Why Your Carbon Fiber Foundation Repair Is Failing.

Why Your Carbon Fiber Foundation Repair Is Failing

Carbon fiber foundation repair has revolutionized the way we approach foundation repair. Carbon fiber straps, staples, and sheets have made it possible to reinforce bowing walls in a matter of minutes or hours. A team of two professional contractors can complete the repair of a cracked foundation wall in hours.

Carbon fiber foundation repair is also an attractive option for homeowners who want to maximize their basement spaces. Unlike steel beams, carbon fiber does not take up floor space. It can also be finished in any way you prefer, e.g. painting, wallpapering, or drywall. It is therefore the perfect solution for repairing cracks in finished basements as well as spaces that you plan on finishing in the future.

One of the biggest benefits of using carbon fiber for foundation repair is that it is extremely strong (more than 10 times stronger than steel). It is, therefore, the best way to reinforce your foundation wall and prevent further movement. This material gives you long-term results too. Once the straps, staples, or sheets have been installed, you don’t have to worry about maintenance.

So why is my foundation still showing signs of damage?

Some homeowners report still having problems with the foundation even after the installation of carbon fiber and wonder if it is truly effective. Foundation failure after the installation of carbon fiber may be the result of any of the following reasons.

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1. Using a DIY kit

There are various carbon fiber foundation repair kits in the market. Many homeowners opt for these DIY kits to save money. However, these kits don’t always provide great results. This is because there are various factors that should be considered in the installation of carbon fiber that you may not consider as a DIYer. The kits also aren’t the same quality as the professional-grade materials used by professional contractors.

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2. Not resolving the underlying cause of the movement

Although carbon fiber is strong, it is not a magic fix. Carbon fiber only serves to reinforce your walls. It is important to solve the underlying cause of the movement in order to ensure the safety of your foundation. For example, you may need to repair your gutters and downspouts to prevent runoff from being deposited near the foundation and seeping into the soil.

If you are experiencing failure after the installation of carbon fiber, get in touch with a professional to ensure the safety of your foundation and home.

Contact the Professionals at StablWall Today! (866) 782-5955

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Reasons Why Wall Cracks Appear

6 Reasons Why Wall Cracks Appear

Walls are more than just mere aesthetic features of a building, they provide invaluable support and protection for the structure and its occupants. Nonetheless, wall cracks can emerge over time which not only disrupts the look but may also be indicative of greater underlying issues. In this blog post, we will investigate the numerous causes of wall cracks.wall-cracks-stablwall-1

  1. Settlement

Wall cracks are typically the result of the settlement, especially common in just-built properties. Settlement transpires when the soil beneath the foundation compacts or shifts, thus causing it to settle or shift too. As this base moves, so do the walls above and can therefore crack them as well.

  1. Moisture

Moisture can be a primary factor in wall cracking. When it permeates the walls, it weakens their structure and eventually leads to cracks forming. This is especially true if you live in an area with high humidity or your bathroom/kitchen are prone to moisture exposure due to lack of proper ventilation or insulation.

  1. Temperature Changes

Temperature fluctuations can be particularly detrimental to walls, especially in areas with extreme weather. When the heat or cold alters, so do the materials making up your walls; this phenomenon causes cracks and fractures within them.wall-cracks-stablwall-2

  1. Poor Quality Materials

The caliber of materials used in the walls plays a key role in wall cracking. If inferior materials are chosen or not installed properly, cracks will surface at some point down the line.

  1. Structural Damage

Cracks in walls can be the result of structural damage to a building, particularly problems with its foundation. When this occurs, the structure may settle or move, which will cause breaks and fractures in the wall’s surface. By inspecting for foundational issues first, you can prevent these cracks from occurring down the line and ensure your buildings are secure.

  1. Poor Design

Ultimately, structural design flaws can also be responsible for wall cracking. If the walls are not appropriately equipped to support the weight of a building or if there is an architectural defect, these walls may indeed fracture over time.

