foundation problems Archives | FOUNDATIONS ON THE LEVEL

Common Slab Foundation Repair

There are so many reasons why your slab foundation might need repairs. In this article, we’ll talk about common problems homeowners have with their foundation and some ways to repair these problems.

One common slab foundation problem is the disruption in the slab. This can create complications that consist of uneven floors and walls, and tilting countertops. The best solution for this problem is to have a contractor come take a look at your foundation to determine the cause.

Another problem is foundation cracks. They harm slabs made of concrete and may cause your foundation to separate at the joints. Obstacles commonly include gaps that are relatively small, although they can become larger if not fixed quickly. The one way to fix this is to install concrete piers.

Another common problem homeowners have is settling and sinking slabs. These are both signals that your foundation is moving and damage is occurring. Common causes of shifting in your foundation can be soil and water. Ways to fix this problem is to install additional foundation piers. This has been an issue all through the 1900s and is still affecting houses built today.

Piers also could have shifted. Concrete or steel piers can both collapse over a period of time can create a dilemma. After all, it would be most unusual for them to last forever. You’ll want to make sure your foundation piers and slab are both secure. Robust foundations rarely fail for no good reason. They’ve improved in the past 30 years.

The last problem is poorly made foundations. Poorly made concrete foundations can cause slabs severe harm if the concrete was not poured thick enough. A thin concrete slab will not support a foundation because of the weight of the house. The best solution is to have your foundation inspected by an experienced contractor who can make your structure last. It’s important that it be made correctly.

More Info

If you are looking for a professional foundation repair company don’t look any further! Here at Foundations on the Level, we strongly believe in quality customer service and treat every home as if it was our own. Our specialists will work directly with you to analyze the unique problems that your home is facing and come up with the best solution for your needs and budget. We have established a fantastic reputation within Orange County & San Diego County for foundation repair, slab releveling, retaining walls, and more. Contact us for a free estimate!

Foundation Crack Repair

Foundation cracks are one of the most common problems homeowners face when it comes to foundation issues. Not all foundation cracks are a sign of serious issues, but all but the smallest probably should be repaired in order to prevent the cracks from causing other issues.

Foundations on the Level specializes in foundation crack repair and foundation slab leveling. If you are a homeowner and are experiencing cracks in your foundation, give us a call to schedule a free inspection.

foundation cracks and foundation crack repair

Why do Foundation Cracks Form?

Foundation cracks can happen for a variety of reasons, the majority of them stemming from natural causes.

In some cases, hairline cracks will occur as the concrete shrinks while drying. In other cases the normal small amount of settlement for a new home will spur small vertical or diagonal cracks.

Other causes of cracking, however, are more structurally concerning.

Our California climate is great for enjoying the outdoors, but it’s tough on foundations. Dry soil conditions mean that the soil surrounding the foundation often cracks and crumbles.

In the event that we do experience rain, the soil quickly soaks up the water and expands. Cracks in the soil can allow for water to flow near the home’s foundation, which causes the soil to move. When the soil surrounding your home is displaced, the structural support is taken away. This causes the foundation to sink, settle, and eventually crack.

Foundation Cracks Can Be Repaired

Although cracks in your foundation are a concern, unless the foundation is literally crumbling, most foundation cracks can be repaired. The majority of cracks aren’t structural, but they can lead to structural problems if they aren’t repaired properly, and in a timely manner.

In order to repair foundation cracks, we will need to inspect and assess your home’s foundation, as well as the soil conditions surrounding your home. Upon inspection, we will be able to diagnose your foundation problems, and come up with a solution!

Different Foundation Cracks Call for Different Repair Methods

For some foundation cracks, professionally filling the crack will be enough. In these cases, the cracks aren’t structural and the concerns are mostly the damage that could be caused by the crack itself. Filling these cracks correctly will prevent water and pests from infiltrating through your foundation walls.

Structural cracks are a different issue.

Simply repairing and filling a structural foundation crack is not a long-term repair solution because this option doesn’t solve or address the underlying cause, whether it is lack of support for the foundation or hydrostatic pressure pushing in on the walls. If anything, you may even notice more cracks or worsening conditions in a few years.

