Resolving Foundation and Stem Wall Issues in Stockton, CA
Challenge
Project Overview: A homeowner in Stockton, CA, contacted Foundation Repair of CA after noticing worsening cracks on the interior and exterior walls of their home. Additionally, there were signs of distress in portions of their slab. Concerned about the growing severity of the cracks and the potential for further damage, the homeowner sought a permanent solution to restore their home’s structural integrity.
Inspection and Findings: Foundation Repair of CA provided a thorough, free inspection of the property. During the assessment, it was determined that the foundation was experiencing settlement due to soil movement, which was causing the cracks and stem wall distress. To address these issues, a tailored solution was designed to stabilize the foundation, attempt to lift it to its original position, and repair the damage.
Solution
Proposed Solution: The following multi-step approach was implemented to address the homeowner’s concerns:
Push Piers Installation
- Galvanized Push Piers with low-profile brackets were installed until they hit stable strata to support the foundation. This process provided a durable and long-term solution for stabilizing the home.
Hydraulic Lift System
- A hydraulic lift system was connected to the installed piers to attempt to lift the foundation back to its original position. While achieving complete lift is not guaranteed due to field conditions, this process helps restore the home’s structural integrity.
PolyLevel Injection
- Polyurethane foam was injected under the affected areas of the concrete slab to fill voids, stabilize the soil, and attempt to lift the interior garage slab. This step ensured that void spaces were filled, reducing the risk of further settlement.
Concrete Removal and Replacement
- Sections of concrete, approximately 3’ x 3’ in size, were removed and replaced to accommodate pier installation. Replacement concrete was finished with a gray broom texture to match the surrounding area as closely as possible.
Results: The project successfully addressed the foundation’s settlement issues. The installed Push Piers stabilized the home’s foundation, reducing the likelihood of further movement. The PolyLevel injection compacted the soil beneath the garage slab, providing additional stability. Although cosmetic repairs were not included, the structural integrity of the home was restored, providing the homeowner with peace of mind.
Customer Feedback: The homeowner expressed gratitude for the thorough inspection and transparent communication throughout the process. They appreciated the professionalism of the installation team and the detailed explanations provided at every step. While achieving a full lift was not guaranteed, the homeowner was pleased with the significant improvement and the long-term stability of their home.
Conclusion: Foundation Repair of CA’s comprehensive approach ensured that the homeowner’s foundation issues were addressed with precision and care. By utilizing advanced techniques such as x-ray slab scanning, Push Piers, and PolyLevel injection, the team provided a durable solution tailored to the unique challenges of this project. This case highlights the importance of partnering with experts to protect the structural health of a home.
Project Summary
Product Installed: Push Piers
Product Installed: PolyLevel