There are numerous possible causes for wall cracks, such as moisture infiltration, structural fatigue, poor-quality materials, and more. If you notice any splits or crevices in your walls, it is imperative to look into the cause without delay to prevent further destruction. Talking with a specialist can help you understand what’s at play and determine the best course of action.

Contact the Professionals at StablWall Today! (866) 782-5955

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Will Your Homeowners Insurance Cover Foundation Repair?

Will Your Homeowners Insurance Cover Foundation Repair?

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If you’re a homeowner, there is a good chance that you will face foundation problems in your lifetime. While foundations are built to be strong and durable, they are subjected to many changes in the environment including shifting soils and flooding. Damage is bound to occur to the foundation over time. The good news is that with foundation repair, you can restore your foundation and enjoy many more years free of issues. The only problem is determining how you will pay for these services.

What Does Homeowners Insurance Cover?

Homeowner’s insurance is designed to provide homeowners with financial compensation if a peril occurs and they experience damage to their homes as a result. The specific things covered by a homeowner’s insurance policy will differ depending on the specific policy and the insurance provider. Some examples of things often covered by homeowners insurance include:

  •         Damage by lightning strikes
  •         Wind damage
  •         Fire damage
  •         Vandalism    
  •         Objects falling from trees
  •         The collapse of a part of your home due to the weight of ice or snow
  •         Water damage resulting from HVAC or plumbing issues

Does Homeowners’ Insurance Cover Foundation Damage?

This is a question that many people ask. This depends on the cause of the foundation damage. For homeowner’s insurance to cover foundation repair, the damage to the foundation must have been caused by a peril covered by the insurance policy. For example, if the foundation issue is a result of a plumbing leak, you may be able to recover compensation that will cover the repair of your foundation.

If the damage to your foundation was caused by a peril covered by your insurance policy, you will still need to provide your insurer with evidence that the peril was responsible for the foundation damage. You can increase your chances of having your claim accepted by: 

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  •         Taking photos or recording a video of the damage to the foundation. If possible, show how the peril caused the damage. For example, if the damage was caused by a plumbing leak, show the point where the leak occurred.
  •         Have your foundation inspected by a foundation repair professional. They will identify the cause of the damage and determine the extent of the damage. This report will be invaluable in making your claim.
  •         Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible to begin the claims process.

Check your insurance policy to see if you are eligible to recover compensation for damage to your foundation and make your claim.

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Trees That Can Cause Foundation Wall Cracks

Trees That Can Cause Foundation Wall Cracks 

Are you planning your landscape? Trees provide great value to a landscape. However, they can also cause damage to your foundation. Planting trees close to your foundation can result in foundation wall cracks. However, does this mean that you should not have trees if you have a small lot? 

While most trees can damage a foundation when allowed to grow near the foundation, some trees are more prone to causing damage than others. These are the trees that you should avoid completely especially when you have a small lot. These trees have roots that grow fast and spread out. They, therefore, are more likely to cause foundation wall cracks. These trees include: 

1. Oak trees 

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The wide canopy of the oak tree makes it an attractive choice for a landscape. These trees are considered slow-growers. However, they can be massive when they reach maturity. These enormous trees require a large root system to support them. While they have a deep taproot, they also have lateral roots that grow horizontally in all directions. These lateral roots can be damaging to foundations. 

2. Ash trees 

Like oak trees, these trees also have a deep taproot as well as lateral roots that grow from the tap root. Their lateral roots spread far across the surface soil as well as the subsoil. These roots are large and can be especially damaging to foundation walls. 

3. Poplar trees 

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These trees have a rooting system that consists of both deep and shallow roots. The rooting system doesn’t grow well in compacted soils. The roots typically look for loose soils to grow. Foundations are therefore especially susceptible to damage from the roots of these trees. When the roots find any gaps or imperfections in your foundation, they will take advantage and move in. As the tree roots grow, they will widen the gaps resulting in wall cracks. 

