Challenge
Hydrostatic pressure causes ground saturation to the backfill soil around a home’s foundation. This causes water to exert pressure on the walls, pushing the foundation inwards. Bowing walls are commonly associated with hydrostatic pressure, decreasing the stability of the home’s structure. Horizontal cracking begins to form, and increase in size over time when it is not addressed at the first signs. Stair-step cracking becomes present when the bowing continues to worsen, causing the foundation to weaken even more.
Solution
A solution to bowing walls is a PowerBrace system. A PowerBrace is a patented I-beam system that allows permanent support for failing foundation. This system can be tightened over time, potentially straightening the failing structure. Each beam has a zinc coating that makes them resistant to corrosion, reducing abrasion and wears, while leaving the surface non-toxic.
Installation of each PowerBraces is properly calculated to evenly distribute the weight of the home and pressure on the walls. Each beam is appropriately installed in the wooden floor joists, preventing any stress to the floor system, while providing the exact stabilization to the failing foundation. Critical installation of PowerBraces produce quality stabilization, increasing the chances of straightening the walls.
Project Summary
Foundation Repair: PowerBrace System
Project Engineer: Pete Hensler
Project Engineer: Mike Clementz
