Foundation Repair Science

Why structural problems happen and what you can do about them.

foun da tion •

•

[ foun-day-shun ] : noun The basis or groundwork of something.

Introduction Your home. It’s one of your largest investments. But even more, it’s where your life happens. It’s where you grow your family, welcome friends and create cherished memories. Like anything in life, you want your home built on a strong foundation. The more secure, stable and solid it is, the more confident and at peace you feel.

There are many reasons your home’s foundation may begin to crack, sink and settle over time. No matter the cause, this creates distractions from the important things in your life. It also creates worries, as you try to determine the cause. Those worries tend to grow as you question how to fix it and how much it will cost. They continue to increase as you try to find a quality contractor who will fix it right the first time.

This book was created to help you eliminate those distractions and provide answers to your questions, so you can get on with your life. The problems you are facing can be fixed permanently, with a quality solution and by an experienced, trustworthy contractor. If the foundation of your home is the basis for anything built upon it, doesn’t it make sense to ensure it is as strong and secure as possible?

Published by:

Supportworks®, Inc. 11850 Valley Ridge Drive Papillion, NE 68046 1-800-281-8545 FoundationSupportworks.com 3rd Edition | 03.2021 ©2021 Supportworks, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Reproduction of text or images in whole or in part without the express written consent of Supportworks, Inc. is not permitted and is unlawful according to the 1976 United States Copyright Act.

Foundation Settlement Lintel Failure Sagging Floors Wall Failure

Table of Contents

03 10 12 18 20 26 49 50 53 54 63 65 66 68 80 82 86 89 124 130 131

Why Should I Fix My Home’s Foundation?

Identifying Your Foundation Problems Signs of Foundation Settlement Causes of Foundation Settlement What Happens to the Soil?

Solutions for Foundation Settlement Garage Lintel Failure Signs of Lintel Failure Causes of Lintel Failure Solution for Lintel Failure Sagging Floors Signs of Sagging Floors Causes of Sagging Floors Solutions for Sagging Floors Wall Failure Signs of Wall Failure Causes of Wall Failure Solutions for Wall Failure Protecting Your Walls from Damage What Do I Do Now? Who Is Foundation Supportworks?

Why Should I Fix My Home’s Foundation?

When we live with a problem long enough, we can almost forget that it’s there. But make no mistake: even if you cover or ignore the symptoms—cracked walls, windows and doors that stick, uneven or sagging floors—the underlying causes of your home’s foundation problems will continue to wreak havoc. Foundation problems never fix themselves. In time, they get worse unless the real cause is addressed with a permanent solution.

Foundation issues impact three important parts of your life. They impact the safety of your home, putting your quality of life at risk. They impact your home’s value, putting one of your biggest investments at risk. Finally, symptoms that continue to get worse and worse put your peace of mind at risk.

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Your Quality of Life

Your Home’s Value

Have you ever seen a gap forming between a wall and

If you’re like most people, your home is one of the

the floor or ceiling? Do you see cracks in your drywall

biggest investments you’ll ever make. Protecting your

near window or door frames? How about cracks in

home’s resale value helps keep that investment safe,

brick or stucco outside?

sound and growing.

All of these are signs that your home’s foundation

Foundation problems cause eyesores, of course:

needs professional attention. Doors or windows that

cracked walls, chimneys pulling away from the house,

stick; items rolling across your uneven and bouncy

sagging floors. But most potential home buyers see

floors; unsightly cracks inside and out—all of these

much more than simple cosmetic problems. They see

distractions impact the quality of life you, your family

warning signs of bigger problems. Buyers want steep

members and your guests experience in your home!

discounts, or more likely aren’t interested at all in purchasing a home with foundation issues. Would

Your Peace of Mind

you, knowing what you know now?

Where you live should be where you relax and

Standing by while these problems get worse and

recharge. But homeownership is also a big

worse decreases your home’s value as well as the

responsibility that comes with a constant to-do list.

pool of potential buyers when you choose to sell.

The key to managing that responsibility is to keep

Solving foundation problems quickly and permanently

the list to a minimum. When you notice those drywall

ensures you can maintain your property value.

cracks, bowed basement walls or separating brick, there is more at stake than meets the eye. Knowing these are signs that your home is on an unstable foundation can keep you up at night. Finding a permanent solution to foundation problems is the only way to restore your peace of mind.

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5

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“Can I prevent these problems?”

If you’re reading this book, you’ve probably already identified signs of foundation problems. But what about other areas where you don’t see damage yet? If the damage shows up on one side of the house, but the entire home is on the same foundation, resting on the same soils, can you do anything to stop the damage from happening in other areas?

Good news: there are proactive steps you can take to protect other areas of your home from the same problems. Later in the book you’ll learn about solutions that provide that protection. Even if foundation problems have already started, fixing them and then protecting the rest of your home is the wise choice.

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You’re Going To Pay For It, Whether You Fix It Or Not Consider this. We’re all going to sell our homes one day.

When you do, the buyer will hire a home inspector to

or repaired, those potential buyers will likely walk

examine the condition of your home. You’ll also be

away, off to look at one of the hundreds of

required to complete a disclosure form explaining

other homes for sale out there that DON’T have

any defects with the house.

foundation problems. If they do still want your home,

Let’s face it. The damage caused by an unstable, shifting foundation is obvious, unattractive and scary.

So, there’s no hiding now—it’s simply unavoidable.

The home inspector and potential buyer are going to

price, which realtors report at 15-30%! So, you’ll pay for the repairs before selling, or you’ll pay with a very discounted selling price.

know about this issue. In fact, by law, homeowners

Chances are you will end up paying more later, as

are required to disclose any structural issues present

the problem gets worse and impacts other areas of

in the home.

your home. If you’re going to be paying for it one

Will they say, “Aww shucks, don’t you worry about that. We’ll take the problem off your hands and deal with it ourselves”? Not likely. If the problem isn’t already fixed and the symptoms alleviated

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it’s very likely they’ll want a steep discount in the

way or another anyway, doesn’t it make sense to fix it now—for your family, not someone else’s—and avoid the real risk that it will cost you more later?

What Makes Us Experts?

What does it mean to be an expert? The dictionary

Add to that the support of the entire Foundation

definition is, “having, involving or displaying

Supportworks team, including professionals in

special skills or knowledge derived from training or

structural engineering, geotechnical engineering,

experience.” This book comes from the collective

construction and the manufacturing and installation

knowledge and experience of the Foundation

of repair products—and there you have the power of

Supportworks® network—hundreds of contractors,

the network: trustworthy foundation repair experts,

engineers, tradesmen and advisors who have been

trained in delivering the best permanent solutions,

doing this work for many years, and who stand

in local communities all across North America,

behind the results.

including yours.

Contractors in the Foundation Supportworks network

For more information about Foundation Supportworks,

are in the field every day to diagnose and repair

manufacturer of the highest-quality products available

structural foundation problems. Their extensive

for foundation repair and protection, see Page 131.

training, experience and technical knowledge has encouraged thousands of homeowners to trust them with even the most challenging foundation problems.

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Identifying Your Foundation Problem There are three main foundation issues your home can experience, and tell-tale signs both inside and outside. Let’s take a look at the most common symptoms of each.

Do you see any of these happening in your own home?

Foundation Settlement : Page 12 Some may tell you that foundation settlement is “normal.” While technically that may be a true statement—many homes do suffer from this—it doesn’t mean it’s good, or that you have to put up with it. Any emergency room doctor will tell you broken arms are common, too. That doesn’t mean we don’t fix them!

