Drilled Pier for Home Foundation
/ By Chase Gohl / Pier and Beam Repair/ 0 Comments

Pier and Beam Foundation Problems

Pier and beam foundations are commonplace in the North Texas, area due to the construction generally working well for the soil conditions in the region. Nevertheless, the foundation isn’t without its problems, especially when exposed to weather and temperature extremes. We’ll highlight some of the common pier and beam foundation issues and what homeowners can do about it.

The Common Issues at a Glance

Water can cause movement of both interior and exterior areas. Too much water in the soil can cause the piers to sink. This can also cause piers to tilt, resulting in beam destabilization if one pier sags deeper than another. In turn, this causes components like the door and window to get out of kilter and not open or shut properly.

With a moist environment also comes a flooded crawlspace. The moisture can also make its way into the joists and beams, setting the perfect environment for mold and mildew growth. In turn, this leads to wood rot. Moldy wood is also a festering ground for termites.

Another issue is shim failure, which is often due to poor construction and use of inferior materials, such as plywood or sheet-rock. Steel shims are far sturdier.

Signs of a Damaged Pier and Beam Foundation

The signs are similar to that of other foundational issues. This includes cracks where the wall and ceiling meet. You may also notice cracks in areas with concrete, such as garage and basement floors. If the concrete is chipping or flaking, then that may be another symptom. This is especially the case of older homes, which often contain inferior concrete made from salty sand.

How to Prevent Pier and Beam Foundation Problems

It’s apparent that water is a prime attributor of pier and beam issues. Prevention, therefore, revolves mainly around water buildup prevention and watering during dry times.

• Clean the gutters and clear it of leaves, dirt, and other debris.
• Redirect the downspout. As a general rule, the spout should be at least 5-feet away from the base of the house.
• Consider a French drain system. We especially recommend this if your home is located on the downward portion of a slope that makes it susceptible to pooling water.

We Correct Pier and Beam Issues

Contact Align Foundation Repair if you notice any of the symptoms above. Pier and Beam foundation problems require immediate remediation. Letting the problem exacerbate can result in greater damage to the home. Get a free estimate on pier and beam foundation repair from the experts at Align Foundation Repair before it gets worse.

Crack in a cinder block building foundation
/ By Chase Gohl / Foundation Maintenance/ / 0 Comments

Why Waiting on Fixing Your Foundation Can Cause More Problems

Who isn’t guilty of procrastination? People by nature have an out of sight out of mind mentality. Unfortunately, this can be detrimental when it comes to the health of your home and especially the foundation. Holding off seemingly minor repairs can lead to much more severe issues down the line.

  • Some foundation problems progress slowly and others progress rapidly.
  • There is no way to know simply by eyeballing the damage whether it is progressing slowly or rapidly
  • Foundation changes can mean added damage when lifting is required, or a need to work on the interior of the house
  • Waiting until the damage progresses can add to the cost of the repair
  • Sometimes waiting until the problem is bad leads to reduction in repairability

Do Foundation Problems Always Get Worse?

Foundations tend to sink over time due to the contraction of the soil, caused by back-and-forth moisture retention and dry spells. Early indicators of a compromised foundation include visible cracks in the walls or jammed windows and doors. If you ignore these signs, the symptoms can exacerbate to larger cracks or even complete separation in the walls. Does it always get worse? Not always, but it does more often than not due to the soil conditions in the North Texas area.

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Seeing signs of trouble in your foundation? Contact Align Foundation Repair for a free estimate.

