Columbus, OH | StablWall

Are Your Foundation Walls Starting to Crack? Here are Solutions | Columbus, OH

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Foundation crack repair can be expensive. Whenever you’re dealing with something as important as the foundations of your house, you need to act fast, and it’s going to cost money.

But what a lot of people don’t realize is that a simple crack in say, the outer plaster, isn’t a cause for concern. So when should a foundation crack should worry you?

How wide?

The first test is to measure how wide the crack is; measure from the widest point of a crack with a simple tape measure.

If it’s any wider than 1/16 inch, you have to act. This is too wide and can let in both water and termites. If it’s smaller than this, simply monitor it over the course of a few months.

Even if it doesn’t reach this 1/16 inch limit, you should opt for repair if there’s any change in the width. It’s worrying even if a 1/32 inch crack turns into a 1/20 crack.

Columbus, OH | StablWall

Is it wet?

If a crack admits water, foundation crack repair is a necessity before it causes too much damage. It won’t take long for moisture to cause permanent damage to your home.

Moisture damage is one of the most common causes of serious foundation problems. You often can’t spot the extent of the internal damage. The only way to see it is to notice the wetness on the outside, where it admits water.

Grinding

Sometimes a crack’s faces can begin to grind against each other based on changes in the environment. Here are the two primary environmental changes that might influence this:

  • Temperature
  • Humidity

Check for these changes over a couple of seasons when you notice the first signs of a crack. If there’s no impact, the crack probably isn’t as serious as you think.

Should you repair minor cracks?

As you can see, it isn’t always necessary to act immediately. Minor cracks can be monitored to see how they change over time.

We still recommend taking care of cracks as soon as possible, though. The reason for this is it’s always cheaper to solve the problem as soon as you notice it. The cost of repair goes up every time the crack grows in severity.

Furthermore, solving the problem early ensures that the damage to your home’s foundations is minimal. Too many people have waited and the problem has cost them thousands in repairs. Don’t be one of them. Get help from a foundation repair expert today!

Philadelphia, PA | StablWall

Are Your Walls Cracking? Here’s What Can Help | Philadelphia, PA

Posted by StablWall Structural Strengthening System on

 

Foundation walls whether constructed from brick, masonry block or poured concrete are built to withstand a lot of pressure. However, just like with anything else man-made, they have a limit to the abuse they can take.

Foundation walls are designed to withstand vertical pressure from the buildings placed above them. They can withstand a horizontal pressure to a certain degree. Soil pressure works horizontally against the external surface of the foundation wall. When the soil pressure exceeds the limits of resistance of the foundation wall, the wall can be severely damaged.

Pressure from the surrounding soil causes horizontal movement of the foundation walls. The movement is manifested as cracking walls. The cracks can lead to water seepage as well as above grade damage if not attended to.

Repairing Cracking Walls

Often times, cracking is a sign of a much deeper problem. Although many DIY kits are now available in the market to help repair cracks, foundation experts advise against using these kits. This is because the kits do not address the underlying cause of the cracks.

The method used to repair a cracked foundation will depend on the amount of movement the wall has experienced. Repair for minimal movement often involves the use of a restraint system such as steel braces or carbon fiber strips. Significant movement calls for the straightening of the wall.

Philadelphia, PA | StablWall

When wall straightening is called for

Foundation experts will examine your walls to determine whether straightening is required. The signs they look for will depend on the type of foundation wall you have.

  1. Concrete block and brick foundations

These walls may require straightening much sooner than poured concrete walls. This is because they are built from pieces that are joined together. This presents several points of weakness. Cracks on these walls appear stair-like. Foundation experts will opt to straighten these walls if they move more than 1 inch laterally or 2 and a half inches inward.

  1. Poured concrete foundations

These foundations are much stronger than most. However, they can still be damaged by lateral pressure from the soil. Foundation experts often opt to straighten these walls when they have moved inward more than 30% of the thickness of the wall e.g. a 10-inch thick wall would be considered for straightening if it had moved 3 inches inward.

If you notice cracking on your foundation wall, get in touch with a professional foundation repair contractor. This will ensure that you’re provided with a lasting solution.

4 Types of Basement Wall Cracks and What They Mean | Indianapolis, IN

Posted by StablWall Structural Strengthening System on

Basement walls, just like other types of constructions, may develop cracks. Some cracks may develop soon after the construction work has been completed while others will occur after several years.

Some cracks arise as a result of the settling or sinking of the concrete in the ground and are therefore nothing to worry about. However, some types of cracks may be severe in that they indicate serious flaws in the foundation of the basement or any other type of structure. Such cracks need to be attended to as quickly as possible.

