carbon fiber applications

Carbon Fiber Applications for Foundation Repair

Posted by StablWall Structural Strengthening System on

Carbon Fiber Applications

The way foundations are repaired today has changed a lot. Many of those changes have been due to advances in technology that have allowed for the use of different materials for foundation repair. While steel was previously the most popular material for basement repair, carbon fiber is quickly taking its place.

Carbon fiber applications in foundation repair are based on the many benefits of carbon fiber including:

  1. Easy and quick installation

Installing carbon fiber is quite simple and easy. The strips are designed to be embedded into the wall. The installation does not require welding or excavation. It also doesn’t require lots of specialized equipment.

  1. Affordable

Repairing a foundation can be quite costly. It is therefore no surprise that many homeowners would prefer a solution that is affordable. Carbon fiber is one of the most affordable solutions for repairing a basement wall. It costs less than half the cost of installing steel beams.

  1. Maintenance free

Carbon fiber offers homeowners a maintenance free solution to the repair of the basement. There’s no need to tighten bolts or to have an expert inspect the construction regularly to adjust anything.

  1. Incredibly strong

There are few materials in the construction industry that are as strong or as versatile as carbon fiber. The fibers will not stretch, bend or break under the high pressure following installation.

  1. Low visibility

Carbon fiber strips are less than an inch thick. They can also be painted over. This means that they can disappear in the wall. No one will know that you had your wall repaired.

When to Use Carbon Fiber

There are two main carbon fiber applications when it comes to repair of basements.

  1. Floor crack repair

Carbon fiber can be used in the repair of significant cracks in concrete floors. The floor can be repaired using floor stitching. The carbon fiber stitches are installed to prevent further movement of the floor and hold the floor together just like surgical stitches are used in the repair of a significant cut.

  1. Bowing basement walls

Carbon fiber is also used to repair bowing basement walls. Block walls with horizontal cracks are repaired by installing carbon fiber strips. These strips provide support for the wall and prevent further movement of the wall inward. The strength of the strips ensures that the wall has the kind of support it needs to prevent, further bowing for the long term.

Contact us today for more information!

basement storage ideas

Basement Storage Ideas to Consider

Posted by StablWall Structural Strengthening System on

Basement Storage Ideas

Do you have excess items? Do you need these items but use them only on occasion or seasonally? It can be difficult finding space to store seasonal items and other belongings in your limited living space. Storing these items in the basement makes good sense. It will help you keep your living space clutter free while ensuring that you don’t have to throw away items that can be used later.

The following basement storage ideas ought to help you get started on maximizing your basement as a storage space.

First Things First

Ensure that your basement has been waterproofed. This will ensure that your valuable items are kept dry and safe. Contact a basement waterproofing contractor to install a waterproofing system before you store anything valuable in your basement.

Basement storage ideas

  • Storage bins

Use plastic storage bins to ensure that valuable items are kept dry and safe. Storage bins will protect valuable items, such as books, documents and clothes from damage from moisture and pests. They will help to preserve your valuable items for many years to come.

  • Keep items off the floor

Install shelves and other storage solutions that will keep items off the floor. This is especially useful for those with concrete floors. Whether your basement is waterproof or not, flooding can still occur as a result of natural disasters or other such occurrences. It is therefore best to store items as high up off the floor as possible. Six inches above the basement floor is a great place to start.

There are many creative ways to store items and ensure that they remain off the floor. You can store items in basement roof rafters or along the wall of the staircase to make the most of vertical space.

  • Invest in a dehumidifier

Molds, mildew and pests do well in places that are dark and moist. If you’re using your basement for storage, then it creates the perfect environment for an infestation by mold as well as other pests. Mold and pests can destroy your stored items and cause health problems for your household. Invest in a dehumidifier to keep moisture levels down and therefore discourage the growth of these pests.

