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Floor Gaps
The gaps at the wall-floor joint were a clear indication that the foundation was compromised. As the home slowly sank, the foundation shifted, causing the walls to pull away from the floor. This movement created visible gaps, which are a common sign of foundation instability and structural damage.
Cracked Concrete Slab
The cracked concrete patio was another sign that the foundation was compromised. As the foundation sank and shifted, the uneven pressure caused the concrete patio to crack. Cracks in concrete surfaces connected to the foundation are often a visible indicator of underlying structural issues.
Cracked Foundation
Cracks in the exterior brick foundation wall were subtle but present, making them tricky to spot at first glance. These cracks are a common symptom of foundation issues, as the shifting and sinking of the foundation create stress on the brickwork. Over time, this stress caused cracks to form.
Helical Pier Installation
The helical piers are installed using a specialized tool that resembles a large screw. This tool, known as a helical pier drive head, is attached to hydraulic machinery and is used to screw the piers deep into the ground. The helical plates on the piers act like screws, allowing them to be driven into stable soil layers below the surface. This process ensures that the piers are securely anchored, providing the necessary support to stabilize and lift the foundation.
Helical Pier Depth
Helical piers reach solid ground when they are driven deep enough into the soil to meet a stable, load-bearing layer. This is determined by monitoring the torque required to turn the piers. As the piers penetrate deeper, the torque increases. Once the torque levels off and stabilizes, it indicates that the piers have reached solid ground and are capable of providing the necessary support to stabilize the foundation.
Transferring Weight Of Structure
Helical piers are attached to the footing using heavy-duty steel brackets. This connection ensures that the weight of the structure is transferred from the foundation to the piers.
Pier Locations
The piers are strategically placed to provide the necessary support and to ensure that the weight of the structure is evenly distributed and transferred to stable soil. Once installed and the foundation is permanently stabilized, the crew backfills the pier locations to ensure a clean, level installation and lawn.