Cracks vary in terms of their orientation and the location in which they appear. In this piece, you will learn about 4 types of basement wall cracks and what they mean for your basement.

  1. Vertical cracks

Vertical cracks are likely to develop as the concrete of the basement walls shrinks in the process of curing. Such cracking generally doesn’t impact the structural integrity of the basement wall. However, the cracks can cause moisture to enter the basement if the basement’s walls are not waterproofed. Thus, even though you don’t have to worry about vertical cracks affecting the structural integrity of your basement walls, you still have to repair these cracks to address moisture issues.

Foundation Repair | Indianapolis, IN

  1. Diagonal cracks

There are numerous types of basement wall cracks that have a diagonal orientation. For instance, a crack may begin at the top of the basement and spread diagonally downwards. As well, a diagonal crack may appear at any spot on the basement wall, appearing wider at the top and narrower at the bottom. Also, you may spot a diagonal crack at the corner of a window or a door.

Diagonal cracks are caused by various factors including uneven settling of the foundation concrete and concrete shrinkage.

  1. Stair-step shaped cracks

Stair-step shaped cracks are comparable in appearance to diagonal cracks save for the fact that the cracks occur in the mortar joints of block and brick walls. When these types of cracks occur in the wall of a basement, they indicate that there are problems in the foundation of the basement.

  1. Horizontal cracks

Horizontal cracks suggest serious structural flaws in the basement foundation. They indicate that the foundation is unable to sustain the pressure of the wall or may be caused by external forces such as the movement of heavy equipment.

What to do when you see basement wall cracks

It advisable to let a certified contractor inspect your basement in order to determine the cause as well as the possible impact of different types of basement wall cracks.

 

Cleveland, OH | StablWall | Carbon Fiber

Will the Carbon Fiber Foundation Repair Be Visible? | Cleveland, OH

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Will the Carbon Fiber Foundation Repair Be Visible?

When homeowners are seeking foundation repair solutions, one of the questions on their minds is whether the foundation repair will be visible afterward. Carbon fiber foundation repair has grown in popularity over the years for various reasons. Primary amongst this is that the repair is not obvious when completed.

Practically invisible

Carbon fiber foundation repair is a great choice for foundation stabilization for many reasons.

  • Carbon fiber straps lay flat to the wall

StablWall | Cleveland, OH

The straps are fixed onto the wall. They are practically part of the wall. This ensures that you can finish the wall in any way you like, including installing wall panels or drywall over the wall.

  • This repair is non-obtrusive

One of the main disadvantages of stabilizing the wall using steel I-beams is that these beams are installed into the floor to provide support for the wall. You will therefore have to sacrifice some of your floor space for the steel beams.

Carbon fiber on the other hand is installed onto the wall. The straps or strips won’t take up any of your floor space. You can therefore enjoy the benefit of having the entire basement floor available for any plan you may have.

  • The surface is ready for bonding

You won’t have to carry out any special preparation for the carbon fiber straps in order to bond your finish of choice to it. Carbon fiber straps offer ready surfaces for whatever finish you prefer. This reduces the time and cost for finishing your basement.

  • They can be installed on curved walls

Carbon fiber foundation repair is especially beneficial if you have curved walls in your basement. These straps and strips can conform to curved surfaces. You can therefore have them installed to any curved wall without compromising the aesthetic value of the architectural design.

  • They can be painted over

If you need to paint over the carbon fiber straps to achieve a smooth clean look, you can do so without any worries. The straps and strips provide a surface that can be treated just as your walls. No special preparation is required. The result will be a smooth finish that ensures that no one will suspect that you invested in foundation repair at any point in time.

Carbon fiber repair certainly is superior to other foundation repair options. However, it is important to talk to a professional contractor to ensure that it is the right option for you.

 

Everyday Items Made of Carbon Fiber | Columbus, OH

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Carbon fiber is super lightweight and strong. It is actually the strongest man-made material in the world and can be woven into fabric sheets or melted down into a mold to make all sorts of products. It has become more common with the mass production at large manufacturing plants making it more affordable to use.

Airplanes

The aerospace industry has been using carbon fiber for years in airplane manufacturing, including on wings. It is perfect for airplanes considering its strength, durability and light weight. For people who don’t know anything about carbon fiber, imagining a material that is used to make airplane wings helps them understand just how strong and light it is.

 Columbus, OH | StablWall

Sports and Safety Equipment

Because of its indestructible qualities and lightweight it is used to make helmets and other sports equipment. There are even carbon fiber running shoes and hardhats now. Kevlar is molded carbon fiber. It is the same components just melted down added to a resin and molded into different products. Bullet proof vests, face masks, and other serious safety equipment is often made of Kevlar carbon fiber.

