Repairing Cracked Foundations And The Benefits of Hiring a Contractor

Repairing Cracked Foundations: Benefits of Hiring a Contractor

Foundation cracks are a common problem that can do considerable damage to the foundation of a building.

Foundation cracks are caused by many factors, but there are three main ones: poor foundation construction, standing water and inadequate drainage system. Foundations can also crack if the soil is not compact enough or if there is too much weight on them. This can happen when buildings are built on sloping ground or when they have been damaged by flooding.

When is it Time to Call a Professional?

When you have a cracked foundation, it is time to call a professional. It is best to have the crack looked at by a professional early on. Don’t wait until the crack becomes bigger. Also, make sure to reach out to reputable repair professionals. Cracked foundation repair professionals are better in repairing cracked foundations than someone without the experience.repairing-cracked-foundations-stablwall-1

5 Benefits of Hiring a Contractor for Cracked Foundation Repair

When faced with a foundation crack you have to choose between doing the repair yourself and hiring someone who has experience repairing cracked foundations. Hiring a contractor for cracked foundation repair can be a great decision.

Here are 5 benefits of hiring a contractor:

  1. Experience

A contractor has experience in the field and might have encountered many instances of the same problem that you are facing. They will be able to provide you with expert advice and solutions.

  1. Time-saving

Contractors know what to do and how to do it quickly. If you hire an expert, they will get the job done faster than if you do it yourself, which saves your time for other things.

  1. Cost-effectiveness

Contractors charge less than hiring professionals on your own because they already have all the equipment needed for the job, so there’s no need to buy any additional tools and materials.

  1. Safety

Contractors have specialized equipment and training to ensure the safety of themselves and their work area so you don’t need to worry about anything happening during the job.repairing-cracked-foundations-stablwall-2

  1. Quality workmanship

Contractors have years of experience in their field which enables them to offer you quality services.

Conclusion

Cracks in foundations are a common problem, and it can be difficult to find the best solution for your home.

The best solution for repairing cracked foundations is to hire an expert who will come into your home and assess the situation. They will then be able to provide you with a variety of solutions that they believe will work best for your situation.

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3 Ways Trees and Plants Cause Basement Wall Cracks

3 Ways Trees and Plants Cause Basement Wall Cracks and What to Do About Them

Trees and plants are a great feature of any landscape. You can create your oasis with a garden of beautiful shrubs, trees, and flowers. However, it is important to consider your foundation when doing so. Trees, plants, and shrubs are known to cause basement wall cracks. The following are common ways they do this.

  1. Root systems pushing against walls

Trees and shrubs with aggressive root systems can cause basement wall cracks when planted too close to the foundation. The roots of these trees and shrubs spread out wide and can put pressure on basement walls as they seek room to continue spreading. This can result in the basement walls cracking or crumbling. It is for this reason that trees such as poplars, aspens, willows, and silver maples should never be planted near foundations.

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  1. Drying the soil

Trees, shrubs, and plants that grow near foundations can also cause basement wall cracks by pushing the soil near the foundation to dry up. Greenery with thirsty roots will take up all the moisture from the soil, especially during dry seasons. This will result in the soil drying up and shrinking. The basement walls crack as a result of not having adequate support.

  1. Frequent need for water

Plants can cause damage to the foundation due to their frequent need for watering. If you have to water your plants regularly, the soil around your foundation will expand due to high moisture levels. This will put pressure on the foundation walls and cause cracking.

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How to avoid foundation damage

There are several things you can do to prevent basement wall cracks caused by trees, shrubs, and plants.

  1. Choose plants that do not have aggressive root systems. This is especially great if you have a small yard and can’t avoid having plants near the foundation.
  2. Plant trees at least 25 feet away from the foundation. You can go even further away if you’re planting a tree with roots spread out wide. Planting far away from your home will keep your foundation safe from the intrusion of root systems.
  3. Plant shrubs at least 5 feet away from the foundation. Like trees, their roots can cause damage to the foundation. Planting them far away from your foundation will keep the foundation safe from the risk of damage.
  4. Choose plants that don’t require a great deal of water. These plants won’t drain the soil of water. They also won’t require frequent watering which can damage your foundation.