The Consequences of Neglecting Repairs

Ignoring repairs can cause spreading structural damage. A weakened foundation has a domino effect where the damage can spread to areas like the floors, walls, ceiling, and window frames. Other damages include:

  • Plumbing – As the cracks begin to form, the damage can spread to the pipes. Leaky water leeches into the soil, creating the aforementioned contraction.
  • Lost Property Value – Continued foundation damage leads to a decline in the home’s value. A real estate agent will not agree to put the property up for sale until costly repairs are made.
  • Further Brick and Sheetrock Issues – Sinking foundations can cause horizontal or “stair-step” cracks in brick exteriors that in extreme cases can grow to 1″ wide. These cracks may allow water to seep into the basement, exacerbating damage to the foundation. Similarly, foundation damage can cause serious cracking in sheetrock, which may have to be replaced at a steep cost adding on to the expense of repairing the foundation issues that caused the cracking in the first place.
  • Framing Issues – Sinking foundations can cause serious framing damage that can be very costly to repair. Cracked foundations can sink into the ground (especially at the corners of the building) causing damage to wall studs, roof rafters, door frames, ceiling joists, and more. If pressure from deformed framing is strong enough, doors and windows may not open. Framing lumber may need to be entirely replaced after the foundation is repaired.
  • Roof Damage – Shifts in the foundation can also cause roof damage, telltale signs of which include sagging or bowing in the roofline, or sections with bulges or dips. If the damage is severe enough, sections of the roof may need to be replaced.
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Head off foundation damage before it can get this extreme. Contact Align Foundation Repair for a free estimate.

Don’t Let Foundation Damage Linger

The faster you act the more foundation repair options you have at your disposal, and the more affordable they are likely to be. Contact Align Foundation Repair at the first signs of a damaged foundation. Swift remediation from our Garland foundation repair service ensures you don’t end up with more serious and costly issues months or years down the road.

 

Commercial Foundation Repair Digging
/ By Chase Gohl / DFW Foundation Tips/ 0 Comments

Foundation Repair Industries Served

Whether residential or commercial, all buildings require periodic inspection to determine the condition of the foundation. We serve multiple industries across the Dallas, TX, area regardless of foundation type.

Industries we service:

Single Family Rental and Rehab 

  • We work with investors who own anywhere from one house to 1000
  • Special pricing available
  • We understand how investment properties work and have ongoing relationships with well over 200 investors in the DFW area

Multifamily Investing 

  • We have experience working with owners of one complex, as well as owners that have large portfolios
  • We provide a very in-depth inspection, so the ownership can feel comfortable they are covering their concerns properly
  • Concrete raising at apartments – save thousands as opposed to concrete grinding and replacement
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We repair apartment foundations. Contact Align Foundation Repair today for a free estimate.

Realtors 

  • We have built strong, long-lasting relationships with many realtors in DFW
  • Fast inspections times
  • Members of North Texas Association of Realtors (have Supra Access)

Homeowners 

  • Very in-depth inspection
  • Professional on time inspectors
  • Clean crews in company trucks

Homeowners

Our primary clients make up of residential homeowners in the Dallas and greater area. This includes owners of single to multi-floor homes, condos, town houses, properties part of a homeowner’s association, etc. We conduct a comprehensive inspection and report our findings to the homeowner without using complex industry jargon. Inspections are noninvasive with minimal disruption to the homeowner and adjacent neighbors. Proactive home repair ensures dwellings are on par with local ordinance.

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Homes are the Align Foundation Repair specialty. Get in touch with us today.

Government-Owned Property

This includes state-level buildings, such as schools, hospitals, city halls, etc. Foundation inspections are vital to ensure these facilities are safe to occupy for the public and employees. We regularly inspect facilities owned and operated by state government. As they are the entity that establishes building code protocol, they have to ensure their own facilities are up to standards.

Realtors

We regularly work with real estate agents. Some are regular clients of ours, and they have come to trust us for our timely and trustworthy inspections. Several of the agents we serve include members of the North Texas Association of Realtors. Inspections ensure homes are in sellable condition and that homeowners sell their property at the maximum possible value. We perform DFW foundation repairs at the behest of realtors, brokers, and valuators to ensure the property is ready for the market.

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Contact Align Foundation Repair and sell your home for the best value.

