Installing our Push Piers in Boisbriand, QC
Challenge
A homeowner reached out after noticing a concerning crack in their foundation, it was evident that the property might be showing signs of foundation settlement. Foundation settlement can manifest in several ways, including visible cracks in walls, uneven floors, doors and windows that no longer close properly, and even gaps forming between walls and ceilings. These are all red flags indicating that the structural integrity of the home may be compromised.
Our Specialist conducted a meticulous evaluation of the foundation, looking not only at the visible crack but also investigating other signs of settlement like differential movement and soil instability around the structure. Foundation settlement can have long-term consequences if not addressed promptly. Over time, it can lead to significant structural damage, such as bowed walls, compromised load-bearing elements, and even water infiltration through cracks. This can severely affect the home’s value, safety, and overall durability. After carefully analyzing the condition, our specialist was able to recommend a tailored solution, utilizing advanced stabilization techniques designed to address both the immediate symptoms and the underlying causes.
Solution
The solution required the use of two highly effective products: the Push Pier system and CarbonArmor.
The Push Pier system is a foundation stabilization method designed to address issues caused by unstable soil, which often leads to foundation settlement. Push Piers are constructed from galvanized steel, ensuring long-term durability and resistance to corrosion. These piers are hydraulically driven deep into load-bearing soil layers, bypassing the unstable upper layers. Once the piers reach stable ground, heavy-duty load transfer brackets are attached to the foundation, allowing the building’s weight to shift from the compromised soil to the piers. In many cases, this process not only stabilizes the foundation but also lifts it back to its original position, correcting issues such as cracks and uneven floors. The installation process is efficient, requires minimal excavation, and results in little disruption to the surrounding landscaping.
To reinforce the foundation walls and prevent further cracking, CarbonArmor was applied. Made from high-tensile carbon fiber, stronger than steel, CarbonArmor adheres directly to the foundation walls, reinforcing them against external pressures such as soil expansion and hydrostatic forces. CarbonArmor straps are bonded to the surface of the walls, creating a tight and permanent bond that prevents the walls from bowing or cracking further.
This approach addressed both the underlying cause of the foundation settlement and the structural integrity of the walls, providing the homeowner with a long-lasting solution and peace of mind.
