Foundation Repair Greensboro NC is an extensive undertaking. It involves repairing cracks and raising the house, often with hydraulic jacks. It can also involve replacing exterior and interior concrete.
The goal is to restore the home to its original elevation, so it can function as intended. The process can take a few days to a couple of weeks.
Foundation pilings are long steel or concrete columns that provide a strong base for a structure in areas with unstable soil. They transfer a building’s weight from the loose topsoil to the deeper, more stable soil or rock underneath. Foundation piles are commonly used in construction projects, including skyscrapers, bridges, and docks. They are also used to repair existing foundations and keep structures safe from damage caused by heavy loads or movement of the earth below them.
The most common type of piling is made of precast concrete, which is a highly controlled production process that ensures consistency and quality. This method of pile construction reduces the likelihood that defects will occur during installation, which can cause problems for a project. It is also more cost effective than on-site fabrication. Precast concrete piles are also designed and manufactured to be a specific size, which eliminates the need for cutting on site and allows for quicker installation.
A new, specialised method of pile repair is called “pile jacketing.” This method involves adding an external layer of steel or fibreglass to a damaged pile. This adds an extra layer of support to the pile, extending its lifespan. The jacketing process can be performed on both precast concrete and in-ground steel piles.
Concrete piers are a popular choice for home foundation repair, and can be installed in just one day! They are hydraulically driven into the soil and attached to a home’s footings using a remedial bracket. Concrete piers can also be used to support commercial or industrial buildings, and are often used in conjunction with steel piles for additional support.
However, despite their popularity and effectiveness, concrete piers are not as long-lasting as other pile repair methods, especially Push Piers and Helical Piers. This is because concrete piers rely on the weight of the house and the moisture content of the soil to keep them functioning.
If low cost or a quick turnaround are the most important considerations for your project, then pressed pile piers may be the right solution for you. But if you’re planning on investing a significant amount of money into your foundation repairs, you might want something that will last longer than pressed piles can offer.
Concrete Piers
Concrete piers are cylindrical columns made of reinforced concrete, typically with a steel cap, that transfer the weight of the building above to a load-bearing stratum deep within the earth. They are widely used in new construction projects and in repairing older structures that have settled due to problems with the foundation’s soil condition.
Whether you’re dealing with a minor sinking issue or something more severe, it’s best to have a professional inspect the damage and determine which pier type is right for your situation. Choosing the right one will ensure long-term stability, durability, and resilience against future settlement.
Soil conditions, the size and age of the structure, and the intended use all play a role in which type of pier is best. The professionals at HD Foundations are familiar with local soil conditions and conduct thorough evaluations to ensure the correct pier for your project.
There are two main types of concrete piers: helical and pressure-injected. The former is shaped like a corkscrew with a steel shaft and is turned into the soil to the desired depth and torque specified by a geotechnical engineer. Synchronized hydraulic jacks then raise the structure. This method is ideal for buildings on shallow soils and other locations with unstable ground.
The latter is a more straightforward solution for light to medium-weight structures experiencing foundation problems. It starts by digging small holes, either manually or with a smaller variation of an auger drill (for sheds and small shops). A hydraulic press is then used to push concrete pipes vertically into the ground until they’re lodged in a more stable sub-stratum. This is a cost-effective solution that doesn’t require disrupting your daily routine and can be performed while your building is still in use.
Regardless of which type of pier is chosen, they all serve the same important functions:
Piers distribute the weight of the structure evenly and counteract soil pressure. They also minimize differential settlement, which can cause cracks and tilting and lead to more serious structural issues. When the piers are installed before construction, they’re able to stabilize the foundation and prevent further movement. However, over time, they may need to be repaired or replaced. This is usually due to moisture in the soil, which causes the piers to corrode or shift. The piers can also be affected by wood-eating pests and other factors that can weaken the wood or concrete.
Steel Piers
Steel piers are an impressive advancement in foundation repair that offer greater stability and longevity for structures. They are also designed for a wide range of soil conditions and structural challenges, making them a good choice for most repair scenarios. RS Foundations uses them in place of concrete piers whenever possible, as they are more cost-effective and better for long-term support.
The installation process is typically much quicker than with concrete piers, as the work crew does not need to wait for a concrete mixture to be poured into the holes. Once the hole is dug, the crew installs temporary brackets and then begins a similar drilling method that involves either using an auger drill or a smaller variation of a hydraulic press to drive steel pipe segments vertically into the ground. The work crew continues this process until the piers reach bedrock or a firmer sub-strata.
Once the piers have been installed, a hydraulic lift jack is used to raise or stabilize the structure. This is an important step, as the team ensures that the interior floor levels rise back to their natural position and that the load is properly transferred to the new piers. Once the structure is in its proper position, the hydraulic jacks are removed and the site is backfilled.
When choosing a contractor to install your steel piers, it is important to choose one who has extensive experience in this type of work. A reputable company will be familiar with local soil conditions and perform thorough inspections of the jobsite to identify the best pier locations. They will also discuss your options and the benefits of each, so that you can decide what solution will best suit your property’s needs.
While concrete piers remain an effective option for many situations, steel piers are becoming the standard in the industry. They are more expensive than concrete piers, but they provide superior strength and durability for long-term stability. Additionally, steel piers are less susceptible to soil movement, as they extend much deeper into the earth than concrete or other types of piers.
Hiring a Professional
Foundation repair is a costly undertaking, but it’s essential for the safety and long-term value of your home. Hiring a professional is the best way to ensure that your repairs are done correctly and will be durable. It’s also a good idea to hire a company that offers warranties on their work, as this can help you avoid further problems down the road.
Foundation repairs are often complex, involving significant demolition and construction. They require specialized equipment and knowledge that many homeowners don’t have. It’s also important to research local building codes and regulations before starting work on a foundation repair project. This will prevent legal issues and make sure that the work is inspected and meets safety standards. Regardless of whether you’re planning to do the work yourself or hiring professionals, be sure to get a written estimate before starting any projects. This will give you a clear understanding of the costs involved, including any materials or labor fees.
When choosing a foundation repair contractor, it’s important to find one with experience and a solid reputation. Ask for referrals from previous customers and engineers, and do your homework before making a decision. Find a company that is licensed, bonded, and insured, and who has a history of working with structural engineers. Generally, experienced contractors provide high-quality repairs and offer warranties to back their work.
Surface-level cracks can be a sign of deeper structural issues, so it’s important to hire a professional who understands the causes of foundation damage and how to fix them properly. Professionals also have access to better materials and tools than the average homeowner, which can lead to longer-lasting repairs.
Foundation repair is often a disruptive process, and it’s a good idea to arrange for temporary accommodations for your family until the repairs are complete. The process is invasive and can be noisy, so you may want to consider staying with relatives or renting a hotel while the work is underway. Moreover, poorly executed DIY repairs can actually reduce your home’s value, as potential buyers will be wary of any unresolved foundation issues.