Investors

We serve numerous investors, house flippers, etc. We cover multiple foundation repair service areas. We have established relationships with Dallas-based investors that invest in upwards of 1,000+ homes. This category also includes landlords who operate multiple apartment complexes and multi-housing communities. We perform concrete raising on apartments and provide a safe living environment for the hundreds of tenants that reside in renting accommodations. At present, we have established working relationships with over 200 property investors and their staff.

Our Client Profile Is Diverse

As you can see, the Dallas Fort Worth foundation repair industries we serve are far-reaching and go well beyond homeowners and business owners. Regardless of which industry or category you fall under, call Align Foundation Repair if you require a foundation inspection. Periodic surveying ensures the foundation is up to building code.

/ By Chase Gohl / Concrete Sinking Issues/ / 0 Comments

Concrete Grinding vs Leveling: Which Is Superior?

Concrete leveling is a commonplace method for repairing a driveway or sidewalk. The procedure may entail one of two techniques: concrete grinding or leveling. What are the differences between concrete grinding and leveling? Each of these methods have their respective advantages, and an evaluation from a professional at Align Foundation Repair will determine which method is appropriate for a residential or commercial job.

Concrete Grinding

Concrete grinding is exactly what its name suggests. A tool is used to grind the concrete surface. This removes the rough outer portion, revealing a smooth surface. Concrete grinding is mainly a cosmetic procedure and is commonly used in areas like home driveways, public sidewalks, and warehouse floors. Concrete grinding is also used when home or business owners wish to install hardwood or tile over the concrete. Concrete grinding in this instance is often a pre-installation requirement to ensure a flat surface.

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Contact Align Foundation Repair for experienced concrete grinding services.

Other applications for concrete grinding include:

  • Restoration of spalled areas
  • Restoring surfaces too rough for bare feet
  • Removal of old paint, adhesives, and mastics

So, how do you grind material as hard as concrete? Modern grinding equipment include synthetic diamond tools. Depending on the type of concrete, the diamond is sorted according to grit and mesh for producing the desired results.

Leveling

Leveling is also known as mudjacking. The method is employed to raise a concrete that is uneven or settling to the bottom. In the procedure, polyurethane is pumped into the area below the concrete to fill any voids and gaps. In lieu of polyurethane, the process may also include using a slurry mixture of soil, water, and cement.

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Take advantage of our leveling expertise. Contact Align Foundation Repair for a free estimate.

Regardless of filler type, once the mixture cures and hardens, it raises the concrete so it’s even and flush with the surrounding surface. The process is non-invasive; contrary to popular belief, it does not involve digging up the concrete. The polyurethane or cement mixture filler is injected below the concrete via a drilled hole about one-inch in diameter.

The entire process can be completed in a matter of hours. The hole for pumping the polyurethane is also patched upon completion and completely unnoticeable. Leveling is a common procedure in the Dallas Fort-Worth area due to the porous soil conditions.

We Restore Sinking Concrete

So, concrete grindings vs leveling: which is right for your foundation repair? Call Align Foundation Repair for an inspection. After an initial evaluation, a technician will recommend the best method for your residential or commercial needs. Leveled concrete is integral from both a functional and cosmetic standpoint. No need to debate over which method to use — let a qualified professional from Align Foundation Repair make the determination as part of your free estimate.

/ By Chase Gohl / Concrete Sinking Issues/ / 0 Comments

Concrete Raising vs. Concrete Replacement

Many homeowners are under the assumption that concrete, due to its rock-hard composition, can last a lifetime. In some instances, this is true. Unfortunately, this is often not the case for concrete driveways and walkways in the Dallas Fort Worth area. The concrete is vulnerable to damage due to the ever-shifting soil conditions beneath. The good news is that solutions are readily available, namely in the form of concrete raising and concrete replacement.

Concrete Raising

Concrete raising goes by other names, such as concrete leveling, slab jacking, and mud jacking. Often, the concrete itself is undamaged and simply settling to the bottom due to expanding and shifting soil. It is not necessary to replace an otherwise good slab of existing concrete. Rather, a cost-effective procedure is to raise the concrete back to its original position.

