Moisture and Foundation Settlement Issues in Atherton, CA

Tuesday, October 1st, 2024 by Mike Gray

Challenge

Project Overview
A homeowner in Atherton, CA, was facing significant moisture issues in the crawlspace of their home, leading to foundation settlement. These problems posed a risk to the stability of the entire structure, and the homeowner sought a long-term solution to prevent further damage and safeguard their home.

Challenges
Moisture accumulation in the crawlspace was the primary concern, as it caused the soil beneath the foundation to shift and settle. This led to foundation instability, which, if not addressed, could result in more extensive damage to the home’s structure. The moisture also created an environment conducive to mold growth and other potential hazards, making a swift and comprehensive solution necessary.

Solution

Solution Provided

To resolve the moisture and foundation settlement issues, Foundation Repair of CA implemented a multi-faceted approach designed to manage water in the crawlspace effectively and prevent future settlement. The following systems were installed:

TripleSafe Sump Pump System with WaterWatch Alarm
The TripleSafe Sump Pump Kit was installed to manage water accumulation and prevent further foundation damage. This system included:

A durable liner, cast iron pump, and CleanPump Stand.
An airtight lid with an airtight floor drain to prevent water and odors from reentering the crawlspace.
A WaterWatch Alarm system to alert the homeowner in the event of a pump failure.
A backup battery to ensure the pump remained operational during power outages.

Additionally, 40 feet of 1.5-inch double discharge lines were installed to direct water away from the home efficiently. The homeowner provided the necessary electrical outlets to power the system, as extension cords could not be used to meet safety and building code standards.

Drainage Pipe Installation
To complement the sump pump system, Foundation Repair of CA installed a 3-inch corrugated drain pipe with a sleeve surrounded by ¾-inch rock. This pipe was strategically placed within the crawlspace soil and was designed to capture water and direct it to the sump pump for discharge. The trenching for the pipe required soil excavation up to 8 inches below the surface. This method ensured that any water collecting in the crawlspace would be efficiently funneled to the sump pump system, keeping the space dry and preventing further settlement.

Concrete Removal for Sump Pump Installation
A 4’ x 4’ section of concrete was removed to allow for the installation of the sump pump system. This removal was carefully planned and executed to minimize disruption to the home. The concrete was hauled away and disposed of, and no concrete replacement was necessary as part of the project. The slab in this area was 6 inches thick, which did not incur additional costs.

Outcome

By installing the TripleSafe Sump Pump System, WaterWatch Alarm, and a drainage pipe system, Foundation Repair of CA successfully addressed the moisture issues in the crawlspace and stabilized the foundation. These solutions provided the homeowner with peace of mind, knowing that future foundation settlement and moisture problems were mitigated. The inclusion of a backup battery and alarm system ensured that the homeowner was protected in all conditions, including power outages.

This project not only restored the integrity of the foundation but also prevented further moisture-related damage, preserving the long-term health and value of the home.

For more information on how Foundation Repair of CA can help you with your home’s foundation and crawlspace concerns, contact us today!