Foundation Replacement
Major home repairs, such as foundation replacement, are a process that no homeowner enjoys. However, in some cases, they are necessary in order to protect the structural integrity of the home. Fortunately, with the right contractors, foundation replacement can become a manageable task utilized to protect both your property value and the residents of the dwelling.
Foundation Damage Signs
Foundation damage isn’t an issue that appears suddenly. There are a number of initial warning signs that homeowners can be on the lookout for in order to monitor the structural security of their home. The most common signs of foundation damage are sagging or sloping floors, cracks in floors or ceilings, gaps between the floors and walls, doors or windows that stick and have trouble opening or closing, and walls that are beginning to warp, lean, or bow.
Replace or Repair?
Fortunately, most forms of foundation damage can be repaired with professional help. However, there are some extreme cases of foundation destruction that call for a replacement.
How do you determine if the foundation should be repaired or replaced? In cases of severe deterioration, the more cost-effective solution is sometimes to replace the foundation. In special cases, it is more expensive to repair severely damaged foundation than it would be to replace it entirely.
Foundation replacement in Southern California homes is often the result of extreme weather, such as soil erosion as a result of flooding or high magnitude earthquakes. Soil plays a major role in foundation damage. When the soil beneath a home sinks or settles, the home can experience a movement known as foundation settlement. Expansive soil can also lead to bowing and buckling of walls.
Related: Types of House Foundations
Signs of Replacement
A professional inspection is the only way to be completely sure a foundation replacement is needed. Some types of foundation damage are not clear to the naked eye. However, there are some general signs that replacement is needed.
Signs that point to a foundation replacement include excessive or large cracks, sinking or shearing in the foundation due to the soil base, hollow spaces in the foundation, and lengthy exposure to water or moisture. Issues with the original foundation that call for replacement include unsound building materials, low-quality concrete, not allowing the foundation to cure long enough, and the usage of unreinforced materials.
Replacement Process
The replacement process is unique for each dwelling, taking as little as one week to several weeks to repair. Foundations that are crumbling or porous will not be able to resist earthquakes of high magnitude. The brick or stone masonry will need to be strengthened in order to fortify the dwelling.
When foundation replacement is needed, heavy equipment is used to expose the foundation by excavating the soil around the home. Temporary supports are then used to “jack up” the house so that the slab floor and foundation walls can be taken out.
The house will be lowered back into place after the new foundation has been built. The soil will then be replaced and other exterior details, such as porches or walkways, can be restored to their original place.
One of the biggest mistakes you can make as a homeowner is to ignore signs of foundation damage. The problems will only worsen over time, leading to a more expensive and invasive repair in the future. Don’t hesitate to contact a professional if you spot any signs of foundation damage.
Related: Insurance and Foundation Damage
