The Most Common Types of Foundation Repair and How They Can Help Your Home
The last thing that any homeowner wants to hear is that there’s a problem with the foundations. Regardless of the technical details, it’s safe to say that, if the material anchoring your property into the ground becomes compromised, there may be trouble ahead. It is really important that issues with foundations are addressed quickly, before they turn into much bigger challenges.
The good news is that, if you do respond in a timely manner, foundation repairs can be very affordable and efficient. There are a number of superb piling contractors in Colchester and they are great at getting the job done fast. Whether it’s the conditions in the ground or the weight of the house which is triggering vulnerabilities, they know how to fix them.
This guide to the most common foundation repairs will help you get to grips with a range of possible solutions.
Concrete Piers
Many piling contractors use concrete piers to repair weak foundations. This is one of the most affordable options for homeowners in Colchester. Concrete columns are poured into trenches in the ground as a way to reinforce the existing foundation. The process is fast and straightforward.
Concrete Pilings
Pilings are very similar to piers, with the difference being that pilings are installed underneath the existing foundation. They are not poured into trenches like piers. It creates a very strong base for the house and doesn’t cost much because the materials are inexpensive.
Steel Pilings
If concrete isn’t deemed to be sturdy enough, however, you also have the option of using steel pilings. Many contractors prefer steel because it is a lot resistant to erosion and general wear and tear. The downside is that steel pilings cost more and they are not suitable for all foundations or soil conditions
Slabjacking/Mudjacking
In some severe cases – when the foundation is sinking rapidly and in need of urgent repair – construction experts can pump supportive materials beneath it. This is usually concrete or polyurethane resin and it literally lifts the house upwards. Generally though, the method is reserved for quite serious cases of soil erosion.
Chemical/Soil Injection
This is a slightly rarer option, but it can come in handy if a foundation is particularly susceptible to water based erosion. It involves the use of water soluble substances like potassium ions and ammonium salts. They are injected directly into the soil as a way to stop it from absorbing any more moisture.
Root Barriers
Often, houses run into trouble because there are trees on the premises and their roots are slowly snaking underneath the foundations. It is a surprisingly big problem actually, but root barriers are a possible solution. They are installed under the ground and impede tree roots from pushing or growing in certain directions (towards the house).
How to Find Great Piling Contractors
When searching for a reliable foundation repair team, focus on companies with a great local reputation. The benefit of going local is that you probably won’t have to wait very long (if at all) for an appointment. It is also much easier to research local contractors and hold them accountable if you’re not satisfied with the end result. Make sure that you ask for a cost estimate before work begins.
To find out more about concrete and steel pilings and what they can do for vulnerable foundations, click here to visit Dixon Piling. Or, call 01621 815169 to arrange an onsite consultation or request a cost estimate for your project.