Have you found a large crack in your concrete slab? Or have you noticed the concrete lifting in one corner?
Whether you have a concrete slab foundation, or a pier and beam foundation with a crawl space, signs of foundation failure can be terrifying.
Because this isn’t just about looks; it’s an issue of safety and security for your home.
The thought that your foundation might be failing can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be.
In fact, understanding foundation stabilization can help you protect your property and ensure its longevity for years to come.
In this article, we will take a look at foundation stabilization. But before that, watch this video to understand just how important a foundation is to your home:
Foundation Stabilization Techniques
When your foundation is no longer supporting your home correctly, you will need to stabilize it. This used to require foundation replacement, but that is no longer the case.
There are now many repair methods available depending on the underlying problem.
Your property’s unique characteristics and needs dictate which approach will work best to level your house.
Foundation stabilization involves methods like underpinning, soil grouting, or installing helical piers. It’s done by professionals who can assess the situation accurately and apply appropriate solutions:
- Concrete repair: Your foundation might only need a simple fix.
- Foundation repair products: From foundation push piers and foundation helical piers, to wall anchors and steel piers.
- Soil stabilization: The underlying soil shifting unevenly is the most common cause of instability. This can cause structural damage as the foundation settles unevenly. There are a number of methods to resolve this. One of these is a form of “mudjacking,” which involves installing cementitious materials to help stabilize the structure.
- Installing specialized piers by either pushing into the ground using a hydraulic ram, or turning like a giant screw with a hydraulic torque motor.
The goal here isn’t just holding up your house, it’s preventing future movement and ensuring long-term stability whether your home is on a slab or uses pier and beam.
Understand the Causes of Foundation Instability
Foundation settlement is normal, as all buildings settle over time. But some of this foundation settling can cause a foundation problem. These problems directly affect your home’s structural integrity.
See this article for more on house settling versus foundation problems.
There are many reasons why your foundation might become unstable:
Soil Erosion: This is a common cause of foundation problems. Excessive wet or dry soil conditions can cause building foundation problems.
Poor Drainage: Water damage due to poor drainage often leads to unstable ground beneath your existing foundation, causing differential settlement and unlevel areas in your property. As the ground shifts, so does the foundation.
This soil problem is made much worse by the expansive clay soil found in the Houston area. Expansive clay is one of the worst types of soil to build on, though there are ways to minimize these problems.
Poor Construction: A foundation issue can arise when the original construction was not done well. It might not appear right away, but over time foundation cracks and other issues will appear indicating a more serious problem.
Trees and Landscaping: Tree roots can also cause damage to your foundation, as well as planting the wrong landscaping too close to your house.
Early Signs Of Foundation Stabilization Issues
You should become familiar with the early signs of foundation damage. The sooner you spot signs of uneven foundation settlement, the sooner you can get that critical foundation repair.
Here’s what you should look for:
- Horizontal cracks and stair-step cracks along the foundation wall.
- Windows and doors that begin to stick.
- Gaps around garage doors
- Nail pops along the drywall.
If you notice any of these, it’s time to call in a foundation repair professional in Houston or San Antonio. Give us a call to schedule an appointment. 713-714-0015
Invest in Professional Foundation Stabilization Services
“Why should I hire a foundation repair professional?”
The answer is simple.
Foundation stabilization isn’t just about fixing visible cracks or unlevel areas; it’s an intricate process that requires expert knowledge in structural issues.
Also, foundation repairs require skills and expertise. Read here if you’re planning for a DIY foundation repair.
Finding the exact cause can be difficult. From improper construction techniques to a slab leak, which can be found using a hydrostatic test.
A foundation repair company, like A-Best Foundation Repair, has the experience to handle different types of foundation problems effectively.
We use proven methods such as concrete piers and steel piers to ensure your home’s foundation is adequately stabilized on uneven ground or unstable soil conditions caused by differential settlement.
Maintain A Stable Foundation with Regular Inspections
Foundation stability is not a one-time deal.
Your home’s foundation needs consistent care to prevent movement and avoid differential settlement. Regular inspections by a foundation repair expert are an important tool in maintaining your home’s structural integrity.
The Role of Regular Inspections
An inspection can reveal early signs of foundation problems, such as cracked walls or an unlevel area, which might otherwise go unnoticed until they cause significant damage. Inspections can also catch problems with expansive soils before they damage the foundation.
Hiring Professionals for Inspection
A professional from a reputable foundation repair company, like A-Best Foundation Repair, has the expertise to identify these issues accurately and recommend effective solutions promptly.
Final Thoughts About Foundation Stabilization
We’ve unearthed the common causes of instability – soil erosion, poor drainage, and water damage.
An uncovered various methods to stabilize a foundation. Each one is tailored to the unique needs and characteristics of properties like yours.
Different methods include mechanical compaction, adding cementitious materials like lime or cement, chemical additives such as polymers, or using geosynthetics to reinforce soil stability.
The value of professional services in this field is critical. Without the experience and expertise offered by professionals, you can’t resolve these issues, and risk living in an unsafe home.
Consider reaching out to A-Best Foundation Repair today! We have experience helping residential and commercial foundation repair customers across the entire Houston area.
Let us help ensure that your property stands strong for years to come through our expert foundation stabilization.
Give us a call to schedule a FREE inspection. 713-714-0015
FAQs in Relation to What is Foundation Stabilization?
What is the best way to stabilize a foundation?
The ideal method for foundation stabilization often depends on your property’s unique characteristics.
Different methods, such as concrete piers or steel piers, are effective in different situations.
What is stabilization of foundation soil?
This refers to techniques used to prevent movement and differential settlement due to unstable ground or uneven areas beneath your home’s existing foundation.
How do you stabilize a foundation wall?
This is a process pioneered by experienced structural engineers who specialize in dealing with these kinds of issues. It starts with a professional inspection to identify any unlevel areas that could lead to cracked walls if not addressed promptly.
