The foundation repair is undertaken in structures displaying instability and possible collapse. It commonly occurs because of the pressure exerted by the ground or an augmentation in the structural load. In some situations where the moisture content beneath the soil elevates, the soil might contract. Hence, as a result, signs such as heaving, settling of the foundation, horizontal cracks in basement walls, slab fractures, wall settling, and other conditions manifest. Therefore, this blog is curated by Sathvik, one of the top civil engineering companies in Chennai, exploring the essential things you need to know about foundation repair.
Foundation Damage Causes:
Water often leads to foundation damage. The movement in the structure’s foundation initiates when soil elements expand or contract due to moisture. Damage can also occur due to insufficient drainage near the foundation. Foundation damage can result from plumbing leaks beneath the structure or destruction caused by natural disasters like earthquakes, floods, or droughts. The likelihood of foundation problems increases when the soil contains a high clay content.
Foundation Repair Methods:
Sealants & Masonry Patches:
Repairing foundation cracks and applying a waterproof masonry or sealant can sometimes rectify the issue. Detecting and promptly addressing cracks in your foundation is crucial since it supports your entire house. Various sealants like hydraulic cement, epoxy, silicone, polyurethane, and vinyl concrete are commonly used for small cracks, depending on the severity of the crack. Identifying and resolving the problem immediately is advisable to prevent water penetration and additional harm.
Slab Jacking:
Slab jacking raises concrete slabs that have sunk or become uneven. This procedure is called mud jacking, concrete lifting, and slab leveling. This technology can easily accomplish tasks such as lifting stairs, porches, decks, garage floors, driveways, and pathways. When the ground beneath a slab foundation undergoes collapses or changes, the voids are created underneath, making the slab tilt or sink. The slab jacking technique involves drilling 2″ holes through the concrete foundation into the recessed areas, commonly used by the best house construction companies in Chennai to elevate concrete foundations.
Piling Or Piering:
As the name suggests, the foundation is repositioned with a steel or concrete pier. Nonetheless, there is a difference between the piercing methods and piling for home foundation rehabilitation.
Piering involves excavating soil layers while piling involves inserting piles into the ground. Piling techniques for home foundation repairs encompass steel-pressed piling, bell-bottom piers, and concrete. These methods are durable foundation solutions that restore your home’s foundation to its initial level more efficiently than slab jacking.
Soil Modification Or Stabilization:
Modifying or stabilizing soil refers to increasing the soil content in the foundation to make it rigid and firm. It involves the utilization of certain substances to address gaps in the soil layers. This technique is similar to slab jacking, but the challenge is the requirement for expertise and a proficient guide. Additionally, the expenses for labor and maintenance are deemed excessively high.
Numerous choices exist for repairing foundations. Specific approaches supply momentary alleviation, whereas others present a lengthier or potentially enduring solution. In addition, various elements influence the available solutions for repairing foundations. Hence, seek advice from professionals like Sathvik, one of the best building contractors in Chennai to choose the right one for your property and financial plan.
