Bowing Walls: What Do I Do? Columbus, OH

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Bowed basement walls result from too much pressure pushing up against basement walls. The pressure can build up from any number of factors including heavy rain, poor drainage in the soils surrounding the basement walls, buildup of underground water or inadequate grading of the basement walls.

When soil absorbs water, it expands. The same applies to the soil surrounding your basement walls. The expanding soil therefore presses against the foundation walls resulting in the buildup of pressure on the walls.

If the pressure continues unchecked, the walls will begin to cave in. Damage on the walls may begin as a horizontal crack or a leak in the foundation joints. If the problem is left unaddressed, the walls will begin to bow inward. These walls will eventually collapse causing your home to become unstable.

What You Shouldn’t Do

First of all, it is important to remember that fixing bowed walls is not a ’Do-It-Yourself’ job. It is something that you ought to leave to a professional foundation repair contractor. A professional will have the right training, skills, experience and equipment to repair bowing walls.

Trying to fix your own walls is dangerous and may end in a catastrophe for you and your home. Professionals are trained and understand the safety measures to take to ensure that there are no accidents.

It is also important to remember that quick fixes will not address the underlying problem with your foundation. So ensure that you have a long-term solution to save your foundation and your home. Applying quick fixes will only result in a more expensive problem as the damage continues to get worse.

What You Should Do

If you notice that you have bowing walls, contact a professional foundation repair contractor in your area as soon as possible. The contractor will come to your home and inspect the foundation walls. Then he will provide you with an estimate of how much it would cost to repair the wall.

Avoid using a contractor who gives you a quotation for the job without examining your foundation. A thorough examination of the foundation is the only way to identify the underlying problem and determine the best solution for the basement wall repair.

It is important to begin your search for foundation repair contractors as early as possible. This will ensure that you can shop around and compare prices and services. You will find a reliable contractor when you have enough time to look for one.

Wall Cracks | Atlanta, GA | StablWall

Common Misconceptions about Foundation Cracks – Toledo, OH

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If you’ve spotted some foundation cracks, you’re probably searching the internet for more information about them and what you should do. It is not uncommon to come across misleading information.

As a homeowner, you’re not expected to know or understand all the information about foundation cracks that you come across. However, it is important to verify this information. Taking action on misleading information can result in damage that could be even more expensive to repair.

The following are common misconceptions that you should avoid when it comes to the repair of cracks in foundations:

  • Cracks originate from problems that occurred when laying the foundation

Although some cracks are caused by problems that originated during the construction phase, some cracks are caused by problems that occur underneath the foundation. The condition of the soil that surrounds the foundation plays a major role in determining the health of the foundation. It is therefore important to ensure that this soil is healthy and able to support your foundation.

  • You can use hi-tech sealants to permanently fix cracks in foundations

Modern sealants made of polyurethane or epoxy are quite effective in sealing foundation cracks. They are strong and flexible. They do a great job for patchwork but aren’t a permanent solution for foundation cracks.

Cracks in the foundation are often a sign of a deeper problem. If the issue that caused the cracks in the first place is not addressed, then further damage to your foundation will occur. In some cases, the damage may be worse than the cracks you fixed with the sealant.

  • It’s better to replace a damaged foundation than to repair it

Unsuspecting homeowners may be tricked by unscrupulous contractors into replacing their foundations instead of repairing them. They are under the misguided notion that replacing, although more expensive, is a long lasting solution.

A truly experienced contractor will tell you that this isn’t always the best solution. As mentioned previously, it is important to determine the underlying cause of foundation damage before determining what solution to apply.

Replacing the damaged foundation may not always solve the problem. You’re just placing a new foundation that will likely suffer the same fate as the old one.

  • You can ignore small cracks in a concrete foundation

It is true that concrete cracks as it settles. However, small cracks in foundations can result in more serious problems as they allow water to seep through. Any and all foundation cracks ought to be inspected by a professional to ensure that the underlying cause is identified.

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Why Carbon Fiber is the Best Solution for Cracking Basement Walls – Lexington, KY

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When the soil surrounding your foundation is saturated with water, it can exert a lot of pressure on the walls of your foundation. The pressure can result in cracking basement walls. Cracks in foundation walls can result in the destabilization of the entire structure of your home. If you want to ensure that your home is safe you will need to ensure that your foundation is repaired quickly.

One common method of repairing foundations today is by applying carbon fiber in the form of strips or grids. Carbon fiber is a common choice in foundation repair because it makes repair easy as well as more affordable for home owners.

What is carbon fiber?

Carbon fiber is formed from nylon fiber. The nylon fiber is baked at 3000 degrees. The result is a change in its chemical structure to a much stronger compound i.e. carbon fiber. The carbon fiber is extremely strong for its weight. The resulting strands of carbon can be woven together or placed parallel to each to produce an exceptionally strong material that can be used for construction.

Carbon fiber has undergone various tests to prove its strength. It has been proven to be 10 times stronger than steel when under tension.