  • Use shelving units

Shelving units will help to keep the basement well organized. Avoid using shelving units made from wood. Invest in plastic or metallic shelving units that are strong and sturdy. Establish a storage system that ensures that similar items are stored together to keep the space organized.

StablWall-Works-For-Rich-In-Wisconsin

Posted by StablWall Structural Strengthening System on

7-13-16
StablWall,

In November of 2015, I was seeking resolution to what appeared to me as endless cracking of basement
block on my personal residence….only 15 years old. I assumed a total trench of the exterior perimeter
of my home was going to be necessary, as part of the fix.

Then I contacted StablWall. Repair was needed for long horizontal cracks at the top of the walls, step
cracks left and right of the window wells, as well as vertical cracks going straight through block and
joints, to almost every wall of my basement. The cracking was becoming more prominent every year,
and movement was visible throughout the seasons. After exchange of information, your engineering
report was provided, and I completed the install in December of 2015. No trenching was required.

After install of the StablWall system, I also painted all basement walls, resulting in a finished surface
with zero cracks or pits visible anywhere (waterproofing paint).

You requested my testimony back in December 2015, and I informed you, I needed to wait. At that
time I had had proof that you were totally committed to communication before and after the sale, and
that the product installed just as easy as the videos showed. But I, like doubting Thomas, was not
comfortable sharing testimony, until I saw proof with my own eyes.

It has now been 7+ months, and I am pleased to report there exists no visible cracking…and I mean
nowhere…..I am perfectionistic by personality. And the bonus….when I show people the walls and tell
them I added structure….(I applied almost 300 lineal feet in my basement )…..they all say, “where?” This
method is "invisible" by comparison to using steal columns, as your web site pics demonstrate.

So, from a contractor who used the product on his own home….putting his money where his mouth is….I
am pleased to report full satisfaction with your product, before, during, and after the sale/install.

Thank you.

Richard J. Liebherr
Rich Renovations LLC
Certified Dwelling Contractor in Wisconsin

StablWall carbon fiber

StablWall Carbon Fiber Applications Demystified

Posted by StablWall Structural Strengthening System on

StablWall Carbon Fiber

Are you considering foundation repair? Your foundation contractor may have suggested various solutions for the repair of your foundation. One of the many solutions suggested by contractors today is the use of StablWall carbon fiber. This is a patented technology that makes use of carbon fiber sheets for the repair of foundation cracks.

How it works

There are various companies that manufacture carbon fiber products for the repair of basements. These products come in different shapes and sizes. StablWall Carbon Fiber comes in the form of sheets. Sheets are much stronger than straps that are unidirectional. Straps have proven in the past to be ineffective under sheer loads.

The carbon fiber sheets consist of layers of fiber sheets that are run horizontally, vertically and diagonally to each other. This ensures that the carbon fiber sheets have maximum tensile strength. They are therefore better able to bear loads in just about any direction.

Installation of the carbon fiber sheets is simple. It involves the use of a special epoxy that is provided by the manufacturer. The epoxy is used to bond the sheets to the damaged wall. The wall is therefore held together by the sheet and unable to move any further. The wall therefore does not undergo any further damage.

Are they effective?

One of the questions you may be asking at this point is just how effective these carbon fiber sheets are in preventing further damage to the foundation walls. There is a good reason why many foundation contractors are turning to StablWall Carbon Fiber for the repair of cracked foundation walls. It is because the technology has proven to be so effective in preventing further damage to foundation walls.

Carbon fiber is very strong and light. It has been used in the aerospace industry for over 25 years. It has also been applied to the construction of tunnels, retaining walls and bridges. The military also makes use of carbon fiber for its strength and light weight.

Strong and attractive

When it comes to providing extra support to foundation walls, you’ll have the choice of either using unsightly steel beams or using carbon fiber. Carbon fiber is not only easy to install but also occupies minimal space. It is also easy to paint over and therefore hide. Steel beams aren’t so easy to hide.

