Question 1

What simple steps should I follow to avoid foundation repair?

Accepted Answer

Homeowners often fear foundation repair. However, very few are aware of the simple steps they can take to eliminate the risk or minimize foundation movement.  There are four subjects that all homeowners should be aware of when it comes to avoiding the movement of slab foundations.

• PLUMBING
When leaks occur, large amounts of water can be discharged in the soil beneath the foundation.  As the soil absorbs the water it can swell causing upheaval of the foundation.  The water supply to a home is metered and a review of one’s monthly bill will show the increase in water usage if there is leak in the water supply lines.  On the other hand, when a sewer line fails, there is little or no immediate evidence.  Sewer line leaks can cause significant damage to foundations.  PVC sewer lines can leak but fewer leaks occur when they are less than 25 years old.  Cast iron sewer lines have a life span of 25 – 35 years but do tend to rust.  As rust holes increase in size, the more water they discharge beneath the foundation.  Water leaks beneath a home’s slab foundation can cause noticeable sheetrock cracks in the walls and ceiling.  If you suspect a leak in your water supply or sewer lines, a licensed/bonded plumber should be contacted immediately to conduct the proper leak detection tests.

• WATERING
Watering of the foundation year round can help minimize foundation movement.  There are a couple of important secrets though.  First, is the proper amount of water and second is the proper time.  You need to keep the soils from shrinking in summer months and over expanding in the cooler rainier months.  The key is to keep the soil around the perimeter of the foundation moist, not muddy.

• DRAINAGE
Proper drainage is a must for all foundations.  A good way to tell if you have proper drainage is 30 minutes after a good rain.  Walk the perimeter of your home, if there is no water standing within 10 feet of the foundation, then the drainage is more than likely adequate.  If water stands in pools or puddles against the sides of the foundation or paved areas, there is concern that you may have a drainage problem.

• LANDCAPING
Landscape can have a major impact on the performance of a foundation.  The more plants you have, the more you have to water.  Also, various plant types can affect a home’s foundation in many different ways.  Trees use about 150 gallons of water per day for every 12 inches of diameter.  Trees can have roots extending one and half times the height of the tree, resulting in roots beneath a foundation.  As a result, the center or edge of a foundation can settle.  In order to minimize water consumption, trees should be at least 20 feet from the foundation.  When mature trees have an effect on a foundation, Root Barriers are recommended.  Root Barriers can be installed within three feet of the foundation and should be at least three feet deep in order to prevent or arrest interior foundation settlement.  Shrubs or bushes that are next to the foundation, should be no taller than three foot and should be placed a minimum of two feet from the foundation.  Lastly, flower beds can trap water against the sides of a foundation.  When installing or maintaining any landscaping, it is important to make sure there is adequate drainage.

Question 2

How can I identify a foundation problem?

Accepted Answer

At first glance, a foundation problem may seem like an extreme problem. However, if you identify the damage before it becomes too advanced, most foundation issues have simple, permanent solutions. The key is to recognize the problem early and make sure you call a foundation repair specialist with the tools and expertise to effectively tackle the problem.

So what's wrong with your foundation? We've created this helpful online guide for homeowners to identify the most common issues. This will help you learn more about the damage to your foundation and what can be done about it.

Sinking & Settling
There are numerous layers of soil beneath your home.  Foundation settlement often occurs when the soil can’t support the weight of your home.  The following issues are the most common telltale signs:
 • Stair-step cracks in the brick or concrete foundation
 • Leaning, tilting chimneys
 • Cracks around doors and windows
 • Doors and windows sticking or jamming
 • Cracks in floor or drywall

Heaving of the Foundation
Foundation upheaval can lift an entire structure.  Heaving forces parts of a slab foundation upwards, while other sections remain down.  Heaving occurs due to an increase in moisture in the soils. Increased moisture is often the result of a plumbing leak, however, other causes include tree roots, expansive soils, and flooding.
You don't have to solve the problem alone! We have a team of experts that are here to help you identify and solve your issues with warrantied products and services. Abacus Foundation Repairs provides a free, no-obligation foundation repair quotes,(http://www.centralnystructuralrepair.com/free-estimate.html) call us today for your appointment!

Question 3

Do You Carry Insurance?

Accepted Answer

We carry full coverage insurance and provide a copy of the Certificate of Liability Insurance at the time of the inspection.

Question 4

What Do Our Services Include?

Accepted Answer

In addition to the foundation repair, our bids/ contracts include a dig test through Texas 811, a third-party licensed engineer inspection and report, city permit (when required), and post-repair plumbing test by a third-party licensed plumbing company.

Question 5

How Long Does Will It Take To Repair My Foundation?

Accepted Answer

Typically, it takes a full day per 15 pilings, but this also depends on the repair plan being executed. Interior pilings, tunneling, excavating, etc. all require additional time to complete the project.

Question 6

What Should I Expect With The Existing Cosmetic Damage, As Well As New Cosmetic Damages That May Arise From Foundation Repair?

Accepted Answer

The longer you wait to address your foundation following cosmetic damages in your brick, flooring and sheetrock, etc., the less likely the cracks and/or separation will go away. However, every structure responds differently. The foundation repair process can cause new cracks from the installation and lifting process. During the lifting process, the job foreman monitors your home closely in order to minimize collateral damage. If the home appears to be stressed, the lifting is stopped in order to prevent any severe damage.

Question 7

Will My Plumbing Break When Repairing My Foundation?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately, foundation repair can cause plumbing leaks. This can depend upon how out of level the foundation is, the age of the home and the type of plumbing you have. Older homes with cast-iron sewer lines often have a leak that the homeowners were unaware of. This is often the cause of the foundation damage. In the event that that we suspect a pre-existing plumbing leak, the homeowner is advised to contact their insurance company to verify what type of coverage they have and to ensure that foundation repair doesn’t void a claim for plumbing repairs. Plumbing repairs should not occur prior to speaking with a foundation specialist and addressing the foundation issues. Prematurely repairing an existing plumbing leak can cause you to pay for the repairs not only before the foundation repair but after as well.

Question 8

What Will Happen To My Landscaping?

Accepted Answer

Prior to foundation repair, we will tie back or remove any plants and shrubs that are located in the area where we will be working. While we cannot guarantee the survival of your landscaping, we can assure you that we take every precaution possible. The plants and shrubs that we remove will be replanted , however, we cannot guarantee their survival.

Question 9

What Forms of Payments Do Your Accept?

Accepted Answer

We accept all major credit cards, checks and cash.

ABACUS FOUNDATION REPAIR