Signs of foundation settlement include wall cracks, cracks in exterior brick or stucco and changes in the way doors and windows operate.

You may find yourself constantly trying to patch, repair and hide the issue. But that’s only covering up the symptoms—like putting on a big winter coat to hide that broken arm. Nothing will change until the real underlying problem is addressed. The good news? These problems can be fixed permanently.

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Sagging Floors : Page 63 Do you notice that some of your first-level floors are sloping or sagging? Do you see gaps between your floors and walls? Often, this is due to an underlying problem with the supports in your crawl space. Some try temporary measures to remedy the situation themselves, but those “solutions” are just that—temporary. They cost money and time, but don’t do a thing to fix the underlying problems. This is why the symptoms just keep coming back and worsening.

Wall Failure : Page 80 There’s no doubt about it: cracked, bowing and tipping foundation walls can be a scary sight! Left untreated, the situation only gets worse over time and can cause you to (rightly) question the safety of your home. But don’t panic. There are several solutions available to permanently stabilize failing foundation walls, and the right solution for your specific situation can be determined with an inspection by a professional foundation repair contractor.

Based on the symptoms described above, what foundation problem do you think may be plaguing your home?

Simply turn to the page number indicated above by each section to learn about the real causes and solutions available to permanently fix them.

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Signs of Foundation Settlement There are many signs and symptoms that may indicate your home is experiencing a foundation settlement problem. These signs can be seen both inside and outside of your home. Don’t ignore them! Let’s take a look at the most common signs and symptoms.

Have you noticed any of these?

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“Should I hide the problem… or fix it?”

It’s easy to see why at first, you may be tempted to simply patch drywall, caulk windows or tuck-point brickwork. But when these constant repairs become a part-time weekend job, it soon becomes apparent that patching and hiding aren’t going to solve the real problem. More—and often bigger—repairs will need to be made, and soon you’re patching over a patch over a patch!

Attempts to repair and repaint drywall or fix cracked mortar in brickwork are often noticeable. When tuck-pointing brick veneer, it is especially difficult to match original mortar colors. They are also tell-tale signs to realtors and potential buyers when you go to sell. These repairs don’t do anything to slow down damage being caused by a more serious underlying problem. So, are you really fixing anything?

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Signs Outside Your Home Stair-Step Cracking

Problem Doors and Windows

Stair-step cracking in brick or

The weakest part of a wall is where there's an opening, such as

block walls is a common symptom

a door or window. Because of this, these areas often display the

of foundation settlement. As your

first signs of a problem. Four of the most common outdoor signs

home continues to settle further,

of settlement seen in doors and windows include:

vertical cracks may widen. This indicates that the wall is rotating.

Doors and windows out of square. This can cause the doors or windows to jam. It can also cause a door to rub against the door frame or not latch properly.

Separating Chimneys

Cracks extending from the corners of door or window frames.

One of the scariest and most

Sometimes you’ll hear, “small cracks are normal as a house

alarming signs of settlement is a

settles.” But, unfortunately, big cracks start out as small cracks.

chimney separating from the rest of the home. Brick chimneys are very heavy, and sometimes they are built on a separate foundation that is not

Doors and windows separating. If you see doors and windows pulling away from the frame or exterior finish, it’s time to have a professional take a look.

connected to the home, increasing

New caulking around doors and windows. To close gaps

the chances they might settle.

caused by separating windows or doors, homeowners often turn to do-it-yourself (DIY) caulking. New caulking could be hiding a much larger problem.

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Stair-step cracking

Exterior door out of square

Separating chimney

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Signs Inside Your Home Foundation Wall Cracks

Drywall Cracks

Many of the signs you’ll see inside of your home are

Cracks in drywall throughout the house are a good

similar to the ones you’ll see outside, especially in

indicator of settlement, and may be more obvious

your basement or crawl space. Stair-step cracks,

in the uppermost levels. The same point we made

for example, may be seen in a foundation wall built

about the outside of your home holds true for the

from concrete block. In a foundation constructed

inside: big cracks start as small cracks.

with poured concrete walls, vertical cracks are more common. In either case, foundation wall cracks resulting from settlement will often start out narrow at the bottom and widen as they move up the wall.

The following signs are common: • Drywall cracks that extend outward from the corners of doors and windows

In the case of a finished basement, of course, these symptoms may be hidden.

• Cracks that follow drywall seams • Drywall tape that buckles, pulls or rips

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Problem Doors and Windows It’s important to observe what is happening around your doors and windows. They can provide clues about what is happening to your home’s foundation.

Ask yourself this: • Do any of my doors or windows ‘stick’ when I try to open or close them?

• Have I planed, or shaved down, across the top of a door to make it open and close more easily? If not, is there evidence that a previous homeowner has done this?

• Have I moved or replaced locking or latching mechanisms on doors so they would work properly? Is there evidence that a previous homeowner has done this?

If you answered ‘yes’ to any of these questions, chances are good that you have a foundation settlement problem.

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Causes of Foundation Settlement Simply stated, settlement is the movement your

Below the top layer, you’ll find layer after layer of soils

home experiences when the soil below can no longer

that are composed of a mixture of clay, silt, sand and

support its weight. Maybe you’re thinking, “Well,

gravel. The exact mixture varies greatly by location

the soil used to support my house just fine. What

and how they were deposited in the first place.

changed?!” Answer: the soil changed. Your home is resting on many different layers of soil. Each layer has different properties, such as soil type and moisture content. How compact or loose each layer is also varies. These layers formed over time, starting with the Earth’s original formation. Some layers were carried and deposited by water, some by wind and some by glaciers.

Companies that develop land for building and home construction may have even placed layers of fill soil over the soil created or deposited by Mother Nature.

Land is commonly cut down or filled to produce relatively flat, buildable homesites.

Typically, soil layers get more compact and stronger with depth. In most locations, the native top layer is the newest and least compacted soil. That makes it easier for plants and other vegetation to grow.

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Deep below those layers is a layer of bedrock, or load-bearing strata. A basic knowledge of soil and bedrock layers and their properties is important as we explore what causes foundation settlement, and most of all, what works and what doesn’t to fix it permanently.

Moisture & Soil Different soil types are affected by moisture in different ways. Two very common soil types are sand and clay.

Sand : Moisture does not have a big effect on sandy soil. When it rains, water usually passes through the sand very quickly. Sand maintains a consistent size (volume) whether it becomes wet or is dry.

Clay : When clay gets wet, it holds onto the water and expands in size. When it dries, it shrinks.

These two clay soil samples started out exactly the same—same size, same moisture content and same type of clay.

The sample on the right was allowed to dry out completely while the sample on the left remained moist.

Even the naked eye can see how much the sample on the right reduced in size.

Imagine how dramatic this is when clay soils surround your entire home!

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What Happens to the Soil?

There are three common changes in soil that cause settlement, so let’s take a deeper look at those.

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Cause #1

Drying & Shrinking of Soil Drought When dry periods extend for months or years, clay soil dries out. And, as we know, when clay dries, it shrinks. As the amount of soil around your house shrinks in size, it creates an empty space for your home to settle into.

Maturing trees Did you know that the root system of a tree is often two times the size of the tree canopy? This means a tree with branches that extend over your home is likely to have roots that extend under your home, drawing valuable moisture from the soil.

What happens when the soil dries out? More voids form and more settlement occurs.

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Cause #2

Wetting & Softening of Soil Heavy rains As clay soil gets wet, it holds on to the water and becomes very soft. This soft soil can be weak, causing the home to sink down into it. In some ways, it is similar to stepping onto a muddy field.