If your contractor has suggested the use of carbon fiber sheets for the repair of your basement, you should consider this option above all others.

cracking foundation

Cracking Foundation – Wall Settling Cracks

Posted by StablWall Structural Strengthening System on

Cracking Foundation

It can be very troubling when you discover a cracking foundation.This is understandable. A cracking foundation can often result in seepage and other structural problems. However, before you succumb to your anxieties, it is a good idea to have your foundation inspected by a professional to determine exactly what type of cracks you’re dealing with and the extent of damage.

A cracking foundation can result from a wide number of reasons. Settling is one of the most common causes of cracks in foundations.

What a cracking foundation looks like

Foundation cracks resulting from settling often occur in poured concrete foundations. These cracks are vertical cracks that are usually wider at the bottom. If not repaired, these cracks continue to grow wider and longer. They often occur shortly after the construction of the building and extend the entire length of the floor.

Settling cracks can also occur as diagonal or horizontal wall cracks. Diagonal cracks often occur near corners and are the result of frost damage or increased load on the wall. Horizontal cracks occurring toward the middle part of the wall are usually as a result of increased pressure against the wall from the use of heavy machinery or excessive backfilling. Low wall height horizontal cracks are often the result of soil pressure.

These cracks are dangerous as they are a point of weakness in the foundation wall. They are also a point through which water can penetrate the foundation. They can therefore lead to a basement moisture problem if not fixed as soon as possible.

Repairing settling cracks

The repair method applied to foundation wall cracks will depend on the cause of cracking. It is therefore important to have the wall inspected by a professional before applying a solution. Many homeowners are tempted to use simply band-aid solutions such as applying sealants to the cracks. This will not solve the problem but result in it getting worse with time.

Settling cracks require much more attention. You’ll need to ensure that the foundation has been stabilized. The system used to accomplish this will depend on your contractor. In many cases, contractors will use reinforced polymer materials to help stabilize the basement. Carbon fiber is a strong but light material that can withstand the incredible pressure that foundations are put under. This will ensure that pressure is distributed and the cracks do not spread.

Contact a contractor near you for more information on foundation repair systems.

bowing walls

How to Measure Bowing Walls

Posted by StablWall Structural Strengthening System on

Bowing Walls

Have you noticed bowing walls in your basement? Are they leaning forward or inward? Bowing walls are often a sign of a serious foundation problem. It is important to have the basement inspected by a professional to determine the underlying cause of the bowing.

Understanding just how far your walls are bowing is important in determining the level of damage and the type of repair that will be applied. It will also determine the cost of repairs associated with your walls. It is therefore always a good idea to take some of your own measurements before you approach a professional for their assessment of the problem.

To accurately measure the bowing walls, you’ll need a tape measure, chalk, pencil or pen, a nail or screw and a piece of string.

How to take measurements of bowing walls

The most effective way to get measurements for bowing walls is to measure the distance between the bottom of the floor and the tip part of the bulge i.e. the part that has bulged further out. You will therefore need to construct a plumb bob if you don’t have one. You can do this by tying one end of your string around the nail or screw and the other end around a pencil or pen. The pen or pencil will act as a weight.

Nail the string into the closest joist to the section that you’re measuring and allow the string to hang over the area of the bulge. Ensure that the string is not touching the wall. Hold the string firmly against the furthest part of the bulge and allow the ‘weight’ to gradually rest vertically. The weight shouldn’t touch the floor. Mark the spot on the floor above which the weight is hovering.

Measure the distance between the mark and the wall. This distance shouldn’t be over one inch. You’re facing a serious problem if you discover a measurement more than an inch. You should contact a professional to inspect your basement immediately.

What to do about bowing walls

It is advisable to contact more than one basement contractor in the beginning. This will allow you to compare estimates and services. This ensures that you make an informed choice and are able to get the best deal possible. Be sure not to compare the rates only but also to pay attention to the services and systems included in the quotation. Be sure to learn more about the systems that the contractors present to ensure that you make the best choice.

thermal expansion

Thermal Expansion – What is it and Why Should You Care?