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Raise your concrete with Align Foundation Repair.

With concrete raising, a small hole approximately one-inch in diameter is drilled into the slab. A pump is inserted into the hole where some type of filler – usually polyurethane or cement mixture – is pumped into the ground below the concrete. This fills in the gaps underneath; once the filler hardens, this effectively raises the slab so it’s back in alignment with the surrounding concrete.

Concrete Replacement

Concrete replacement may be the only recourse if the concrete sustained damage beyond repair. Typically, a technician will recommend a replacement if there is more than one crack per slab. At this point, the concrete’s structural integrity is severely compromised and may not be able to safely support a foundation or additional weight.

A replacement may also be in order if the concrete has settled more than eight inches beneath ground level. At this stage, the void beneath the slab is too great for slab jacking to restore. If the damage is due to tree root intrusion, then the solution usually also requires concrete replacement.

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Contact Align Foundation Repair and get your concrete replaced.

While a replacement is more expensive than simply raising the concrete, this may be the sole option if the damage or settlement is beyond restoration.

We Raise and Replace Concrete

When it comes to concrete raising vs concrete replacement,  it is not about which method is better, but which is more appropriate to your particular foundation problem. If you see signs of settling or cracks in concrete, then call Align Foundation Repair for an evaluation. As part of your free estimate, we will determine which method is the most cost-effective and best for the given situation.

/ By Chase Gohl / Concrete Walkway Issues/ 0 Comments

Should I Repair or Replace My Concrete Walkway?

Your concrete walkway may settle. The process is gradual, but the concrete will eventually settle to the point where it becomes a visual distraction and even a trip hazard. This leads to the question: should I repair or replace the concrete? This is a legitimate question for North Texas homeowners as concrete settlement is all too commonplace in this region.

Repair Methods

In most instances, the concrete itself is hardly damaged and simply settling to the bottom. An expensive concrete replacement is not necessary; raising the concrete walkway is the far more sensible solution. The process of raising concrete is known as mud-jacking. It also goes by other names, such as slab-jacking and concrete leveling.

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Need quick and non-invasive repairs? Contact Align Foundation Repair today.

The process is quite simple. A slurry mixture of cement, clay and sand, or a similar solution is injected into the soil beneath the foundation. When the mixture hardens (usually within two hours), it fortifies the soil by filling in the gaps and air pockets that lead to the settling. This raises the concrete, so it’s flush with the surrounding driveway.

Unless damage to the concrete is significant, mud-jacking is a great option. It’s a cost-effective solution due to the non-invasive nature of the process. It can be completed within a single visit and does not require half the yard to be exhumed or existing concrete to be demolished. The cost is about half of the expense of a concrete replacement.

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Contact Align Foundation Repair and get it repaired in less than a day.

When Is Replacement Necessary?

There are scenarios where a complete replacement is the only option. Such may be the case when:

  • The concrete slab is broken into many pieces
  • The concrete has deteriorated

The above scenarios, however, can almost always be avoided by calling a professional the minute you recognize the concrete has slightly sunk or sloped at an uneven angle. As long as you don’t wait until the last minute (when the concrete splits or sinks to extreme depths), repair will always be the more feasible option.

Raise Your Settling Concrete Walkway

Do you need to level a concrete walkway? This is where Align Foundation Repair comes in. Give us a call; with just one visit to your home, we can raise the concrete to its original position. Do not let the problem linger, as the concrete will only settle further until damage requires a far more expensive and labor-intensive replacement. Call us today for a free in-person evaluation of your foundation and complimentary estimate!

/ By Chase Gohl / Seasonal Foundation Tips/ 0 Comments

Pro Tips to Take Care of Your Home Foundation in the Summer

Though out of sight, the foundation is what maintains your home’s structural integrity. However, it is not immune to the passage of time. Over the years, many hot summers contribute to the gradual wear and tear. This makes foundation protection all the more critical for ensuring longevity.