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5 Reasons to Use Carbon Fiber When Fixing Basement Wall Cracks

5 Reasons To Use Carbon Fiber When Fixing Basement Wall Cracks

Basement walls are unique in that they are often exposed to moisture from the soil with which they are in contact. The high level of moisture results from factors such as flooding of the basement, surface runoff that is not properly drained, leaks in the plumbing, and poorly positioned gutters and downspouts among others.

Waterlogged soil can cause damage to the basement walls due to its increased hydrostatic pressure. Basement wall cracks often occur as a result of high hydrostatic pressure, though they can also be caused by frost and pressure from large roots. Most basement wall cracks occur when the basement walls bow as a result of different kinds of pressure that is exerted on the walls.

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While there are many ways to repair basement wall cracks, carbon fiber has emerged as one of the best solutions. Here are the key reasons why carbon fiber is the best solution when it comes to fixing basement wall cracks.

  1. Carbon Fiber Has High-Stress Resistance and Is Very Stiff

Carbon fiber is very stiff and has tensile strength – 5 times stronger than steel. This feature makes the material able to withstand a notable amount of tensile tension without stretching or getting torn. Thus, using carbon fiber, a professional contractor can help you fix basement walls that have wide cracks or which are pulling apart.

  1. Excellent Resistance to Temperature Changes

Resistance to changes in temperature is a good property when you consider cracks that are caused by contraction and expansion. Carbon fiber is highly resistant to changes in temperature and is, therefore, a good material for fixing cracks that occur in areas with notable temperature fluctuations.

  1. Lightweight

Carbon fiber is very light in weight and thus, you can use it to repair basement wall cracks without having to worry about added weight. Also, being lightweight makes carbon fiber easy to install when repairing different types of cracks.

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  1. Versatility

Carbon fiber is very versatile in that you can use it to fix different types of basement wall problems including frost line cracks, horizontal and diagonal cracks, wall bowing, stair step cracks, vertical cracks, and shifting walls.

  1. High-Quality Finishes

Carbon fiber is also unique in that it is made of very narrow and lightweight sheets. The sheets are therefore very small and almost invisible once they have been installed. Therefore, when you use carbon fiber to repair a crack, the result is, without a doubt, a high-quality finish.

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Your Sagging or Wavy Roof Could be a Sign You Need Foundation Repair

Your Sagging or Wavy Roof Could be a Sign You Need Foundation Repair

Have you noticed sagging in your roof? Do your roof ridges have a wavy appearance? Many homeowners make the mistake of thinking roof problems are isolated. However, your home’s structure is interconnected. In many instances, a saggy or wavy roof is the result of foundation problems. It may be a sign that you need to invest in foundation repair.

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The following are some things you should check to determine whether your roof’s problems are related to issues in your foundation.

  1. Unevenness in the foundation

Foundations should be level. If your foundation is uneven or inclined, it may be a sign of foundation movement. This movement often results from shifting in the soils around the foundation. The expansion and shrinking of soils due to the rise and fall of the water table or weather changes can cause the foundation to move and become uneven.

You can check for unevenness by simply placing a small ball on the floor on one side of the floor. The floor is uneven if the ball begins to roll faster in any particular direction.

  1. Foundation cracks

Have you noticed cracks in the foundation? Foundation cracks are often the first sign that you need foundation repair. Cracks in foundations are a sign of foundation damage. Having your foundation inspected as soon as you notice cracks is important. The position and appearance of the cracks will tell the contractor what the underlying cause of the cracks is. They will be able to provide you with a solution that will prevent further damage to your foundation. Investing in the repair of your foundation will help to secure your roof.

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  1. Poor roof drainage

Poor drainage of your roof could cause your saggy or wavy roof. However, the damage isn’t being caused directly to your roof. Roof drainage is designed to protect your foundation from water damage. Water pools near your foundation will be absorbed by the soil, causing it to expand and exert pressure on the foundation walls. The pressure causes the foundation walls to shift. This, in turn, causes the roof to shift, damaging your roof.

