Why Foundations Fail & How to Repair Them - Part 2

BUSTAMANTE ENGINEERS STAFF • April 23, 2021

Foundation Failures in Residential Homes

Foundation issues can occur for several different reasons. Some amount of settlement can be expected in most homes provided it is within limits. Settling is not linear but often occurs early after the foundation is constructed. When homes experience excessive settlement, certain procedures must be used to stabilize it. BUSTAMANTE ENGINEERS has built an outstanding reputation over the last 25 years of providing reliable structural engineering and inspection services.

Common Signs of Foundation Failure

The inward movement of a basement wall is a possible indication of excessive pressure. Cracking can occur when the pressure exceeds the tensile strength of the concrete or block wall. Whatever has caused your residential foundation problem, settling or inward pressure, it is vital to have the entire structure inspected by knowledgeable professionals. Our engineers carefully investigate the foundation issues impacting your home or building and if needed, provide cost-effective repair program. LEARN MORE ABOUT COMMON SIGNS of FOUNDATION FAILURE…

Residential Foundation Repair Solutions

Foundation problems can threaten that investment by causing serious structural damage that reduces a home’s value. If you wait too long, foundation problems can turn into foundation failure. The good news is that all types of foundation issues can be repaired. For residential foundation repairs, products such as rod & grout (steel reinforcement) and for lessor damage carbon fiber straps are used. Wall anchors or buttressing are other type of repairs, but each option has to be evaluated.

Relieve Exterior Hydrostatic Pressure

It is important to note that inward movement and cracks in your foundation are often a sign of external hydrostatic pressure that will not be relieved by structural repair only. Often sump pumps with interior perforated piping are used to relieve pressure in combination of the repair. Making sure gutter downspouts are properly managed along with positive grading around the foundation will relieve the pressure.

BUSTAMANTE ENGINEERS Can Help with the Uncertainty of Foundation Issues

For many of us, our home is the largest, most important investment we will make. An inspection with a professional structural engineer from BUSTAMANTE ENGINEERS will provide an assessment of your foundation problem, explanation as to why the problem has happened, and suggestions of how to repair the issue. This will save you time and money in the long run by fixing your foundation correctly the first time! Click to contact us or call 215-340-6990 to schedule a structural inspection.

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