Best Foundation Repair Method
The term foundation repair can be very scary for homeowners. When the foundation of a structure, building, or home gets damaged, it requires foundation repair. The foundation will often need repairs when the concrete is in distress, or the core structure of your home is damaged. Click here to know about foundation repairs in Adelaide.
Foundation Damage
One of the most common causes of foundation damage is water. When there is a presence of moisture, the soil components can either shrink or swell. Because of this, there might be movements in the structure’s foundation. Damages can occur if there are inadequate drainage facilities in the area around the building’s foundation. The foundation will also be prone to damage if the soil beneath it has high clay content.
Effects Of Foundation Damage
A damaged foundation is a serious problem that can have many grave consequences, such as infrastructure damage, loss of the building’s real estate value, cracks, and equipment malfunctions. A home or building with foundation damage is quite unsafe for living.
Foundation Damage Signs
There are numerous foundation damage signs, such as cracked floors, walls, bricks, and foundations. There might also be bulging and uneven floors and separation around windows or walls. The windows and doors may also be misaligned.
Types Of Foundation Repair
The foundation repair method you choose for your structure will depend on numerous factors, including site conditions and geographic area. Some of the popular methods of foundation repair are:
Slab Jacking
If you need to repair concrete, slab jacking is the best method. Slab jacking is done to raise a slab permanently, correct faulty drainage, prevent pumping and impact loading at transverse joints by injecting grout under the slab. The substance most commonly used here is polyurethane foam. The void spaces are filled by drilling access holes into the concrete. Slab jacking is a cost-effective method of foundation repair.
Steel Piering
Steel piering is the method through which the foundation’s settlement is corrected by driving pilings of steel pipes through it. It is most suitable for falling building foundations. Steel piers and a hydraulic lifting system correct the elevation of the foundation by lifting it. The steel piers are suitable for many soil types as they are quite sturdy.
Helical Tieback Anchors
If your walls are leaning or bowing, you can use helical tieback anchors to repair them. These anchors are attached to the wall’s interior portion. Subsequently, tension is applied to them to straighten the walls.
High-density polyurethane foam, spot piers, and sealant repairs are the other methods of foundation repair.
Should You Buy A House With Foundation Problems?
Many home buyers avoid buying a house with foundational problems at all costs. By supporting and raising the foundation, you can repair the house or building. However, the process could cost you thousands of dollars. You need to check for common signs of foundation problems when you are buying a house. Additionally, you need to get the home inspected by professionals as you might overlook certain foundation issues.
It is best to contact an engineer or foundation contractor to evaluate the foundation and make sure that the house you want to buy is structurally sound. If the foundation is damaged, they will let you know the cost of the repair work. This would help you to make a suitable offer to the seller of the house.
Sometimes sellers of houses with foundation problems give a good deal to potential buyers. While you can correct some foundation issues easily, others might need a completely new foundation, which can be expensive for you. A real estate agent cannot properly guide you in such situations. Only foundation experts can tell you what to expect in such cases.
Should You Fix The Foundations Of Your House Before Selling It?
Only houses that are in near perfect condition can get the seller the best price. If you can afford to fix your house’s foundation issues, you should do it. Many foundation companies offer lifetime warranties on their foundation repairs. You can transfer such a warranty to the new owners of your house. This will let the potential buyers know that the foundation problems have been addressed. They would be more willing to purchase your house.
You might also be able to sell your house the way it is. Some investors do not mind buying houses with foundation problems.
