Repair Options for Failing Foundations

There are many different types of foundation cracks, in varying degrees of severity, but when foundation problems “run deep” and are affecting the structure of a home or commercial property, we offer two solutions; helical piles and push piers systems.

First, let’s look at the cause of serious foundation failure to better understand the repair options. In general terms, foundation failure is the result of:

• Expanding, contracting or general unstable soils

• Extensive and damaging tree root systems

• Other movement in the ground around the structure, such as erosion or septic tank collapse

So how do know your foundation problem is serious?

When a foundation is failing, some signs may include cracks and/or gaps in the foundation, chimneys and in bricks or in the surrounding mortar. Inside the home or commercial building, signs may include unlevel floors, gaps between floors and walls, walls and ceilings as well as difficult to open doors and windows.

Unfortunately, these problems do not fix themselves.

Depending on the soils around the affected structure and the existing foundation type, our cost-effective, minimally invasive and permanent solutions are helical piles or a push pier system.  

Helical Piles

Helical piles transfer the weight of the affected foundation walls to stable soils. Much like a giant screw, the steel shafts have plates which are rotated deep into the ground to gain multiple layers of support.

The piles are then securely fastened to the foundation, stabilizing it, successfully transferring the load to the many plates, and often returning the structure to its original position.

To learn more about our helical pile system, please click here.

Push Piers

Push piers consist of sections of steel shafts which are installed adjacent to the structure and are driven deep into the ground until a firm load-bearing soil or bedrock depth is achieved. The shafts are then fastened to the foundation with brackets and the weight is now transferred to the firm stratum below the ground, often returning the structure to its original position.

To learn more about our push pier system, please click here.

If you are concerned about your failing foundation and are curious to learn what repair type is right for your problem, we’re pleased to offer complimentary, no-obligation estimates for repair. The quote involves an on-site inspection, professional assessment and a detailed cost quote. We proudly serve all of southwestern Ontario. Reach out to our team at Advanced Basement Systems to schedule your repair quote: 1-866-277-1277 or click here to submit your information online.