Foundation cracks can form when a house settles. These cracks may be vertical, horizontal, or diagonal. Dry shrinkage, overload and other factors can cause cracking. Foundation crack repair can prevent them from spreading and restore structural integrity to your home. This will stop foundation problems from becoming worse.
There are three main methods to fix foundation cracks: epoxy injections or strapping.
Epoxy Injections
Epoxy can be used to fix foundation cracks in concrete slabs or walls. Epoxy is well-known for its strength, high adhesion and resistance to chemicals.
The crack's surface must be prepared before epoxy can be injected. The process involves cleaning the crack with a chisel and scraping any remaining material. Staples are used to stabilize and support the crack. For crack repair or to stop them from growing, epoxy can be used.
Strapping
These Kevlar straps made of carbon-fiber Kevlar are used to seal foundation cracks. These lightweight straps can be used for foundation crack strengthening and to prevent them moving. These straps can be used in conjunction with epoxy injections to fix horizontal cracks on walls. Horizontal cracking could indicate excessive weight against the wall. This cracking may lead to wall collapse.
Underpinning
Underpinning is a method to prevent foundation cracking and settlement. Underpinning increases the foundation's depth or width to better support the structure's weight. If a building is too heavy to support its foundation, it can cause walls to crack and bow. Underpinning evenly distributes the structure’s weight and provides more support.
For homes built on clay-like soils, underpinning may be an option. Clay expands when it is wet. Clay shrinks when dried. These moisture fluctuations can lead to foundation cracks or settlement.
Consult a foundation contractor if your foundation cracks. A foundation contractor will inspect your home and determine the root cause of cracking, then recommend the best course.
Concrete Underpinning Vs Resin injection Underpinning
Concrete underpinning refers to the excavation of sections from a foundation to increase its bearing capacity and support it with solid strata. After the concrete has cured, it is poured. Concrete is then poured in order to stabilize and support the foundation. This is an old way to repair a foundation on a house.
There are two types concrete underpinning.
- Mass underpinning is the process of excavating the foundation to pour concrete beneath the footings in order to increase their bearing capacity.
- Screw Piling – These are similar to steel screw, but have been drilled into the ground. A firm subground connects the foundation to the piles.
Resin injection underpinning can be used to make it easier and does not require excavation. Drilling holes is used to prepare the foundation. Through the holes, resin is injected into the ground. The soil absorbs the resin while it is still moist. As it dries, the resin expands and bonds to the soil to make it less reactive. Due to the risk, this method is not recommended. They can be filled with resin if they are damaged or corroded. If the foundation is unstable, traditional underpinning techniques can't be used. When possible, the traditional method of underpinning is preferred.
Melbourne Underpinning Group is a specialist in foundation repair and house bolting. Even with severe cracking, we can surpass your expectations. We have been underpinning Melbourne homes for many years. We are experts in reactive clay soils. Foundation problems can be fixed. We use a simplified workflow to ensure that all projects are completed within the timeframes agreed upon.
