How Do Sinkholes Form? Karst Terrain Leads to Sinkholes The idea of the ground opening beneath your feet is a scary prospect. However, sinkholes are a reality and can damage your home and property. Spectators view a sinkhole that opened along a road in Maryland. Photo courtesy of the United States Geological Survey Homeowners, especially […]
Pyrrhotite Causes New England Foundations to Crumble Crumbling foundations have become expensive for hundreds of Massachusetts and Connecticut homeowners. Their foundations were made with pyrrhotite, a mineral that can react with water. How does pyrrhotite affect foundations? Pyrrhotite is an iron sulfide mineral. According to the American Geosciences Institute, “When iron sulfides are exposed to […]
What are helical tieback anchors, and what do they do? Helical tiebacks are a highly effective repair option for a specific job: straightening and strengthening basement and other sub-grade (below-ground) walls, as well as retaining walls. In many ways, they resemble helical piers or piles, from the steel bars to the helical plates that allow […]
Winter Cold Causes Basement Foundation Cracks to Grow Those of us who live in the areas of the US with harsh winters are used to the cold, but your foundation isn’t. When temperatures are freezing, this can affect a home’s foundation. It is important to be aware of your home foundation problems. When the temperature […]
5 Ways to Check Your Foundation Wondering if your home has a foundation problem? Over time, your home’s foundation may shift or settle. While a bit of change is absolutely normal, significant shifting, cracks, or tilting structures could indicate serious issues. Fortunately, you can catch early warning signs with a simple walk-around inspection. Here are […]
Helical Tiebacks Straighten Rotating Walls “You spin me right round …” might be OK for record players, but it’s not a phrase you want associated with your basement wall. A rotating foundation wall is a serious issue, but a helical tie-back wall system is the solution. More specifically, foundation wall rotation is caused by water-logged, […]
How Serious is a Horizontal Foundation Crack? A large horizontal crack running across your basement foundation wall is cause for concern. However, the crack doesn’t mean your foundation is doomed. Plate anchors can repair your wall. Water Pressure Causes Cracks A horizontal crack in your foundation wall puts your home at risk. Horizontal foundation cracks […]
What’s the White Stuff on My Basement Walls? The white, chalky, powdery stuff on your basement walls is efflorescence. It isn’t toxic, but it could be a sign of water problems. In French, the phrase means “to flower out,” and the white residue is known for its fluffy composition. How does efflorescence form? Efflorescence is […]
5 Reasons To Fix Your Foundation Now There are some things in life you should wait for. Foundation repair is not one of those. The best time to repair your foundation is now. Common signs your foundation needs help include leaning or bowing walls, water issues, doors or windows that stick or won’t close, sagging […]
Why Are My Front Steps Sinking? Are your front steps sinking, tipping, tilting, settling or pulling away from your foundation? (Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons) The lazy days of summer are a great time to sit on your front porch sipping lemonade and visiting with neighbors. But does something seem off? Are your front steps […]