Reasons to use carbon fiber for cracking basement walls
  • Non-invasive installation

If you don’t want to have holes in your basement walls, then carbon fiber is the best solution for you. The installation of carbon fiber strips is always non-invasive. It involves the use of an epoxy adhesive that does not contain VOCs. You therefore don’t have to leave your home to get away from dangerous fumes or the noise of the construction. It is a completely safe and quick solution.

  • High tensile strength

Carbon fiber has one of the highest tensile strengths amongst construction materials available today. It will not break even under very high tension. This characteristic is especially important when it comes to the repair of cracked foundation walls. You need a material that will not crack, break or stretch under the pressure from the surrounding soils.

  • Long lasting solution

The carbon fiber straps are a long term solution for cracking basement walls. They will not rust even when exposed to high moisture levels. They also will not deteriorate. This is the perfect solution for those looking for a quick and affordable way to repair cracks in their basement walls.

Wall Cracks | Atlanta, GA | StablWall

Wall Cracks – What You Need To Know About Foundation Failure – Chicago, IL

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There are many misconceptions about basement wall cracks. One of the biggest is that they are a sign of foundation failure and that means they cannot be repaired. This myth is a result of misinformation. If you’re a homeowner and have spotted some cracks on the walls of your basement, here are a few things you should know.

  1. Your soil has a lot to do with it

In many cases, soil is responsible for foundation failure. It’s important to consider the characteristics of the soil surrounding your foundation before embarking on repair. This includes considering the soil type and characteristics like:

  • Elasticity
  • Expansion
  • Plasticity

A reputable foundation repair company will be able to identify the type of soil on your property and provide a solution that will deal with any problems the soil presents.

  1. Water is your biggest enemy

If your soil is involved in causing the wall cracks, it isn’t acting on its own. Changes in soil volume that cause pressure to be applied on foundation walls are the result of water retention. Soil particles expand when they take up water. This results in pressure being exerted against the wall.

The opposite happens when soil particles loose water through evaporation during the dry season. The particles shrink and the soil contracts. This results in a gap being formed between the soil and the foundation wall. The foundation wall loses its support and cracks form.

Sources of water should be identified and dealt with to prevent extreme expanding and contracting of soil.

  1. Foundations and constantly moving

Many people imagine that foundations are immovable masses. The truth is your foundation is constantly moving. This is a result of changing moisture levels in the concrete itself as well as in the soil surrounding the foundation. Regulating moisture levels in soil is therefore important to avoid extreme shifts in the foundation.

  1. Cracks don’t always show where the problem is

Most home owners think that wall cracks are an indication of where the problem with the foundation is. In most cases, foundation failure occurs in a different part of the foundation. The crack is only an indication of the weakest point in the foundation. Therefore, sealing the crack will not solve the problem. The root cause of foundation failure must be determined and addressed. To do so, contact your local basement waterproofing company.

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Wall Cracks | Atlanta, GA | StablWall

4 Signs Your Foundation Needs Help – Louisville, KY

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You may have just begun to notice cracking and shifting along your foundation walls, or perhaps they’ve been there for a little while and you’ve simply let them go. Either way, your foundation is an incredibly important and purposeful part of your home.

Below is a short list of 4 signs your foundation needs some professional attention. Taking action early will ensure your foundation stays safe and sturdy, for good.

  1. Cracks in the Drywall Upstairs. Drywall cracks upstairs can be a good indicator that something is going on with your foundation. Foundation shifting can strain the upper structure of your home, causing visible damage on your walls upstairs.
  2. Water and Vertical Foundation Cracks. A cracking foundation can be a sign that external pressure and water buildup are taking a toll on your foundation walls. Before repairing, you may want to consider a comprehensive drainage system to help relieve some of the water pressure around your foundation.
  3. Windows and Doors Difficult to Open Upstairs. Similarly to cracking drywall, you may experience some additional issues upstairs. As your foundation shifts, you may notice it’s a bit more difficult to open windows and sliding glass doors. This is due to your foundation shifting and stressing the upper floors of your home.
  4. Horizontal Foundation Cracks and Bowing Walls. Due to strong external pressures pushing in against your foundation walls, you may notice a large horizontal crack in the middle of your wall. This occurs mainly in cinder block walls, and is generally accompanied by the wall bowing in toward the middle. Bowing walls are a critical juncture in the life of your foundation; either repair immediately, or risk a potential wall collapse.
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How to Effectively Use Your Basement Space

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Basement Space

A basement can be used in almost exactly the same manner as an additional above-ground floor of a home. In fact, a basement is far more useful for practical purposes than any other rooms in your home. For example, you can work efficiently in a basement, without getting distracted or disturbed. You can rest peacefully in a basement, without any disturbing noises. You can watch a game on TV in the basement with the volume real high. Following are some of the ways you can use your basement space effectively.

Media Room

A media room can be the perfect home theater for movie nights. A basement can easily be converted into a media room. A media room does not necessarily have to have high ceilings since you will be seated most of the time. A basement that does not have many windows will give a real theater-like feel even during day time. You can insulate the walls of the basement easily to make it soundproof.

