soil. Helical piers are excellent for lighter loads, challenging access areas, or when minimal vibration is desired during installation. They are also reversible, making them useful for temporary support.
5. Slab Jacking (Mudjacking or Polyurethane Injection): This technique is used to lift settled concrete slabs, such as those found in slab-on-grade foundations, driveways, or patios.
6. Mudjacking: Small holes are drilled through the concrete slab, and a specialized grout mixture (often a slurry of cement, soil, and water) is pumped under the slab. The pressure of the injected material lifts the slab back to its original position. This is a cost-effective method for minor to moderate settlement.
7. Polyurethane Injection: Similar to mudjacking, but instead of grout, an expanding polyurethane foam is injected under the slab. The foam expands rapidly, lifting the concrete. This method is lighter, cures faster, and requires smaller injection holes. It is often preferred for its precision and minimal disruption.
8. Foundation Wall Repair (for bowing or cracked walls):
9. Carbon Fiber Straps: Strong, thin carbon fiber straps are applied to the interior of bowing or cracked basement walls. These straps bond tightly to the concrete, providing immense tensile strength that resists further inward movement. They are discreet and do not take up much space.
10. Steel I-Beams or Wall Anchors: For more severe bowing, steel I-beams can be installed vertically against the wall, extending from the floor to the ceiling, providing rigid support. Alternatively, wall anchors involve installing steel plates on the interior wall connected by rods through the soil to external anchors, effectively pulling the wall back into place over time.
11. Drainage System Installation: Often, foundation problems are exacerbated or caused by poor water management. Installing or improving drainage systems around the foundation is a critical repair. This can include:
12. French Drains: Trenches filled with gravel and a perforated pipe, designed to collect and divert groundwater away from the foundation.
13. Sump Pumps: Installed in basements or crawl spaces to remove accumulated water, preventing flooding and reducing hydrostatic pressure on foundation walls.
14. Grading and Gutter Extensions: Ensuring that the ground slopes away from the foundation (positive grading) and that downspouts extend far enough from the building to prevent water pooling.
15. Root Barriers: In cases where tree roots are causing foundation damage, root barriers can be installed to prevent roots from growing under the foundation, diverting them away without harming the tree.

Each repair technique is carefully selected after a thorough assessment to ensure it provides the most effective and lasting solution for the specific foundation problem.

Preventative Measures for Maintaining Foundation Health

Proactive steps are always better than reactive repairs. Taking preventative measures can significantly extend the life of your Structural Foundation and help avoid costly problems down the road.

1. Ensure Proper Drainage and Grading: This is arguably the most important preventative measure. The ground around your building should slope away from the foundation at a rate of at least six inches for every ten feet. This ensures that rainwater flows away from the structure rather than pooling against the foundation walls. If your yard slopes towards the house, consider re-grading to create a positive slope. Poor grading is a leading cause of foundation issues.
2. Maintain Gutters and Downspouts: Keep your gutters clean and free of debris. Clogged gutters can overflow, dumping large amounts of water directly next to the foundation. Ensure that downspouts extend at least five to ten feet away from the foundation, directing water far from the building. Consider installing downspout extensions or underground drainage pipes to carry water even further away.
3. Manage Soil Moisture Around the Foundation: Consistent soil moisture levels are crucial, especially in areas with expansive clay soils.
4. Avoid Overwatering: Do not overwater plants or landscaping directly adjacent to the foundation, as this can saturate the soil and lead to swelling.
5. Water During Dry Periods: In prolonged dry spells, the soil around the foundation can shrink, leading to settlement. Lightly watering the soil a few feet from the foundation during droughts can help maintain consistent moisture levels and prevent excessive shrinkage. Be careful not to overdo it.
6. Proper Landscaping and Tree Placement:
7. Plant Trees Away from the Foundation: Large trees with extensive root systems should be planted at a safe distance from the foundation, typically at least 15-20 feet away, depending on the tree species. Their roots can draw moisture from beneath the foundation or exert pressure on it.
8. Choose Appropriate Plants: Select plants for landscaping near the foundation that have shallow root systems and do not require excessive watering.
9. Monitor Plumbing Systems: Regularly check for leaks in pipes, both inside the building and those buried beneath the slab. Even small, slow leaks can saturate the soil over time, leading to foundation problems. Address any plumbing issues promptly.
10. Seal Cracks in the Foundation: Small, non-structural cracks in the foundation walls or slab should be sealed to prevent water intrusion. While these might not indicate structural issues, they can allow water to enter, leading to further damage or moisture problems in basements/crawl spaces. Consult a professional to determine if a crack is structural or non-structural before sealing.
11. Regular Inspections: Periodically inspect your foundation, both inside and out. Look for any new cracks, changes in existing cracks, sticking doors or windows, or signs of water intrusion. Catching problems early makes them easier and less expensive to fix. Consider a professional foundation inspection every few years, especially if you live in an older building or in an area prone to soil movement.

