HomeSpec Waterproofing and Foundation Repair Case Studies: Sinking Shed and Garage Have Foundation Lifted and Repaired in Fairgrove, Mi
Challenge
A homeowner in Fairgrove, Mi had a detached shed and garage that had been developing a serious series of cracks throughout the foundation flooring. It was becoming both unsightly and a dangerous tripping hazard. They were sure it was caused by foundation settling issues and wanted assistance lifting the structures back to a reliable proper level. These types of major floor cracks are often caused by movement in the foundation itself; depending on various conditions such as weather, moisture, age and other factors, soil may shift and move, causing stress on the concrete slabs above as they move to fill the voids left. They rightfully began looking for a foundation repair contractor nearby and after comparing reviews had decided to work with us at HomeSpec Basemetnfix.
Though based in Westland, we service an expansive area and had one of our project managers drive out to meet with the client and review the circumstances of their situation. We always want to ensure our approaches to any situation are a customized fit, so we conducted a thorough inspection of the property itself. The concrete slab had definitely cracked and shifted to become concerningly unlevel, and the homeowners concerns of the structures sinking were definitely well founded.
Solution
Our project manager would propose the use of a helical piering system to help provide structural stability and support while attempting to bring the shed and garage back to level. Helical piers derive their particular name from the helical plates attached to the shaft. This system has the piers attached to the home with steel brackets and "screws" the piers into the soil to find a more reliable foundation, supportive soil or bedrock. Sections can be added to the shaft to help it reach deeper depths and capacities. The design of these piers helps transfer the load of the structure from compromised soils through the pier itself to the new load bearing soil or bedrock, allowing them to function as extended reliable mediums between weights. Since these are able to be installed below grade, the cleanup process can be conducted in such a way as to make the final project appear as good as new. Finally, after bringing the foundation back to a proper level, we would also repair the foundation cracks along the concrete floors with our NexusPro crack repair and sealant solutions. Specially formulated to be weather resistant, reliable, and long-lasting to help bond everything back together.
The change in the flooring was obvious to the homeowner. They were happy to no longer feel the need to worry about their property sinking and settling in on itself over time. Further erosion of the foundation from changing weather could have definitely compromised the situation further if left alone. Foundation repair issues can seem like they start small, but can become incredibly extensive problems, and are best handled as soon as they are noticed.