Novelty Items

Manufacturers are coming out with an array of novelty products using carbon fiber. Carbon fiber novelty items include everything from iPhone covers to toilet seats. The novelty items are frivolous because most of the items like jewelry, goggles and mouse pads don’t need to be ultra-lightweight and indestructible. Just the fact that they are made of carbon fiber makes them more expensive and a new kind of luxurious.

New Cars

Car manufacturers are designing new cars with carbon fiber composites to make the cars and trucks lighter and more crash resistant. The lightweight will actually increase fuel efficiency on cars and trucks with carbon fiber parts.

Foundation Repair Products

The basement waterproofing and foundation repair industry actually uses carbon fiber to repair foundation walls, bowing or bulging block walls and foundation cracks. Carbon fiber in the basement actually is an alternative to steel I-beams systems and other heavy repair techniques. It reduces labor costs because carbon fiber is so lightweight and reduces the maintenance because it is so strong. Once they repair the foundation with carbon fiber it is done.

Philadelphia, PA | StablWall

How Foundations Change During Winter Weather | Philadelphia, PA

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Freezing weather may be taking a toll on your foundation. Concrete poured foundations and block wall foundations are affected by freeze-thaw cycles. Concrete expands as it freezes and contracts as it thaws. Same goes for the ground around the foundation changing the pressure in the soil. As the concrete expands and contracts it tends to crack. This is why expansion joints and control joint were created. Control joints give the concrete a place to crack and expansion joints give the concrete some space to expand.

Philadelphia, PA | StablWall

Even though concrete is still one of the strongest and most versatile building materials it is still not perfect. The weather can also impact concrete during the construction process. Pouring concrete in extreme weather can affect how it cures and therefore the concrete’s overall strength in the end. Concrete is made with water. So, if concrete is poured in freezing weather that water in the mix can freeze. If it freezes it produces pressure in the pours of the concrete and can ultimately cause cracking, spilling, and the cured concrete to crumb off. The Portland Cement Association has developed deicers and recommends techniques for pouring concrete in cold temperatures but it is still not the best practice.

Masonry walls are not immune to the negative affects cold weather has on a poured foundation. Even though they don’t have to cure out in the elements they still expand and contract with freeze-thaw cycles. Cinder blocks are porous by nature and if they get wet and stay wet for too long freeze-thaw damage can occur. This issue is more common in retrofits and basement remodels. Commonly modern energy efficient remodels typically add interior insulation causing the exterior masonry to stay colder and wetter. The water staying in the block wall can cause potentially more freeze-thaw damage. For more information see the Portland Cement Association research on cold weather concrete. Also take a look at how StablWall products can help prevent and treat damage to walls and more here!

Potential Causes of a Failing Foundation | Cleveland, OH

Posted by StablWall Structural Strengthening System on

Foundation wall repair  becomes more and more of an issue the older your foundation becomes, and with so many aging foundations in many areas throughout the U.S., it’s no surprise many homeowners are turning to more and more solutions for their failing foundations.

But what causes a foundation’s structure to fail over time? Water is actually an important piece in the puzzle when it comes to structural foundation damage. Below we will go over some scenarios in which the structural integrity of your home may be affected over time.

Cleveland, OH | StablWall

1. Addition of water to the surrounding soil. Soil expansion can be attributed many foundation problems, including cracking along the mortar joints, horizontal cracking, and walls bowing inward. These are considered potential serious structural risks, and should be addressed immediately.

2. Subtraction of water form the surrounding soil. In some cases, a home’s foundation can be damaged by over-settling due to water leaving the soil around the home. This over-settling can large cracks in the concrete floor slab, as well as large diagonal cracks near the corners of your foundation.

3. Poor construction. Sometimes, a home is built upon soil that was poorly compacted, setting the home up for continued foundation troubles for decades to come.   Poor wall construction methods and materials can also contribute to ongoing structural damage.

The earlier you can identify and resolve a structural foundation issue, the better. For the most part, the problem will only become worse, forcing you to pay for more expensive repair solutions or worse–a total wall rebuild. If you have any questions about your foundation wall repair options, feel free to contact us! (866.782.5955)

Foundation Cracks | Columbus, OH | StablWall

Are Cracked Bricks A Sign You Need Foundation Repair? Atlanta, GA

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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.

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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.

Wall Cracks | Atlanta, GA | StablWall

5 Reasons You Should Invest in Foundation Wall Repair – New York, NY

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People understand the metaphors about the necessity of a strong foundation; however, when the literal foundation of a house may be compromised they question if it is worth fixing. There is a reason the metaphors make sense. Your foundation is literally the most important part of the house. Without a strong foundation, the whole structural integrity of the house could be compromised. While investing in foundation repair may not be a fun remodel, it is definitely necessary. Here are five reasons why you should invest in foundation wall repair.

