SourceThe foundation of your house can be said to be the most important part of it. This is true even though you probably never see it or give it much thought. Foundations need to be level to ensure the house stands straight and lasts for years. However, foundations can experience issues.
When a house is first built the ground under the house can settle, creating disturbances in the foundation. This is settling and usually nothing to worry about. However, if the ground under the foundations settles further then the foundations may become damaged and need to be repaired to retain the structural integrity of your property.
Finding the fault
You can’t repair the foundations unless you have identified where the fault is and how severe it is. One of the most effective ways of doing this is by using dye penetrant testing.
In effect, a dye is poured across the top of the surface and allowed to spread. Once the surface or section of the foundation is covered, a special chalk-like substance is used to draw the dye back out of the foundation. This removes all the dye except for any sat in minute pits and cracks. Because the dye is coloured these then become visible.
At this stage, it will be necessary to assess the depth of the damage and then decide on the best way to repair it. There are several options worth considering.
Adding Piers
If the foundation needs repairing because it is sinking then the best way to fix the problem is to add piers that will support the foundation and the weight of the building above it.
There are two options when considering piers, steel or concrete. Steel is more durable and generally stronger. But, it is also considerably more expensive and concrete is an acceptable option for most houses.
It requires holes to be bored deep into the soil beneath your home, these are then filled with the steel beam or concrete and the existing foundations are fastened to them, preventing them from moving any further
It is also possible to use helical piers which are steel but they have a helix shape to provide additional strength for the piers.
Polyurethane Foam
Surprisingly, high-density polyurethane foam can be an effective way to prevent foundations from shifting further. This is basically the same as the expanding foam you can use at home but at a higher density. It’s also incredibly easy to apply and can last for years.
It is also a good option when repairs are needed urgently as it will stop further sinking and allow engineers to identify the issue
Replacing Concrete
If your home is sat on a huge slab of concrete then the best way to repair it can be by using a jackhammer to break up the existing concrete in the affected area. However, you can’t break up all the concrete or the foundations will collapse. Holes are made that can be used to inject grout and foam under the existing foundations, giving it additional strength. The holes are then filled with new concrete, ensuring the foundations stay strong for years to come.
