There are several methods for repairing a cracked or caving foundation. Some methods are more effective or expensive than others. Comparing the different foundation repair methods allows a home or business owner to choose the proper method for her repair needs and budget. Does this Spark an idea?
Bell-Bottom Method
The advantages of the bell-bottom pier method of foundation repair significantly outweigh the disadvantages, making this method the preferred method of the Dawson Foundation Repair company of Texas. This method consists of steel rebar-reinforced piers, approximately eight to 15 feet long, structured underneath the existing foundation of the building. The shaft of the pier is several inches thinner than the base, giving the bell bottom method its name. The steel rebar pieces keep the pier from breaking apart, in addition to the other safety features designed for each pier. This method requires the most drying time, more material, more expense and creates significant problems when improperly constructed.
Pressed Piling Methods
There are more disadvantages in the pressed piling method of foundation repair than advantages. This is due to the method in which the pilings are installed and the fact that no steel rebar reinforcements are included. The pilings are driven into the ground by the weight of the house and often become misaligned, broken and even sink too low to offer support. The pressed piling method does not take as long to complete because there's no need to wait for concrete to dry.
Pressed Piling Inserts
Numerous problems with the pressed piling repair method instituted the need to update the method to eliminate some of the disadvantages. One of the variations of the pressed piling method is the pressed piling with inserts method. With this variation, misalignment is prevented because a cable or rebar is inserted along with the slabs. This method variation still has several disadvantages because the slabs are still driven by the weight of the house and may become misaligned if a tree root or rock disturbs the straight, weight driving of the slabs.
Steel Piling Method
Another cost-effective and time-effective method of foundation repair is steel piling. Steel piling is driven into the ground by the weight of the house. Though the steel pilings are able to reach larger depths, numerous disadvantages often occur--including bending and misalignment.
Slabjacking
The slabjacking method of foundation repair requires the pumping of cement slurry underneath the concrete foundation of the building to lift the foundation back into the proper position. This repair method prevents water-related problems from water in cracks of the foundation and is very cost-effective, though not always suitable for all building types and repair needs.
Tags: foundation repair, method foundation, method foundation repair, pressed piling, piling method, pressed piling method
