Chesapeake is a city in South-Eastern Virginia that borders North Carolina to the south and the Elizabeth River to the North. Due to its close proximity to large amounts of water, the soil type sometimes causes problems for homeowners. When the soil soaks in water, it expands, putting pressure on the foundation.
You can count on AMC911 to provide professional services that will keep your foundation dry and safe. This includes interior or exterior encapsulation, along with crack injection repair and various methods of water collection and drainage.
There may also be times when you need further assistance from AMC911. If you notice that your doors and windows are sticking or if cracks are appearing in the walls or foundation, this is a sign that your foundation may need some extra attention.
There may be other signs of foundation problems, and we will discuss those in this article. In addition, we will discuss some of the different methods of stopping and even reversing foundation failure.
Common signs of foundation problems in Chesapeake, VA
Are you seeing things around the home that don’t seem quite right? Are cracks appearing or are the doors and windows sticking? These are just a few of the signs of foundation problems.
If you find something in the list below that matches your home, it should be considered a possible sign of foundation problems. When you see multiple issues from the list or if the problem progresses, contact AMC911 for a free foundation inspection right away.
Windows and Doors
When the foundation shifts or sinks, it can cause the frames of the windows and doors to shift as well. As a result, you might notice that your doors and windows are sticking when you try to open and close them. Cracks may also appear around the frames as they separate.
Cracking
Cracks are one of the more common signs of foundation problems. They can occur in the drywall, the foundation walls, or even the floor. Some of the most problematic cracks are those that run horizontally, diagonally, or in a stair-step pattern. Cracks in the wall that originate at a window or door frame are also a good sign of foundation problems.
Moisture
The moisture that causes the soil to expand and put pressure on the foundation can also seep into the home. You may notice higher humidity or even standing water in the basement or crawlspace. Mold and mildew are likely to form under those circumstances.
Chimney
Is your chimney leaning or separating from the main structure of the home? Are you seeing cracks forming in the chimney? These are signs of foundation failure and should be watched carefully.
Bowed Walls
The soil around Chesapeake VA is a fine loamy or sandy loam, which can put pressure on the foundation wall or can easily be washed away. Although it can support a foundation, it could also lead to bowed walls. If you notice that your foundation walls are bowing, perhaps even to the point of cracking, it’s time to call AMC911.
Common Methods for Foundation Repair
When a foundation experiences problems, it can often be fixed. Some of the issues may also be reversed if the proper methods for foundation repair are used. At AMC911, we understand how to apply those methods and get the most benefits.
Foundation Repair Services in Chesapeake, VA
There are many possible solutions when you have a foundation problem. Acting quickly and using our foundation repair services soon after the signs of foundation failure appear will give you the best chance of success.
Even if the problem is advanced, however, there may still be options to stop the damage and even fix it. Here are some of the common foundation repair services we offer to our customers in Chesapeake, VA.
Leveling
If you have a concrete slab that is sinking or has cracked due to the foundation settling, it can be fixed. We inject polyurethane foam into voids under the slab and, as it expands, it lifts the slab back into a level position. This also often has the effect of closing the gap in any cracks.
Crack Repair
When cracks appear in the foundation, they can lead to a variety of problems. Some of those issues include water intrusion, bugs, and even rodents. Our epoxy injections are as strong or stronger than the concrete, making those problems a thing of the past.
Underpinning
There may be times when the foundation also needs to be supported, raised, or leveled. This is done by means of push piers or helical piers. These steel rods are inserted into the ground hydraulically until they are firmly seated on bedrock. The piers are then attached to the foundation to stabilize it. They can also be used to raise the foundation to an acceptable level.
As the name would suggest, push piers are pushed into the ground and stacked on top of each other. Helical piers have the further advantage of having an attached helix, so they are screwed into the soil. Helical piers are often preferred for delicate or lighter structures.
Free Foundation Repair Inspection and Estimate in Chesapeake, VA
Foundation problems start to happen before the first sign appears. The sooner you have the problem addressed, the easier it will be to correct it. That is why it is recommended that homeowners in Chesapeake and the surrounding area have a foundation inspection every year.
AMC911 is proud to offer those annual foundation repair and inspection estimates. Simply fill out the online form on our website and one of our friendly professionals will get back to you.
A foundation inspection is more than a simple building inspection. We get down in the trenches, so to speak to find out what is really happening under your home. You can trust AMC911 with this service.
