What to do if your home needs foundation work
Posted on: 22 March 2018
Your foundations may be out of sight but that doesn't mean you can afford to ignore them. If you need foundation work done on your property, you will need to talk to a qualified expert who will be able to explain exactly what is involved. If you have a problem with your foundation, then talking through your options with a qualified engineer is the best way to protect your home and ensure you get the foundation fixed before the situation deteriorates and further damage is caused.
How are foundation problems caused?
Foundation problems are often the result of mistakes made when a building was first erected. Perhaps your home was built on fill soils that were not properly compacted, or maybe there has been improper maintenance work undertaken around your foundations. Older homes in particular can be susceptible to foundation problems as the building moves over time. Unless dealt with, these foundation problems will significantly affect the value of your property and could even make it unsellable.
How to spot potential foundation problems
Every building foundation will settle over time, and this does not normally present a serious risk to your home. It is only when the building settles unevenly that you may need to have foundation work undertaken.
Signs that you may need foundation work include:
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Visible cracks in the foundation
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Cracked or uneven floors or walls
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Gaps appearing between the floor, ceiling or wall
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Windows or doors that refuse to close properly
If your home starts to exhibit any of these signs, then you probably need foundation work and should consult an expert without delay.
Who should you call for foundation work?
If you have a problem with your foundation, then you will need to find a foundation repair contractor. The contractor will assess the situation and decide how to proceed. By examining your failing foundation they will be able to see whether underpinning is required and which method would be best.
How will your foundation be repaired?
If the foundation contractor decides that your sunken concrete foundation needs to be lifted, there are two popular techniques that could be used: slabjacking and piering. Piering places supports under the foundation to raise it up whereas slabjacking floats the foundation to its original location using a grout mixture. Your chosen contractor will be able to assess which of these methods will be most suitable, or whether alternative foundation work will be needed.
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