Foundation Stabilization in Discovery Bay, CA

Wednesday, February 26th, 2025 by Mike Gray

Challenge

Project Overview
A homeowner in Discovery Bay, CA, experienced significant foundation settlement issues, which resulted in doors that would not slide properly and cracks forming above door frames. Concerned about the safety and stability of their home, they contacted Foundation Repair of CA to assess the underlying cause of these issues and provide a long-term solution.

Solution

Assessment & Solution
Upon inspection, Foundation Repair of CA determined that the home was experiencing foundation settlement due to unstable soil conditions. To effectively stabilize the foundation and prevent further structural damage, the following comprehensive repair plan was implemented:

Push Piers (Galvanized, Low-Profile Bracket): Excavation and installation of push piers to support the foundation, ensuring structural integrity. These piers were driven deep into stable soil strata, providing long-term stability.
Concentric Push Piers: Additional concentric push piers were installed to reinforce the foundation and counteract the effects of settlement. These piers provide direct support to the foundation and help redistribute the home's weight evenly.
Hydraulic Lift System: A hydraulic lift system was connected to the installed piers to attempt lifting the foundation back toward its original position, improving the alignment of doors and reducing visible cracks.
Steel Square Beam Installation: A supplemental 10' steel beam was installed in the crawl space to strengthen the floor framing system and enhance load distribution.
SmartJack System: SmartJack adjustable supports were installed to provide additional reinforcement to the floor system, ensuring enhanced stability and preventing further sagging or uneven flooring.
Cast-In-Place Footing: A rebar-reinforced concrete footing was poured to serve as a solid foundation for the SmartJack system and other structural supports.
SmartSump System with WaterWatch Alarm: To address moisture issues in the crawl space, a SmartSump pump system was installed, complete with an airtight lid, WaterWatch alarm, and discharge line to efficiently manage water intrusion.
Crawl Space Drainage System: A 3-inch corrugated drain pipe with a protective sleeve was installed to capture and redirect water to the sump pump, preventing excess moisture accumulation and mitigating future settlement risks.

Outcome & Future Prevention
With the implementation of this advanced foundation repair system, the home was successfully stabilized, and further settlement was prevented. The homeowners noticed an improvement in door operation and a reduction in visible cracks. To maintain the integrity of their foundation, they were advised to enroll in Foundation Repair of CA’s annual Care Club Membership, ensuring ongoing maintenance and early detection of any potential issues.

Conclusion
This project in Discovery Bay, CA, highlights the importance of proactive foundation repair. By addressing the root cause of settlement and implementing a robust stabilization plan, Foundation Repair of CA was able to provide a lasting solution, securing the safety and comfort of the homeowner for years to come.