Resolving Foundation Issues for a Homeowner in Emeryville, CA

Friday, December 6th, 2024 by Mike Gray

Challenge

Project Background

A homeowner in Emeryville, CA, preparing their property for rental, reached out to Foundation Repair of CA after noticing escalating issues with their home. While aware of some existing foundation concerns, they were taken aback by the rapid progression of symptoms:

Cracks at the base of the house became increasingly visible.
A widening gap between the main house and the ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit).
Front doors became difficult to lock, raising safety concerns.
A pronounced tilt of the house toward the front and left.

Understanding the urgency, the homeowner scheduled a free complete assessment with Foundation Repair of CA to determine the root causes and recommend solutions.

Assessment & Findings

Our thorough evaluation revealed significant foundation settlement issues due to soil instability. The symptoms, including structural cracks and door misalignment, were directly tied to uneven foundation settling. Left unaddressed, the structural integrity of the property and its rental potential would be compromised.

Solution

Proposed Solutions

To stabilize the foundation and address the homeowner’s concerns, Foundation Repair of CA recommended and executed the following scope of work:

Installation of Push Piers (Galvanized, Low-Profile Brackets)

Push Piers were installed at strategic locations to provide permanent support to the foundation.
These piers reached a depth of up to 80 feet to anchor into stable soil, ensuring long-term stability.

Concrete Removal and Replacement (Per Pier Location)

Concrete sections (approximately 3’ x 3’ per pier location) were removed to facilitate pier installation.
Replaced concrete featured a grey broom finish for durability.

Installation of Concentric Push Piers

Concentric Piers were utilized in areas with crawl space clearance to stabilize the foundation and prevent further settlement.

Replacement of Perimeter Foundation (Raised and Poured)

Sections of the perimeter foundation were removed and replaced, including shoring, demolition, and the installation of reinforced concrete.
New mudsills and anchor bolts ensured a strong connection between the foundation and the structure.

Concrete Line Pump

A concrete line pump was employed to ensure precision and efficiency during the perimeter foundation pour.

Outcome

The project successfully stabilized the home’s foundation, eliminating the cracks and structural gaps. The front doors realigned, and the tilt of the home was corrected, restoring its structural integrity. With the issues resolved, the homeowner could confidently proceed with their rental plans, knowing their property was safe and secure for tenants.

Ongoing Maintenance

Foundation Repair of CA recommended enrolling in our Care Club Membership to ensure the longevity of the repairs. This service includes annual floor elevation surveys, crack inspections, and evaluations of doors, windows, and floors to address potential issues proactively.

Conclusion

This Emeryville project highlights Foundation Repair of CA’s commitment to providing comprehensive, effective solutions for homeowners facing foundation challenges. By addressing the root cause and implementing tailored solutions, we ensured the homeowner’s peace of mind and the property’s readiness for rental.

Need a foundation evaluation? Call Foundation Repair of CA today for a free inspection!