Your foot ‘squishes’ into the soil. Your home’s footing does the same thing.

Cause #3

Compression of Poorly Compacted Fill Soil A common practice when developing neighborhoods involves removing soil from hilltops and placing it in valleys to create flat, buildable lots. When this fill soil is not compacted well, it will compress under the weight of the home, causing settlement.

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“But Maybe My Home is Done Settling...”

The constant cycle of wet and dry periods is a major factor in settlement, and we know that Mother Nature never stops working. Remember, the layers of soil your home rests on are greatly affected by these changes in moisture.

There is one way to be certain the problem won't keep getting worse and worse. By finding a solution that permanently ensures your home's stability is not dependent on those unstable soils, you'll no longer have to worry about these factors, which are not in your control.

The Active Zone The ‘active zone’ refers to soil beneath the ground surface that is the most affected by changes in moisture as the season or climate changes. The active zone may vary from a few feet below grade to more than 30 feet below grade, depending on the area of the country in which you live.

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Solutions for Foundation Settlement Stabilizing your home's foundation is serious business. First, you'll need a trustworthy, specialized contractor. Next, you'll need to be sure they can offer solutions that will solve your problem permanently. There are many solutions to choose from, and of course, some are more effective than others. In situations like these, what you don't know can hurt you.

This section will provide an overview of available options and how they stack up against the science behind foundation repair. That way, you can make an informed decision.

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Fix & Protect If you’re wondering, “Is there anything I can do to prevent this damage from occurring to the rest of my home,” we have good news. Some of the very solutions used to fix existing problems can be used to prevent further damage to other areas of your home. Your local Foundation Supportworks®-affiliated foundation repair contractor can discuss how best to protect your home during an inspection.

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Options to Avoid As you’re looking for the right solution for your settling foundation, you may come across many options. But some options don’t work at all.

How do you know which is which? Keep reading!

Total Foundation Replacement The process. With total foundation replacement, the soil is first excavated from around your foundation walls. Then, the house is jacked up and the slab floor and foundation walls are removed.

Finally, the foundation is rebuilt, the home is lowered and the soil is replaced.

If someone advises you to consider this option, they may not understand the underlying causes of foundation settlement. It isn’t the foundation itself that is ‘broken,’ but issues with the soils surrounding the home that are causing the foundation to weaken and fail.

The problems. Not only is replacement extremely disruptive and expensive, but it doesn’t address the actual issue—the soil! You’ve simply built a new foundation in the same troublesome soil, so you can expect that the new foundation will ‘break’ just like the old one.

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This failed attempt to repair with concrete underpinning cost the homeowner much more when the bottle jacks and the concrete had to be removed in order to repair it the right way.

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Concrete Underpinning The process. In this method, soil is first excavated from around your foundation. Once that is complete, larger concrete footings are poured beneath the existing footings.

Once the concrete has cured, the soil is backfilled. This may seem like a logical choice: if a footing is designed to carry the weight of the home, then a bigger footing should be better. Contractors who are not specialized in foundation repair may not know any other way to address the problem.

The problems. Concrete underpinning typically does not extend beyond the problem soils. It sits on top of them, just like your current footing. In other words, the soil beneath these newly beefed-up footings may still be moving, causing your home above to continue to move. In addition, you’ve just added more weight—a lot more—to weak soils already struggling to hold up your home.

Here’s an even bigger problem: when concrete underpinning is used, and the problem continues, it is MUCH more expensive to repair. All of the added concrete must first be removed before a proper, permanent fix can be installed.

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Concrete Piers The process. Short, blunt concrete cylinders are

Beware of some poorly designed steel alternatives to concrete piers. Though the pier sections themselves are unlikely to break under

pushed into the soil on top of one another, held

high pressure, the design for many of these

together loosely by a wire. Shims are then placed on

systems does not account for the extreme

top of the uppermost concrete cylinder, and the soil is

points loads being applied to the home, which

backfilled. It may seem reasonable that since concrete

increases the risk of damage to the concrete

is a very strong material, this could be the answer to a

footing itself. Problems can arise when:

foundation settlement problem.

•

then lift the foundation, applying unknown,

The problems. Unfortunately, this option is not an

nonuniform loads at each pier location.

answer to the problem. The blunt concrete cylinders are wide in diameter (about six to eight inches), making it difficult to push the sections deep into the ground and past the problem soil. There is also nothing to guide the direction of the pier, so they often are not installed straight.

Finally, although concrete is a strong material, we’ve all seen concrete crack and break under pressure and during changes in temperature. Just take a look at all of the cracks in concrete streets and parking lots! If concrete piers were a great idea, all manufacturers of foundation repair products would offer them. Instead, only a few companies nationwide offer this cheap, high risk approach.

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Manual bottle jacks are used to drive and

•

Detached shims are wedged between the bracket and the footing, rather than dispersing the load appropriately with a bracket plate designed to limit the bearing stress at specific points.

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Options That Work Steel Push Piers Push piers made of steel permanently stabilize your

When to use them. Because push piers are driven

home’s foundation. In many cases, this solution can

at high contact pressures all the way to bedrock

also lift your home back toward level, closing cracks

or a stable soil layer using high-capacity hydraulic

and improving the operation of doors and windows.

pumps and cylinders, they are the least risky solution

The process. First, soil is removed from around your foundation's footing, where the pier will be installed.

Then, a specially engineered steel bracket is placed under the footing. Steel pier sections are hydraulically driven through the bracket to bedrock or a stable soil layer. Next, the weight of the home is transferred from the concrete foundation, through the steel bracket and piers, to the deep load-bearing soil or bedrock.

A lift can then be attempted to bring the home back

when local soil conditions are unknown. If you are interested in the following outcomes, push piers are a good choice: • Best opportunity to lift the home back up to its original position • Minimal disturbance from installation • Quick installation compared to other solutions (often one to two days)

toward its original position. Once the stabilization and lift are completed, the soil is backfilled, the

• Problem solved once and for all

entire system is hidden from view and your home is

When NOT to use them. When installing piers on

permanently stabilized in its new position.

lighter structures like stoops or decks, they may not be heavy enough to drive the push piers to a sufficient depth. A solution such as a helical pier may

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be more effective.

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Advantages of Push Piers From Foundation Supportworks ® This system reaches much greater depths

Does not require use of heavy equipment,

than other options. The specially-designed

and installation is less invasive to the area

starter tube is fitted with a friction-reducing

around the home.

collar. This allows the piers to advance further to reach bedrock or other stable soil layers, which ensures permanent stability for

As a below-grade solution, it’s concealed

your foundation.

from sight.

Features a patented bracket and external

Can often lift foundation back toward its

sleeve. The external sleeve strengthens

original position.

the pier system directly below the bracket to prevent kinking and bending and ensure a vertical installation all the way to competent soils.

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Galvanized pier sections will not rust.

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Helical Piers A helical pier is another type of steel pier that can

Once the soil around the installation area is replaced,

be used to permanently stabilize your home. They’re

the entire system is hidden from view.

named for their unique design; the first section that is advanced into the ground has one or more helixshaped blades welded to the shaft, allowing it to be mechanically screwed into the soil. These piers can be installed from the exterior or interior of your home and provide an opportunity to lift the home back

When to use them. Helical piers are an ideal solution for permanently stabilizing your home, regardless of the weight of the structure. If your goals are the following, helical piers are a good choice: • Bring the home back toward its original position

toward its original position. This often results in closed cracks and improved operation of doors and windows.