By diligently following these preventative measures, property owners can significantly reduce the risk of foundation problems and ensure the long-term stability and value of their building.

The Indispensable Role of Engineering in Foundation Design

The design of a Structural Foundation is far from a simple task; it is a complex engineering challenge that requires precise calculations and deep understanding of soil mechanics and structural loads. Engineers play an indispensable role in ensuring that a foundation is not just built, but correctly designed to support a specific building on a specific plot of land.

Geotechnical Engineers: Understanding the Ground Beneath

The process often begins with a geotechnical engineer. Their expertise lies in understanding the earth itself.

1. Soil Investigations: Geotechnical engineers conduct detailed soil investigations, which involve drilling boreholes and taking soil samples from various depths. They analyze these samples to determine the soil’s composition (e.g., clay, sand, silt), its density, moisture content, and its load-bearing capacity. They also identify potential issues like expansive clays, high water tables, or compressible organic layers.
2. Bearing Capacity Assessment: Based on their analysis, they determine the soil’s ultimate bearing capacity how much weight the soil can safely support without excessive settlement. This is a crucial number for the structural engineer.
3. Settlement Prediction: Geotechnical engineers also predict how much the soil might settle under the building’s weight over time. They provide recommendations for foundation depth and type to minimize differential settlement, which is when one part of the foundation settles more than another, leading to cracks and structural stress.
4. Groundwater Analysis: They assess groundwater levels and advise on potential water management strategies, such as drainage systems or waterproofing requirements, to protect the foundation from hydrostatic pressure and moisture intrusion.
5. Site-Specific Recommendations: Ultimately, the geotechnical engineer provides a comprehensive report with site-specific recommendations for the foundation type, depth, and any necessary ground improvement techniques, forming the basis for the structural design.

House leveling foundation types

There are several ways to level home, and your foundation type will determine an appropriate method to fix the issue. Another factor that determines which leveling method you need is the type of foundation problem. Only an expert can guide you about a suitable leveling method that works to your satisfaction

Pier and Beam Foundation: This type of house leveling features three primary steps. First, our Foundation Repair professionals build a concrete foundation around your home. Next, we install columns or concrete pads inside the beam perimeter. Generally, the concrete pads are mounted in 9–10-foot centers. Lastly, the leveling process is completed by placing wood beams on the edge and interior columns.

This foundation repair type is a bit expensive and is used for homes that need leveling high above the ground level – consider flood cases. Besides, block and base are popular alternatives to pier and beam solutions. The former works the same way as the latter, except it doesn’t involve engineers placing concrete foundation beams around your home perimeter.

Slab Foundation: A slab foundation typically features concrete. This involves experts placing a massive concrete sheet on the ground. Generally, slabs are around 5-6 inches thick, and their outer parts are approximately 25-35 inches deep. This allows for more weight around your home’s perimeter.

The deeper part of the slab is known as the beam, and the beams are placed in a crisscross pattern to harden the slab’s center. Professionals use tension cables or steel rods to install foundations.

Crawl Space Foundations: If you have a crawl space underneath your home, your property will be much easier to level up. Because crawl space offers enough space to work, the process becomes less time-consuming as well.

