Are you dealing with an unstable foundation? If so, don’t stress out – this is a common worry that many homeowners face at some point. You may know that the underlying structure critically supports an entire building. So, if there are any flaws within the foundation, they must be addressed immediately to prevent further deterioration. However, tackling foundation issues can feel challenging, with questions about whether to attempt repairs independently or enlist specialist assistance.
In this article, we will share critical learnings around evaluating foundation stability and the different repair options available, from straightforward DIY projects to signs that professional help may be necessary.
Signs of an Unstable Foundation
Once you identify the problem, you should determine the cause next. Some common signs of an unstable foundation include cracks in basement walls or floors, sagging floors, or doors/windows that no longer close properly. Also, don’t forget to look out for bowing basement walls where one side bulges inward more than the other, as they, too, are indicators. Each issue needs evaluation to determine the cause and the best repair approach.
Foundation Repair Techniques
As a worried homeowner confronting the unsettling issue of an unstable foundation, you begin to make sense of the repair options available. Some are as follows:
Lifting Lightly with Slabjacking
For more minor settling, slab jacking is a convenient alternative. Similar to inflating a flattened tire, it pumps floating concrete mixtures below bowed slab areas to gently lift and level the surface.
Halting Hindering Roots
Where troublesome roots contribute to the problem, breaking their intrusive ways through subterranean barriers is an effective prevention.
Sealing Small Seams
Small cracks don’t always signal catastrophic failure; sealing such fissures with brisk epoxies can sometimes be enough to maintain structural cohesion.
DIY Foundation Repair Options
Repairing Minor Cracks
For minor foundation cracks less than 1/4 inch wide, you can try applying a concrete crack filler sealed with latex caulk. Make sure to clean out any loose material in the crack first. Monitor the repair afterward for any reopening which would mean the crack is structural and requires deeper repair.
Patching Larger Cracks
Larger non-structural cracks are often a glaring cause of an unstable foundation. They can be repaired by cutting them out, adding reinforcement rebar, and filling them with concrete. Clean and dampen the area before patching. And always use a concrete mixture that is stronger than the existing foundation.
Addressing Bowed Walls
Bowing basement walls may need drainage improvement and lateral bracing installed to support the structure from the outside. We suggest you contact a foundation contractor to evaluate if bracing or soil redistribution is necessary.
Installing Perimeter Drainage
Areas with water accumulation problems near the foundation may require installing a perimeter drain system. Dig a trench, fill it with gravel, and cover it with landscape fabric before backfilling. This channels water away from the foundation. Adding a sump pump pit and pump can further dewater the area and help it to stay dry.
Foundation Stabilization Methods
Foundation Underpinning
Another option for unstable foundations is installing foundation underpinning. It involves drilling into the soil beneath the footing to install a replacement or supplemental below-grade concrete stem wall for added support.
Soil Redistribution
Foundation cracks associated with settling soil conditions may need soil redistribution. This usually involves excavation and re-compaction. Shoring may be installed to safely remove and reinstall bearing walls before infilling.
When to Seek Professional Help
Structural Damages
There are some issues that are beyond the scope of typical DIY repairs and demand professional stabilization methods.
Advanced Techniques
Professionals have advanced equipment and materials like carbon fibre strapping, helical piers, and polyurethane foam injection to lift, support, and seal unstable foundations.
Conclusion
Inspect your foundation regularly for deterioration signs and promptly address minor issues to prevent further damage. However, when structural cracks, bowing, or settling are noticed, it’s best to consult with professional foundation repair experts like Alberta Pargin. Professional repairs are really the only way to address all the factors of an unstable foundation at play.
Alberta Pargin provides reliable foundation stabilization services using specialized equipment and advanced methods. They have years of experience stabilizing residential and commercial structures throughout Calgary. Their team can thoroughly inspect a foundation to determine the full scope of repairs needed, be it underpinning, concrete levelling, waterproofing, or other techniques.
For long-lasting peace of mind regarding your home’s underlying structure, consider scheduling an initial consultation with Alberta Pargin.
