History and Testing

  What's holding up your home? 

We are reaching a point in history where the majority of our older foundations are crumbling or decaying beyond repair.   Factors such as age, quality of concrete used at the time, lack of water remediation, water intrusion, absence of rebar, all contribute to the level of decay we are now experiencing.  Concrete is by nature porous, water being given no alternative path will find its way through concrete, speeding up the deterioration process.   The level of foundation degradation is often visually hidden by a skim coat applied to the surface of the interior or exterior of foundation walls. 

Simple ways to check a foundation:  

• If lightly tapping on several areas of foundation walls results in a hollow sound this indicates problems below the surface.
• If you are able to dig through the concrete or bricks of your foundation with a butter knife this is the best indicator of seriously decayed material.
• If the signs above are not easily visible then a core sample can be taken and sent for outside testing, providing an accurate analysis.

What not to do… 

This picture on the left shows a horizontal crack and foundation failure, a continuous trench was dug alongside the base of the interior foundation wall. Digging down for additional basement height, installing interior drainage, or just removing the basement slab can all compromise an old foundation, and in turn your homes stability and livability.  

Is a foundation replacement the right choice for my home? 

A variety of factors will come into play when weighing up if this type of project is right for your home. 

Some points to consider: 

• How long do you plan to stay in this home, will the home remain in the family or passed on to other family members in the future? 
• Do you have specific goals for creating more space? Maybe an apartment with ground floor access for extended family members, a rental ADU, more space for a growing family, a studio or workspace? 
• Is there a concern over structural issues with your current foundation, or are there concerns about the seismic event we are due for? 
• Are water intrusion or rodent problems an ongoing concern?  

Do I need to remove furniture out of the house prior to having my house lifted? 

No, generally all furniture and items can remain. Collections, such as extensive libraries or vinyl collections, or storing pallets of concrete in the living room (yes, we have come across this!) these may need to be addressed prior to lifting.   

Can I live in my home while my foundation is being replaced?    

Alternative temporary living arrangements, while the house is shored is required.   

How long does the process of replacing my foundation take, and when can I move back in? 

Usually a minimum of 3-4 months, depending on the project. Once the house is back down on its new foundation you can move back in. Bear in mind that work will still be work going on, creating noise, dust and disturbance, if you work from home or have young children and pets you may wish to wait until construction is completely finished.   

Do you provide any other options to retrofit my old foundation, or could I just replace one of my foundation walls? 

We do not work on, save, or retrofit older foundations.  

      Remember, a foundation is the bones upon which rest many family's largest asset.