One of the simplest ways to level your home involves using a chemical mixture to balance the soil below your property. For instance, professionals might use rods or braces to fix sagging floors or cracked walls.

What factors determine the cost of house leveling in ?

Individuals often question the cost of house leveling. Because the project is not simple, people assume running into hefty home repairs.

Fortunately, we are among the top Foundation Repair companies in that keeps your budget in mind. Eventually, we draft a cost-effective plan that doesn’t compromise on quality either.

Generally speaking, the costs may vary depending on your foundation type, current damage severity, and the underlying issue causing the problem.

House lifting

There could be several reasons you might want to go for a house lift. Regardless of the cause that encourages you to take this decision, we’re at your service to offer quality work.

House lifting is not an overnight process. Instead, it requires extensive work and time to complete lifting a home.

Fortunately, Foundation Repair has experts well-versed in home lifting. Not only do they reduce the time involved in the procedure, but they also provide quality services that speak about their experience.

What is house lifting?

House lifting, as the name suggests, is the process of raising a home slightly above its current foundation. Experts elevate your home between 5-12 feet, depending on why you’re going for one.

However, note that this elevation height is flexible and may vary slightly from company to company – or the reason behind home lifting. Besides, the Foundation Repair experts use varying techniques to lift your home, from hydraulic screw jacks to the arrow lift structural lifting system.

For the most part, house raising involves lifting the house and bracing it, lifting it again, and repeating the same process. Yes, the original procedure is a bit more complex and challenging, but it’s the same. The standard method involves professionals elevating your home using hydraulic jacks and supporting it using temporary supports known as cribs. Then, they dig holes to install beams. As soon as a series of steel beams and jack are put into place, your home begins to elevate.

Reasons you might need a house lift on your property

Generally, people assume the only reason you may need a house lift is because of structural damages. However, numerous causes surround why you may want to go for one. Below, we’ve discussed some.

1. 1. Adding Height

Maybe you’re among the homeowners who wish to build a gym or an office in your basement, but you do not have a basement to begin with. Therefore, you may want to go for a house lift to add more space to accommodate your hobbies or work.

1. 1. Maintaining Your Home

A house elevation won’t only give space for additional rooms; it’ll also preserve your home’s foundation. Besides, it helps spot structural damages and fix them before they turn into a nightmare.

1. 1. And Finally, Structural Repairs

Perhaps you recently identified a foundation issue, and an expert recommended to you a house lift. Thankfully, they suggested right. House lifting exposes underlying structural problems and helps experts take suitable actions accordingly.

House Lifting for Foundational Repairs

Underpinning is one of the most common ways to strengthen your home foundation. Two standard methods involved in reinforcement include helical and push piers.

Push Piers: The professionals at Foundation Repair use the following procedure to lift your home using push piers.

• To begin with, our knowledgeable engineers locate the areas where push piers will be placed.
• Next, we excavate the areas to expose the footing
• Then, we attach steel brackets to the footing
• Using a hydraulic machine, we push steel piers into the ground and lift your property to its original position.

Helical Piers: Helical piers appear like massive corkscrews. Here’s how our team stabilizes your home using helical piers:

• It all starts from locating and marking the areas to place the push piers
• After that, we excavate the areas to expose the footing and install helical piers cautiously
• As soon as the pile reaches load-bearing soil, we cut off the piers at the precise height
• Then we use a hydraulic machine to lift and stabilize your home

Preparing Your Home for Lifting

House-raising is not a one-day process. Even when experts take steps to expedite it, the procedure takes time and can get daunting.

Therefore, you need to take steps to prepare your home for lifting. Not only does it make it easier for us to lift your home, but it also protects your valuable items.

1. Make sure you clean your crawl space before we arrive at your location. Working in a basement occupied with trash, storage items, or appliances makes the process even more time-consuming.
2. Do not forget to remove the plumbing and pipes below the floor joists.
3. You do not necessarily need to move the items inside your home. We lift your home slowly and smoothly, and it doesn’t weigh your valuable possessions. However, if you’re cautious about your belongings, consider packing them.