How is a crumbling concrete foundation repaired? One of the most important things to know is that this isn’t a do-it-yourself repair. Even though many home improvement shows make it look like this is a DIY task, there is a lot more to it than putting pieces back into place and adding a layer of sealant.
Crumbling foundations often have issues involving movement or unstable soil. Experts who perform this type of work are best positioned to diagnose the problem and find a solution. Read on to learn more about what foundation repair options might be available.
Spotting Crumbling Concrete Foundation Problems Early
Although crumbling is one of the most obvious signs of foundation issues, there are a few other problem signs to look for. These include:
- Leaking basements
- Bowing or leaning walls
- Ceiling cracks
- Brick or masonry cracks
- Moving or shifting foundations
- Floor cracks
- Wall cracks
Even if none of these other problems are present, crumbling concrete is more than a minor cosmetic issue. Many cases that involve crumbling concrete involve water damage. Regardless of the cause, a foundation expert can get to the root of the problem and develop a solution.
How is a Crumbling Concrete Foundation Repaired? Piers May Be a Solution
The answer to how is a crumbling foundation repaired may lie with foundation piering, using one of two types of steel piers. Repairing your foundation when you have problems is always important, and piers are often an ideal solution.
Helical piers are usually suited to foundations without beams when the foundation is lightweight. These piers are anchored to weathered shale, bedrock, or depths greater than 15 feet. Landscape disruption is minimal, which is always a plus.
Straight piers work best in foundations with a rigid base. Depending on the circumstances, these piers are attached to bedrock or weathered shale, with a depth ranging from 22 to 70 feet.
Why Waterproofing May Be a Possible Solution
Waterproofing might be in order if your crumbling concrete is in the basement area. In addition to causing a lot of structural damage, a foundation getting a lot of water damage can attract mold, possibly leading to health problems.
Waterproofing may help protect your home’s structural integrity. This process helps seal out the water that has such potential to cause problems. When water cannot penetrate basement walls, there will likely be fewer problems with crumbling concrete.
Any steps you take to prevent further crumbling concrete are a wise investment. The more proactive your approach, the more you will benefit in the long run.
Could Drainage Be the Answer to Your Foundation Troubles?
Better drainage solutions may help address a possible underlying cause of foundation issues. Many properties in this area have soil poor for supporting a foundation properly. The soil may go through cycles of expanding after rainfall, then drying out, and shrinking when the weather gets hot.
Whenever water accumulates under a foundation, the soil will start swelling. The foundation may go through upheaval, and the uneven moisture puts stress and pressure on the foundation. Once this occurs, you’ll be dealing with foundation problems eventually.
The good news is that several options are available to help correct poor drainage and prevent further concrete crumbling. Swales or trenches provide an easier way for excess water to drain away from your foundation.
French drains or surface drains can drain water out of your basement which contributes to foundation problems. If your yard has an improper slope going from the house, this is another potential fix. Better run-off from gutters or AC units may also resolve these problems.
A Crumbling Concrete Foundation Repaired
Olson Foundation Repair can provide the answers you need to how is a crumbling concrete foundation repaired? So contact us to see how we can help you.