Foundation Repair in Quincy to Prevent Basement Dampness

Indications Your Home’s Foundation Requires Repair

Foundations can exhibit symptoms of an issue through cracking in walls, irregularities on the floor, and musty smells in your basement. The horizontal cracking in the walls, stair-step cracking in the brick, or the cracks between the windows and doors indicate serious structural damage. Since Quincy has the potential to have clay soils expand and contract due to varying moisture levels, it is crucial to act quickly to avoid further damage, which could end up costing you money in the long term.

Common Foundational Problems in Quincy

The clay soils in Quincy cause the soil to move (expand/contract) based on moisture content. The lack of adequate drainage surrounding a home also creates the opportunity for water to penetrate the basement. When the freeze/thaw cycle occurs, the forces associated with this cycle also create stresses on the foundation, which can lead to spalling and erosion. It is important to take advantage of both repair options (repairing the current issue) and preventative options (proper grading and/or drainage).

Methods of Repair for Foundations in Quincy

There are several methods to successfully repair a damaged foundation in Quincy. There are several methods available, including epoxy/polyurethane injection to seal hairline cracks and prevent water from entering the crack and causing further deterioration. For walls experiencing bowing/shifting, carbon fiber straps or steel reinforcement can be used to stabilize the walls. If the damage is extreme, underpinning with steel piers/helical anchors may be necessary to provide a solid base for the foundation to rest upon. The type of repair used depends on the type of damage experienced by each individual homeowner.

Repairing Hairline Cracks

For repairing hairline cracks in the foundation, the best option would be to use an epoxy or polyurethane injection. Epoxy will bond to the concrete, providing the structural integrity back to the cracked area, whereas polyurethane will fill the voids and create a watertight seal. Since Quincy has many basement dampness issues, repairing small cracks to prevent water from penetrating into the basement will provide a cost-effective and efficient solution.

Reinforcing Damaged Walls

To prevent the walls from collapsing, there are several options available. Carbon fiber straps, installed horizontally along the entire length of the wall, will provide tensile strength to the wall without increasing its size. Steel I-Beams/wall anchors can provide even greater support if the wall is experiencing major structural damage. Both of these options have proven to be very successful in Quincy in reducing damage caused by expansive clay soils and hydrostatic pressure.

Waterproofing the Basement

While repairing the foundation is one aspect of solving the problem, there are other steps you can take to prevent future basement dampness. Proper drainage is key in helping to keeping water out of the basement. Installing gutter/downspout extensions and making sure the grade around your home slopes away from the basement will help to keep water away from your home. Additionally, installing a sump pump/interior drainage system will provide extra protection against water penetrating the basement.

Exterior Waterproofing

Exterior waterproofing consists of digging around the perimeter of your home and applying a waterproof membrane to the outside of the foundation. The waterproof membrane will allow you to protect your basement from the elements and from water seeping into the concrete. Exterior waterproofing will be a long-term solution in conjunction with your foundation repair in Quincy, since Quincy is located near the water table.

Sump Pumps/French Drains

Installing an interior drainage system, such as a sump pump/French drain, will catch and divert any water that gets into your basement. Interior drainage systems will be especially beneficial in Quincy since rainfall and melting snow can cause excessive amounts of water to enter your home through exterior drainage systems.

Finding a Reliable Quincy Foundation Repair Company

It is essential to hire a reliable concrete contractor for your foundation repair project. When searching for a company, look for companies with experience in fixing foundations in Quincy. Also, ask for referrals from friends and family members who have had their basements repaired in the past. Be sure to request past projects and check to see if the contractor is willing to give you a comprehensive inspection of your home and explain the repair process. Lastly, make sure the contractor offers a guarantee on their work.

Questions to Ask a Contractor Before Hiring Them

When interviewing contractors before hiring them, you want to know how much experience they have in doing foundation repairs in Quincy. Are they specialists at crack injection repair or wall reinforcement repair? What long-term solutions do they propose to prevent future damage? If unforeseen damage is found during the repair process, what will they do? Contractors who answer these questions clearly show that they have a deep understanding of the repair process and are committed to leaving you with a dry, stable home.

Cost vs. Long-Term Savings

The cost of repairing a foundation can vary greatly depending on the extent of the damage and the type of repair needed. Hairline cracks can be repaired using an epoxy/polyurethane injection and will typically cost anywhere from $250-$800 per application. Wall reinforcement/underpinning repairs can cost anywhere from $3,000-$10,000. When considering the long-term savings, avoiding costly future repairs, and increasing the value of your home, many Quincy homeowners feel that repairing their foundation was a worthwhile investment.

Obtaining Quotes for Your Project

Obtain quotes from multiple contractors that have the qualifications and licensing to perform the repairs you need. Many contractors offer financing/payment plans for larger repairs. Consider quality and longevity when choosing the contractor for your project. Repairing your foundation now will save you money and headaches in the future, and will increase the value of your home in Quincy.

Final Thoughts: A Dry Basement

Repairing your foundation will help eliminate basement dampness in your Quincy home. By repairing cracks in the foundation, reinforcing damaged walls, and improving drainage, you will be able to enjoy a dry and healthy living space in your basement. At Quincy Solid Concrete, we specialize in foundation repairs that meet your local needs in terms of long-lasting, watertight, and durable repairs.