We recommend fixing your foundation to ensure you can enjoy the long-term benefits of repairing your roof. Contact a foundation repair contractor to get started on your foundation.

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What To Do After Foundation Repair Is Completed

What To Do After Foundation Repair Is Completed

Repairing cracked foundations is important to prevent further damage to foundations. Foundations crack for a wide variety of reasons. However, the most common reason is the expansion of soils around the foundations. The soils expand as a result of absorbing water. The expansion causes an increase in pressure against the foundation wall, which in turn results in cracking. Foundations may also crack as a result of soil shrinkage. When the soil loses water during a drought, it shrinks and moves away from the foundation. This leaves the foundation without the support and causes it to crack. 

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When you notice cracks in your foundation, it is important to have your foundation inspected and repaired as soon as possible. Repairing cracked foundations early in damage can mean avoiding expensive repairs and saving your home from extensive damage.

However, the work doesn’t end when the contractor has completed repairs on your foundation. You will have to invest time, effort, and money to maintain your foundation. The following are some tips to consider for the maintenance of your foundation.

  1. Inspect your foundation regularly

Regular inspection of your foundation will help you identify problems in their early stage of development. Check the foundation walls for cracks. Examine the gaps that were repaired for changes. Look for new cracks in the walls, floors, or ceilings. Check for signs of water damage, such as a musty smell or stains.

  1. Clean and repair gutters and downspouts

Gutters and downspouts offer an important aspect of protection for your foundation. They guide water away from the foundation and help prevent runoff from pooling around and seeping into the soil. Ensuring that your gutters and downspouts are working optimally is important for your foundation’s health. Be sure to inspect and clean them at least twice a year.

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  1. Installing a root barrier

Tree roots are another common cause of foundation cracks. If you have huge trees or trees growing near your home’s foundation, it is important to protect your foundation from future damage. Cutting the roots will only provide temporary relief to your foundation. Install a root barrier between the foundation and the tree. These barriers are often made of metal or plastic. They prevent roots from reaching the foundation of your home.

Have you recently invested in foundation repair? Take the steps above to ensure you can enjoy the benefits of the repair for longer.

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How Much Does it Cost to Repair Bowed Basement Walls

How Much Does it Cost to Repair Bowed Basement Walls?

Are the walls in your basement bowing? You may be wondering how much it costs to repair bowed basement walls. We discuss the costs of foundation repair below to guide you on what you can expect.

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The national average cost of repairing a foundation is $4,542. Repairing your bowed basement walls can cost anything over $1000 to slightly over $10,000. Various factors: will influence the cost.

  1. Your location

Your geographical location will influence the cost of various factors such as labor, obtaining permits, and materials. Your foundation’s tickets for repair can cost anything between $75 and $150. The cost of delivery will not only be influenced by the average cost of labor in your area but also the specific contractor offering your services. You should inquire about the labor cost from the specific contractors you’re considering.

  1. The cause of the bowing

The underlying cause of the bowing will determine what solutions will be applied. For example, if your foundation is bowing because of leaking gutters, you may only have to get the gutters repaired or replaced and have the bowed walls repaired or reinforced. If the bowing results from poor grading, you will have to have your landscape’s grade corrected and your foundation walls repaired. The latter is more involved and will cost a lot more than the former.

  1. The type of foundation

Not every repair solution can be applied to every kind of foundation. Therefore, your foundation type will also influence the type of solution used to repair the bowed basement walls. Many foundation repair contractors will inspect your foundation and provide you with a comprehensive quotation outlining their preferred solution and repair costs.

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  1. The severity of the bowing

Repairing a wall that has moved only 1 or 2 inches is less involving than repairing a foundation that has moved several inches. Foundations that are severely bowed will require intensive repair. You may even have to replace the foundation to ensure your property’s security.

