Foundation Repair Case Studies: Argyle, Mi Foundation Walls Restored with Support System
Challenge
What began as an inspection for a basement waterproofing need, helped uncover a deeper lying foundation repair need in Argyle, Mi. The homeowner originally noticed large vertical cracks in her basement foundation walls that would continue to creep and grow as time went on. At first, they tried to simply hide the problem by covering it with a portrait and some furniture. Out of sight, out of mind. However, just like most cases in life, hiding the problem is not the same as fixing or addressing the issue. Eventually the cracks grew deep enough to allow water to seep in with the rainfall. As water pooled and damaged both their walls and their floors, the homeowner finally decided to find a proper solution. They scheduled an inspection with a friend in construction. Upon further examination their friend warned them that simply filling the crack wouldn't accomplish too much, because the walls were clearly bowing. They needed proper foundation repair from a specialist, which led them to look for foundation repair contractors near Argyle, Mi. That's how we were originally introduced to this case.
Our project manager Ben met with the family, hearing out all of their concerns and history with the problem attentively. He would than go on to conduct his own inspection of the property to determine the severity of the situation and help design an appropriate solution. Ben confirmed that the cracks needed to be filled, and that their foundation walls definitely needed repair and support.
Solution
Bowing walls are being pushed inward, usually by expansive soils or hydrostatic pressure. Expansive soils push against the wall due to water or frost effects. Hydrostatic pressure is when underground water applies inward force against the wall.
The solution would have two main parts for our crew to install for this project. First the cracks would need to be filled with a high-pressure urethane injection, as well as sealed off with an application of flexispan, who's specialized formula can adjust and contour to the natural movement of a wall over time. The second and more crucial step, would be the installation of the CarbonArmor system to correct the bowing wall and foundation issues. This system is beyond simply durable and reliable; it's designed using the same technology as the Army Corps of Engineers, developed to reinforce bomb shelters, skyscrapers, and bridges. Flexible carbon straps that are ten times more powerful than steel adhere to the wall with a high-power epoxy resin and transfer the load.
The homeowner was relieved to have a fully permanent solution in place, and even more so that this particular system didn't require the use of any exterior excavation, making the installation smooth and relatively unintrusive.
Project Summary
Sales Rep: Ben Gabowtiz
