PENNSYLVANIA

Structures in Pennsylvania, whether they are residential, may experience foundation or waterproofing problems. My Foundation Repairs will match you with one of our local contractors that is experienced in your particular situation.

CAUSES OF FOUNDATION PROBLEMS IN PENNSYLVANIA

Common foundation problems in Pennsylvania are often caused by the weather conditions; typical causes of foundation failure in the state include:

  • Hydrostatic Pressure: An increase in hydrostatic pressure within the soil occurs when there is lots of groundwater from heavy precipitation. This pressure pushes the foundations, causing foundation shifting and crack formation.
  • Erosion: Erosion from severe rain or from excessive snowmelt may wash away soil under your home, causing voids and spaces to form. These voids cannot support the foundation, and as a result, the building will settle and sink.
  • Soil Shifting: Soil-shifting can cause the foundation to sink,
    settle, or crack, and may be caused by excessive organic material, poor
    compaction, overloading, etc.
  • Heaving and Settling: In the cold seasons, the temperatures may cause the
    soil to expand and contract, putting pressure on the foundation above and
    causing it to heave, settle, and even crack.
causes of foundation failure diagram

COMMON FOUNDATION PROBLEMS IN PENNSYLVANIA

To see if your home has a foundation problem, look for some of the common signs of a foundation problem. Sinking or settling foundations will often result in cracks and structural instability. Shifting foundations and foundation cracks can lead to pest infestation or water issues. More common signs of a foundation problem in your home include:

  • Floor cracks
  • Sloped or uneven floors
  • Wall cracks
  • Sticking doors or windows
  • Ceiling cracks
  • Bowed or leaning walls
  • Leaning chimney

SOLUTIONS FOR FOUNDATION PROBLEMS IN PENNSYLVANIA

If your foundation has started to shift or settle, it can be fixed with the installation of steel push piers or helical piers. Steel piers are driven into the ground under the foundation to support the structure and lift the foundation. Helical piers work the same way, but are screwed into the ground to offer extra stability. This may also help to seal any foundation cracks that have formed as a result of the sinking and settling.

Bowing and leaning foundation walls may result from a shifting foundation. These can be straightened by installing helical tiebacks, which screw into the ground to provide lateral pressure to pull the wall into position. Wall plate anchors are another solution; the first installation step for these is to install an anchor in the yard near the wall. The anchor is then connected to the wall with a rod and plate, which are gradually tightened to straighten the wall.

These solutions and more can be supplied by a foundation repair expert; My Foundation Repairs will help you find a qualified repair professional in Pennsylvania.

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