Frequently asked questions:

Q: What does foundation repair cost?

A: Foundation repair varies in cost from structure to structure. Some structures require more piers than others, each structure must be inspected by a trained professional in order to determine the extent of the repair needed.

Q: How long does it take to repair the typical home?

Q: Will my yard and landscaping be destroyed?

Q: Why are there so many repair methods?

Q: Will I be able to stay in my house during the repair?

Q: How long will my yard be dug up?

Q: Should I consider soil stabilization?

Q: Should I use soaker hoses on my foundation?

Q: Should I hire a "Foundation Repair Consultant"?

What repair methods to avoid:

There are many methods being used for foundation repair. Some of these methods were tried in the 60's and 70's with limited or no success. Due to the soil conditions we have in this part of Texas, the only successful methods for repairing slab foundations involve pressing a pier into the sub-strata and building a resistance using the weight of the building to determine maximum depth.

These are some of the methods you might encounter during your research into foundation repair. Each method has it's pro's and con's listed:

Segmented Block (8"x8"x12"):

This is a relatively new system, it is used primarily by company's who do work for investors. These blocks are not intended to be pressed into the ground and they are made from 3000psi concrete. These blocks are solid house blocks, designed for use in Pier & Beam foundation systems. They cannot be pressed passed 3000psi (pressed pilings are driven from 6000 to 10000psi) and the failure rate is very high. The warranty on this system is usually very poor. Check out any company offering this repair method, chances are they will already have complaints that have not been properly addressed. Don't waste your hard earned money on this repair method.

Poured Beam or Spread Footing:

Poured Concrete or Drilled Pier:

Mud Jacking or Pressure Grouting:

Many foundation repair contractors, as well as structural engineers, like to use piers on the perimeter grade beams to repair failed foundation beams and to use pressure grouting on foundations with interior failure such as sinking or sagging floors. Pressure grouting is a procedure which involves drilling (1 5/8") one and five-eighths inch diameter holes through the floor in the affected area, bringing in a hose, typically the size of a fire hose, with a nozzle that fits in the holes and pumping a thick mud grout under the floor. The grout is usually comprised of sandy loam soil, water and about (12%) twelve percent cement. The grout is pumped under the foundation with several hundred pounds of pressure until all voids are filled and the backpressure lifts the foundation to where it needs to be. Pressure grouting has been successfully used to lift streets, porches, and driveways at a cost much lower than replacement, but Accu-Pier does not recommend the use of pressure grouting on homes or buildings for several reasons. One main reason is that pressure grouting is a process, which cannot be fully controlled by the contractor once the grout leaves the nozzle. The grout always takes the path of least resistance, which means once it leaves the nozzle the grout can come up through bathtub, leave outs, shallow areas of concrete flooring, etc. The main danger that the pressure grouting process poses is to plumbing under the foundation. As the backpressure increases, the foundation begins to raise and the possibility of plumbing lines separating increases. The moment a sewer line breaks, the grout starts entering the line and the cement can set before a plumber can clean it out. Once the grout sets, the plumbing line has to be broken out and replaced. As the homeowner, you are responsible for this! BEWARE!

Pressure grouting also tends to be a temporary method of repair. In order for the grout to hold the foundation in position it depends on the soil beneath it to remain in place. If the soil moves due to loss of moisture then the grout will not de able to hold the load. Accu-Pier installs Interior Dual-Piers, Single Piers or Steel Piers and accomplishes all lifting with them. The property owner can then have a plumber test for leaks in the plumbing lines and the property owner has the opportunity to repair the leaks.

Pressure grouting is great for driveways, sidewalks and streets, but should not be used on a concrete slab foundation as the possibility of severe damage can far outweigh the benefit of the pressure grouting.

Frequently asked questions:

A: Foundation repair varies in cost from structure to structure. Some structures require more piers than others, each structure must be inspected by a trained professional in order to determine the extent of the repair needed.

A: Most homes can be repaired in 2 days. Some homes can take up to 5 days while a lot of others will only need 1 day.

A: In most cases, you will notice minimal disturbance to your yard and landscape. Some extreme cases will require more digging and disturbance. We hand dig all of our holes and we use plastic to protect your lawn during the process.

A: In most cases, yes. If your home requires extensive interior piering, you might need to make arrangements for 1 or 2 nights to avoid any inconvenience. These cases are extreme and not very common at all.

A: Usually 2 days, in some cases it will be 1 day or a maximum of 5 days. There is no drying time with our method because we use a pre-cast pier.

What repair methods to avoid:

Locations

Dallas

Houston

East Texas

Austin-San Antonio

College Station

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