Have you noticed cracks in walls or experienced sinking floors? Most homeowners feel worried because these signs indicate foundation problems. The foundation plays a vital role in maintaining the overall structural integrity. But, what will you do if it starts showing problems? Although foundation issues are serious, they are not always a massive disaster. Often, a damaged foundation is easily repairable with professional assistance to restore your house’s stability. Let’s discuss basement foundation repair in OKC and help you make the right decision.
Different Techniques for Repairing the Foundation
Professional contractors know how to restore your damaged foundation.
Slab Jacking
This is a common process where experts pump the grout mixture beneath a sunken slab. The main purpose is to restore the slab in its place. This technique is effective only when you need to settle the concrete slabs. For other serious issues, contractors will rely on other methods.
Underpinning
In this method, contractors will dig underneath the home’s foundation and add a few piers. Helical or steel piers are used to keep the sinking foundation stable. Especially houses with complex foundation problems need this repair method.
Polyjacking
Polyurethane foam jacking is a less invasive foundation repair process, which involves using a drill pump. An expanding foam is inserted underneath the foundation. Most professionals choose this technique for residential concrete foundation damage due to the quick expansion of polyurethane.
Sealants and Masonry Patches
Some cracks in concrete foundations are easy to repair with sealants and masonry patches. These substances will fortify your foundation and prevent further leaks. Common masonry patches used for concrete foundation damage are hydraulic cement mix and sealants. Some experts also use vinyl concrete patches that dry within 24 hours.
Is the Foundation Repairable with a DIY Method?
It’s always best to contact a pro if you lack resources, experience, and knowledge. To fix the house’s foundation as somebody with some experience, go through a few steps:
Identify the Foundation Type
Check if your house has a slab-type or crawl space foundation. In case you are unsure about the foundation type, assess the wall’s exterior part. A home with a crawl space must have a vent towards the bottom. The absence of the crawl space indicates the foundation includes a slab.
Find the Damage
Before starting the repair process, identify the main issues with your foundation. Common foundation damage signs include:
- Sagging floors
- Leaning chimneys
- Cracked bricks and walls
- Window and door opening issues
Implement the Repair Method
Complex foundation repair is not easily manageable with your DIY efforts. You need to hire a contractor if your exterior walls have cracks or the chimney is leaning. But, you may depend on your DIY repair for minor cracks on your interior walls. Thus, make the right decision after assessing your house’s foundation method.
All in All
Your home’s foundation needs your attention, even if it has minor damage. Sometimes, the problem initially appears as a small crack, but quickly turns into a big problem. Foundation issues are often repairable with timely action and the right expertise.
So, schedule a professional inspection and identify the need to repair the foundation. Basement foundation repair in OKC will keep your home’s structural integrity intact!