Crawl Space Inspection: Finding the Real Cause of a Sinking Floor

When inspecting a crawl space, it is important to find the root of the problem. Crawl space foundations are typically constructed by placing piers below the support beams in order to provide support for the structure. Piers may be constructed from wooden posts or concrete blocks. In some cases, the piers are resting on compacted soil. As time passes the effects of freezing, thawing, and water flow can cause the piers to shift. This can cause the piers to sink, leaving the floor structure to sag along with it.

When repairing a sinking floor, it’s important to avoid recreating the same situation a few years down the road. Some foundation repair contractors will encapsulate the crawl space with a vapor barrier in an attempt to control the moisture. They may add steel posts to lift the structure in a similar fashion as the original construction. This is at best just a temporary fix. Sinking and sagging are sure to occur eventually.

To repair a deep foundation support system it is necessary to install a steel push pier system. We have a resistance pier system that is specifically designed for crawl spaces and other areas where access is limited.

Here’s how the Steel Push Pier System works:

• A steel pier pipe is driven deep down into the soil, below any soil that would be affected by moisture.

• The weight of the structure is used to drive the pier pipe to a stratum that is load bearing.

• A manifold system is employed so that the structure is lifted and locked into place. This provides a secure and solid foundation.

Ground Up Foundation Repair backs its crawl space structural repair work with a written warranty, explained at the quote stage. Contact us today for information about our crawl space waterproofing, encapsulation, and crawl space repair solutions.