The process. First, soil is removed from the area where the helical pier will be installed. The first pier

• Stabilize a lighter structure that has settled, such as a deck or stoop • Minimal disturbance from installation • Quicker installation compared to other solutions

section is screwed into the ground using specialized hydraulic equipment. Additional steel sections are then added to extend the pier to the appropriate depths and capacities, and a steel foundation bracket is connected to the helical piers and attached to your foundation’s footing. The weight of the home is then transferred through the helical piers onto competent load-bearing soils deep below the surface. Lifting your home back toward its original position can also be attempted with this solution.

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• Problem solved once and for all When NOT to use them. Less experienced helical pier installers may not advance the pier deep enough if a stiff soil layer is encountered near the surface, which may be above the problematic soil layer.

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Advantages of Helical Piers From Foundation Supportworks ® Helical Piers are suitable for both

True helix blade shape disturbs less

heavy and light loads.

soil and advances much deeper than

System reaches greater depths than other options.

Round shaft design has high resistance to bending.

Does not require use of heavy equipment and installation is less invasive to the area around the home.

Learn more on Page 42.

Galvanized system will not rust.

Features a patented bracket and

As a below-grade solution, it’s

external sleeve. The external sleeve

concealed from sight.

strengthens the pier system directly below the bracket to prevent kinking and bending that can drastically weaken other systems.

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non-helix shaped systems.

Can often lift foundation back toward its original position.

It takes more than a strong bracket. Some foundation repair contractors claim to have very strong pier brackets. Unfortunately, a strong bracket alone can’t prevent the pier system from bending and kinking. Not all pier systems are created equal. That’s why pier systems from Foundation Supportworks include unique and patented design features like the external sleeve.

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Square vs. Round: Why it Matters Foundation Supportworks helical piers use round steel tubing. If you come across a similar-looking product made from square bar, don't be fooled! Square bar helicals are cheap and abundant in supply, but they were designed to hold wires in the ground for cell towers and light poles, not to hold up your home's foundation. Why does it matter?

• Square shaft helical piers use a socket and pin coupling. The couplers were designed to be pulled tight (in tension), not to hold up the weight of a home (in compression). When in compression, they kink and bend, greatly reducing their strength.

• The steel area for a section of round shaft is located outward from the center of the shaft, therefore creating a higher resistance to bending.

• Round shafts usually have a higher installation torque rating, meaning more force can be applied while the product is being installed. Higher installation torque generally correlates to higher pier capacities.

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Round shaft helicals do not bend like their square shaft counterparts!

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Foundation Settlement Solutions At-a-Glance Removal & Replacement Lowest risk when local soil information is unknown Solution extends past troubled soils Permanently stabilize foundation without maintenance Ability to lift home back to level Installation usually completed in one to five days Limited disturbance to lawn and landscaping Stabilize light structures such as decks or stoops

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Concrete Underpinning

Concrete Piers

Helical Piers

Push Piers

Supporting buildings large and small.

Push piers and helical piers have been used to support residential homes for decades, but did you know that engineers and architects specify these products to support major commercial structures (as seen here), bridges, cell phone towers and retaining walls as well?

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A Visual Difference 1

2

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Before and After

3

4

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Lintel

Garage Lintel Failure A lintel is a structural element that acts as a bridge above a door or window to support the brick above it. In the case of a very long span, such as the door to a two-car garage, the lintel can fail and sag over time.

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Signs of Lintel Failure • Cracks at Corners.

• Gap Above Lintel.

When a lintel begins to fail,

When a lintel fails and sags,

cracks may develop at the corners

it brings the wood trim with it

or near the center of the garage

causing gaps to form above the

door opening. This can sometimes

trim as it twists and separates

be misdiagnosed as a sign of

from the lintel above. This is not

foundation failure but is a result

only unsightly but also a sign of

of a sagging lintel that is no longer

worse things likely to come.

able to fully support its brick load.

• Cracks Above Garage Door.

If you see stairstep cracks in the

If your garage lintel is bowing

mortar joints above your garage

into the shape of a "smile", it is

door, it may be a sign that the

failing at the weakest point in the

lintel is failing. That’s because

middle. As with the other signs of

when a lintel sags, the first few

lintel failure, this is an indication

courses of bricks it supports

that the bricks above your garage

often sag with it, causing them to

door are in danger of failing too.

separate from the bricks above.

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• "Smiling” Lintel.

Stair-step cracking and gap above lintel 51

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Causes of Lintel Failure You can think of a lintel as the horizontal element that spans the opening of a traditional beam-and-post support system.

As with any such system, the longer the span, the stronger it must be to support the weight above it. So, if a garage door lintel is too weak to begin with, or if it corrodes and weakens over time, it will eventually sag and fail. This causes the bricks that it was supporting to crack, sag and fail along with it.

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Solution for Lintel Failure Stabilizing and repairing your garage lintel is serious business. First, you’ll need a trustworthy, specialized contractor. Next, you’ll need to be sure they can offer solutions that will solve your problem permanently. There are many solutions to choose from, and of course, some are more effective than others. In situations like these, what you don’t know can hurt you.

This section was written to give an overview of the options available to you based on the science behind lintel repair. That way, you can make an informed decision. Let’s walk through an evaluation of the most common repair methods.

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The Option to Avoid Cosmetic Repair The process. It’s natural for a homeowner to seek an inexpensive “fix” for any problem, and lintel failure is no exception. Unfortunately, with many home issues, this typically means addressing the symptoms of a problem rather than the problem and its cause. In the case of lintel failure, this usually means patching and sealing the cracks in the mortar with a process called tuck-pointing.

The problems. Unless you hire a professional masonry crew that has the experience and equipment to do it right, tuck-pointing almost never looks invisible. But even if you do hire the pros, the failing lintel—the problem that caused the cracks to begin with—has not yet been addressed, and these “fixes” will eventually fail too.

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The Option That Works The LintelLift™ System LintelLift is a permanent solution to add support underneath garage door lintels to stabilize the failing lintel and prevent against future movement.

The process. Steel columns are secured to the concrete and sides of the garage opening.

Then a cambered (curved) beam is placed on top of them. This beam is straightened to a level position as it lifts the lintel and the bricks above it back toward their original position. Because the beam is cambered, it is constantly pushing upwards to support the bricks above it, even after it is straightened, because it is always trying to return to its curved shape. This camber is what gives the LintelLift system its superior brick-supporting ability. A paintable vinyl trim kit is then attached to the house, hiding and protecting all the LintelLift components.

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The LintelLift™ System with vinyl trim installed 59

Advantages of the LintelLift ™ System Addresses the root cause of failing garage door lintels.

Protection against further sagging.

Minimal disruption during and after install.

One-day installation.

Vinyl trim can be painted to match house trim.

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A Visual Difference Before and After

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Sagging Floors Do the floors above your crawl space seem bouncy, soft or unlevel? If so, then you know that sagging floors are not only a nuisance, but can leave you wondering how much longer the floor will be able to support the weight of everything on it.

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Signs of Sagging Floors Here are some of the most common signs that occur when your floors are not level and stable.

• Floors slope, sometimes creating a gap between the floor and interior walls.

• Gaps appear between existing columns and girders in the crawl space.

• Cracks in interior walls and gaps around door

• You notice shimming between existing columns

frames occur, caused by a wall sinking along

and girders in the crawl space (a sign of past

with the floor.

repair attempts.)

• Doors stick or have been planed or ‘shaved down’ in order to close.

• The effects of moisture are evident: wood rot and deterioration of the floor joists in the crawl space.

