Types of Piers Used for Foundation Repair

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Foundation repair is crucial to ensure the safety of your home or business. It should be done as soon as you notice the first signs of damage to your foundation.

Foundation Repair

Structural cracks that are widening and displaying a zigzag pattern are usually a sign of a failing foundation. There are several different types of repairs that can be performed.

Depending on the type of foundation that was used in your home, there are a variety of ways to fix and reinforce it when problems arise. One popular method is concrete piles, which are made of concrete (although some are made of timber and steel) and are used to transfer loads from the superstructure to deeper soil or rock. They can be installed by driving, drilling, or jacking methods.

Concrete piles are an excellent option for many foundation repair situations, as they provide a quick and relatively inexpensive solution. They also have great load capacity and are capable of withstanding the forces of settling and ground movement. They are a great choice for residential and commercial projects, especially in Central Texas.

When the time comes for foundation repairs, it’s important to choose a company that is highly experienced and specializes in this type of work. Using a general construction company that tries to “do it all” may save you some money up front, but will lead to more significant long-term damage and additional costs down the road.

A reputable foundation repair contractor will have the knowledge, skills, equipment, and experience to properly diagnose your specific situation, determine the appropriate solution, and then get started on the work. They should be able to answer any questions that you might have, and provide you with a written estimate detailing all of the elements that need to be repaired along with a schedule for completion of the project.

It’s important to keep in mind that the foundation is just a part of your home, but it’s an extremely critical component. It was designed to sit in a certain position, and everything in your home is built around it. If the foundation begins to move, it can create major issues in your house, like cracks in walls and floors, bowed basement or crawl space walls, unlevel floors, and more.

A good way to determine if a company is the right fit for your repair needs is to ask them about their warranty and what kind of results they can guarantee. A reputable contractor will have a warranty that protects their work and is willing to stand behind it. They will also be able to explain how their process works, including what to expect during the repair and how long they anticipate the job taking.

Poured Concrete Piers

Unlike concrete piles, which are inserted into the ground to stabilize foundation movement, these piers are constructed of concrete that is poured directly into the hole. This is a less labor-intensive approach that still offers adequate stability for the building. These piers may resemble simple cylinders or can be created with a bell shape at the bottom to provide additional support. This type of pier works well in many soil conditions and is a good choice for homeowners who have mild to moderate foundation problems.

A house on a slope often requires stabilization by drilled concrete piers to prevent movement of the foundation and lower-level walls. Whether your floors are sloping or you’re having trouble opening windows and doors, this type of movement can cause serious structural damage and is usually caused by soil migration downhill around the foundation.

The drilled concrete pier method is typically more expensive than other pier types. However, it is the most reliable option for stabilizing your foundation and reversing lateral movement. It can be difficult to determine the best pier type for your home based on the soil depth and condition. Therefore, a professional should perform a thorough inspection of your foundation and the surrounding soil.

During this process, the work crew digs holes close to your foundation and installs temporary brackets along the perimeter. They then use a hydraulic press to drive steel pipe segments vertically into the ground until they reach firmer sub-strata. The concrete that is poured into the holes after this step reinforces the pier and lifts your foundation.

This pier repair method is similar to the concrete piling method but uses different equipment. The work crew drills holes, typically with an auger drill, at a predetermined depth next to the foundation. They then insert a steel cage or rebar into the holes to reinforce the new concrete. Finally, they pour a mixture of concrete over the rebar to create the new foundation pier. This type of pier doesn’t require as much excavation and is quicker to install than other pier types.

Steel Piers

Steel piers, sometimes called push piers or resistance piers, are hollow steel pipes that are hydraulically driven into the soil under a building’s foundation. They can be driven deep into load-bearing shale or bedrock. They’re often the preferred method of repair by foundation experts and engineers. They’re able to support a greater load capacity than concrete pilings. Unlike traditional concrete piers, steel piers can be installed without excavation or backfilling, which minimizes landscape disruption.

They’re a great choice for properties that need a long-term solution to structural shifting or sinking. Using a patented design, they offer superior strength and a unique ability to penetrate heavy loads. Steel piers are also an eco-friendly option, generating minimal waste during the installation process.

In addition to stopping movement and stabilizing a home’s foundation, they can also close cracks in masonry, restore other deteriorated components of the structure, such as sagging or leaning walls or tilted floors, and restore sloped landscaping. They’re also a good solution for homes that require additional lift, especially if the problem is caused by a sinkhole or a large tree root mass pushing against the foundation.

Another popular choice for a long-term solution is composite pilings, which combine the advantages of both steel and concrete to create an unmatched foundation support system. This innovative technique uses a special formula to combine the strengths of both materials, resulting in a stronger and more stable support for your foundation.

