The Great Big World of ConcreteThe Great Big World of Concrete


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The Great Big World of Concrete

Think about how many things in the built environment are made from concrete. Even just in your home, you may have a concrete foundation or concrete basement walls. Maybe you have a concrete pad or patio out back, and you probably have a concrete sidewalk leading to and past your home. Then, there's your greater community. There are likely concrete barriers to restrict where people park. Large, concrete buildings serve as schools, court buildings, and other community structures. The list goes on, but the point is, concrete contractors create all sorts of different structures. We're excited to write articles about them here.

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Five Types of Foundation Repairs for Commercial Properties

When it comes to commercial properties, a solid foundation is crucial for the structural integrity and long-term stability of the building. Over time, various factors can lead to foundation issues, compromising the safety and functionality of the property. 

Foundation Underpinning

Foundation underpinning is a common repair method used to strengthen and stabilize the foundation of commercial properties. This technique involves extending the depth or breadth of the foundation, providing additional support, and preventing further settlement. There are several underpinning methods, such as the following.

  • Pile Driving: This method involves driving steel piles into the ground beneath the foundation to transfer the load to more stable soil or bedrock.
  • Helical Piers: Helical piers are screw-like devices that are drilled into the ground to support the foundation. They are ideal for areas with poor soil conditions.

Concrete Pressed Piling

Concrete pressed piling is a cost-effective and efficient foundation repair technique used to address foundation settlement. This method involves driving precast concrete cylinders into the ground until they reach load-bearing strata, providing support for the foundation. Concrete pressed piling is a popular choice due to its minimal disruption to the surrounding landscape and its ability to provide stable and long-lasting foundation support.

Slabjacking

Slabjacking, also known as mudjacking, is a technique used to lift and level sunken concrete slabs. In commercial properties, slabjacking is commonly employed to address uneven or sunken floors and pavements. The process involves injecting a stabilizing material, such as a mixture of cement, sand, and other additives, into holes drilled in the affected slab. As the material expands, it raises the sunken slab to its original position, restoring both functionality and aesthetics.

Foundation Crack Repair

Cracks in the foundation can be indicative of underlying issues, requiring immediate attention to prevent further damage and potential structural problems. There are various methods for repairing foundation cracks, such as the following.

  • Epoxy Injection: Epoxy is injected into the cracks to fill and seal them, restoring the integrity of the foundation.
  • Polyurethane Injection: Polyurethane foam is injected into the cracks, expanding and filling the voids, creating a watertight barrier.

Carbon Fiber Reinforcement

Carbon fiber reinforcement is a cutting-edge solution for strengthening and stabilizing foundation walls. By applying carbon fiber strips or sheets to the interior or exterior surfaces, this method provides robust support while preventing further movement or bowing. It is especially effective for commercial properties with foundation walls under stress, such as those displaying cracks or inward bulging. This innovative technique ensures long-lasting stability and protection for compromised structures.

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