How to determine how much bowed basement wall repair will cost

If you want to ensure that you’re getting the best deal for foundation repair, you should have your foundation inspected by at least three contractors and compare the quotations. Many foundation repair contractors offer free inspection and quotes.

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Additional Items That May Increase The Cost Of Repairing Your Wall Cracks

Additional Items That May Increase the Cost Of Repairing Your Wall Cracks

Do you have wall cracks? Are you considering having these cracks repaired? You may have already received quotes from several contractors and are now setting your budget. You may even be considering approaching a financial institution for a loan to finance the repair. However, before you do that, you should consider additional costs that could increase the total cost of repairing those foundation cracks.

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  1. The structural engineer’s report

Wall cracks are the visible sign of an underlying problem with your foundation. Many times, cracks indicate damage that runs much deeper than the eye can see. It is therefore important to have a structural engineer inspect your home.

A structural engineer will inspect the foundation for signs of damage, distress, deterioration, and damage to determine how deep the problem goes. They will ensure that you can choose a solution that will address the cracks and the underlying cause of the cracking.

The cost of acquiring a structural engineering report varies. The national average for structural engineer reports is between $300 and $1,500.

  1. Soil reports

Another report required before having the wall cracks repaired is a soil report. Soil reports are vital for identifying the soil’s characteristics that surround your foundation. A geotechnical engineer will carry out tests on your ground to determine the type of soil on your property. The national average for this type of report is between $500 and $3000. These reports help contractors decide what kinds of soil problems can cause your foundation. They are therefore able to provide you with a comprehensive long-term solution.

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  1. Unforeseen obstacles

It is also wise to have some wiggle room in your budget to cover unforeseen obstacles. While your contractor may have provided a comprehensive quotation for their services, anything can happen when the work begins. They may uncover even more problems with your foundation that need to be addressed. This will attract additional costs. It is always a good idea to add $500 to $2500 to the project’s overall cost to cater to any unforeseen expenses.

If you’re a homeowner preparing to repair wall cracks, consider the additional costs outlined above. While they may not be a factor in your project, it is a good idea to be prepared and budget accordingly.

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The Cost of Carbon Fiber Foundation Repair

The Cost of Carbon Fiber Foundation Repair

Do you have cracks in your foundation walls? Carbon fiber is a quick and efficient foundation repair solution. Installing carbon fiber strips will help to prevent further movement of the foundation wall. Carbon fiber repair is a long-term solution that does not require maintenance. It is affordable and does not take up any floor space. It is therefore ideal for repairing foundations in finished basements as well as those that you intend to finish in the future.

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For many homeowners, the biggest concern when facing the prospect of foundation repair is how much it will set their pocket back. This is no different with carbon fiber repair. Although this solution is more affordable than many other repair options, the total cost of repairing your foundation will vary. The national average of carbon fiber crack repair is between $350 and $1,350. However, you can spend as much as $10,000 and more on carbon fiber repair. The actual cost of repairing your foundation will depend on various factors including:

  • Your geographic location

The cost of repair will depend on your location. Your geographic location affects the cost of materials as well as the contractor’s labor fee. This will have a big impact on the overall cost of repairing your foundation using carbon fiber.

  • The contractor you hire

Different contractors charge different rates for carbon fiber repair. They also use different carbon fiber systems and repair materials. It is therefore always a good idea to ask for quotations from at least 3 different contractors before settling on a contractor for the job. Compare the systems they use and read reviews from past clients to make an informed decision. You should also look for extras such as warranties.

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  • The cause of the bowing and the repair solution chosen

Carbon fiber foundation repair is about much more than simply applying carbon fiber strips to a bowing or cracked wall. If you want to reap long-term benefits from the repair, you must ensure that the cause of the bowing is addressed. This means that additional repair solutions will be applied. The cost of your repair should also factor in the cost of the solutions used to address the cause of the bowing.

If you’re concerned about the cost of foundation repair the best thing you can do is have your foundation repaired as soon as possible. Leaving your foundation unattended will only result in the damage becoming worse.

