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Project Overview: In Phoenix, Arizona, David, the foreman, leads a foundation repair project that was booked by customer care representative Alysia. The homeowner has been experiencing structural damage due to foundation settlement, a common issue in the region caused by changes in moisture in the bearing soils. Greg, the design specialist, was assigned to evaluate the problem and perform a comprehensive manometer survey, which confirmed foundation settlement. The survey identified vertical cracks and uneven settling, requiring immediate attention to prevent further damage.
Initial Problem: The homeowner noticed cracks in the walls and uneven floors, which are common signs of foundation settlement. This is a significant issue in Arizona due to the expansive clay soils that shrink and swell with changes in moisture, leading to shifting and settling of the home’s foundation. Without proper intervention, the damage could worsen and lead to costly repairs or even structural failure.
Evaluation Process: Greg conducted a thorough analysis of the foundation and recommended using hydraulic push piers for stabilization. Hydraulic piers were chosen for their ability to bypass problematic soil and transfer the weight of the structure onto stable bedrock or load-bearing strata, which is typically 20 feet below the surface in Arizona. The piers would provide permanent support, stopping further settling and allowing for any necessary foundation adjustments.
After the Project:
Completed Project Overview: David and his team successfully completed the foundation repair using hydraulic piers as outlined in Greg’s repair plan. The team excavated small pits around the home’s foundation to install the pier brackets, then drove high-strength steel piers into the ground until they reached the load-bearing strata. The hydraulic system applied over 70,000 lbs. of force to secure the piers in place, ensuring long-term stabilization. Once the piers were in position, the team simultaneously lifted the home to correct the uneven settlement.
Results: The foundation was successfully stabilized, and the structure was leveled, eliminating the vertical cracks and uneven flooring. The hydraulic piers, now permanently in place, will prevent any future foundation issues caused by shifting soil. The pits were backfilled, and the landscaping was restored, leaving no visible signs of the repair work. The homeowner now has peace of mind knowing that their home is protected by a durable, long-lasting solution.
Customer Satisfaction: Thanks to the coordinated efforts of the entire team, from Alysia’s appointment scheduling to David’s management of the project, the homeowner expressed satisfaction with the timely completion of the work and the quality of the repair. The expert evaluation from Greg and the efficient installation process ensured the problem was addressed quickly and effectively.
The restoration process for the foundation slab of this historic Phoenix home involves utilizing innovative techniques such as PolyLevel, a lightweight expansive polyurethane solution. This method effectively fills any existing voids and elevates the floor slab to its optimal level.
To commence the repair, small 3/8” holes are carefully drilled into the exterior concrete slab. Through these access points, polyurethane grout is then skillfully injected directly beneath the slab surface. This process efficiently raises the slab to its Highest Practical Maximum, ensuring structural integrity and stability for the entire foundation.
The stem wall at the Phoenix home began to flacking and cracking. This was due to the rebar becoming oxidized and weakening the concrete around it. We came in and installed our patented non-ferrous composite.
The concrete stem wall on this late 1970s home had a few areas of concrete cracking, flaking and crumbling.
Mid repair, we confirmed the culprit - rusting rebar!
When moisture becomes trapped near the concrete stem wall of your home, porous concrete may absorb that moisture. Once said moisture makes it to the rebar, oxidization, corrosion and rust may occur.
Another area of concrete stem wall repair on a Phoenix area home!
Rusting rebar caused this Phoenix home's concrete stem wall to begin crumbling, cracking and flaking.