4. Spruce trees 

Spruce trees have roots that prefer soils that are rich in humus. The rooting system is therefore often shallow. The roots of the Norway spruce for example cling to the surface of the soil and spread out wide. These trees also have a deep root that penetrates the deeper parts of the soil to provide support for the tree. These deeper roots don’t only grow down into the ground but also spread wide. Spruce trees can therefore cause damage from ground level and deep below the ground. 

If you have a small lot, avoid planting any of the trees listed above to protect your foundation. 

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6 Reasons Why Wall Cracks Appear

6 Reasons Why Wall Cracks Appear

Walls are more than just mere aesthetic features of a building, they provide invaluable support and protection for the structure and its occupants. Nonetheless, wall cracks can emerge over time which not only disrupts the look but may also be indicative of greater underlying issues. In this blog post, we will investigate the numerous causes of wall cracks.

  1. Settlement

Wall cracks are typically the result of the settlement, especially common in just-built properties. Settlement transpires when the soil beneath the foundation compacts or shifts, thus causing it to settle or shift too. As this base moves, so do the walls above and can therefore crack them as well.wall-cracks-stablwall-1

  1. Moisture

Moisture can be a primary factor in wall cracking. When it permeates the walls, it weakens their structure and eventually leads to cracks forming. This is especially true if you live in an area with high humidity or your bathroom/kitchen are prone to moisture exposure due to lack of proper ventilation or insulation.

  1. Temperature Changes

Temperature fluctuations can be particularly detrimental to walls, especially in areas with extreme weather. When the heat or cold alters, so do the materials making up your walls; this phenomenon causes cracks and fractures within them.

  1. Poor Quality Materials

The caliber of materials used in the walls plays a key role in wall cracking. If inferior materials are chosen or not installed properly, cracks will surface at some point down the line.wall-cracks-stablwall-2

  1. Structural Damage

Cracks in walls can be the result of structural damage to a building, particularly problems with its foundation. When this occurs, the structure may settle or move which will cause breaks and fractures in the wall’s surface. By inspecting for foundational issues first, you can prevent these cracks from occurring down the line and ensure your buildings are secure.

  1. Poor Design

Ultimately, structural design flaws can also be responsible for wall cracking. If the walls are not appropriately equipped to support the weight of a building or if there is an architectural defect, these walls may indeed fracture over time.

There are numerous possible causes for wall cracks such as moisture infiltration, structural fatigue, poor-quality materials, and more. If you notice any splits or crevices in your walls, it is imperative to look into the cause without delay to prevent further destruction. Talking with a specialist can help you understand what’s at play and determine the best course of action.

Contact the Professionals at StablWall Today! (866) 782-5955

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Foundation Repair in Charleston, NC

Questions Homeowners Should Ask for Successful Foundation Repair 

Questions Homeowners Should Ask for Successful Foundation Repair 

Do you have cracks in your foundation? It is easy to jump right to using a quick-fix method such as a crack injection for foundation repair when faced with an issue such as cracks in your foundation wall. Other homeowners will take it a step further and invest in carbon fiber repairs. While both of these are useful methods for dealing with cracks in foundations, they may not be effective for your particular solution when used on their own. In many cases, a combination of several foundation repair methods is required to address the issue effectively. 

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So how can you ensure effective foundation repair? The following are questions every homeowner should ask in order to identify the best repair solutions for their foundation. 

  1. How long has the crack been present? 

How long have you noticed the crack in the wall? When did you first notice it? Start by considering how long the crack has been in your foundation wall and if you have experienced any problems such as water seepage as a result of the crack.

2. Have you noticed any changes in the length or size of the crack? 

Take note of any changes you may notice with the crack. These changes will help to pinpoint the root cause of the cracking and help you find a comprehensive foundation repair solution. For example, does the crack close during the dry season and open during the rainy season? This could be a sign of the foundation walls bowing as a result of increased hydrostatic pressure from the surrounding soil during the rainy season. Keep an eye out for changes in the length and size of the crack. 

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3. Have there been any changes around your foundation?