Posted by StablWall Structural Strengthening System on

Thermal Expansion

You must have heard of this term at least once in the last few years. If you have gotten your house inspected, or if you go through a property evaluation report of some sort, you are sure to have at least come across it. The issue however is that the term by itself has seen a lot of wrong usage. People as well as contractors may at times be completely confused about thermal expansion and its resulting foundation cracks which may either originate from walls, or end up leading to them.

It is a fact that bricks grow in size, especially when there is a bit of moisture in the surroundings. They are like sponges and retain a fair amount of water. Thermal expansion, on the other hand is the expansion caused by heat. When a brick is baked and dried out, it will reach a final size, this is normally a few days or weeks right after their manufacture.

Wall Movement

Wall movement or even foundation cracks can be simply caused by heat. If your region is one that experiences a lot of heat. Long dry summers and humid wet winters, it more than likely to affect your structures. There are houses with featureless walls, large structures that run the entire length, breadth, and height of the structure, an external wall such as this, if facing the south, for example, can trap heat through the day. All of this heat can later cause expansion. Just like underground movement of soil, thermal expansion is not something that can be noted day after day. It takes time and several years of continued sun exposure. As the weather gets worse every year, the summers are getting hotter and longer, so even that might factor into the expansion.

To prevent or combat this, many engineers make use of expansion joints at regular intervals. They are used to accommodate the expanding walls and keep its shape over the years. If not done, there can be large horizontal or step shaped cracks running the entire length of the structure seen.

If this movement becomes too much to bear, it can lead to foundation cracks. So if you have a brick wall of some sort that is long, tall, and featureless, it can be vulnerable to foundation cracks. Get a surveyor or contractor to come look for its signs so that you can fix or even counter the effects of thermal expansion.

foundation cracks

Common Misconceptions about Foundation Cracks

Posted by StablWall Structural Strengthening System on

Foundation Cracks

If you’ve spotted some foundation cracks, you’re probably searching the internet for more information about them and what you should do. It is not uncommon to come across misleading information.

As a homeowner, you’re not expected to know or understand all the information about foundation cracks that you come across. However, it is important to verify this information. Taking action on misleading information can result in damage that could be even more expensive to repair.

The following are common misconceptions that you should avoid when it comes to the repair of cracks in foundations:

  • Cracks originate from problems that occurred when laying the foundation

Although some cracks are caused by problems that originated during the construction phase, some cracks are caused by problems that occur underneath the foundation. The condition of the soil that surrounds the foundation plays a major role in determining the health of the foundation. It is therefore important to ensure that this soil is healthy and able to support your foundation.

  • You can use hi-tech sealants to permanently fix cracks in foundations

Modern sealants made of polyurethane or epoxy are quite effective in sealing foundation cracks. They are strong and flexible. They do a great job for patchwork but aren’t a permanent solution for foundation cracks.

Cracks in the foundation are often a sign of a deeper problem. If the issue that caused the cracks in the first place is not addressed, then further damage to your foundation will occur. In some cases, the damage may be worse than the cracks you fixed with the sealant.

  • It’s better to replace a damaged foundation than to repair it

Unsuspecting homeowners may be tricked by unscrupulous contractors into replacing their foundations instead of repairing them. They are under the misguided notion that replacing, although more expensive, is a long lasting solution.

A truly experienced contractor will tell you that this isn’t always the best solution. As mentioned previously, it is important to determine the underlying cause of foundation damage before determining what solution to apply.

Replacing the damaged foundation may not always solve the problem. You’re just placing a new foundation that will likely suffer the same fate as the old one.

