Foundation Settlement
Observing cracks throughout your home can be concerning. While initially insignificant, these fissures often signal severe foundation damage, caused by sinking and uneven settlement. Do not ignore these signs.
At Foundation Repair of Western Colorado, we have over 15 years of experience assessing concrete settlement and implementing proven foundation repair solutions.
Continue reading to learn what causes foundations to settle, how to identify the warning signs, and why contacting our Grand Junction-based team for customized repairs is critical.
What is Foundation Settlement?
Foundation settlement occurs when all or specific sections of a home’s foundation sink or lower. This phenomenon arises when the underlying soil compresses, losing its ability to adequately support the structure’s weight. The settlement may be uneven, causing certain areas of the foundation to drop more than others. This imbalance in support results in cracks and damage as the home’s weight is no longer uniformly distributed.
Foundation settlement is a serious issue that worsens over time. Overlooking early indicators, such as drywall cracks, poses the risk of eventual complete home failure.
At Foundation Repair of Western Colorado, we employ advanced techniques to address settlement, such as foundation pier systems, that potentially lift your home’s foundation.
What Causes Foundation Settlement?
Foundation problems are caused by many factors, including:
- Soil Shrinkage: In arid conditions or drought, clay soils may undergo contraction, leading to the settling of the foundation. Trees exacerbate this issue by extracting soil moisture, compounding the problem of foundation damage.
- Soil Expansion: Excessive rainfall or flooding can result in the swelling of clay soils, causing an upward push on the foundation. As the soil dries, gaps may develop beneath the foundation, potentially leading to settlement.
- Poor Soil Compaction: In some cases, the fill soils used during construction lack sufficient compaction, causing the foundation to settle as the ground compresses.
- Erosion: Runoff water has the potential to erode the soil surrounding the foundation, compromising its stability. Issues like poor drainage and clogged gutters contribute to this problem.
Irrespective of the underlying cause, it is crucial to promptly address foundation settlement to halt the risk of additional home damage.
Can Foundation Settlement Be Fixed?
Yes, foundation settlement can be fixed. This critical process involves permanently stabilizing the foundation by redistributing its weight to deeper and more stable ground or bedrock.
Our innovative repair techniques often render a complete foundation replacement unnecessary. Foundation Repair of Western Colorado is well-equipped with the expertise to implement simpler, less intrusive, and highly effective solutions.
How to Address Foundation Settlement
Foundation Repair of Western Colorado employs cutting-edge technologies to rectify foundation problems and tackle settlement issues. Our methods include:
- Push Piers: Steel piers are inserted deep into the ground and linked to the foundation footing through specialized brackets.
- Helical Piers: Screw-like steel piers are installed beneath the foundation to engage stable underground soil.
- Slab Piers: Designed to reinforce and potentially elevate concrete slab floors.
These engineered foundation piers provide a permanent stabilization solution for your home, with the potential to lift sagging portions. Additionally, we can address and repair any cosmetic damage resulting from settlement.
Why Address Foundation Settlement Now?
Promptly addressing foundation settlement is paramount for various reasons, such as:
- Preventing Additional Damage: Neglected issues tend to exacerbate, necessitating more extensive and costly repairs.
- Safety Considerations: Severe settlement can lead to unstable walls and uneven floors, presenting a safety risk.
- Protecting Your Investment: A settling foundation diminishes property value; however, foundation repair reinstates its worth.
- Peace of Mind: Our permanent solutions guarantee a secure and stable home.
We have the latest foundation repair technology and skilled technicians to fix your foundation settlement problems.
Contact Foundation Repair of Western Colorado for Foundation Settlement Solutions
If you’ve observed signs of foundation settlement, it’s crucial to address them promptly. Foundation Repair of Western Colorado identifies the underlying cause and employs advanced piering technologies to repair your foundation.
We offer free, no-obligation inspections and service estimates. Our skilled technicians are ready to evaluate your home’s foundation and recommend the most effective repair strategies. Contact us today to begin the process.
FAQs
Uneven foundation settlement results from various factors, including:
- Soil shrinkage in dry conditions
- Soil expansion during intense rain or flooding
- Insufficient foundation soil compaction in construction
- Erosion caused by inadequate drainage or obstructed gutters
If you have concerns about your home’s foundation, contact Foundation Repair of Western Colorado for a free inspection and more information on how our solutions guarantee a safer, more secure home.
Foundation settlement repair costs vary, depending on the damage and the chosen repair method. Foundation Repair of Western Colorado offers free estimates and flexible financing options to fit your budget. Contact us today to schedule your free inspection.
Here are signs that your home may be experiencing foundation settlement:
- Wall cracks
- Floor cracks
- Doors and windows that stick
- Uneven floors
- Floor gaps and wall gaps
- Chimneys that crack and tilt
Contact Foundation Repair of Western Colorado for a free inspection, estimate, and affordable financing options.
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Our Locations
2575 U.S. 6 & 50, Unit A
Grand Junction, CO 81501