Stair-step cracks are undoubtedly familiar for those that have thoroughly examined cinder blocks or brick buildings. These are stair-like vertical and horizontal fissures running through the mortar of a wall of blocks. These typical core flaws are frequently little more than aesthetic blemishes on a structure that is otherwise solid. Most problems can be resolved, and the step crack is usually sealed from the surface.
These cracks may, however, also be a sign of grave, underlying structural problems. No amount of injecting sealants can repair serious foundation issues that will only continue to lead to more damage. Seeking a professional evaluation of the step cracks damage in your basement is the first step to take. Professionals, like on our team here at BARRIER Waterproofing Systems, can provide effective repair solutions such as piering to restore the structural integrity of your home.
What Causes Step Cracks?
Stair-step cracks are a common result of your foundation’s capability to sink naturally. Additionally, step fractures can develop in basements as a result of hydrostatic pressure that has accumulated over time. Poor drainage can cause the soil to expand and put excess amounts of pressure on foundation walls due to water accumulation. Stair-step cracks are frequently present in these situations due to leaning or bending walls.
When step cracks extend to the footing, it is inevitably at risk of developing issues. Foundation walls sit on the footing (a flat slab), which distributes the weight and prevents the walls from sinking. Insufficient depth or oversaturation of the surrounding soil might cause the soil to shift and create uneven pockets for the foundation to settle into.
Any of this shifting can cause foundation walls to bend, and the floor may slope if the footing is settling unevenly. Frequent indicators of this problem can be seen in misaligned doors, gaps in the ceiling or windows, and other problems like cracks in the walls or structural frames.
While crack sealing is required to stop intruding moisture from entering, it won’t address the source of structural issues. Over time, this condition will worsen, posing threats to the overall structural safety and integrity of your home. In these situations, reestablishing the footing with strengthened support is essential, and piering is a practical and permanent fix for restoring the strength and level of your home’s structure.
How to Fix Step Cracks with Piering?
A foundation repair expert may recommend piering after evaluating the type of step cracks in your basement. Footings need additional support to raise and hold them in place if they sink into unstable soil. Piering is the process of attaching sturdy support as vertical pillars to the foundation. For stability, they are drilled down into solid layers of earth-like bedrock.
Next, brackets will be used to fasten supports to the footing. Depending on the basement’s size and the severity of the shifting movement, a foundation repair professional will decide how many piers are necessary to use to correct the problem.
The repair crew will use a hydraulic lift to move the footing once the piers are in position. A hydraulic cylinder raises the beams to the proper level, restoring a proper level to the foundation. After that, wall brackets are bolted or welded to the piers to secure them. Carbon fiber straps or anchors may be utilized for additional support after installation if necessary.
There are two types of piers: push piers and helical piers. Push piers are typically coated steel piers that a hydraulic press is used to force into position. Given the way they are installed, you can liken helical pier installation to large screws.
Advantages of Fixing Step Cracks
For various reasons, piering is a viable solution to the underlying problems that cause stair-step fractures. Even with slopes and low soil quality, both push piers and helical piers can work well.
Simply put, piering is a minimally invasive procedure. Piering preparations are simple due to the lack of massive, heavy equipment. During installation, the house is often still entirely livable, and the application has little impact on the surrounding yard. Only tiny, easily-refilled sections near the foundation may experience displaced soil when the operation is finished.
Most significantly, piering has the potential to be more economical than many alternative solutions. Piering may be able to save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars if the issue is discovered before the foundation needs to be replaced.
In the worst case scenarios, a complete rebuild will be required. Ask a foundation repair expert to evaluate the early symptoms to see whether piering is a practical treatment. It is a long-lasting, cost-efficient solution that recovers the building and the land on which it stands.
Is Piering Right For Me?
If your home is exhibiting signs of foundation damage like stair-step cracks, it is always important to deal with the possibility of major underlying problems first. For more information about your foundation and the possible solutions available to you from professionals like our team here at BARRIER Waterproofing Systems, give us a call at (615) 257-1060 | (931) 536-1168.
