How do you reinforce old foundations?
/If you are a homeowner in the Niagara Region, chances are that you don't think much about the foundation of your home unless you suspect there is a problem. For older homes, it can be a good idea to invest in reinforcing the foundation before a problem arises.
Why should older foundations be reinforced?
The foundation of a home supports the entire structure. However, shifts due to soil erosion, freezing soil thawing, and flooding can cause the foundation to move and even become damaged so that it cannot support the weight of the home in the way that it once did. When this happens, it can compromise the integrity of your home.
Fortunately, the foundations of most existing homes in Niagara and St. Catharines can be reinforced. While a structural engineer should determine the exact method for your home, here are the most common methods.
1. Underpinning
Underpinning is commonly used on foundations that have significant damage or when the depth of the foundation needs to be increased. There are several types of underpinning, including:
Mass pour - This method involves excavating the foundation in sections beneath the footing. Concrete is poured into each exposed pit, repeating until the entire area is underpinned.
Screw piles and brackets - Another underpinning technique employs screw piles and brackets, which can be installed manually or with a smaller excavator. This faster option minimizes vibrations that could harm other parts of your property.
Pile and beam - In situations with limited access or high load requirements, this method places mini-piles on either side of affected walls. All brickwork beneath the wall is removed and replaced with reinforced concrete.
Piled raft - Rarely used, piled raft underpinning is reserved for cases where the entire building needs reinforcement. It's employed when the foundation is too deep or the soil too hard for other methods. Piles are positioned at various locations, and pockets are removed under the footing. Reinforced needle beams are installed to support wall weight.
2. Jacketing of Foundations
Foundation jacketing comes into play when columns require strengthening, typically when additional loads are introduced, such as expansions. To ensure the wall can handle the added weight, a concrete jacket is constructed and added to the existing footings.
3. Mudjacking
Mudjacking is a method for improving foundations in smaller footprint spaces, commonly used for steps, small concrete surfaces, and porches. Though not involving mud, Mudjacking injects cement and other materials into small holes drilled into the concrete. This material expands, raising misaligned slabs back into place.
4. House Lifting and Leveling
In cases where flood damage prevention is crucial, house lifting may be necessary. This complex process often employs hydraulic jacks placed beneath the home to elevate it. Sometimes referred to as building jacketing, this procedure separates the structure from the foundation and raises it using screw jacks. It helps relocate structures or enhance the foundation beneath them.
In all instances, contractors like those at Foundation Fix must consider factors such as the concrete slab's condition, the home's overall state, the extent of damage, and soil type. Customized plans are typically the most effective approach to foundation strengthening. Contact us today to learn more about how your home's foundation may be reinforced.