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Causes of Sagging Floors When your home was built, chances are good that the floors were strong and level. So, what created the problem? There are three main causes of sagging floors. It’s important to understand them, because only a solution that addresses these root causes can permanently fix the problem.

Existing columns are spaced too far apart.

When a crawl space is built, block or brick (heck, even wood sometimes) columns are located throughout the crawl space to support the weight of the structure above. If those columns are spaced too far apart, the beam can become overloaded and sag between the columns. The girder sags with it and so does the floor above.

Floor joists and girders have weakened.

Because crawl spaces are often unsealed from the earth, excess moisture and humidity is a problem. And what happens to wood when it has been exposed to moisture and humidity? It begins to rot, get moldy and become weak.

Yuck! The weakened girders and floor joists are unable to continue supporting the weight above, and the floor above the crawl space becomes bouncy, soft and may begin to sag.

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Existing columns have settled.

In previous chapters we’ve discussed the problems soil can cause, and it’s no different here. Weak soil can cause the existing columns in the crawl space to sink or settle, often creating a gap between the top of the column and the bottom of the girder it was supporting. Once the column settles, the girder sags and the floors above sag. It’s a chain reaction.

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Solutions for Sagging Floors Stabilizing your home's foundation is serious business.

First, you'll need a trustworthy, specialized contractor.

Next, you'll need to be sure they can offer solutions that will solve your problem permanently. There are many solutions to choose from, and of course, some are more effective than others. In situations like these, what you don't know can hurt you.

This section was written to give an overview of the options available to you based on the science behind foundation repair. That way, you can make an informed decision. Let’s walk through an evaluation of the most common repair methods.

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Options to Avoid Block Columns The process. Concrete footings are poured throughout your home’s crawl space. After the concrete footings cure, concrete blocks are stacked on top of the footings, sometimes with mortar placed between the blocks.

After the mortar cures, shims are placed between the uppermost concrete block and the girder. This may appear to be a good solution because concrete is a strong material, or because it is commonly offered by contractors, especially those who do not specialize in foundation repair.

The problems. Not only is this solution time consuming (long waits for concrete and mortar to cure), but it is also not adjustable. As the concrete columns later settle into the soil below, additional shims may need to be added.

In other words, this is a fix that will need to be repeated, again and again. This is because the concrete columns themselves are not the main problem. The soils the home, and these columns, rest on are. This option doesn’t address the root problem.

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Additional Shimming The process. A temporary jack is used to lift the girder and make room for the shims. Shims are then pushed between the existing column and the girder. The temporary jacks are removed. This option may seem attractive because it is relatively easy and inexpensive.

The problems. This one comes down to the old adage: you get what you pay for. Additional shimming is only a temporary fix, and you will find yourself repairing damage to upstairs finishes again and again and again. This is another option that doesn’t address what’s causing your problems.

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Light Duty Jack Posts The process. A concrete block is laid on top of the soil and a light-duty jack post is set into place. The light-duty jack post is then tightened to fit against the girder. Some may suggest that

Heavy-Duty SmartJacks®

this problem can be handled with a do-it-yourself project, and because a light-duty jack post can be purchased at the local hardware store, you may be tempted to give it a shot…forgetting that some projects should be left to experts (like repairs to your home’s foundation).

The problems. Light duty posts were never intended to support the weight of live loads and load bearing walls. They have adjustable top brackets designed only to tighten them up against the beam above, not to lift a floor. They are made of thin, unprotected or spray-painted steel that rusts, corrodes and weakens over time. Most importantly, these posts do nothing to address weak soils that can give way under their base, even when they are set on a concrete block or pad.

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Light Duty Jack Post

When heavy-duty must replace light-duty.

When this light-duty jack post failed, a more substantial SmartJack® system was required to support the floor system adequately.

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Options That Work The SmartJack® System SmartJacks are steel support systems used

Next, high strength, galvanized steel tubing

to permanently stabilize and level the girders

is cut to the appropriate height. The steel

and floor joists in a crawl space. The steel

column and components are assembled

components have been laboratory-tested

and connected to the support beam, and

and verified to support loads many times

the SmartJack system is tightened into

greater than what is actually required to

place. The support beam and floor joists are

stabilize a sagging floor and any partition

immediately stabilized and the above floors

walls resting on that floor. SmartJacks do not

and walls can be lifted back toward level.

replace the existing columns and piers, but add strength and stability to what is there.

The process. To address weak foundation soils, or the effects changing moisture conditions can have on these soils, a two-foot cube of soil is excavated at each SmartJack location. The hole is then filled with concrete or engineered fill to create a stable, load-

When to use them. SmartJacks should be used when you’re looking for these outcomes: • Lift the above floors and walls back toward their original position.

• Reduce floor ‘bounce’ caused by excessive floor joist spans.

bearing footing. The custom-engineered base is then positioned on top of this base to hold the SmartJack in place and properly distribute loads.

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• Solve the problem once and for all!

The SmartJack® 350 will stay connected with typical movements associated with seismic activity.

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The Bulb of Influence This is what really sets the SmartJack system apart

Even if the soil at the bottom of the excavated hole

from other repair options. It works differently, based

isn’t all that strong, you can be assured that the

on sound engineering. For those who are asking:

‘Bulb of Significant Stress Influence’ has already

“Why do you excavate only a two-foot cube at each

been distributed within the compacted crushed

SmartJack location? Wouldn’t it be better to go

stone or recycled concrete fill.

deeper?”…keep reading.

Here’s how the engineering works: at a depth of

It reduces stress on the original soil by 90 percent.

twice the bearing width, bearing stresses dissipate

Any system that does not address these concerns

to approximately ten percent of those at the bearing

will not be a long-term solution.

surface. What does that mean?! In other words, the SmartJack pre-cast concrete base and cast aluminum base are 12 inches wide. This is the bearing width. Two times 12 inches is 24 inches, or two feet.

So, at the bottom of the two-foot hole, the pressure that was being exerted at the structural footing base is reduced down to only 10 percent of what it was.

The "Bulb of Influence."

Doesn’t it just sound important? Well, it is!

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The bottom line: the SmartJack system is smart.

Advantages of the SmartJack System ®

It’s the only solution for the core issue:

It's engineered to support large loads, and

problem soils under your home.

suitable for large homes and load-bearing wall

Engineered fill replaces the troubled soils,

construction.

supports and dissipates the column load, and is

Installation is quick (often in less than one day)

unaffected by changes in moisture.

and can be done year-round.

Heavy-duty, threaded rods are designed to lift

Made of zinc-plated and hot-dip galvanized

the floor back to its original position.

steel, it prevents rust and eliminates weakening

Once installed, it provides immediate stabilization and lift.

from moisture, mold and wood rot.

It can be installed in conjunction with a crawl space liner, which protects your crawl space from the elements.

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Crawl Space Solutions At-a-Glance Wood Columns Adjustable

Long-term solution Addresses the real problem— the soil Quick installation with limited disruption to the homeowner Can support heavy loads Not vulnerable to deterioration (mold, rot or rust)

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Shimming

Masonry Column

Light-Duty Jack Post

SmartJack®

A Visual Difference Before and After 1

2

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Wall Failure Wall failure shows up differently depending on whether your home has concrete block or poured concrete foundation walls. Whichever the case, seeing the very foundation walls of your home crack or bow can be scary stuff! This section will cover the signs, causes and (most importantly) solutions for failure in both types of walls.

