Foundation Structural Repairs
When its comes to structural engineering, a foundation is the element of a structure which connects it to the ground, and transfers loads from the structure to the ground. Foundations are generally considered either shallow or deep. Foundation engineering is the application of soil mechanics and rock mechanics in the design of foundation elements of structures.
When it comes to historical relevance of the cornerstone or simply the foundation stone it is the first stone set in the construction of a foundation. All other stones will be set in reference to this stone, thus determining the position of the entire structure.
The purpose of laying a sound foundation is primarily due to the fact that it provides the structure’s stability from the ground. Other main reasons include :-
- To distribute the weight of the structure over a large area so as to avoid overloading of the soil beneath.
- To anchor the structures against the changing natural forces like earthquakes, floods, frost-heave, tornado or wind.
- To load the sub-stratum evenly and thus prevent unequal settlement.
- To provide a level surface for building operations.
- To take the structure deep into the ground and thus increase its stability, preventing overloading.
- Specially designed foundation helps in avoiding the lateral movements of the supporting material.
Foundational Structural repair
Repairing the foundation of your home is one of the most important tasks that requires good hands, technical expertise and ample experience. Most foundation problems are the result of soil-related problems like overloading, poor compaction, poor waterproofing, erosion, excessive organic materials and expansive soils that shrink or expand with the changing moisture content of the soil. These can result in stresses that harm the foundation as well as an overall structure of the house. Some of the important constituents in this process include
- New construction foundation and waterproofing
- Foundation structural repair
- Fixing cracks in foundation walls
- Fixing Leaning or bowing walls
- Fixing Cracked walls
- Fixing Sloping floors
- Fixing Leaning chimney
- Repair Cracks in garage column
- Porch pulling away from the house
- Repair Windows and doors that stick
Underpinning your house with good quality foundation repair materials will ensure the strength of the foundation, whether it is a slab on grade, a crawl space or a basement made of concrete pour or block.
For most of us, our house is the biggest investment we make in our lifetime. Foundation problems can really threaten that asset by causing severe structural damage, thereby reducing the value of the house in the long run. If you see any of the above signs, it is essential to get in touch with a foundation repair specialist who can come to your place and undertake an inspection and offer you the best possible solution for the concerned problem.