1.) It is dangerous to ignore it

Foundation problems can lead to foundation failure. Yes, while some cracks and foundation issues are slow moving, if you never solve the issues they will get worse. As the problem gets worse, it will cost more money to fix. If the damage is extensive enough it may need to be completely rebuilt. Ignoring foundation damage will become increasingly more dangerous and could completely collapse resulting in major repairs to your entire home.

2.) It impacts the resale value of your home

You may have a great house but if you have foundation problems, it is going to be hard to sell. If you ever want to sell your house, you will have to either take a major loss on the house or fix the foundation. Most of the time the buyer will force the seller to repair the foundation before a deal is finalized. While the laws vary state to state, most places have strict laws about sales disclosures and the condition of the foundation is definitely an item on the disclosure form. If you don’t disclose a problem it can turn into a costly lawsuit or at least blow the sale.

3.) The problems will not go away on their own

Foundation problems will not fix themselves and it isn’t safe for a homeowner to do it themselves. They don’t have the right tools or the right experience to have a foundation repair job. Homeowners need to call a professional. A professional’s repairs will be certified. A home inspector will know the difference between a professional job and a DIY foundation repair and it will impact the value of your home.

4.) The issues don’t stop with the foundation

If you have need foundation repair then you probably have cracks in the foundation. If you have foundation cracks, you most likely have water issues, too. If you have water issues, you most likely have mold and mildew issues. If you have mold then you probably have indoor air quality issues. Foundation cracks could also be letting in radon and other dangerous soil gases. Basically, you need to understand that foundation cracks are actually causing your families health and breathing problems or even worse, lung cancer if you have a radon problem that you don’t know about.

5.) Fixing the foundation will fix your house

If you are in need of foundation repairs, you have probably been living with windows and doors that stick, unsightly cracks in your walls upstairs, or gaps around doors and windows letting in serious drafts or even rodents and insects. Your chimney could be leaning, tilting or even cracked. The bricks on your house could be cracked or with cracks in the mortar joints. These are just symptoms of foundation and settlement issues. You need to fix the foundation to permanently fix these issues. If you try to fix these issues before you fix the real cause you will end up refixing the same problems over and over again.

Overall, the health of your foundation impacts your whole house and the health of the home environment. The foundation should be treated and maintained as the important part of the home that it is. Don’t ignore foundation repairs. Don’t wait for it to turn into an emergency. Invest in the foundation repairs your home needs sooner than later.

Wall Cracks | Atlanta, GA | StablWall

Wall Cracks – What You Need To Know About Foundation Failure – Chicago, IL

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There are many misconceptions about basement wall cracks. One of the biggest is that they are a sign of foundation failure and that means they cannot be repaired. This myth is a result of misinformation. If you’re a homeowner and have spotted some cracks on the walls of your basement, here are a few things you should know.

  1. Your soil has a lot to do with it

In many cases, soil is responsible for foundation failure. It’s important to consider the characteristics of the soil surrounding your foundation before embarking on repair. This includes considering the soil type and characteristics like:

  • Elasticity
  • Expansion
  • Plasticity

A reputable foundation repair company will be able to identify the type of soil on your property and provide a solution that will deal with any problems the soil presents.

  1. Water is your biggest enemy

If your soil is involved in causing the wall cracks, it isn’t acting on its own. Changes in soil volume that cause pressure to be applied on foundation walls are the result of water retention. Soil particles expand when they take up water. This results in pressure being exerted against the wall.

The opposite happens when soil particles loose water through evaporation during the dry season. The particles shrink and the soil contracts. This results in a gap being formed between the soil and the foundation wall. The foundation wall loses its support and cracks form.

Sources of water should be identified and dealt with to prevent extreme expanding and contracting of soil.

  1. Foundations and constantly moving

Many people imagine that foundations are immovable masses. The truth is your foundation is constantly moving. This is a result of changing moisture levels in the concrete itself as well as in the soil surrounding the foundation. Regulating moisture levels in soil is therefore important to avoid extreme shifts in the foundation.

  1. Cracks don’t always show where the problem is

Most home owners think that wall cracks are an indication of where the problem with the foundation is. In most cases, foundation failure occurs in a different part of the foundation. The crack is only an indication of the weakest point in the foundation. Therefore, sealing the crack will not solve the problem. The root cause of foundation failure must be determined and addressed. To do so, contact your local basement waterproofing company.

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