Foundation Stabilization for a Homeowner in Castro Valley, CA

Monday, January 27th, 2025 by Mike Gray

Challenge

Overview:

A homeowner in Castro Valley, CA, reached out to Foundation Repair of CA with growing concerns about their home’s structural integrity. They had been observing cracks forming both inside and outside of their home, as well as increasing difficulty with the operation of several doors and windows. Understanding the importance of addressing these issues promptly, they sought the expertise of Foundation Repair of CA—the industry-leading professionals in foundation and structural repairs—for a thorough evaluation and long-lasting solution.

Inspection and Diagnosis:

Upon receiving the call, Foundation Repair of CA provided the homeowner with a complimentary evaluation. During the inspection, it was determined that the underlying cause of the issues was foundation settlement. The movement of the foundation had caused structural stress, resulting in visible cracks and operational difficulties with the home’s doors and windows.

Solution

Proposed Solution:

To address these issues and ensure the long-term stability and safety of the home, Foundation Repair of CA recommended and implemented the following solutions:

Deck Removal:

To gain access to the foundation for the necessary repairs, sections of the homeowner’s deck were removed. The decking material was removed as required, with the understanding that replacement or hauling away of removed pieces would be the homeowner’s responsibility.
Foundation Repair of CA took care to minimize damage during the removal process.

Hill Side Push Piers (Galvanized Low-Profile Brackets):

Hill Side Push Piers were installed to stabilize the foundation and prevent further settlement. These galvanized steel piers are designed to support the weight of the structure by transferring the load to stable, load-bearing strata deep below the surface.
The installation process involved excavating the soil up to 3 feet and driving the piers to a depth sufficient to hit stable strata. This ensured that the foundation would be securely supported and stabilized against future movement.

Scope of Work:

Stabilization: The foundation was stabilized in the areas where the piers were installed. While no attempt was made to lift the foundation, the stabilization ensured that the home’s structural integrity was restored.
Decking Obstruction: Decking materials obstructing the installation process were removed to allow access.

Long-Term Maintenance:

To maintain the stability of the foundation and monitor the home’s structural condition, Foundation Repair of CA recommended enrolling in their annual Care Club Membership. This program includes:

A yearly floor elevation survey of the foundation, main beams, and point loads.
Annual evaluations of foundation cracks, sticking doors/windows, and sagging floors by a certified Service Technician.
Peace of mind for the homeowner, knowing that their investment is protected and monitored regularly.

Outcome:

With the installation of Hill Side Push Piers and the careful removal of decking materials, the homeowner’s foundation was stabilized, addressing the root cause of the structural issues. While some cosmetic repairs would be needed to address existing cracks, the home’s structural safety and stability were restored, providing the homeowner with lasting peace of mind.

Conclusion:

This project highlights Foundation Repair of CA’s commitment to delivering expert solutions for homeowners facing structural challenges. By providing a thorough evaluation, clear communication, and a permanent solution tailored to the homeowner’s needs, Foundation Repair of CA continues to uphold its reputation as the trusted leader in foundation and concrete repair. The homeowner in Castro Valley can now enjoy a safe and stable home for years to come.