  • You can ignore small cracks in a concrete foundation

It is true that concrete cracks as it settles. However, small cracks in foundations can result in more serious problems as they allow water to seep through. Any and all foundation cracks ought to be inspected by a professional to ensure that the underlying cause is identified.

cracked bricks

Are Cracked Bricks A Sign You Need Foundation Repair

Posted by StablWall Structural Strengthening System on

Cracked Bricks

One of the most common signs that you need foundation repair is cracking in the foundation. When you notice a crack in the foundation bricks, it’s important to have your foundation evaluated.

Why the bricks are cracking

Bricks are made from clay. The bricks are placed in kilns where they are fired. This process ensures that all the water in the bricks evaporates. The bricks that emerge from the kiln are strong and nonporous to water.

Bricks are usually used for construction within weeks or months of being fired in a kiln. They can be used to construct any length of wall. This is not a problem in itself. The problem arises when moisture within the bricks expands. This can result in cracks in the bricks. These cracks can be vertical or horizontal.

These cracks can be prevented in the construction process. An experienced contractor will know to lay the bricks with a small space in between to allow for the expansion of the bricks. This expansion continues for several months and can even go up to several years.

When to call for foundation repair

Apart from expansion, cracks in brick walls can also occur as a result of pressure on the walls. This may be due to hydrostatic pressure or structural pressure. Hydrostatic pressure results in cracks along the joints in the wall. You will observe cracks that are step like in shape.

It is also important to observe any other types of cracks that may appear in your foundation walls. You should be concerned if the cracks continue to grow longer and wider.

What to do when you notice a crack

If you notice a crack in your foundation, take some time to observe it. Contrary to what many homeowners believe, the crack won’t result in the immediate collapse of your home. Observe the crack for moisture around it. Also watch to see if the crack grows longer and wider.

If the crack continues to grow or you notice moisture around the crack, contact a professional contractor. You may be in need of foundation repair services. A professional contractor will inspect your foundation and determine whether there is a problem that requires repair. They will provide you with an estimate for the cost of their services.

You’re under no obligation to accept the quote. Be sure to compare at least three quotations from reputable contractors in your area before deciding on which contractor to work with.

StablWall foundation repair

Benefits of StablWall Foundation Repair

Posted by StablWall Structural Strengthening System on

StablWall Foundation Repair

The foundation of your home is probably one of the strongest parts of the home if it was built well. However, it is not going to stay that way for ever. Foundations, like anything else man builds are imperfect. They fail over time.

Bowing and cracking of foundation walls are the most common signs that your foundation has begun the downward spiral to failure. However, these are also a sign of deeper problems. There are various options available for repairing foundation walls. StablWall foundation repair is one of the least invasive options available today.

StablWall is made of carbon fiber sheets. These sheets feature thousands of strands that run in the same direction and are linked together. When installed into the foundation wall, they provide a tremendous amount of strength to the entire structure.

If you’re trying to decide on what approach to use for your foundation walls, consider the following benefits:

StablWall Foundation Repair

  1. Strong

StablWall is known for its strength. It is much stronger than other materials used for foundation repair including carbon fiber and steel. It’s incredible strength and lightness in weight have made it suitable for various applications in the aerospace, automotive, military as well as commercial building industries. You’ll find it on space shuttles, motorcycles and airplane wings. Why wouldn’t you want such as strong material as part of the supporting structure of your home?

  1. Simple to install

StablWall also offers the advantage of being simple to install. StablWall foundation repair does not involve excavation. The sheets can be fixed to the walls using epoxy. Because of their flexibility, they can be fitted on just about any space. They are also compatible with just about any type of wall including concrete, brick, and block and clay tiles.

  1. Maintenance free

If you want to have an easy time following the repair of your basement then StablWall is the best choice for you. The material is virtually maintenance free. However if you want some extra protection from mold and mildew you should use the Kilts additive. You can talk to your contractor about this.

  1. Great appearance

One of the best things about using StablWall is that it leaves a great appearance after the repair. Because it is so thin, it does not take away from the aesthetics of the space. This makes it the perfect choice for basements that serve as living spaces.

Talk to your contractor about the possibility of using StablWall for the repair of your basement.