Doherty Sale House

3 Types of Concrete Foundation Repair Methods (Quick Reference Guide)

Never put off needed concrete foundation repair! Ignoring cracks, chips, spalling, and other damage only allows it to spread. Consequently, your eventual fixes end up being more expensive overall.

Before you call a contractor, you might note some common concrete foundation repair methods. This will help you know what to expect from your repair company. You might also better understand why foundation repair is so vital for your property! 

1. Underpinning

Underpinning refers to installing steel or concrete pins or columns along damaged foundation sections. Inserted deep into the ground, these pins attach to the foundation with brackets. Pins or piers then keep that foundation intact and stable over the years.

2. Slab jacking

Also called mud jacking, slab jacking starts with excavation around areas of a damaged foundation. A contractor then runs hoses through that excavation. Next, he or she deposits slurries or grouts through those hoses underneath the foundation.

In some cases, hydraulic equipment might lift the foundation in place. However, those slurries also “float” a foundation back into position. The materials then dry, supporting the foundation and keeping a structure level.

3. Carbon fiber straps

A weak concrete foundation or basement walls might start to bow inward. To address this issue, a contractor might attach specialty carbon fiber straps. These straps help push back that bowing area and provide added strength to the foundation.

Additional concrete foundation repair methods

In addition to these 3 popular concrete foundation repair methods, a contractor might use specialty carbon fiber staples. Smaller than straps, these staples attach across foundation cracks. Similar to patching a torn fabric, these staples keep that crack from spreading and provide added strength to the concrete.

Also, a contractor might decide on concrete leak repair. This process starts with excavation, and a contractor then applies a waterproof coating to exterior foundation walls. He or she will then repair or replace weeping tiles, or pipes running alongside a foundation. These pipes collect moisture and direct it away from a foundation, preventing water damage.

Polyurethane foam is also an excellent choice for concrete foundation patching! Injected deep into foundation cracks, these foams expand and fill in all those nooks and crannies in concrete. The foam then dries and hardens, blocking moisture and keeping cracks from spreading. 

Remember that your repair contractor might also suggest other concrete foundation repair methods, depending on your property’s foundation design and damage extent. Consequently, you can rest assured that your property is safe and stable from the ground up!

 

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