Homeowner Concerned About New Crack
Recently, a project highlighted the need for well-engineered foundation repairs. This homeowner grew concerned when a new interior crack appeared at the right rear corner of the kitchen. Previously, a well-known foundation repair company had installed 3-inch steel channels to address a horizontal crack and a bulging basement wall. This time, the homeowner wisely consulted an engineer instead of relying on another foundation company.
Engineer’s Assessment
Mike Montgomery of Buyers Protection Group inspected the situation. He found that the existing steel channels were significantly undersized for the issue. He recommended injecting epoxy into the horizontal crack and monitoring for further movement. However, the new crack in the kitchen was caused by differential seasonal movement. This is a common issue where soil moisture fluctuations lead to minor shifts in the foundation.
Concrete Piers as a Solution
Mike recommended installing concrete piers to address the foundation concerns. Concrete piers are particularly effective in areas with clay-rich soil. Clay tends to expand and contract with changing moisture levels, which can destabilize the foundation. Concrete piers bypass this unstable soil by reaching deep into the ground, where more solid earth or bedrock provides a stable base for the foundation.
Why Concrete Piers Work
Concrete piers remove the problematic soil, like clay, and replace it with strong, stable concrete. This process helps prevent future movement and provides long-term support. Unlike surface-level repairs, concrete piers address the root cause of the problem by stabilizing the foundation at a deeper level. This makes them ideal for homes in areas with shifting soil.
Project Challenges
This project faced complications due to the presence of drainage pipes. The team needed to build a channel for a corrugated pipe before completing the final concrete pour. This step ensured the drainage system remained intact while the repairs were underway.
A Long-Term Solution
Despite the challenges, the homeowner now has a solid repair plan in place. Concrete piers will provide lasting stability, and the tailored solution addresses the home’s specific soil and structural conditions. This case underscores the importance of consulting with an experienced engineer to ensure the best approach and avoid unnecessary repairs.
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