While this solution is not as cost-effective as a concrete pier, it’s still an excellent choice for many property owners. It’s less invasive than concrete piers, and it requires fewer masons to install. It’s also an excellent choice for older buildings with grade beams that need to be lifted, since it doesn’t involve tearing down the building’s slab.

It’s important to consult with a contractor to find out which type of pier is best for your foundation. There are several different options, including helical and concrete piers. Each offers different benefits and advantages depending on your needs. Talk to an expert and learn what solution is right for you.

Helical Piers

When soil conditions are too weak for traditional piers, helical piers offer foundation repair solutions that can stabilize and lift the affected area. Engineers often recommend these steel piers for commercial and residential structures that need stronger support than typical piers can provide. They have long been used to strengthen existing foundations as well as protect new construction against unstable soils.

Unlike push piers that are hollow steel pipes pushed into the ground, helical piers have a screw-like design that allows them to be turned into the soil like giant screws. They can be installed from either the exterior or interior of your home and are designed to transfer the weight of your home downward into competent soils that can support it. Once they reach the required load capacity, helical piers can even lift your home back to its original position if it has settled.

To install a helical pier, your contractor will need to dig a hole in the affected area and then turn in the pier shaft. They can be turned as deep as needed, and the installer can determine when they are at the proper depth by utilizing a built-in pressure gauge. Once they have reached the necessary load capacity, the piers can be connected to your foundation by installing a steel bracket under the footing.

Helical piers have many advantages over other types of piers, including their strength and speed of installation. They also require less material to achieve their desired load capacity, and they can be driven into the ground with smaller equipment than other types of piers. However, Powell cautions that they may not be the best choice for heavy structures or extremely rocky soils.

When choosing a helical pier contractor, look for one with a history of success and an understanding of the different types of foundation repair solutions available. Your contractor should discuss all of your options and be ready to answer any questions you may have. They should also be willing to consult with a structural engineer if they think that’s a good idea. Finally, be sure to ask for a quote that includes both the cost of the piers and the price of the installation.

Tips For Successful Bathroom Remodeling

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Remodeling the bathroom is a great way to improve home value. It will help attract buyers and increase resale potential.

The ROI for a well-executed bathroom renovation is high. However, there are some upgrades that offer a higher return than others. Contact Bathroom Remodeling Lexington KY now!

Remodeling consists of various changes that revamp the style, design or layout of a space. Upgrades such as new vanity, cabinets and countertops fall under this category.

Layout

One of the first steps in a successful bathroom remodeling project is the layout. A good design will maximize the space and make it easy to use and accessible. Whether you are simply replacing hardware or changing the overall look and function of your bathroom, you will need to decide where things like the toilet, basin, tub, shower, and cabinets will be placed.

If you are planning a complete change in your bathroom layout, you will need to consult with an expert. They will be able to point out any issues you may have overlooked and advise you on the best way to proceed. You should also consider your budget and how much you want to spend on the remodeling project.

Another consideration is the layout of your sanitary ware. This can help you determine the size of your cabinet and where it will be located in relation to the rest of the room. This can be important if you have to fit in an angled tub or a shower that is slightly off center.

Rectangular shapes work well in this modern bathroom, the door opens into a bathtub which is framed by rectangular walls, on either side of it are 2 basins with narrow space saving countertops. A narrow area is reserved for a toilet separated from the bath using a panel.

This bathroom shows how a simple change can dramatically alter the layout and create a more functional and practical space. The old soaking tub is replaced with a walk-in shower, which not only saves space but also adds a sense of luxury and functionality to the room. The double basins are moved from the corner to a long wall, making the most of the space and adding to the room’s linear arrangement. The opulent mirrors and ambient lighting help to brighten the whole space.

Storage

One of the biggest returns on any remodeling project comes from updating highly functional spaces, and the bathroom is no exception. A freshened-up bathroom can boost resale value while also making it a place you look forward to entering each day for some tranquil and restorative downtime.

Fortunately, there are lots of affordable ways to make this room feel like a spa, even without a major remodel. For instance, a few smart storage solutions can help eliminate clutter and make this high-traffic area feel more welcoming.

Clever shelving is a great way to optimize a tight space and comes in many styles and sizes, so you’re bound to find a solution that fits your bathroom. For example, a wire shelf unit adds both storage and a modern look to this tiny bath, while a three-tier stand makes it easy to keep counters clear of heavy items (like bar soap) while keeping lighter things (like cotton balls and Q-tips) within reach.

