Interior Foundation Wall Crack
Visible signs of foundation settlement were present in this home, including a prominent interior wall crack. If not properly addressed, such structural movement can compromise the integrity of the foundation over time, potentially leading to more extensive damage, costly repairs, and even partial wall failure. Early intervention is critical to prevent further deterioration and ensure long-term stability.
Foundation Floor Crack
Additional indicators of foundation settlement were observed in the form of significant cracking across the basement floor slab. These cracks were severe enough to propagate through the finished tile flooring, highlighting the extent of differential movement and stress within the foundation. Such damage not only compromises the structural integrity of the slab but also signals the need for immediate remediation to prevent further deterioration and costly repairs.
Soil Excavation for Push Pier Installation
To facilitate the installation of Push Pier brackets, the soil adjacent to the foundation was carefully excavated to expose the footing. This access allows for precise placement and secure attachment of the steel brackets, which are critical for transferring the structural load to the piers driven into stable, load-bearing soil layers below.
Interior Push Pier Excavation
Due to exterior obstructions and significant structural settlement within the interior of the foundation, select Push Piers were installed from inside the home. The installation process remained consistent with standard practice: concrete and soil were carefully removed to expose the footing, allowing for secure attachment of the pier brackets.
Push Piers Driven into Soil
Push Piers are hydraulically driven deep into the ground until they reach stable, load-bearing soil strata capable of supporting the weight of the structure. This process effectively bypasses the weaker, shifting upper layers of soil. Once installed, the piers transfer the structural load of the home from the compromised soil to the more competent strata below, providing long-term stabilization and preventing further settlement.
Push Pier Completed Installation
Once all Push Piers are securely fastened to the foundation footing, they are hydraulically pressurized in unison to gradually lift the structure toward its original elevation. This process re-establishes structural stability and alleviates common symptoms of settlement, such as misaligned doors and windows. Following elevation and stabilization, the previously excavated soil is carefully backfilled, concealing the exterior piers from view. Interior piers are similarly backfilled and the concrete slab is restored to grade, ensuring a clean and seamless finish.
