If you’re a homeowner, dealing with a sinking foundation can be stressful and overwhelming. Not only can it cause structural damage to your home, but it can also be a safety hazard for you and your family. But before you panic, know that this is a common problem and there are ways to repair it.
This article will guide you through the process of identifying a sinking foundation and how to go about finding the right foundation repair company to fix it. This blog post aims to help ensure the longevity and safety of your home. So let’s get started!
Article Summary:
- How To Know If My Foundation Is Sinking?
- Common Causes of Foundation Sinking
- DIY vs. Professional Foundation Repair
- Foundation Repair Methods Used
- Preparing Your Home for Foundation Repair
- Preventing Future Foundation Problems
- Choosing the Right Milwaukee Foundation Repair Company
1. How To Know If My Foundation Is Sinking?
Identifying a sinking foundation early can save homeowners time, money, and stress. Several telltale signs include:
- Cracks in drywall, especially around doors and windows or at the corners of rooms, often signal foundation movement.
- Uneven floors, doors that stick or won’t close properly, and gaps around window frames or exterior doors can also suggest a problem below.
- A leaning chimney or visible cracks in the foundation itself are clear indicators of sinking.
These are the most common symptoms that arise from the shifting and settling of the ground beneath the home, affecting its stability and integrity. Recognizing these signs allows homeowners to seek timely repair solutions, safeguarding their property’s structure and value.
2. Common Causes of Foundation Sinking
A primary factor of foundation sinking is the soil composition beneath the foundation; different soils have varying capacities to bear weight and respond differently to moisture changes, leading to compaction or expansion that unsettles the foundation. In Milwaukee specifically, the soil is primarily clay-based, which is particularly problematic as it is highly susceptible to expansion and contraction with changes in moisture levels.
Erosion also plays a significant role, where heavy rains, melting snow, and flash floods can alter the ground beneath a structure, removing support and causing the foundation to sink. Additionally, improper drainage exacerbates these issues by allowing water to accumulate near the foundation, increasing hydrostatic pressure and promoting soil erosion. Other contributors include tree roots growing too close to the foundation, which can remove moisture from the soil and create voids, and construction issues such as poor compaction of fill dirt or inadequate foundation design.
3. DIY vs. Professional Foundation Repair
When it comes to addressing a sinking foundation, homeowners might be tempted to tackle the problem through DIY methods in an effort to save money. While minor adjustments and maintenance tasks, such as improving drainage around the home or filling small cracks with epoxy, can be effectively managed by a handy homeowner, significant foundation repair requires professional foundation repair.
Professional foundation repair companies bring expertise, ensuring the repairs are done safely and effectively. Additionally, professionals can offer warranties on their work, providing homeowners with peace of mind that the problem is resolved.
4. Foundation Repair Methods Used
Foundation repair encompasses a variety of methods designed to address and rectify issues causing a foundation to weaken or sink. Among the most effective and commonly used techniques are steel piers and helical piers, which provide deep earth stabilization by transferring the weight of the structure to more stable soil or bedrock beneath.
Concrete piles and poured concrete piers also rank highly for their durability and strength, offering a solid solution for foundations needing substantial support. Additionally, innovative methods like polyurethane foam jacking have gained popularity for their ability to lift and stabilize concrete slabs with minimal disruption to the property.
Each method has its advantages and may be more suited to certain situations; consulting with a professional foundation repair company will help determine the right foundation repair method for your home.
5. Preparing Your Home for Foundation Repair
Before the repair work begins, conducting a thorough inspection of your foundation to assess the extent of damage is advisable. Clearing the area around your foundation is essential; this may involve relocating plants or landscaping features that are close to the house to prevent them from being damaged.
Inside your home, remove fragile items from shelves, walls, and tables, such as picture frames, mirrors, and ceramics, to protect them from vibrations or movements during the repair process. Covering furniture with blankets or plastic sheeting can help shield it from dust and debris.
If you have pets, consider keeping them indoors or boarding them temporarily to ensure their safety and to prevent any disruptions to the repair crew. Ensuring clear access and egress for the repair team will facilitate a smoother operation.
6. Preventing Future Foundation Problems
Regular foundation inspections play a critical role in early detection of potential foundation issues, allowing for timely interventions. Proper drainage and moisture control are also pivotal in safeguarding the foundation from water damage, which often leads to soil expansion, erosion, and ultimately, foundation sinking.
For new constructions, implementing proper techniques from the outset, such as using helical piers, can address settlement issues before they begin, ensuring long-term stability. Additionally, being vigilant about grading gaffes and ensuring the foundation is constructed correctly using high-quality materials and methods can significantly reduce the risk of severe foundation damage.
7. Choosing the Right Milwaukee Foundation Repair Company
When it comes to choosing the right foundation repair company in Milwaukee, there are a few key factors to consider. First and foremost, ensure that the company is licensed and insured, as this protects both you and your property in case of any accidents or damages during the repair process. Researching the company’s reputation through customer reviews and references can also give insight into their level of professionalism and quality of work. It’s also beneficial to ask about their experience in working with different types of foundations and soil conditions, ensuring they have the necessary expertise for your specific situation.
Lastly, check their website to see what services they offer. For instance, at Zablocki Waterproofing, while we cannot lift a sinking basement or fix a crumbling foundation, we do specialize in foundation repairs, basement waterproofing, basement repairs and drain tile repair for homeowners and property owners in and around Southeast Wisconsin. Reviewing the company’s website will help you understand their specific areas of expertise and whether they are a good fit.
If you have questions about your foundation, don’t hesitate to call Zablocki Waterproofing today. We are here to help!
By Dale Granbois, co-owner of Zablocki Waterproofing
Dale Granbois is the proud co-owner of Zablocki Waterproofing, the premier basement waterproofing and foundation repair service provider in Milwaukee. Our team of experienced professionals offer a variety of services from complete basement waterproofing solutions to structural foundation repairs -all designed to keep your home or business safe and dry. Let us save you from expensive headaches caused by water damage and give you peace of mind with a safe and secure property. Contact us today for more information!
