Excess moisture can cause structural damage and other major issues with your home’s foundation. Thanks to its humid climate, many residents of Franklin, Virginia are familiar with those problems.
Springtime heavy rains can undermine any foundation. Over time, this can cause soil movement that puts pressure on the foundation walls. These rains can also wash away the soil, creating voids under and around the foundation.
AMC911 knows what it takes to prevent water damage and repair a foundation that is already having problems. Preventative measures can include interior or exterior encapsulation, drainage, or water storage solutions.
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, but any issue that is of serious concern should be looked into right away. If you notice multiple problems in your home that are included in our list of foundation problems, don’t hesitate to contact AMC911 for a free foundation inspection.
Cracks in Walls and Floors
Settling foundations or expansive soils 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. Higher humidity levels can lead to problems with indoor air quality or the formation of mold and mildew. Excessive moisture can also cause additional structural issues.
Foundation Seepage
You may notice moisture coming into the basement or crawlspace when the water is not draining properly around the home. Moisture can enter 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. At other times, however, 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 typically rests on its own foundation, which means if the main foundation begins to sink or shift, the chimney can start to pull away from the home. In some cases, differential settlement in the main structure can cause the chimney to lean or crack, often requiring masonry repair to restore stability and appearance.
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 once, 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 based on the project circumstances. These methods are designed to stabilize the structure, prevent further damage, and repair the existing damage to the greatest possible extent.
Types of Foundation Repair Services
The soil type and potential rainfall in Franklin often call for an adjustment in the services we offer. We can choose one of the methods from our foundation repair services or we may use a combination of options.
Foundation Leveling
When the foundation sinks, it doesn’t always do it at the same rate. Different soil types and compaction may result in issues like foundation settling and uneven floors. 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. This repair process prevents water intrusion and further foundation degradation.
Push Piers
This is the most common form of underpinning. Steel piers are hydraulically driven into the ground until reaching bedrock. The pier can then be attached 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 more difficult structures or soil types.
Free Foundation Repair Inspection and Estimate in Franklin, VA
At AMC911, we can guarantee that our foundation repair inspections are not superficial. Our foundation experts will complete a thorough inspection and leave no stone unturned to identify and diagnose any foundation problems. Request a free estimate today to find out how AMC911 can help you prevent or resolve foundation issues.
