There may be several indications of foundation trouble. Be on the lookout for:

• Sticking doors or windows
• Leaking basement or roof
• Cracking brick or tuck pointing
• Separation or cracking of drywall or trim
• Leaning or tilting chimney
• Garage or addition pulling away from house

These are only the symptoms of a settling or moving foundation. Our expert estimators can find the root of the trouble and give you a free, written estimate for any necessary repairs.

Our services include:

FOUNDATION UNDERPINNING
Vertical cracks in foundation walls, stair-step cracks in brick or other indicators may be evidence of a foundation that is settling vertically. Foundation underpinning is a permanent solution to vertical settlement problems.

How it works:
Holes are dug to the bottom of the foundation in those areas needing repair. A strong steel bracket is installed under the foundation footing. Using hydraulic pressure, steel piers are driven down beyond the soft soil at the bottom of the foundation. The piers are driven to bedrock or similar load-bearing strata. The piers are bolted to the brackets and the holes are backfilled. The house is now supported by the piers rather than the moving soil beneath the foundation footing.

I BEAM SUPPORT SYSTEMS
Horizontal cracks or visible bowing of foundation walls occur when the wall is not sufficiently strong to hold back the soil surrounding the house. These walls can be stabilized to prevent further movement by installing steel I beams on the interior of the foundation. The beams are installed vertically and are mounted flush to the foundation wall. The top of the beam is secured to the floor joists and the bottom to the concrete floor or footing. If necessary, the wall can be pushed back to its original position prior to securing the beams.

HELICAL TIEBACK SYSTEMS
Walls with horizontal cracks or bowing can also be repaired by installing helical tieback anchors. Holes are drilled through the foundation. Helical anchors, which resemble large steel screws, are driven through the foundation wall to the soil outside. By screwing these anchors deeply into the soil, the foundation can be secured in place. A steel plate is installed on the interior side of the wall to finish the installation. If necessary, the wall can be pulled back to its original position prior to securing the tieback anchors.