Foundation piering services are a common solution to address structural issues and stabilize a home’s foundation. These services involve installing piers (or supports) beneath the foundation to provide additional support and prevent further settlement or movement.
While foundation piering can effectively address foundation problems, it’s important to be aware that the process itself can potentially reopen small cracks in your home. In this article, we will explore why this can happen and what you can do to address it.
Understanding Foundation Movement
Before diving into the effects of foundation piering on existing cracks, it’s essential to understand the underlying causes of foundation movement. Foundations can experience settlement or shifting due to various factors, such as soil conditions, moisture fluctuations, or poor construction practices. Over time, these movements can lead to the development of cracks in the foundation or walls of your home.
How Foundation Piering Works
Foundation piering is a technique used to stabilize a home’s foundation by transferring its weight to load-bearing piers. During the process, small holes are typically drilled around the perimeter of the foundation, and hydraulic jacks or other equipment are used to lift and support the foundation. Once the foundation is stabilized, piers are installed to reinforce and prevent further movement.
Impact on Existing Cracks
Foundation piering can exert pressure on the foundation and surrounding areas as the jacks lift and stabilize the structure. This pressure can cause small cracks to reopen or widen slightly. It’s important to note that these cracks are typically minor and should not be a cause for significant concern. However, it’s essential to monitor them and address any issues promptly to prevent further damage.
Assessing the Cracks
After the foundation piering work is completed, it’s crucial to assess the condition of any pre-existing cracks in your home. Examine the cracks carefully to determine if they have reopened or if there are any signs of significant movement. Minor cracks may show slight widening or reactivation, but major movement or structural concerns should be addressed by professionals.
Consulting with Professionals
If you notice significant changes or have concerns about the cracks in your home following foundation piering services, it’s recommended to consult with a foundation repair specialist or structural engineer. These professionals can evaluate the situation, assess the stability of your foundation, and recommend appropriate measures to address any issues.
Addressing the Cracks
In most cases, small cracks that reopen after foundation piering can be easily repaired. Depending on the severity and nature of the cracks, various solutions may be appropriate. For minor cracks, using high-quality crack sealants or fillers designed for masonry can help close the gaps and prevent further moisture intrusion. In more severe cases, where structural integrity is compromised, additional measures such as carbon fiber reinforcement or epoxy injections may be required.
Ongoing Maintenance and Monitoring
Once the cracks are addressed, it’s important to establish a routine maintenance and monitoring plan for your foundation. Regularly inspect your home for any signs of new cracks or movement. Keep an eye on the repaired areas to ensure the effectiveness of the repairs and to identify any potential issues early on. Proper drainage management, maintaining stable soil moisture levels, and addressing any water-related concerns can also help prevent future foundation problems.
In conclusion, foundation piering services can be an effective solution for stabilizing a home’s foundation. However, it’s important to be aware that this process can potentially reopen small cracks in your home. By understanding the impact of foundation piering on existing cracks and taking proactive measures to address them, you can maintain the structural integrity of your home and prevent further damage.
If you have any concerns or questions, consulting our professional experience at Smoky Mountain Crawlspace Systems is always recommended to ensure the safety and stability of your property. Give us a call today at (865) 299-2315 for more information about how we can not only help restore the integrity of your home’s structure, but further care for your home after installation.