Drawers are another essential for storing small toiletries, towels and more. When space is at a premium, consider stacked drawers instead of freestanding units, which can save valuable floor square footage. In this bathroom by Emily Henderson Design, a narrow, built-in niche provides plenty of storage without looking crowded or dated.

Hooks are another simple yet smart bathroom addition that can make a big difference in both functionality and style. They’re perfect for robes and clothes that are removed before or after a bath, rolled towels for quick accessibility and anything with a loop (like back brushes and old-school soap on a rope).

If you’ve got enough space, consider adding a closet to your half or full bathroom. A simple, inexpensive walk-in will provide a lot of extra storage for clothing and linens while adding some architectural interest to the space.

Lighting

Bathroom lighting is essential for daily tasks but can also be a design element. Adding decorative lights like chandeliers or sconces can bring an elegant look to the space, as well as provide ambient light to fill in areas where natural light is scarce. Decorative lighting can also be used to highlight architectural details or create an accent in the room.

If your lighting fixtures are in need of an upgrade, replacing them is a cost-effective way to refresh the overall appearance of the room. If you’re using recessed cans, upgrading to new recessed cans with higher lumens is an easy way to boost the amount of light in your bathroom. Depending on where you plan to mount the fixture, it’s important to choose a UL damp or wet-rated light so it can withstand water and humidity.

In addition to updating existing fixtures, you may want to add additional light sources to your bathroom during a remodel. Whether it’s installing a new window or increasing the number of overhead lights, adding natural light will make your bathroom feel brighter and more spacious.

A co-op or condo board may require that you obtain a permit before starting any remodeling project in your apartment. If you’re doing a small renovation that doesn’t change the location of any electrical or plumbing fixtures, a type 2 permit may be sufficient.

Before the renovation begins, remove any valuables and cover furniture that could be affected by construction dust and debris. It’s also a good idea to prepare by taking photos of the room before the work starts and making a list of desired upgrades. During construction, be prepared for unexpected delays or changes. By staying flexible and keeping a positive attitude, you can still end up with a gorgeous new bathroom that enhances your home’s aesthetic.

Fixtures

The fixtures area is the most customizable part of a bathroom remodel. There are countless design possibilities, from TVs in the shower to gas fireplaces built into tub walls and therapeutic lights that change colors with water movement. However, it is wise to rethink any decorative choices after considering practical considerations, such as how much time will be spent in this room and whether the chosen style of decor will stand the test of time or appeal to future home buyers.

It is also important to keep in mind that a dated or mismatched set of fixtures may not only look less appealing, but can also detract from resale value. For that reason, it is often best to choose neutral fixtures, especially when it comes to large items like sinks, bathtubs and toilets. However, this is not to say that you can’t add some flair with the smaller, more easily swapped out items like soap dispensers, toothbrush holders and wastebaskets.

Additionally, a simple upgrade to lighting or ventilation can significantly improve a bathroom’s overall functionality and aesthetics. For example, adding sconces on either side of a mirror can create a more contemporary look, while installing a new low-flow toilet at comfort height can greatly reduce water bills.

Many homeowners are also choosing to upgrade behind-the-scenes items during their bathroom remodels, such as replacing the ventilation system, upgrading the water heater or even re-routing plumbing pipes to better suit the new layout. Although these types of improvements may be more expensive than simply changing a sink or toilet, they can make a dramatic impact on the overall appearance of a bathroom and increase its resale value.

Materials

As with any home remodeling project, it’s important to use quality materials to create a functional and visually pleasing space. Choosing the right materials for your bathroom remodel can impact everything from style to durability. Whether you’re selecting new tile, vanities, lighting or flooring, it’s essential to consider your budget, design and functionality.

Glazed porcelain tile is a popular material for bathrooms because it’s ideal for wet environments. It’s durable, low-porosity and comes in a variety of colors and styles. This type of tile can be used on the walls, floors and shower surrounds. It also works well as a backsplash and accent wall.

If you’re going for a natural look, consider travertine or marble tile. They’re durable and stylish and have the added benefit of being slip-resistant. If you’re looking for a modern design, try quartz or engineered stone. These man-made materials offer the appearance of stone but are easier to maintain.

Another popular option is acrylic. This material is often used for vanity sinks, bathtubs and other accent features in tubs because it can be painted a wide range of colors. It’s also affordable and easy to clean.

Other important materials to consider are plywood, cement board and drywall. These materials are suitable for the wet and humid environment of a bathroom and can be used to replace existing surfaces or as a subfloor. A vapor barrier and cement board should be installed before installing the drywall, especially around tubs and shower stalls. The vapor barrier will protect the drywall from moisture and mold growth. In addition, it’s recommended that a wood saw be used to cut through materials quickly and accurately.