Foundation repair is a common problem faced by homeowners, as foundations are the primary structural element of any building. The most common type of foundation repair is concrete slab settlement. It occurs when the soil underneath a slab foundation shifts or settles and causes the slab to move down with it, resulting in cracks and other signs of damage that can lead to costly repairs. Concrete slab settlement can be caused by various factors, such as changes in moisture levels due to drought or excessive rain, expansive clay soils, poor drainage systems, and inadequate compaction during construction. As the soil underneath a concrete slab expands or contracts due to these external forces, it often results in stress on the concrete, which can cause cracking, displacement, and other forms of damage.
To repair a damaged concrete slab foundation due to settlement, homeowners have several options available depending on the severity of the situation. One of the most common solutions is “mud jacking” or “slabjacking.” It involves drilling small holes through the existing concrete slab and pumping a mixture of grout or cement beneath it to raise and level out uneven areas. This method is economical for homeowners to restore their slabs to their original shape without having to replace them entirely. Another popular option for foundation repair is installing underpinning piers underneath the existing slab. These piers are installed deep into the ground at locations determined by an engineer who performs an assessment based on soil type and other factors affecting the stability of the structure’s foundation. They provide support from below by transferring weight away from weak points to preserve structural integrity over time. Steel push piers are commonly used for this purpose since they are strong enough to hold up against pressure applied by large buildings or homes with multiple stories above them.
Finally, helical piers, also known as helical anchors, can be used as an alternative method for repairing foundations due to the settling soils beneath them. Unlike steel push piers, these helical anchors use screw-like devices that are screwed into stable soil many feet below grade until they reach load bearing stratum, where they can transfer load safely away from unstable soils above it, providing a long-term stabilization solution for your home’s foundation system. The most effective approach to repairing foundation damage will vary depending on individual circumstances; however; these three methods – mud jacking/slabjacking; steel push pier installation; and helical pier installation – remain among some of the more popular solutions available today for addressing issues resulting from settling concrete slabs and other forms of foundational distress caused by changing moisture levels or expanding/contracting soils beneath them. Furthermore, each method has benefits ranging from cost-effectiveness (e.g., mud jacking)to ensuring proper stability over time (e.g., helical piers). That being said, regardless of choice, it’s always best to consult with a qualified professional who specializes in this field so that you get an accurate assessment before deciding which course of action to take moving forward.