Changes that have occurred on your landscape can cause disruption to the foundation. For example, have you had the soil near your foundation excavated for any reason? Have you had soil added around your foundation? Did you have plants or shrubs planted near your foundation? 

4. Have you had changes made to your foundation or house? 

Consider any changes that you have made to your foundation or house. Some changes can result in changes in the stress load on the foundation. For example, have you had an egress window installed in your basement? 

The answers to these questions will help the foundation repair contractor identify solutions to address cracking effectively and preserve your foundation. 

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Bowed Basement Walls and Spring Thaw

Bowed Basement Walls and Spring Thaw – 4 Tips to Prepare Your Home for Spring Thaw

It is a great relief for many when the weather begins to warm up after a brutally cold winter. Spring is a time of rebirth and is certainly one of the most beautiful times of the year. However, it is also one of the most dangerous times of the year for your foundation. 

Spring thaw can result in bowed basement walls and flooded basements.  As the snow melts, the water is absorbed into the soil. This increases the hydrostatic pressure acting against the basement walls. You may soon begin to notice that you have bowed basement walls or you may even experience a flooded basement.  The following are some tips to help you prepare your home for spring thaw in order to avoid flooding or bowed basement walls.

  1. Move the snow away from your foundation 

Has snow accumulated around your home? It’s never a good idea to allow snow to accumulate near your home. Grab a shovel or a snow blower and move the snow away from your home. Move it at least 6 feet away from the foundation to prevent water from being absorbed into the soil around the foundation when the snow melts.

2. Clear the snow on your roof 

Snow on the roof may give your home a festive look but it can be dangerous for your foundation. Not only is the added weight on your roof bad for the structure of your home, but the runoff from the molten snow can cause bowed basement walls when it is deposited near the foundation. Clear the roof of the snow and any debris such as leaves that could clog your gutters and downspouts. 

3. Install backflow valves if you haven’t already 

This is an emergency measure to protect your property from flooding in the event of the backup of the main sewer. Having backflow valves installed in your sewer lines will help to prevent sewage and wastewater from flowing back into your home and flooding your house.  Ensure that backflow valves are installed in sewer connections such as toilets and drains in the basement. 

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4. Check your sump pump 

Your sump pump is your last line of defense when snow begins to melt in spring. Your sump pump will help to ease hydrostatic pressure and prevent flooding by getting rid of excess water. The water from the soil will drain into the French drain and into the well where the sump pump will remove it. 

Use the tips above to prepare and protect your home from the spring thaw.   

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Major Benefits Of Using Carbon Fiber Repair

Major Benefits Of Using Carbon Fiber Repair

Carbon fiber is an excellent material to use when fixing basement wall cracks because it offers several advantages over traditional materials such as wood, steel, and masonry. Here are 5 reasons why:

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1. Carbon fiber reinforces the strength of basement walls by providing additional structural support. Its ability to absorb energy and spread load across multiple points makes it an ideal choice for repair applications.

2. Carbon fiber resists water damage better than other materials, making it a superior choice for basement wall repairs in areas that are prone to moisture and high hydrostatic pressure from the soil around the home. This can help protect your basement from further damage caused by water seepage and flooding.

3. Carbon fiber is lightweight and easy to install, saving time and money on repair costs. It is always best to hire a professional for the job.

4. Carbon fiber is durable and long lasting, so you can have peace of mind that your basement wall repairs will last for many years to come. Its non-corrosive properties also make it ideal for use in areas with high levels of moisture such as basements.

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 5. Carbon fiber offers superior protection against cracking under pressure compared to other materials, which makes it an excellent choice when repairing cracks due to hydrostatic pressure from soil and water around the home’s foundation. Carbon fiber is also affordable compared to more expensive materials, so you can feel confident knowing that your basement wall repairs are cost-effective.