Personal Gym

A basement is a nice place to work out in peace. The best part is that you don’t have to worry about breaking anything like you do when you work out in your living room or any other rooms in your home. You also do not have to worry about disturbing any of the family members. The only thing to look out for is that you have the proper ceiling clearance in your basement

Personal Office

You can turn your basement into your personal office. Again, the best part is that you can work in peace. If you work from home, then you can easily keep an office hour as you will not get disturbed by your family members or get distracted by the sound of TV. Keeping an office hour will help you to work effectively, and efficiently. You can also customize the basement for your specific office needs.

Game Room

You can rework your basement into a great game room. A basement is an ideal place for your pool table. If you have the necessary space and a good budget, then your can even re-create your favorite sport in your basement, like hockey or mini-golf.

Your basement is an untapped resource when it comes to setting up things that you never considered setting up in your living room or any of the other rooms in your home. The best thing about turning your gym into an office or a media room or a game room is that it will always be maintained properly. This will help to keep basement moisture or any basement leak at bay, thus preventing the formation of mold or damp air in your basement.

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6 Tell-tale Signs that Your Home Needs Immediate Foundation Repair

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Foundation Repair

Now that you have lived in your home for the last few years, the last thing on your mind is of course repair works. However, you will be surprised to know that over 70% of homes over 8-10 years old develop foundation problems according to a study by the National Association of Realtors ® (NAR). Indeed, these specialists recommend regular checks to ascertain any damage to in order to start prompt foundation repair.

As a conscious homeowner, you need to be on the lookout in order to call in an expert when foundation problems arise. The best idea is to be armed with signs that pinpoint foundation damage in order to call in a contractor early enough. What are some of these signs? Here are some ideas:

  1. Wall and floor gaps: These are some of the most obvious signs and they are easy to notice. The floor will sink when the foundation cannot bear the load anymore or if there is a shift in the slab. Such damage must be remedied promptly using slab jacking among other techniques.
  2. Wall cracks: These can either be on the external or internal walls. In most cases, a sinking foundation will also cause cracks on the chimney. Whether they are horizontal or vertical cracks on your foundation wall, you must call a contractor to have a closer look lest you ignore a deeper underlying problem.
  3. Cracked moldings: If your floor and walls are covered by moldings you can tell when there is a problem if there are cracks. Corner and crown moldings will easily crack due to the pull of a sunken foundation or bowing walls.
  4. Jamming doors and windows: This is one of the most ignored tell-tale signs of foundation damage. Most homeowners will just call in a carpenter to do some repairs but the problem is much worse. This happens when the foundation is sinking towards the middle and is also accompanied by vertical cracks on the wall.
  5. Bowed and bulging walls: These problems are caused by water pressure from the soil surrounding the basement walls. When not repaired early enough, bowing walls can lead to collapse of the entire structure hence the need for professional diagnosis in case these signs are noted.
  6. Sinking foundation: This is one of the most dangerous foundation damage signs. The situation is exacerbated by the fact that you will not note the problem first. However, drywall crack and stuck windows are some of the indicators.

Well, your home needs the best foundation repair you can get and there is no better solution than going for a professional contractor in your city. Whatever you do, don’t ignore any of these damage signs.

What Basement Wall Cracks Mean

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Have you noticed cracks on the walls of your basement? Basement walls are under considerable pressure from the soil that surrounds them. The soil is constantly pushing against the exterior of the basement wall. The appearance of basement wall cracks is therefore often the first sign that there is a structural problem with the home.

However, there are different types of cracks that appear on basement walls. The appearance of the cracks tells a lot about what the problem is and how serious it is. Understanding the different cracks will help you determine whether your basement walls need immediate attention or not.

  • Horizontal cracks

Basement walls that are constructed without adequate vertical reinforcement succumb to the pressure of the soil around them. The walls tend to bow inwards and develop a horizontal crack that runs in the middle of the wall. The middle of the wall is the point at which the wall feels the highest pressure. This is why the crack forms at this point.

It is important to check if the wall is straight from top to bottom (i.e. plumb). If the wall is plumb, then you can wait to see if the crack will become any larger. If the wall is not plumb, contact a contractor as soon as possible.

  • Vertical cracks

Shrinking of concrete during curing is a normal occurrence. Any cracks that occur from this process are usually very small. They can’t normally be spotted. These cracks are usually negligible. They don’t affect the structure of the wall.

However, these small cracks can allow moisture in from the surrounding soil. It is therefore important to ensure that you contact a basement waterproofing contractor to check on the water proofing of your basement. This is especially important if you notice moisture on the basement walls.

Hairline vertical basement wall cracks that are only 1/16 inches wide shouldn’t be a cause for concern. Vertical cracks that are more prominent i.e. more than 1/8 inches wide should be a cause for concern. They are usually a sign that the wall is under great distress. A professional contractor should be contacted immediately to examine and repair the damage.

There are no quick fixes for cracks in basement walls. It is important to ensure that you contact a professional contractor as soon as you notice any cracks in your basement walls. This will ensure that your foundation walls are secure.