Warning Signs of Foundation Failure

Several Warning Signs of Foundation Problems

During the spring season, there are many things that need to be addressed when it comes to the well-being of your home. If you notice any of the warning signs below, having an evaluation done on your foundation should be at the top of your “spring cleaning” list.

• Cracked walls in your basement, living spaces, or on the exterior of your home
• Cracks near fireplaces, doorways, windows, or on your ceilings
• Cracks in your home that have grown deeper over time
• Bowing walls
• Non-functioning doors and/or windows
• Uneven/sagging/bouncing floors
• Leaky basement walls
• Water on your basement floors  

What Causes Foundation Failure?  

The specific soil type around your home is what causes foundation failure because each type expands and contracts differently as its moisture level changes. A spike in moisture content causes soil to expand, and wet soil makes it easy for your home to sink and settle. As the soil dries out, it contracts, leaving voids that allow for water to pass through with ease. During winter, the ground freezes throughout our service area of Minnesota and North Western Wisconsin. Freezing causes the soil to shift and push against your foundation at the frost line (depicted in the image below). Over time, this leads to symptoms of foundation failure.

DIY Cracked Walls and Foundation Repair are Only Temporary Fixes

DIYs for cracked walls and foundations are only a temporary fix. They pose risks to your health and safety and will not ensure permanent stability for the future of your home. Not only can a DIY cause an eyesore, but they also require a lot of maintenance. Getting it done the right way the first time around can save you from wasting time and money while also providing you with peace of mind.

Foundation Repair Systems Installed by DBS

DBS offers several options for foundation and wall repair. Each system is specifically designed to resolve symptoms of foundation failure.

Here is a list of the systems that we install as solutions to our customer's foundation issues: 

• CarbonArmor® Wall Reinforcing System - Wall straps made with materials 10-times stronger than steel. Woven into fabric-like materials, these wall straps are molded to the wall and prevent it from further movement. Learn more
• GeoLock™ Wall Anchor System - Wall anchors can counteract soil pressure by anchoring walls to stable, undisturbed soil outside your home. Learn more
• PowerBrace™ Wall Bracing System - The PowerBrace™ is a patented foundation wall repair system that's designed to stabilize failing basement walls and provide the potential to straighten walls over time. Learn more
• SmartJack® System - The SmartJack® System (pictured below) provides solid support for sagging and undersized beams, restoring stability and straightness to sagging floor joists in a crawl space. Learn more
• Pier System - Our foundation push piers are installed by one of our in-house crews of foundation professionals. Piers are driven into the soil beneath a structure’s foundation in order to permanently stabilize it. Learn more

How Much Will It Cost To Repair My Foundation?

Each project requires a thorough evaluation in order to determine how much it will cost to fix your foundation and/or walls. If you have noticed any of the concerns listed above or are tired of dealing with temporary fixes, fill out a Free Estimate Form for a no-obligation estimate with one of our Design Specialists.