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Signs of Wall Failure Concrete Block Foundation •

Horizontal Cracking. Horizontal cracking near the

•

Pushing in at the Bottom of the Wall. If your

middle of the wall is one of the first symptoms you

basement walls begin to push in severely, you may

will notice in the case of a bowing wall. Horizontal

notice the wall sliding inward near the bottom. This

cracks usually start out small and increase in width

happens when the concrete floor in the basement

over time as the soil outside continues to put

holds the bottom row of blocks in place as the rest

pressure on the wall.

of the wall slides in. This is called "shearing."

• Stair-Step Cracking at Corners. Stair-step

•

Leaning in at the Top of the Wall. When you see

cracking at the corners of a bowing wall is another

that a concrete block foundation wall is beginning

common sign. It typically means that the problem

to lean in at the top, you are dealing with a very

is getting worse. As the wall bows more severely

serious structural problem. This means the

in the middle, the corners are held up by adjacent

connection of your foundation wall to the framing

walls, creating the stair-step cracking effect.

of the house has been compromised. This is what happens when the signs above are ignored and the problem is allowed to worsen.

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Foundation wall pushing inward near the bottom of the wall.

Basement wall leaning in near the top.

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Diagonal crack in the corners of a poured wall

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Signs of Wall Failure Poured Concrete Foundation •

Leaning in at the Top of the Wall. Because poured foundation walls are more rigid than block, they are more likely to lean in at the top rather than bow near the middle like block foundation walls. This isn’t because the wall is weak, but because the connection between the top of the wall and the rest of the house is typically the weakest part of the system. When the soil outside your wall creates excessive inward pressure, the top connection can break free.

•

Diagonal Cracking at the Corners. As poured foundation walls continue to fail, diagonal cracking at the corners will begin to form.

Because the corners of the wall are supported by adjacent walls, you will see diagonal cracks extending from the bottom corners up toward the top center of the wall.

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Causes of Wall Failure You may not realize this, but the soil around your home puts a lot of pressure on your foundation walls. The amount of pressure varies depending on the type of soil around the home, the amount of moisture in the soil and how deep the foundation is under the ground. When you think about it, there is nothing on the inside of the basement walls pushing back to counter that pressure.

Expansive Clay Soil

Frost

Clay expands and contracts as the amount of

In areas with cold winter climates, frost can put

moisture in the ground increases and decreases.

pressure on a wall and cause it to fail, especially

Have you ever looked at a dirt baseball field

if the basement is unheated. Frost forces can

during a dry spell and noticed cracks in the dirt?

be extremely powerful and can even lift shallow

This happens because clay soil shrinks when it’s

foundations up out of the ground, causing

dry. On the other hand, when it rains and clay soil

significant damage to your home.

gets wet, it expands. As clay soil expands in size, it puts a lot of pressure on your basement walls.

When the pressure becomes more than your wall can handle, the wall will begin to push inward.

Hydrostatic Pressure Hydrostatic pressure is the pressure exerted by a fluid due to the force of gravity. Simply put,

To see this in action, turn to Page 19, where

as water saturates the backfill soils around your

you’ll see a side view of dry vs. wet clay soil.

foundation, the water exerts pressure against your walls.

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Hydrostatic Pressure

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Solutions for Wall Failure Stabilizing your home’s foundation is serious business. First, you’ll need a trustworthy, specialized contractor. Next, you’ll need to be sure they can offer solutions that will solve your problem permanently. There are many solutions to choose from, and of course, some are more effective than others. In situations like these, what you don’t know can hurt you.

This section was written to give an overview of the options available to you that is based on the science behind foundation repair. That way, you can make an informed decision. Let’s walk through an evaluation of the most common repair methods.

If you’re wondering, “Is there anything I can do to prevent this damage from occurring to the rest of my home,” we have good news. At the end of this section, you’ll learn about products developed specifically to provide protection to the other foundation walls.

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The Option to Avoid Total Foundation Replacement The process. Soil is first excavated from around foundation walls.

Then, your house is jacked up and the floor slab and foundation walls are removed. Finally, the foundation is rebuilt, your home is lowered, and the soil is replaced. This option may lead you to think, “If the walls are cracked and damaged, they should be replaced with new ones.” Sounds good, but this logic doesn’t take into account that the walls were never the problem—the soils surrounding your house are the problem!

The problems. This solution is extremely disruptive, expensive and time consuming, but the real problem is that it only addresses the symptoms, not the cause. The foundation isn’t the problem; the soil is the problem. You’ve simply built a new foundation in the same problem soil, so you can expect that the new foundation walls will break and crack just like the old ones!

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Options That Work When access is limited outside the home Carbon Fiber Straps Carbon fiber is a material with very high tensile

When to use it. Carbon fiber straps are a suitable

strength, meaning it requires a very high amount

repair option if the wall is bowing in the middle and

of force to stretch or pull apart. In fact, it’s almost

hasn’t started to slide in at the bottom or lean in at the

impossible to stretch. Because it doesn’t stretch,

top. Because carbon fiber installations don’t require

carbon fiber can be adhered to concrete walls to keep

any outside digging or use of large equipment inside

them from bending or bowing inward. Carbon fiber

your home, they are also a good option if there is

straps have become a common method for reinforcing

limited access inside the basement or on the exterior

basement walls, and if installed properly, they can

of your home.

effectively hold the wall in place.

The process. Carbon fiber installation begins with

used if your basement walls have started to slide in

grinding the wall down to create a clean surface.

at the bottom or lean in at the top. Since carbon fiber

Then, an epoxy resin is applied to the wall and the

straps are adhered to the wall and are not typically

carbon fiber strap is adhered. Once installed, the

anchored to anything at the top or at the bottom, the

carbon fiber straps resist further bending of your

wall could continue to tip or slide in.

wall, keeping it firmly in place.

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When NOT use it. Carbon fiber straps should NOT be

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Not All Carbon Fiber Straps Are the Same!

While the idea of using carbon fiber straps to address wall failure is good, not all carbon fiber products are the same. A wide variety of these products are available; some are very rigid and almost plate-like, some are a loose grid and others have the appearance and feel of a sturdy fabric.

While very strong, laminate products can be a challenge to work with because they are unable to conform well to a bowing wall. Imagine your bowing basement wall, which is far from a flat surface. Then imagine trying to adhere a rigid plate tightly against that wall. It just doesn’t work well. Laminate systems can tend to pop off the wall at the top and bottom during installation.

Additionally, the epoxy used to adhere the system to the wall is very thick, like peanut butter. Because of this thickness, the epoxy tends to stick to the surface of the wall rather than to penetrate deeply into the pores of the concrete, limiting the strength of the system.

Grid systems tend to consist of woven carbon fibers. As you can probably guess, loosely woven fibers are generally not very strong. In fact, grid products are much weaker than laminate straps.

Fabric-like carbon fiber products are ideal because they contour tightly against the wall. This makes it easy to monitor quality control during installation.

However, most fabric products must be very wide (25 inches wide is typical) in order to match the strength of a laminate product. That’s hardly discreet!

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Avoid this. Grid systems like this one are the weakest carbon fiber options available and are often not designed to meet code. Avoid these systems whenever possible.

No more goo. Laminate systems and grid systems require the use of thick, gooey epoxy resins. This type of epoxy resin is not only messy, but also doesn’t penetrate deeply into the pores of the concrete wall it’s adhering to, drastically reducing bond strength.

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The CarbonArmor and ArmorLock Systems ®

CarbonArmor uses carbon fiber-reinforced polymers

conjunction with the ArmorLock system.