The Implications of Summer Heat on Residential Foundations

The North Texas regions are known for blistering hot and dry summers. This is often accompanied by extended periods of drought. This dries the soil, causing the foundation to settle and ultimately develop cracks and splits. Once the summer ends and rainfall begin in the ensuing seasons, the water makes its way inside the cracks and finds its way in your home.
We suggest Texas homeowners follow these summer foundation maintenance tips outlined below to offset preventable damage.

Water the Foundation

The first care tip is to water the soil around the foundation during periods of dry weather. This sounds unusual, especially since puddling water around the foundation can cause long-term damage. However, during hot summers, watering the soil helps it maintain moisture. Use an automatic sprinkler or soaker hose. Begin doing this at the onset of dry conditions without regular rain. This prevents the soil from drying and cracking but doesn’t cause it to become too damp or muddy.

Drainage

Balance is the key; the soil should be neither too wet or too dry. Prevent water from pooling around the home’s perimeter. Be sure gutter spouts point at least five feet away from the perimeter. The property grounds should also be slightly sloped, so water drips away from the home. Consult with Align Foundation Repair for the installation of a French drain.

Mulch the soil

Provide ample mulch over the soil. Mulch shields the soil from heat and helps it retain its moisture. We suggest using natural mulch, such as pine and wood or bark chips. The mulch should be two to four inches thick and not touch the home directly.

Landscaping

Trees and shrubs have extensive roots that suck water from the soil. If you plan on planting additional trees or shrubs, plant them several feet from the home. Also, consider drought-resistant shrubs.

We Care for Your Home Foundation Year-Round

Beyond basic care on your end, be sure to contact Align Foundation Repair for a more robust inspection and home foundation repair services if need be. Knowing how to care for your home foundation is essential for the long-term stability and resale value of your house. Call us today for a free evaluation of your foundation’s integrity and repair estimate.

/ By Chase Gohl / Seasonal Foundation Tips/ 0 Comments

Why You Have to Take Care of Your Foundation When the Soil Is Drying Up

A home’s foundation rests on the soil. In this regard, the soil can be thought of as the foundation for the foundation. This is why soil condition is so important. This is especially so in the North Texas region where frequent drought and hot weather can contribute to dry soil. In turn, this causes all sorts of structural issues.

The Problem with Dry Soil

Dry soil foundation problems are commonplace throughout most of the southern portion of North America. When the soil dries up, it shrinks. As the soil shrinks, the foundation settles. Eventually, as the rain increases, the soil expands. This yearlong cycle of shrinking and expansion causes the soil to “heave.” The foundation will move along with the soil; the movement causes movement in the foundation. This issue is especially common in the North Texas region, where the heavy clay and loam-based soil are prone to moisture loss, particularly during the peak summer months.

Keep in mind that changes in soil conditions are natural and to be expected with changes in the season. However, the soil should always maintain some level of moisture content. Unfortunately, this doesn’t always happen naturally, which is why some care on the homeowner’s end may be necessary.

How to Care for Your Foundation

Doing foundation care for dry soil is not complicated but does require diligent attention.

Another form of prevention is drip irrigation. Drip irrigation can be installed by a licensed irrigator. Alternatively, you can deploy soaker hoses. Contact Align for instructions to set up soaker hoses.

Don’t Eschew Professional Care

Even with stringent care on the homeowner’s part, regular professional inspection is still a must. Call Align Foundation Repair for a thorough evaluation of your foundation. We can detect early signs of foundation damage and take preventive action before the problem exacerbates. We can recommend foundation repair services if the issue is serious enough to warrant remediation. Call today for a free inspection and estimate!

/ By Chase Gohl / Concrete Driveway Issues/ / 0 Comments

Should I Level or Replace My Concrete Driveway?

Many homeowners overlook cracked or visibly damaged concrete as nothing more than an eyesore. However, aside from being visually displeasing, the damage or settling can be a trip hazard, not to mention a sign of poor soil conditions beneath. This leaves you with two options. Should you level the concrete or replace it entirely?

