Foundation Repair Experts Phoenix

Have you noticed cracks or other blemishes along the foundation of your house? Often, they may seem relatively minor or insignificant, nothing more than a small fissure or simply flaking of the paint. Nothing that would generate much concern. Unfortunately, these small cracks are, more often than not, just the tip of the iceberg and should be immediately addressed. A delay in addressing the problem only intensifies the situation, leading to more extensive and costlier remediation measures.

Foundation cracks may be caused by many factors, including moisture retention, slab movement, or settling, often due to improper soil compaction, poor drainage, and other landscaping issues. (Such factors must be addressed in conjunction with the repair itself). All cracks should be addressed immediately upon being identified. Although the cracks may appear small or minor on the surface, chipping or chiseling of the crack will reveal the true extent of the damage. You will often find that the problem is much more extensive than it initially appeared. The deterioration of the concrete usually extends to the rebar and often beyond the interior of the foundation.

All loose, damaged, and unstable concrete must be removed in such situations. The surface should then be cleaned and treated, or “water-proofed,” to isolate the concrete from moisture. It must be noted that the proper water and moisture remediation product be used. Unfortunately, many products on the market are available to the general consumer that claim to prevent these water issues but do not accomplish their claims.

This treatment, or waterproofing, is imperative to prevent similar foundation problems. At this time, the repair patches may be applied. As with the treatment stage of the repair process, the proper patching material and adhesive products must be used to ensure a successful repair. Again, many patching products are available to the average customer that will not provide the best patch and repair possible. Upon completion of these repair steps, drainage and landscaping issues must be addressed to alleviate the water retention problem near the foundation.

Cracks in a foundation are a serious problem that can threaten the entire structure’s stability. The good news is that the problem can be addressed and remedied. However, the chances of successful remediation and prevention of the return of future issues are significantly increased by the earliest possible intervention.