If it’s time for foundation crack repair in Indiana, don’t make that call! The longer you ignore cracks, chips, rusted rebar, and other damage, the worse. Additionally, your property might soon suffer secondary issues, including wall cracks, framing wood rot, mold, and more.
Knowing more about standard foundation repair methods can make it easier to call a contractor. In addition, you can understand what to expect regarding needed fixes and why they’re so vital. With this in mind, check out five common foundation crack repair methods a contractor might recommend for your property.
Epoxy injections fix minor cracks along a property’s foundation. A contractor will typically clean the crack and chisel away any loose materials. Next, they inject the epoxy deep into the crack, where it expands and hardens. This fills the crack and offers added support against future damage.
A contractor might address moderate gaps with heavy-duty staples to hold concrete slabs together. Also, your contractor might attach carbon fiber straps to those concrete walls, especially if they’re starting to sag.
As with everyday staples, foundation repair staples keep two concrete pieces from separating. They also help close a crack, keeping out added moisture. Carbon fiber straps do the same while pushing bowing walls back into place. These are incredibly excellent for basement walls.
Shims are wedge-shaped wood pieces that a contractor will push between damaged piers and a structure’s foundation beams. These shims help push that structure back into place, closing cracks simultaneously. They also help keep that structure level and even alleviate weight and pressure on the piers.
Slab jacking, also called mud jacking or house leveling, involves injecting a slurry underneath a structure. This slurry floats the structure back into position. As it does, this process closes cracks along the foundation. The slurry also adds strength to the structure, keeping it in position.
Underpinning uses large pins or screws sunk deep into the ground. These pins attach to a foundation with brackets near their top. In turn, these pins close cracks along the foundation and elsewhere. They also keep the foundation from sinking and settling.
The short answer is yes, all foundation crack repair is worth the cost! A damaged or weak foundation allows a structure to sink and settle, risking even more cracks. This includes damage along the structure’s roof, walls, ceilings, chimney stack, and floors. This sinking even pulls on plumbing fixtures, risking leaks.
Also, foundation cracks let in moisture which framing wood eventually absorbs. This leads to cracks and other damage, as well as mold growth. That moisture also risks mildew and musty odors throughout your property. It can even attract insects and rodents!
Lastly, note that foundation damage affects property values. In some cases, your property might not pass an inspection. Consequently, you might struggle to sell it or secure loans based on its equity. That damage is also likely to get worse the longer it’s ignored, as said.
Regular inspections can alert property owners of needed foundation fixes. Also, don’t overlook cracks around windows, door frames, or interior ceilings. These cracks can also appear on exterior walls and chimney stacks. You might also notice doors and windows starting to stick or doors opening independently.
Additionally, uneven floors often signal a damaged, sinking foundation. Standing water or excess dampness in basements can also mean cracks letting in moisture. You might also notice persistent home plumbing issues, including water leaks and clogs.
Moreover, schedule a foundation inspection if it’s been at least three years since the last check! It’s also vital to regularly schedule inspections the older your property. An inspector can spot damage deep in foundation concrete and then explain your options for needed fixes.
South Bend Basement & Foundation Repair is happy to share this information about foundation crack repair in Indiana. Hopefully, you’ve found it helpful and valuable. Call our Indiana foundation repair contractors if you’re in the market for expert services. We offer FREE foundation inspections and repair price quotes, with guaranteed benefits. Additionally, we use only the highest-quality materials for your needed repairs. For more information, give us a call today.