Concrete Leveling

Concrete settles due to low soil compaction, which leads to voids within the soil. This arises because of changing weather, which can shift rather abruptly in the Dallas Fort-Worth area. It may also arise from the soil not being properly filled and compacted during the concrete slab’s initial installation.

Concrete leveling is a procedure that fills the void in the soil. This raises the concrete back to its original position and stabilizes it from future settlement or uneven sloping.

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Repair the voids in your soil today with Align Foundation Repair.

To level a concrete driveway, a technician drills a small hole into the concrete slab and pressure-injects a cement slurry or other mixture into the soil. Once the solution cures, it creates a firm and stable surface that prevents future sinking or sloping. The entire process takes no more than a day.

Concrete Replacement

Concrete replacement is the other option. With this method, the entire section of the slab is removed and replaced. While certainly a feasible option, this is often the far more expensive solution due to the additional time, labor, and materials involved. It’s also more invasive as the entire replacement section needs to be cordoned off and exhumed.

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Align Foundation Repair can help you choose the right option for your needs. Contact us today.

Concrete Leveling vs Replacement

There are certainly some instances when replacement is the necessary option. This may be the case if a crack extends from one section of the slab to the other or there is extensive spalling. Another scenario is if there is significant damage due to excessive tree root intrusion.

However, the majority of concrete repairs can be completed via leveling. Plus, concrete leveling leaves a smaller carbon footprint since it requires less machinery and material disposal.

Find the Best Method for Concrete Restoration

Typically, raising a concrete driveway is often the go-to solution because it is simpler and more affordable. Contact us at Align Foundation Repair for a free evaluation and estimate. Upon an initial inspection, our knowledgeable technician can help you determine the appropriate course of action.

/ By Chase Gohl / Concrete Driveway Issues/ 0 Comments

What Causes Concrete Driveways to Sink?

Over the years, the concrete in your driveway may begin to crack, settle, or slope unevenly. It is without a doubt a major eyesore, not to mention a trip hazard. What causes a sinking concrete driveway and is there anything a homeowner can do to remedy the situation? In nearly every case, the cause has to do with the soil directly beneath.

Soil Washout

The Dallas Fort Worth area is no stranger to occasional torrential rainfall. During rain or when water pools over the concrete, some of it may make its way into the soil. It’s also possible that a leaky plumbing pipe can lead to water intrusion. The water washes away and erodes the soil that supports the concrete’s weight. As the soil diminishes over time from repeated cycles of water intrusion, it begins to loosen. In turn, the concrete slab settles or slopes as its support structure loses its integrity.

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Contact Align Foundation Repair to address water damage today.

Poor Soil Compaction

The soil quality during the concrete’s initial installation matters a great deal. The installer typically fills the soil to ensure proper compaction before pouring in the cement. However, the installer may fail to properly fill the soil. New concrete poured over soil that’s loose to begin with will result in concrete settlement in just a few short years.

Burrowing Pests

The Dallas-Fort Worth region is home to various native wildlife. Many are considered pests; one way they cause damage to property is by burrowing holes around residential zones. The tunnels they create may lead directly to the soil beneath the driveway. This displaces the soil, leaving less to support the concrete. The tunnels may also create just enough of an opening for water to seep in.

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Contact Align Foundation Repair and fix the damage that pests cause.

Weather Changes

The shifting dry and wet cycles affect soil conditions. The Dallas region is known for heavily clay-based soil. When clay gets wet, it holds the water and expands. When the water dries out, it shrinks. The constant contraction and expansion cause the slab to shift around. The subtle movement is enough to cause cracks to form over time.

Leave Concrete Repairs to Us

As we have pointed out, problems with underlying soil are the most likely causes of a sinking concrete driveway. Merely restoring the concrete slab and sealing cracks is a band-aid solution. For a permanent fix, contact us at Align Foundation Repair. We can examine the source of concrete settlement and implement concrete driveway leveling to restore the soil’s integrity.