29 Mar Why Do I Need To Keep My Crawl Space Dry?

What are the signs of foundation issues? 

Crawl space solutions:  You may need one or more of the following solutions to correctly solve your crawl space issue.

Crawl Spaces

Flooded and damp crawl spaces can quickly lead to major problems in the home. Resulting in unhealthy air circulating in the home, such as mold, mildew, and allergens; on top of that, a home with a wet crawl space is going to be extremely difficult to sell at a good value. The water built up in the crawl space can cause the floors to sag, leading to permanent foundation damage and can invite unwanted pests into your home. Replacing a rotting crawl space is extremely expensive. If they’re repaired before the damage is severe it will be a fast and cost-effective repair

• Interior Waterproofing – installation of an interior drain system with a new sump pump, removing excess water from the foundation of the house.
• Insulation – insulate with non-water sensitive insulation. This insulation barrier will prevent the encapsulation from contacting the surface of the walls and keeping the area temperature controlled.
• Encapsulation System – Install a seal to the floor and walls of the crawl space, completely separating ground moisture from the rest of your house and preventing the soil beneath your home from over drying that causes foundation settling.
• Stabilizing System –  Straightening and adding floor joists to the center beam of the house or where needed to support to the floor above the crawl space.

A functioning crawl space will create a healthier living environment, protect the foundation, and increase the value of your home.

Foundation Repair

Signs of Foundation Issues

Stair-step cracking or any type of cracking in your brick or concrete block wall is a sign of foundation settlement. Allowing your home to settle further, a vertical crack may widen, signifying that your walls are rotating outward.

What methods are used to repair a crawl space or foundation?

Solutions to repair existing foundations:

1. Helical Pile

Turning helical (screw) piles or into stable soil to accommodate the excess load around the foundation. The piles are selected and spaced at proper intervals to support each specific area. This is a proven solution for foundation repair.

1. i-Beam Installation

Securing steel beams to the foundations footing and the above structure. I-Beams are ideal for straightening and stiffening a foundation wall that has bowed or tilted inward. Securing steel beams to the foundations footing and the above structure. I-Beams are ideal for straightening and stiffening a foundation wall that has bowed or tilted inward.

1. Carbon Fiber Straps

This is a highly effective way of adding strength to a concrete or block wall. Bonding carbon fiber straps to a wall will help prevent further cracking and bowing in the foundation.

1. Block Wall Replacement

When your block wall is too damaged to repair with the alternatives mentioned. The house is safely raised and supported while the damaged wall is removed and replaced with a reinforced block wall. SAS Services standard is to grout the wall every 4 feet using .5” re-rod.

By repairing your foundation will eliminate any further damage and uphold the value of your home.