(CFRPs), a type of carbon fibers that is 10 times

ArmorLock is a patented product that provides

stronger in tension than steel and designed

additional tipping resistance when installed with the

specifically for basement walls. CarbonArmor has

CarbonArmor system, making it the strongest system

a fabric-like quality that makes it flexible enough to

available in the industry.

contour tightly against your basement walls. This is important, because it aids strong adhesion between the carbon fiber fabric and the concrete wall itself. It’s especially important when using with walls that are cracked or that have moved.

ArmorLock straps overlap with the CarbonArmor at the top of the wall and extend tension reinforcement to the ArmorLock bracket on the rim joist and sill plate. CarbonArmor stabilizes bowing walls while the ArmorLock System provides

Our two-part epoxy is another feature that sets the

supplemental support to

CarbonArmor system apart. This adhesive penetrates

existing top of wall connections,

the surface of the concrete, rather than simply sitting

preventing walls from leaning.

on top of the wall's surface. When other carbon fiberreinforced products fail, the point of failure is not the strap, but the bond between the strap and the wall.

In addition to the strength and flexibility of the straps themselves, this two-part epoxy provides a stronger bond between the strap and wall than other solutions.

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®

Together, these two systems stop inward movement at the top of your wall. This is important— most carbon fiber systems do not resist tipping movement effectively. This means they do

Another unique and proprietary feature of

not provide a comprehensive

CarbonArmor is that it can be installed in

foundation repair solution.

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Advantages of the CarbonArmor ® System The two-part epoxy adhesive and flexibility of

Installation presents minimal disruption to

the straps ensures an extremely strong bond to

the home and no disruption to the lawn

the wall. Stress testing showed that before the

or landscaping.

strap would peel from the wall, the shell of the concrete block would actually break apart.

These ultra-strong fabric straps are only seven inches in width, the narrowest carbon fiber fabric product available, but maintain equivalent strength to laminate products.

Can be installed with ArmorLock brackets, preventing inward movement of the wall at the top, or tipping.

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Low-profile design can be used in tight spaces and behind obstacles such as plumbing lines and electrical conduit.

Can be easily painted or concealed during basement finishing projects.

Installation and cure times are fast, and usually completed and cured within one day.

A Visual Difference Before and After

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Steel Beams The process. Most I-beam installations begin by

When to use them. I-beam systems can be a

standing a beam up against your basement wall. Then

reasonable repair option if you have limited space

the beam is connected to the wood floor joists at the

between property lines, underground obstacles or

top of the wall and the concrete floor at the bottom.

extensive above ground obstacles that make

The problems. Unfortunately, because I-beams are relatively easy to come by, many contractors with

outside digging, required by some alternatives, difficult or impossible.

little or no foundation repair experience have installed

When NOT use them. Because I-beam systems run

them over the years, sometimes with negative results,

floor to ceiling in the basement, they are NOT ideal

including severe damage to floor joists. This is all too

if your basement walls and/or ceiling are finished.

common, and occurs when contractors who are not

Drywall will need to be removed and replaced,

specialized in foundation repair don’t understand the

which adds cost and inconvenience to the project.

forces involved with this type of structural repair.

Additionally, I-beams can be a challenge to install if you have cabinetry, conduit or pipes near or along the failing wall.

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Wall movement caused this vertically-installed I-beam to push through the floor joists.

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Options That Work The PowerBrace ® System The PowerBrace system is designed to permanently stabilize your home’s foundation. It supports basement walls and allows for straightening over time. Utilizing a joist reinforcement method that distributes the load evenly, this system eliminates the worry of damage caused to wood floor joists commonly seen with other I-beam systems.

The process. Zinc-plated steel beams are custom fit to the basement wall height and secured tightly against it. This is done with brackets that are anchored to the basement floor and floor joists.

PowerBrace’s unique, patented design allows the system to be tightened over time, stopping wall failure without any invasive drilling or digging on the property. While other I-beam systems can induce side loading into floor joists, PowerBrace’s state-of-the-art brackets were engineered to provide strong joist reinforcement while also protecting the integrity of your home’s floor system.

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Advantages of the PowerBrace ® System Patented tightening system allows wall to be straightened over time.

No heavy equipment needed, and no disturbance to the home’s lawn or landscaping.

Zinc-plated components provide a clean appearance in your basement, unlike black, uncoated or painted steel, which can easily rust over time.

Specially designed and professionally installed to prevent damage to floor joist system, unlike other I-beam systems.

Can be installed year-round, often in less than one day.

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Options That Work Wall Anchor Systems Wall anchor systems consist of galvanized steel earth anchors that are embedded into the soil out away from your foundation wall. They are connected to steel wall plates with galvanized steel rods. Once installed, wall anchors will hold walls in their current position without any further adjustment. A unique and important benefit of wall anchor systems is their ability to be tightened during dry periods, allowing for improvement and straightening of your wall over time.

The process. Wall anchors are installed by digging a small hole in the soil away from your home’s foundation. A steel rod is drilled through a one-inch hole in the basement wall and is connected to an earth anchor seated deep within the augered hole. A low-profile wall plate placed on the interior of the basement wall is secured to the rod. The augered hole is backfilled and sod is replaced. Once all components of the wall anchor system are connected and tightened, your basement wall is permanently stabilized.

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When to use them. Wall anchors are a versatile wall repair method because they can be used to stabilize a variety of problems such as bowing walls, walls tipping in at the top and walls pushing in at the bottom. They are installed independently from the floor system of your home and are a good choice for the following reasons: • They are the best opportunity to straighten the wall over time.

• System can fix severe problems such as leaning walls and walls sliding in at the bottom.

• Can be installed around obstacles on the wall such as pipes, conduits, vanities, sinks, toilets, etc.

• Present minimal disturbance from installation.

• They solve the problem and stabilize the foundation wall once and for all.

When NOT to use them. In order for a wall anchor system to work effectively, access of at least several feet is needed on the outside of your home. In areas where homes are only a few feet apart or other obstacles exist, wall anchors are not a valid option.

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GeoLock ® Wall Anchor System The GeoLock system is professionally installed by local foundation repair contractors in the Foundation Supportworks® network. It’s engineered to stop wall failure in its tracks—permanently—and performs in any soil type.

GeoLock wall anchors utilize plates buried in the soil outside your wall that have up to 480 square inches of bearing surface. Why does this matter to you? Because they can have up to 10 times more contact area with the soil, GeoLock anchors have a higher (soil) capacity. That means they provide greater stability and are designed to straighten your failed wall over time.

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Advantages of the GeoLock ® System Permanently stabilizes foundation walls

Galvanized steel components give a clean

and can straighten walls back toward

appearance to basement and will never rust.

original position.

Once tightened, anchors hold wall

further enhance appearance in unfinished

securely in current position.

basement space.

Anchors can be tightened during dry seasons,

Multiple earth anchors available to work with

so further straightening of walls is possible.

various soil types.

Presents minimal disturbance to the home, lawn and landscaping.

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HideAway™ Wall Anchor Covers available to

A Visual Difference Before and After 1

2

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Helical Anchor Systems Helical anchors are designed like a screw and can be

When to use them. Helical anchors are a good option

mechanically advanced through the soil using a large

for anchoring a wall if you have ample space available

machine called a drive head. Although rarely used in

in the basement and moisture isn’t a main concern.

residential applications, some contractors use these

They can also be used on walls that are bowing,

anchors to stabilize bowing basement walls.

tipping in at the top or pushing in at the bottom,

The process. The first step is to cut a large hole in

unlike many other options.

the wall. Then, a hydraulic motor is taken into the

When NOT use them. For homes in areas where

basement and used to advance the anchor into the

moisture is a primary concern, this is not a good

ground. The hole in the foundation wall is then filled

option due to the potential for moisture around the

with concrete, and a steel plate connects the helical

hole created for the anchor. Helical anchors are also

anchor to the wall.

not an answer if your home doesn’t have enough clearance to property lines or other obstacles, as the helical anchors must be screwed far enough out to be in stable soil.