In conclusion, carbon fiber is an ideal material to use when repairing basement wall cracks due to its strength, durability, water resistance, easy installation process, and affordability. Carbon fiber offer a simple and reliable solution for restoring the structural integrity of your home’s foundation and protecting it from further damage due to flooding or high hydrostatic pressure from soil. If you are looking for an effective way to fix basement wall cracks and restore the strength of your home’s walls, then carbon fiber is the way to go!

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Indicators Your Foundation Walls May Need Professional Attention

Indicators Your Foundation Walls May Need Professional Attention

Bowing basement walls are a major sign of foundation issues and should never be overlooked. Bowing not only affects the aesthetics  of your home, but can also compromise its structural integrity and even cause flooding. Bowing is usually connected to horizontal cracking as well, which further exacerbates the problem. If you notice any bowing in your basement walls, it’s important to have them inspected by a professional right away. Professional foundation repair technicians will assess the issue and provide an appropriate solution to fix your bowing basement wall before it leads to more significant problems down the road. They will also take preventative measures to ensure that no further damage is done. Don’t let bowing basement walls turn into major safety hazards or costly repairs – act fast and get the help you need. 

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If you’re in doubt about whether or not your bowing basement walls need professional attention, here are a few signs to watch out for:

– Bowing, bulging, leaning, or slanting walls

– Horizontal cracking on the foundation’s surface

– Foundation sinking and settling in certain areas of the home 

– Uneven floors or doors that stick when opened/closed 

– Water damage around windows and doors 

– Bowed ceilings or cracks in drywall or plasterboard 

If any of these issues sound familiar to you, it’s time to take action and get expert help. Contact your local foundation repair experts today for an inspection and to discuss possible solutions. Don’t let bowing basement walls be the source of further damage – get help now to protect your home and family. 

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Bowing walls can be a serious structural concern, so it’s important to make sure you’re taking action right away. Ignoring the problem can lead to costly repairs or even dangerous for your family down the line, so don’t delay in getting professional help! It’s better to act fast than wait until it turns into an expensive disaster. Contact your local foundation repair experts today for a consultation and get the peace of mind that comes with knowing your basement is safe and secure. Let them take care of the issue before it gets out of hand – you’ll be glad you did.   

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Common Foundation Repair Techniques

Common Foundation Repair Techniques

Foundation repair typically involves different types of methods to address the issue. Foundation underpinning can be used when a building’s foundation has settled unevenly or there is an excessive amount of soil movement. Foundation underpinning essentially  reinforces the existing foundation by either replacing it with deeper footings or adding new material such as concrete, steel, or timber piles. Foundation piering is also commonly used for repair and utilizes concrete piers that are driven deep into the ground beneath the affected area to support and stabilize it. Foundation wall repairs involve restoring cracked walls through a combination of interior reinforcement and exterior waterproofing. Foundation crack injections utilize polyurethane foam injected into the cracks to stop water from entering them. Lastly, slabjacking can be used to fill voids beneath a concrete slab and raise the settlement back up to the original level. Foundation repair is an important procedure that should be done correctly in order to ensure a safe and secure structure.

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No matter which foundation repair technique is used, it is important to hire a professional who has knowledge and experience in the field. A competent contractor can assess the situation properly and provide recommendations on the best course of action for repairing any existing damage. Foundation repairs should not be attempted by inexperienced individuals as this could lead to further structural damage or safety issues. Foundation repair is essential for keeping homes and businesses structurally sound, so it’s important to make sure you have an experienced team working on your project.

By following the correct protocol for foundation repair, you can ensure that your building’s foundation is properly stabilized and protected. Foundation repairs should be done in a timely manner to minimize any damage caused by an unstable structure. Foundation repairs do not have to be expensive, but they are a necessary part of maintaining a safe and secure home or business. Investing in proper foundation repair now can save you from costly repairs down the line. Choose the right professionals who will provide quality workmanship at  competitive prices and protect your investment for years to come. With the right team on board, you can trust that your foundations will remain stable and secure. Foundation repair is an important aspect of building maintenance and, when done correctly, can help keep your property in good condition for many years to come.  

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