There could be problems with your foundation if you have noticed cracks in your walls, and underpinning might be necessary to ensure that the foundation of your home is stable and safe.
1. What Does Underpinning Mean?
Underpinning is a way of repairing and restoring a foundation that has fallen. In a nutshell, the house has to be raised using mechanical jacks. Once it is raised, new piers are inserted underneath that give the house added support and bring it back to its original state of level. It should be noted that underpinning requires careful planning and execution, and only experienced contractors can carry out the project.
2. When is Underpinning Necessary?
There are many signs that indicate that a home might require underpinning. They include:
· Cracks in the interior or exterior walls.
· The home leans to one side and the floors are not level.
· Windows and doors that have gaps and do not close or lock properly.
· The roofline has separated.
· The slab perimeter has cracked.
3. What is Needed After Underpinning Has Been Completed?
Once the underpinning is done and the home is leveled, a contractor should confirm the structural integrity of the load-bearing walls. In some cases, interior walls will have to be rebuilt, while others can just be repaired. A contractor with exterior experience can repair all of the outside cracks.
Having a good understanding of foundation facts will keep your family safe and help avert a catastrophe. Please see this website for additional information on underpinning in Carlsbad.