Foundation Repairs – When It Appears You Need Some Piers
No matter what type of buildings you manage, foundations play a vital role in maintaining the integrity of your property. Unfortunately, prolonged dry weather can cause the soil beneath a concrete slab to erode or shrink, creating voids. This lack of support for the structure above will become evident as the foundation begins to sink or settle. Conversely, too much rain or poor drainage will result in saturated soil and this hydrostatic pressure can also cause a foundation to crack or shift.
Whether it’s from excessive drought or water, tell-tale cracks aren’t the only indicators of foundation issues. Walls that bow or lean and uneven, sloping floors also tell the story. You may see an increase in work orders from residents or tenants about challenges with sticking doors and windows.
The good news is there are structural engineers who specialize in foundation repair solutions. While these experts have many tools at their disposal, there are two types of piers that are most commonly installed—steel push piers or helical piers.
Steel push piers are driven into the ground, anchoring in stable soil deep below the surface. Once the push piers are in place, the weight of the structure is transferred onto them and lifted back into its original position. Helical piers work in much the same manner except they are screwed into the ground to provide support and stability. Because helical piers can be installed in small spaces, they are ideal for most every foundation situation.
If you’re experiencing issues with your foundations and are ready to contact a foundation repair company, here are some things you might add to your list of questions:
· Will they provide references from other commercial managers/owners?
· Do they have a structural engineer on staff?
· How many years have they been in business?
· Are they fully insured?
· What type of warranty is provided?
· What is their current timeline?
· Are they landscape friendly?
· Are they respectful of resident/tenants?
Left unchecked, structural issues can become more than an annoyance. Unstable structures can be hazardous to those who live and work in your buildings. Enlisting the help of a professional foundation repair company sooner rather than later may save you more extensive repairs.
