Before finding the correct foundation repair method, it’s essential to know your property foundation’s exact problems, understand the soil underneath, and consider what your building needs structurally. Let’s discuss a few different methods and their benefits to help you determine which one might best fit your situation.
- Slabjacking:
Slabjacking, or mudjacking, is particularly effective for rectifying minor sinking or settling slab foundations. It involves injecting a cement or polyurethane foam under the slab to elevate it back to its original position. This technique is favoured for its minimal invasiveness, cost-effectiveness, and suitability for minor to moderate adjustments.
Advantages:
- Minimally disruptive to the property.
- More cost-efficient compared to more extensive underpinning methods.
- Rapid execution with immediate results.
- Piering:
Piering, or piling, entails driving steel or concrete piers into the ground beneath the foundation to stabilize and elevate the structure. There are two primary types: push piers, which are driven vertically, and helical piers, which are screwed into the ground and effective in managing both tension and compression.
Advantages:
- Offers a permanent solution to foundation settlement.
- Applicable for both lightweight and heavyweight structures.
- Versatile across various soil types.
- Underpinning:
Underpinning fortifies foundations by deepening or broadening them to more stable soil layers. Traditional methods, such as mass concrete underpinning, or more contemporary techniques, such as beam and base underpinning, can be used.
Advantages:
- Extends the foundation to access more stable soil strata.
- Enhances the bearing capacity of the existing foundation.
- It is ideal for addressing severe structural challenges.
- Grouting:
Grouting involves the injection of a grout mixture into the ground to fill voids and solidify the soil. This method is beneficial for resolving issues directly related to the soil properties under the foundation.
Advantages:
- Boosts the soil’s capacity.
- Allows targeting of soil problems beneath the foundation.
- Effectively addresses soil instability and voids.
- Drainage Correction:
Inadequate drainage around buildings aggravates or causes many foundation issues. Corrective measures may include installing proper drainage systems, regrading the landscape, or setting up a sump pump.
Advantages:
- Tackles the root cause of numerous foundation problems, such as hydrostatic pressure and soil expansion/contraction.
- Aids in preventing future foundation issues.
- Generally less invasive than structural repairs.
Choosing the Best Method:
The ideal foundation repair method will depend on the specific diagnosis provided by a foundation specialist. This decision’s critical factors include the foundation type, damage severity, soil conditions, and financial considerations. Often, a combination of methods is recommended to address the symptoms and causes of entire issues in the foundation. Having a professional who can deeply understand and evaluate your building’s unique needs and recommend the best repair method is vital for maintaining its long-term stability and safety. This strategic approach does more than solve existing issues—it also helps prevent potential problems down the line, safeguarding your foundation’s durability and structural integrity.