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Carbon Fiber And Failing Foundations

Carbon Fiber And Failing Foundations

Carbon fiber is a revolutionary option for foundation repair. This light material has proven to be one of the best solutions for reinforcing foundations and preventing them from bowing. The light material is many times stronger than steel beams but does not occupy floor space. You can have your foundation repaired in a matter of minutes.

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Many contractors and homeowners opt for carbon fiber when faced with foundation repair involving bowing walls and wall cracks. It is an affordable and efficient option. It is also an option that provides great results and requires no maintenance. However, it isn’t a miracle solution. Like many other methods used to repair foundations, carbon fiber repair can fail.

If your foundation is still showing signs of failure after carbon fiber repair, it may be as a result of any of the following reasons:

  • You used a DIY kit

One of the reasons carbon fiber is such a popular choice for foundation repair amongst homeowners is that you can find affordable DIY carbon fiber kits on the market. Many homeowners opt to DIY crack repair using these kits in order to save money on professional repairs. However, these kits aren’t the same quality as the professional grade products that professional repair contractors use. DIY kits are cheap because they often include low grade materials. They are not designed with longevity like those that professionals use. They are therefore more likely to fail.

Another reason that DIY kits fail is the inexperience of those applying them. If you have never had to apply a carbon fiber kit before you may overlook some important steps that can result in the failure of the kit.

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  • You did not resolve the cause of the cracks

Carbon fiber is very strong. However, it does not work magic. It only helps to reinforce your foundation wall. However, if you fail to resolve the problem that resulted in the cracks in the first place, it will only be a matter of time before you begin to experience other problems with your foundation. You may for example notice cracking on other walls or your basement may begin to floor.

Professional foundation repair is important for ensuring that you can reap long term benefits from the repair. Having an experienced professional repair your foundation will save you money in the long term.

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DIY Bowed Basement Walls Repair Do’s and Don’ts Columbus, OH

DIY Bowed Basement Walls Repair Do’s and Don’ts Columbus, OH

Do you have bowed basement walls? Many homeowners are tempted to go the DIY route for foundation repair. This is because the information is now more widely available. However, this doesn’t mean that repairing your foundation is a job you can handle on your own. If you insist on going the DIY route, here are some Do’s and Don’ts to keep in mind.

Bowed Basement Walls | Columbus, OH | StablWall

Do’s

  1. Inspect your property to determine the source of moisture

When you notice bowed basement walls, it is a good idea to try and determine the source of water. This will ensure that you can tackle the root cause of the bowing and protect your basement from further damage. Take a walk around your foundation. Inspect your downspouts, gutters and look for signs of plumbing leaks.

  1. Have your basement inspected

It is essential to have your basement inspected by a professional contractor. Bowed basement walls can be accompanied by other structural damage in your home. An inspection will reveal the cause of the bowing and the extent of the damage.

  1. Address obvious moisture sources

Are there sources of moisture that you can address before foundation repair? For example, you may want to consider cutting down shrubs that grow near your foundation wall or transplanting your garden to another location away from the foundation wall.

Don’ts

  1. Buy a DIY repair kit.

DIY repair kits are cheap and easy to use. However, they won’t provide you with a long-term solution. The chances are that you will be experiencing more severe bowing in time. DIY kits don’t offer a comprehensive solution to bowing. They only address the symptoms and not the disease. They are not worth spending your money or time on.

Bowed Basement Walls | Columbus, OH | StablWall

  1. Ignore the bowing

It’s tempting to want to ignore your bowed basement walls. However, this won’t make the problem go away. The bowing will only become worse. You may even experience more damage, including cracking and water seepage. It is, therefore, best to address the problem as soon as possible. This will help you avoid expensive repairs.

  1. Don’t go with the first solution you come across.

It’s easy to be convinced by a contractor to use the method they recommend to repair your walls. However, there are several solutions available in the market. Take the time to explore different options to ensure that you choose a solution that best meets your needs.

Repairing bowed basement walls isn’t a DIY job. It will help if you are looking for a professional with experience to help ensure you can enjoy the benefits of repair for the long term.

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