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“What if I want my wall straight now?”

In some cases, basement walls have leaned or bowed in severely and are in a dangerously unstable condition. Other times, homeowners want to straighten their walls right away so they can finish their basement.

Regardless of the reason, basement walls can be excavated and straightened immediately rather than waiting to tighten the walls periodically. Sometimes straightening the wall is the best option, and it can be done at a fraction of the cost of replacing the foundation.

What is the best option for your walls? Your local foundation repair contractor from the Foundation Supportworks® network will help you assess this during their inspection.

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Options That Work The EverBrace™ Wall Restoration System The EverBrace system provides a strong, durable and affordable solution for failing, deteriorating, bowed or cracked foundation walls. It is a great choice when stone, clay block or brick foundation walls are showing signs of failure. It’s also a good option when poured concrete or concrete block walls have reached the point of extreme deterioration or are even potentially close to caving in.

EverBrace provides you with the security of a new foundation—without the cost and disruption associated with foundation removal and replacement. Each installation is customized for your home, meaning existing windows and doors won’t be covered up, and the system is zinc-coated so there is no need to worry about rust or corrosion.

The process. The production crew prepares the area, the existing wood framing is reinforced and then the top track is installed to the framing. Heavy-duty steel panels are cut to size and hung along the failing foundation wall.

Next, specifically engineered I-beams are secured to the top track and floor. Once these posts are installed, a specialized rigid foam is injected behind the steel panels to transfer the load from the failing wall to the new EverBrace system. Finally, steel trim is installed to give the system a clean, finished look. If desired, the entire EverBrace system can also be concealed behind drywall.

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Advantages of the EverBrace ™ Wall Restoration System Less installation time and mess compared to other fixes Components are zinc-coated to resist corrosion Panels are customized to fit around windows, doors and other obstacles Steel trim covers edges and corners to create a finished look A waterproofing system can easily be integrated into the installation Can be concealed by drywall

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A Visual Difference 1

2

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Before and After

3

4

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Wall Repair Solutions At-a-Glance Options to Avoid Will keep the wall from tipping/leaning in at the top Will keep the wall from sliding in at the bottom Stabilizes walls that are bowing in at the center Limited disturbance to lawn and landscaping Can be installed when interior access is limited Installation usually completed in one day Can avoid obstructions on basement walls such as pipes, wires and plumbing lines Can straighten wall over time without excavating Does not have problems with leaking Does not rely on floor systems for support Can be installed in areas with close property lines Can restore walls with excessive deterioration

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Remove & Replace

Carbon Fiber Straps

Helical Anchors

Steel Beams

Options That Work

CarbonArmor® & ArmorLock®

PowerBrace®

GeoLock®

EverBrace™

Will keep the wall from tipping/leaning in at the top Will keep the wall from sliding in at the bottom Stabilizes walls that are bowing in at the center Limited disturbance to lawn and landscaping Can be installed when interior access is limited Installation usually completed in one day Can avoid obstructions on basement walls such as pipes, wires and plumbing lines Can straighten wall over time without excavating Does not have problems with leaking Does not rely on floor systems for support Can be installed in areas with close property lines Can restore walls with excessive deterioration

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Protecting Your Walls from Damage

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Once you’ve seen your foundation wall fail, no matter what signs you’ve experienced, it makes an impression. You may be thinking about how you can prevent this from happening to the other walls of your foundation. The reality is, the same factors and conditions that led to the damage in your failing wall are probably impacting other walls that haven't started to fail yet. While a permanent solution can both fix and protect your damaged wall against further issues, the other foundation walls still run the same risks.

So, what can you do? This section will walk you through the options for protecting the rest of your foundation walls from damage. The answer, then, is that you can do a lot! And you can outsmart the forces working against the stability of your home’s foundation.

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The WallDefense™ Bracket For Poured Concrete Walls Foundation problems occur with poured concrete walls not because the wall is weak, but because the connection between the top of the wall and the rest of the house is weak. When the soil outside your wall creates inward pressure, the top connection can break free. Building code requirements for top connections often prove to be inadequate, as soil conditions outside the home change over time.

The WallDefense bracket is a quick, non-invasive way to permanently protect poured concrete walls from ever experiencing this kind of failure. It provides a direct connection between the top of the wall and the floor joists.

The process. A bracket is placed just beneath the floor joists at intervals determined during your inspection.

These specially-designed brackets ensure that your poured concrete foundation wall remains straight, and that the top connections remain intact. It adds a tremendous amount of additional strength to the existing connection and prevents wall movement before it begins.

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The WallDefense ™ Strap For Concrete Block Walls Basement walls must not only support the weight of your home but also resist pressure from soil, moisture and other forces. Many block walls are also either unreinforced or under-reinforced, which makes them even more susceptible to cracking and bowing over time.

The WallDefense strap is a fast, non-invasive way to permanently protect block foundation walls from bowing. It is made from carbon fiber-reinforced polymers (CFRPs) with a tensile strength (force needed to pull it apart) many times stronger than steel. This tension reinforcement installed tightly against the inside face of basement walls provides the support needed to keep the walls straight, even as exterior soil conditions change.

The process. A narrow strip of a fabric-like material that uses CFRPs is affixed to your concrete block walls with a strong epoxy. This adds a tremendous amount of additional strength to the wall and prevents wall movement before it begins.

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Advantages of the WallDefense™ Bracket & Strap Eliminates the worry of further damage to other currently stable foundation walls.

Quick installation process is completed in a few hours.

Presents minimal disruption to the home.

The system is easily concealed during basement finishing projects.

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What Do I Do Now? You’ve identified that you have foundation problems. You’ve educated yourself by reading through this book.

You know that fixing the problems now, and protecting against further damage, is the right choice.

Now you’re ready for action!

1.

If you haven't already, reach out to your local foundation repair expert from the Foundation Supportworks network to schedule a no-cost, no-obligation inspection. To find your local dealer, visit FoundationSupportworks.com.

2.

The foundation repair expert will visit your property to do a full inspection and diagnosis.

While there, they’ll explain their findings and walk you through options to fix the problem.

They’ll also discuss how to protect against further damage.

3. At that appointment, you’ll receive a written estimate, including cost, that is based on what you want to accomplish. The expert will also be able to answer any questions you may have.

4. Then, you can have the work completed! You’ll feel good knowing your home has been permanently stabilized and you’re protected against future problems. Your quality of life and property value will be protected. Your peace of mind will be restored.

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Who is Foundation Supportworks ? ®

Foundation Supportworks produces and distributes

contractors and homeowners, and more advanced,

premium foundation and concrete repair products

permanent solutions that keep homes safer and their

to a network of home repair contractors across North

owners happier.

America. These highly trained, independent local contractors install our products to repair and protect foundations and lift, level and protect concrete in both residential and commercial projects. We also provide extensive training, technical support and consulting to the hundreds of professionals in our network.

But that’s only part of the story. As a company and as individuals, we’re dedicated to redefining the contractor industry. We believe that more is

We know that strong homes and happy owners create a positive ripple effect. That ripple effect impacts neighborhoods, communities and lives for the better.

That’s our purpose, and what drives us. That’s what ‘redefining’ is all about.

You can learn more about Foundation Supportworks, our products, purpose and history by visiting FoundationSupportworks.com.

possible—more great experiences between

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