While he has lived in his house for more than 20 years, a longtime homeowner in Stuart, FL, recently noticed potential structural problems. There were noticeable cracks in a stair-step pattern on one exterior corner of the foundation walls, there were cracks and gaps along interior walls, and the floor was slightly slanting.
These are common signs of foundation settlement, but they raised a red flag to the homeowner. Concerned with the safety and structural integrity of the home, the owner decided to seek professional assistance. During his research for repairs, the owner found information online about Florida Foundation Authority and he was eager to contact us for further guidance.
The owner met with Inspector Alex Graves who noticed the cracking patterns during his thorough evaluation of the home’s interior and exterior. Alex then suggested the best way to repair and protect the walls.
Per Alex’s recommendation, one of our crews, led by Foreman Mike McDonald, installed several Push Piers under the settling foundation walls.
After digging down to expose the foundation’s footing, heavy-duty steel brackets were secured. Rugged steel tubes were then hydraulically driven through the brackets to competent soils. The weight of the house was then transferred through the piers to load-bearing soil. This ensures no further settlement will occur, and the home’s wall can be lifted back to level. The interior wall cracks closed considerably as the walls were leveled, and any cracks also were filled and repaired.
The homeowner now has peace of mind knowing his house will be a safe and stable living environment because of this reliable repair.
Inspector: Alex Graves
Foreman: Mike McDonald
Products Installed: Push Piers