Foundation Repair for Homeowner in Moraga, CA

Tuesday, November 26th, 2024 by Mike Gray

Challenge

Project Overview: A homeowner in Moraga, CA, contacted Foundation Repair of CA after noticing significant signs of foundation settlement in their home. Large interior cracks and kitchen cabinets pulling away from the walls raised serious concerns about the stability of the structure. After evaluating the situation, it became clear that the foundation needed immediate attention to prevent further damage.

Assessment & Solution: The team at Foundation Repair of CA thoroughly assessed the underlying issues and developed a comprehensive, permanent solution to address the foundation settlement. The homeowner's main concern was restoring the structural integrity of their home, and our team provided an approach tailored to the specific challenges of the property.

Solution

Services Provided:

Push Pier Installation: The foundation was supported by excavating and installing Push Piers, which were placed strategically around the home as indicated by the job drawing. The Push Piers were equipped with low-profile brackets and installed to a depth where they met solid strata. The installation of these piers provided the essential support required to prevent any further settlement.
Additional concentric Push Piers were also installed in certain locations, ensuring thorough support. These piers utilized concentric brackets, providing added stability to the foundation by distributing the load evenly.
Hydraulic Lift System Installation: A key part of the solutions involved installing a hydraulic lift system, connected to all the newly installed piers. This system was designed to lift the foundation in an attempt to restore it to its original position. It's important to note that the ability to lift the foundation was subject to field conditions, and while our goal was to restore the floor elevations, this was not guaranteed due to the nature of the soil and foundation.
Cast-In-Place Footing: To reinforce the flooring system and provide additional stability, we installed a cast-in-place footings. This ensured a solid base for the SmartJacks and steel beams, which were necessary to level and stabilize the floors of the home.
Steel Square Beam (Supplemental): We added a supplemental steel square beam to further support the structure and distribute the load more evenly across the flooring system. This step was essential to stabilize and prevent additional movement.
SmartJack 350 Square Installation: In areas where additional support was needed, we installed SmartJack 350 Square systems. These adjustable, galvanized steel columns are designed to provide permanent stabilization for settling foundations, offering increased strength and reliability over time.
Joist Assist Bracket Installation: To ensure proper alignment and support of the home’s structure, we installed joist assist brackets on the 1.5” wide floor joists. These brackets played a key role in stabilizing the floor and preventing further shifting.

Project Outcome: The installation of the hydraulic lift system, combined with the strategic placement of Push Piers and supplementary steel beams, successfully stabilized the foundation of the Moraga home.

Customer Testimonial: “We were really worried about the cracks and movement we were seeing in our home. Foundation Repair of CA gave us peace of mind by providing a clear solution. The team was professional, and the work was done efficiently. Our home feels much more stable now, and we’re confident the repairs will last for years to come.”

Conclusion: Foundation Repair of CA’s comprehensive solution provided the homeowner with the permanent foundation stabilization they needed. By combining advanced technology, expert knowledge, and quality materials, we successfully addressed the settlement issues in Moraga, CA, restoring safety and peace of mind to the homeowners.