Different Methods of Foundation Repair
An issue with many foundation repair methods is that they take a long time to set up, but that's not the case with high-density foam.
Every home needs a solid foundation. It forms the structure's base, supporting the entire home that sits above. But, over time, little weaknesses can emerge in even the strongest foundations. And when that happens, prompt repair is essential.
This guide will look at some of the most common types of foundation repair.
Steel piers
The steel piers method installs long steel poles beneath the foundation for stabilization. Cost-wise, this is one of the most expensive forms of foundation repair. But strength-wise, it's among the very best. Steel piers can offer decades of support and stability, holding up even the heaviest homes.
Concrete piers
Concrete piers are similar to steel piers, only they're made of concrete. They can be poured deep below the home, providing a solid set of supports to hold up the structure, even if the original foundation is cracked or weakened. They're cheaper than steel piers but take a long time and lots of work to install.
Segmented piers
Segmented or pressed concrete piers are smaller than traditional concrete piers. They're cheaper and faster to install but don't go as deep into the ground. So, they won't provide the same levels of stability or strength. This makes them best suited for those with smaller homes and budgets.
Spot piers
Spot piers are even smaller than segmented piers, and they're designed to support small structures or parts of the home – examples include porches or patios. A benefit of spot piers is that one can insert them into hand-dug holes, so they're super speedy to set up but lack the strength needed for whole-home support.
Helical piers
Helical piers are steel piers formed in helix shapes, like screws. They drive into the soil, working well in sandy soil and deep bedrock. They can provide immediate support for a home with a poor foundation but require a time-consuming and expensive installation.
High-density polyurethane foam
An issue with many foundation repair methods is that they take a long time to set up, but that's not the case with high-density foam. This foam is often favored for emergency repairs thanks to its speedy installation. It involves inserting a layer of foam to raise parts of the foundation, but it's only a temporary fix, not a long-term one.
Masonry patches
Like high-density foam, masonry patches are a temporary rather than long-term fix for foundation issues. They can seal cracks, provide extra stability, and prevent further damage while the homeowner decides on an appropriate long-term repair method.
Contact the pros for foundation repair
There are multiple methods to fix a faulty foundation. But this kind of repair isn't something that homeowners should attempt alone. For expert advice and safe, reliable repairs, always contact the pros if you spot any signs of foundation damage.
Accurate Builders of the Chesapeake provide foundation, basement, and crawlspace installation and repair for the greater Baltimore area homeowners.
