Apex Plano Foundation Repair is the process of returning your home to its original elevation. This repairs cracks, re-aligns doors and trim, and restores functionality to the home.
Some repair methods involve digging and drilling, pouring concrete piers (also known as bell-bottom piers), or using hydraulic pressure to install pre-formed piers (known as pressed piles). Repairing your foundation through these techniques can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks.
If you notice cracks in your foundation, it’s essential to hire a contractor as soon as possible. Foundation cracks are often signs of serious problems that can affect the integrity and value of your home. Cracks can be caused by soil movement, poor drainage, frost heave, hydrostatic pressure, construction flaws and more. Identifying and repairing these problems early can protect your investment and help you save money.
Cracks that run vertically and horizontally in a foundation wall are usually a sign of structural damage. Horizontal cracks are especially dangerous because they can cause the entire foundation to shift and even collapse. These types of cracks are most likely caused by soil expansion and movement, especially if the surrounding soil is clay-rich. As the clay soil swells and contracts with moisture changes, it can put thousands of pounds of pressure on your foundation walls, forcing them to crack. This is also a common problem with homes built on sloping ground.
Most foundation cracks occur at the mortar joints where concrete blocks or bricks are joined together. Hairline cracks that are isolated to one block in a foundation wall are typically not structural and are not a cause for concern. However, these cracks should be monitored over time to make sure they do not get larger.
Another type of crack that can indicate serious issues is a diagonal, stair-step crack with mortar joints. These types of cracks are caused by uneven pressure beneath your foundation, requiring expert evaluation and repair.
In addition to assessing the severity of your foundation cracks, it’s important to choose the right foundation crack repair method. Generally, epoxy injection is the best method for repairing most types of foundation cracks. This method involves drilling a series of holes along the crack and filling them with an epoxy resin. The epoxy repairs the crack, preventing water from seeping through and potentially damaging your foundation.
Other methods for repairing foundation cracks include carbon fiber straps and wall plate anchors. Carbon fiber straps are strong and can be installed on either poured concrete or concrete block foundation walls. These straps are designed to stop bowing and help spread the weight of a home evenly on all sides of the foundation. Wall plate anchors are similar to carbon fiber straps but are used on foundation walls that are buckling due to hydrostatic pressure. These anchors are placed on both sides of the buckling foundation wall and filled with epoxy to stabilize the wall and reduce stress on the foundation.
Structural Issues
Structural issues are more serious than wall cracks and often indicate that the foundation itself is shifting or tilting. These problems can be extremely costly and require major structural repair. The good news is that these problems can usually be avoided with proactive home maintenance and by recognizing the early signs of foundational movement.
The main signs of structural issues in a foundation include noticeable gaps between the walls and ceiling, doors or windows that won’t close correctly, sagging floors, and a noticeable shift in the foundation. A professional inspection can determine the source of these problems, which are commonly due to soil movement. Typical causes of soil movement are changes in moisture levels, expansive clay soils, poor site preparation during construction, plumbing leaks that cause water intrusion, and tree roots that interfere with the foundation.
Although some amount of settlement is expected in most new homes, it should be within certain limits. If you notice excessive settling, there are specific procedures that must be used to stabilize the foundation.
A qualified technician can provide a thorough visual evaluation of your foundation to detect any structural problems. They can also perform advanced tools to determine the underlying cause of these issues. For example, they can use laser leveling to measure the level of your foundation’s stability and recommend a course of action. Some of the most popular solutions for structural issues in a foundation include steel piers, hydraulic jacks, and concrete repairs.
A properly repaired foundation will not only improve your home’s safety and value, but it will also enhance its energy efficiency and overall comfort. If you suspect that you have a problem with your foundation, it’s important to contact a licensed and experienced contractor immediately. They should be able to clearly explain the problems with your foundation, as well as their recommended solution. The right company will be able to help you maintain your home’s value and safety while saving you thousands in the long run.
Uneven Floors
Uneven floors can be a nuisance, but they are also often the first sign of a deeper structural issue. Depending on the severity of the issue, uneven floors can lead to safety hazards, lower property value, and expensive repairs down the road if they are not addressed. Fortunately, uneven floors are one of the easiest foundation issues to repair, so addressing them early can save you time and money in the long run.
The most common reason for uneven floors is that the foundation has shifted over time, causing the floor to sink in certain areas of your home. This can be caused by a number of issues, including moisture issues, aging materials in the floor joists, and soil conditions, which can expand or shrink as they absorb water.
A small amount of sagging in the center of a room is not a cause for concern, but if you notice that one end of your house is higher than the other or that your furniture is tilted to one side of the room, it may be time for foundation repairs. A professional will be able to determine the exact cause of your uneven floors and recommend the appropriate solution.
If the cause is that your foundation has shifted over time, the best way to fix it is with a foundation piering solution. This involves driving steel piers deep into the soil beneath your house until they reach stable bedrock or load-bearing strata. The piers will then lift the foundation and level the floors, restoring them to their original position.
Uneven floors aren’t just an inconvenience; they can be a serious health and safety hazard for your family, especially if you have elderly or disabled members of your household. Taking the time to address this issue now can help you avoid tripping hazards and prevent your floors from becoming unsafe for everyone in your home. Aside from that, addressing uneven floors now can also help preserve your home’s value and protect it from further damage as you plan for future sales. If you are noticing that your floors are uneven, contact us today to schedule an inspection and find the right solution for you.
Water Damage
Water damage is another serious concern that often goes unnoticed until it becomes a major problem. Foundation water damage can occur due to excessive moisture or groundwater infiltration, and it can affect the entire structure of the home. The concrete of your foundation is porous, and when excess water seeps into it, it can weaken the concrete and eventually cause cracking. This cycle is exacerbated in areas that experience heavy rainfall or poorly functioning drainage systems.
Thankfully, there are several ways to detect water damage in your foundation. One of the most common signs is a musty smell. This odor is caused by mold and mildew, which thrive in damp environments. If you notice this odor in your crawl space or basement, it may indicate that there is a significant amount of water damage to your foundation.
Another indicator of water damage is discoloration on your foundation walls. This symptom is caused by efflorescence, which is the result of water seeping through your foundation and leaving behind mineral deposits. This sludge-like deposit can be identified by its white appearance and powdery texture. If you notice this on your foundation walls, it’s important to have a professional inspect your foundation.
A less obvious but more serious consequence of foundation water damage is subsurface erosion. When excess water seeps into the soil around your foundation, it can erode the surface of the soil, creating voids and empty spaces. This process can also damage the soil beneath your foundation, causing it to shift or bow and lean, which can lead to serious structural issues for your home.
The best way to prevent foundation water damage is through routine maintenance and proper waterproofing. A qualified waterproofing company can help you seal any existing cracks in your foundation and install a French drain if necessary. In addition, it’s important to regularly clean your gutters and downspouts and ensure that they are directing water away from your house. It’s also a good idea to check your plumbing for leaks regularly and have them repaired as soon as possible to minimize moisture infiltration.
