If asked to describe carbon fiber in one sentence, it would be that it is a thin, lightweight yet strong material. The material is actually stronger than steel but very light in weight making it the perfect choice for applications that require strong and lightweight materials such as in the repair of residential foundations.

The following are some great facts about carbon fiber wall repair:

It can be used as an alternative to using heavy steel beams

Before the introduction of carbon fiber to the residential construction and repair industry, bowed walls were repaired using steel beams. The beams brace the walls from the inside. However, these beams can be an eye sore. Carbon fiber is suitable suit for the same application. Unlike steel beams, you can apply paint over carbon fiber to make it look like the rest of the wall. Concealing steel beams is much harder.

The most common application for carbon fiber in construction repair is for bowing block walls

You can use carbon fiber on the inside of the bowing wall of a basement. In this way, it acts as a brace to the wall and prevents it from bowing any further. This is as a result of the incredible strength of carbon fiber.

It needs to be linked to the house framing

For the structure of the house to be sound, contractors must fix the carbon fiber into the house framing. This will ensure that the carbon fiber system is stable and the wall will not cause it to move.

It has limits

Like any other material, carbon fiber has its limits. Contractors should therefore not treat it as the magical cure to all foundational problems. They can use it to repair walls that have moved up to two inches. Basement walls that have moved more than two inches may require more specialized repair.

Don’t attempt to DIY

Carbon fiber is a great and simple material to use for repairing your walls. However, its design was not for do-it-yourself projects. It requires the knowledge of an expert trained in foundation repair to understand how best to apply it. The professional can determine the integrity of the house structure and determine if carbon fiber is the best option for the situation.

Carbon fiber straps

These straps are applicable for repairing minor cracks in walls. They however are best for repair of block foundation walls or concrete walls.

Are you having problems with your foundation? Be sure to talk to a professional and discuss your needs. Carbon fiber wall repair could be the answer to your problem.