Water is something that we all appreciate. It can provide us with recreation, relaxation, and it helps the plants to grow. When it comes in abundance, however, it can cause problems with our homes. Residents of Franklin, VA are familiar with those problems.
The heavy rains that come in the spring can undermine any foundation. Over time, the waterlogged soil can put pressure on the foundation walls. It can also wash away the soil, creating voids under and around the foundation.
Excessive water can also lead to high humidity in the basement or crawlspace, rusting appliances, mold, and mildew.
AMC911 knows what it takes to prevent problems associated with water and to repair a foundation that is already having problems. Preventative measures can include interior or exterior encapsulation, drainage, or water storage solutions. Stabilization and foundation repair options are considered below.
Common signs of foundation problems in Franklin, VA
Your home can let you know when it is having an issue. Some of the signs it may display can be specific to the foundation. That may be the case in the following list of common signs of foundation problems.
Any issue that is of serious concern or if it is getting worse should be looked into right away. If you notice multiple problems from this list, don’t hesitate to contact AMC911 for a free foundation inspection.
Cracks in Walls and Floors
If the foundation is settling or if the soil expands due to excessive water, it can cause the foundation walls to crack. The floor, particularly a concrete slab, can also crack and shift. Hairline cracks are to be expected in concrete but larger or expanding cracks, particularly horizontal or stair-step cracks could indicate foundation failure.
Excessive Moisture
When there is excessive moisture in the soil around the foundation, it can lead to moisture problems in the home. The higher humidity levels can lead to problems with indoor air quality, and/or the formation of mold and mildew. Excessive moisture can also cause additional foundation damage.
Foundation Seepage
You may notice moisture coming into the basement or crawlspace when the water is not draining properly around the home. The moisture can come in through cracks in the foundation, which can be filled with epoxy. Foundation seepage can eventually cause additional foundation damage or failure.
Bowed Walls
Sometimes, bowed walls are obvious but, at other times, you will need to use a plumb line to see if they are still in good condition. The foundation walls may bow due to movement in the foundation or because of soil pressure from the outside. Bowed walls can crack and if the problem progresses, it could lead to foundation failure.
Leaning Chimney
The chimney often rests on its own foundation, so if the main foundation is moving or sinking, the chimney may separate from the home. It could also lean due to differential settlement in the main structure.
Windows and Doors
The windows and doors in the home can alert you to foundation problems in different ways. As the foundation sinks and shifts, it can cause the window or door frames to shift. The shift would result in sticking windows and doors or cracks that originate in the area of the door or window frame.
Sinking Foundation
Due to different soil types, compaction, and water levels under various areas of the foundation, it often sinks at different rates. This is known as differential settlement. Some homes may also sink all at one time, which can also be a problem.
Common Methods for Foundation Repair
There are a number of different methods of foundation repair. At AMC911, we adjust our method according to the circumstances of the project. In any case, however, these methods are designed to stabilize the structure, prevent further damage, and repair the existing damage to the greatest possible extent.
Foundation Repair Services in Franklin, VA
The soil type and potential rainfall in Franklin, VA often call for an adjustment in the services we offer. We can choose one of the methods from the following list of foundation repair services or we may use a combination of options to further repair the issue.
Foundation Leveling
When the foundation sinks, it doesn’t always do it at the same rate. Different soil types, compaction, and other issues may result in differential settling. As a result, one area of the foundation may need to be raised to level the structure.
Foundation Crack Repair
Any large or open cracks in the foundation can be repaired and filled with epoxy injection. If we need to level the foundation, the cracks may also close in the process. Repairing cracks prevents water intrusion and further foundation degradation.
Push Piers
This is the most common form of underpinning. Steel rods (piers) are hydraulically driven into the ground until reaching bedrock. They can then attach the pier to the foundation to offer stability or even raise the foundation to an acceptable level.
Helical Piers
These piers work similarly to push piers but they have a helical blade attached that helps to transfer the load into the surrounding soil. They are screwed into the ground and are often used for structures or soil types that could offer a degree of difficulty.
Free Foundation Repair Inspection and Estimate in Franklin, VA
Most homeowners are familiar with building or pest inspections. They might also know that those inspections are superficial, at best. The same can’t be said about foundation repair inspections offered by AMC911.
Our foundation experts will leave no stone unturned to identify and diagnose any foundation problems. They are offered on an annual basis, as that is the recommendation by experts in the Franklin, VA area.
Fill out the online form today to get your free foundation repair inspection and estimate. Our friendly foundation professionals would be happy to help.
