Back On Solid Ground in Tracy

Monday, July 8th, 2024 by Mike Gray

Challenge

Background

A homeowner in Tracy, CA, reached out to Foundation Repair of CA after observing significant signs of foundation settling in the back portion of their home. This settling was causing visible cracks in both the interior and exterior walls, along with noticeably uneven floors throughout the home. Concerned about the structural integrity and safety of their residence, the homeowner sought a professional solution to these pressing issues.

Solution

Initial Assessment

Upon arrival, our team conducted a thorough on-site assessment to evaluate the extent of the foundation settling and its impact on the home. The inspection revealed:

Cracks in the walls: Visible cracks were noted in both the interior and exterior walls, particularly around windows and doors.

Uneven floors: There was significant unevenness in the flooring, primarily affecting the back part of the house.

Foundation settling: The back part of the house had settled, leading to a noticeable structural imbalance.

Proposed Solution

Based on the detailed analysis, our experts proposed a comprehensive foundation repair plan involving the following steps:

Installation of 13 Push Piers: These would be driven to bedrock or load-bearing strata to stabilize the foundation and lift it back to its original level.

Concrete Removal and Replacement: Necessary for pier installation at pier locations.

Subfloor Removal: Required for pier installation at one location.

Installation of Steel Beam: To provide additional structural support.

Installation of 10 SmartJacks: These would be cast-in-place with footings to support interior floor and wall loads and to lift low interior elevations back to original specifications.

Implementation

Push Pier Installation:

The team excavated around the foundation to expose the footing.
Thirteen push piers were hydraulically driven into the ground until they reached stable soil or bedrock.
Brackets were attached to the foundation footing, and the weight of the house was transferred onto the piers.
The foundation was carefully lifted to its original level using hydraulic jacks.

Concrete Removal and Replacement:

Concrete was removed and replaced at pier locations to facilitate the installation of the push piers.

Subfloor Removal:

The subfloor was removed at various locations to allow for the installation of the push piers.

Steel Beam Installation:

Steel beams were installed to provide additional structural support and ensure long-term stability.

SmartJack Installation:

Ten cast-in-place footings were installed for SmartJacks to support interior floor and wall loads.
SmartJacks were used to lift and level the low interior elevations back to their original specifications.

Results

The comprehensive foundation repair project was completed successfully, resulting in the following outcomes:

Stabilized Foundation: The installation of 13 push piers effectively stabilized the foundation, preventing further settling and ensuring long-term support.

Even Floors: The uneven floors were leveled, providing a safe and comfortable living environment for the homeowner.

Enhanced Structural Support: The addition of steel beams and SmartJacks provided enhanced structural support, ensuring the home's stability.

Conclusion

Foundation Repair of CA successfully addressed the foundation settling issue for a homeowner in Tracy, CA, restoring the stability and integrity of their home. This case study exemplifies our commitment to providing tailored and effective solutions for foundation problems, ensuring peace of mind for homeowners across Northern California.

If you need assistance with foundation issues or have any concerns about the structural integrity of your home, contact Foundation Repair of CA for a professional assessment and solution.