Once we have determined that a crack is structural and what is causing it, we can begin to put together a solution to repair your foundation. There are many different types of foundation repair methods out there, and the best approach is going to be determined by the initial problem you are having. In order to effectively repair structural foundation cracks, and prevent them from happening in the future, we have to address the underlying problems.

Contact Foundations on the Level for Foundation Crack Repair in Southern California

We understand that no two foundations are alike. That’s why we offer a personalized approach to foundation repair throughout our San Diego and Orange County service area. Whether you are experiencing a small foundation crack, or are struggling with something more serious, we’re confident that we can work with you to come up with a customized solution to fit your needs and budget. Give us a call today to schedule an inspection!

How to Fix Uneven Sloping Floors

Uneven and sloping floors are signs of foundation settlement. In addition to your sloping floors, you’ll likely notice a few other signs. Drywall cracks and gaps between your foundation and baseboards often accompany the uneven floors. Throughout this post, we’ll walk you through how we fix uneven, sloping floors.

In most cases, foundations need to be raised in order to reverse and prevent further foundation problems. In order to do this, we install steel resistance piers, also referred to as helical piers.

Helical piers are a permanent foundation repair solution. In order to install the piers, we drill beneath any shifting soil. Once we’re able to reach a stable, load-bearing strata, we connect a steel foundation bracket to the helical pier and your home’s foundation to prevent any further settlement. From there we’re able to lift and level your foundation. Although this process might seem overwhelming and intimidating, it is actually minimally invasive. Majority of the time, you are still able to live in your home while we are working on your foundation. We perform all of the work outside of the home, and with minimal disruption. However, in some projects, we may need to work from the inside, but you will not need to vacate your property.

Additionally, our installers are ECP certified, and continue learning and training to stay up-to-date on all of the current technologies and structural support solutions. We are always equipped with the most advanced products and solutions for foundation repair and structural support on the market.

If you live within our service area, contact us to schedule an inspection. Inspections and estimates are free for property owners. During our inspection, we will look at your foundation to create a customized plan on how to move forward.

Hot Dry Weather a Fire Hazard

It’s also a Foundation Hazard for Southern California Homes

We’ve been dealing with a hot, dry patch of weather with low humidity. This poses a fire threat to our area and you should be aware. What you might not be aware of is that this type of weather is also a threat to your home. How? Dry weather over extended periods can lead to foundation problems. It causes soil shrinkage and this leads to foundation problems. Here’s a bit more information on what to look for.

Red Flag Warnings indicate that there is the potential for rapid fire spread and extreme fire danger with fire ignitions. Residents are urged to be SET to evacuate if told by emergency officials. #LAWeather #LAwind #cawx #Socal pic.twitter.com/9DYZL1HSL1
— NWS Los Angeles (@NWSLosAngeles) June 8, 2020

Soil Shrinkage – What to Look For

Depending on how much clay is in the soil around your home you may be affected by the shrink-swell capacity of the soil around your foundation. It’s important to note that you can also see damage around your pool, driveway, sidewalks, anywhere there is soil surrounding the structure. The high the level of clay minerals in the soil the more they have the capacity to shrink and swell.

You need to look for the following:

soil shrinkage leads to foundation problems in SoCal

Large cracks in walls
Cracks in foundations
Buckling of driveways, roads, sidewalks
Jammed doors
Jammed windows
Countertops pulling away from the walls
Cove joint cracks
Garage column cracks
Steps or stairs separating from structures

Another important thing to note is that the shrinking and swelling of soil can be cyclical with the weather patterns. When there are swings in the weather and the soil shrinks and swells often this can cause quite a bit of damage.

What can you do?

Keep your gutters clear of debris. Keep good track of your downspouts to make sure they are taking water down and away from your home. The problem is, both of these DIY solutions are for when we have rain. So what about when it is dry? Be aware. There are a lot of things that are beyond our control as home or business owners. If you see any of the symptoms listed above, get in touch with a professional for advice. We can let you know the severity of the problem and if needed, provide you with a plan for the extra support you need when there is soil shrinkage and your foundation is at stake. Need help? Contact us today.