What to Expect from Foundation Repair
You've had the foundation elevated, the cracks filled, and the wall anchors installed. So, what's next? You may believe that now is the greatest moment to take a cup of coffee, curl up in your recliner, and put your feet up, safe in the knowing that nothing bad will ever happen to your foundation. However, when the repairs have been completed, it is the greatest time to start thinking about ways to prevent future foundation and/or basement problems and foundation repair.
What does that sound like?
Floor joists were used for supporting the subfloor underneath the first floor when your house was built. The wood joists would have been parallel to the foundation and straight. If the foundation slants or bends, the joists and other wood framework posts and beams slant or bend as well.
The joists and framing will move if your home's foundation has been lifted and leveled. It's possible that the wood will make crackling or popping noises as it adjusts to the new location. These noises usually don't endure more than a couple of weeks. It's as if the wood is the spine of your house, cracking as it straightens out. You have nothing to be concerned about as long as the noises go away within a month.
Where did that crack come from?
Everything above the foundation is affected by the movement of the foundation. Ceiling cracks may occur as a result of your home's shifting frame. Wood can contract and expand due to changes in temperature and moisture, resulting in fissures. Your home will be alright if the cracks aren't too long, such as those that run from the ceiling to the wall.
Hairline fractures or disintegrating mortar can also occur when crawl space walls and basement shift a little. You should have these cracks sealed as soon as possible.
Future damage prevention
Moisture was to blame for the troubles with your foundation. When the earth is saturated with water from rain or river flooding, the dirt expands and presses on the concrete foundation. Water seeps into the pores of the concrete, widening existing breaches and adding moisture to the air, which feeds mold development.
Water will fill in the gaps between the soil and form slurries (streaming soil) that will erode the dirt beneath the foundation. Soft areas or air pockets form as a result of the erosion, allowing the concrete to shift. You may see concrete fractures, bowed basement, and uneven floors as a result of this.
The foundation must be as watertight as possible to avoid harm. This entails taking the initiative and ensuring that your home's gutters are clear and functioning correctly, draining a few feet away from the foundation. Check to see if your land has the necessary slope for water to drain away from the foundation. For shallow roots get a root barrier while planting shrubs or trees. If you live in a flood-prone location, install a drainage arrangement in the basement, such as a sump pump.
Slab foundation repair, as well as crawl space and basement foundation repair, must be done as soon as you see evidence of damage. A solid foundation is essential for a safe living environment, therefore don't be afraid to engage a professional to inspect it and recommend what has to be rectified.
Give us a call or send us an email if you live in OKC and need foundation repairs. We here at Ramjack are excited to make your home as functional as possible.