Temporary Floor Supports
The basement was being supported by temporary jack posts that had effectively become a long-term solution for carrying the floor load above. Recognizing that these supports were not intended for permanent structural use, the homeowner sought to replace them with properly installed steel lally columns that would provide reliable load-bearing support while maintaining consistency with the existing columns throughout the basement.
Concrete and Soil Removal for Footings
Concrete and underlying soil were excavated at the designated column locations to allow for the construction of properly sized structural footings. These reinforced footings provide a stable load-bearing foundation for the lally columns, distributing structural loads more effectively and minimizing the risk of settlement over time.
Footings with Rebar
Reinforcing steel (rebar) was installed within the footings in a carefully spaced grid pattern to increase their structural strength and durability. This reinforcement helps the concrete resist cracking, improves load distribution, and enhances the footing's ability to withstand long-term stresses imposed by the structure above.
Leveled Footings
Once the concrete footings had been properly placed and leveled, they were allowed to cure to achieve their designed strength. After the curing process was complete, the lally columns could be installed on the footings, providing a stable and permanent load path to support the structure above.
Lally Column Cemented into Foundation Floor
Once positioned and aligned, the lally column was securely integrated into the basement slab with new concrete around its base. This installation method enhances the column's long-term stability and durability while creating a clean, seamless transition with the surrounding floor. As a result, the finished basement floor maintains a uniform appearance without compromising the structural support provided by the column.
Uneven Foundation Floor
The basement slab contained several damaged and uneven areas that would have adversely affected the appearance and performance of any finished flooring installed over it. Addressing these deficiencies prior to flooring installation was essential to create a smooth, level substrate and ensure a professional, long-lasting finished floor.
Foundation Floor Leveling
The foundation floor was carefully restored to a level condition through a combination of concrete grinding and the application of a high-performance patching compound. These surface preparation techniques eliminated low spots, repaired imperfections, and created a smooth, uniform substrate, ensuring the new flooring would install properly and perform reliably over the long term.
Moisture Resistant Basement Flooring
ThermalDry® Elite Plank Flooring is manufactured from inorganic, moisture-resistant materials that will not support mold growth or deteriorate when exposed to typical basement humidity conditions. Each plank was precision-cut and custom-fit around lally columns and other basement features, creating a clean, professional appearance while delivering a durable and attractive finished floor system.
