The Challenge: Bowing Walls and Two Stair-Step Cracks
Delinia, a homeowner in Gore, VA, was dealing with serious foundation issues that threatened her home’s structural integrity. The basement walls had started to bow inward, which is a common sign of shifting foundations. To make things worse, two prominent stair-step cracks were visible along the foundation walls, a common result of the settling of the foundation.
If left untreated, these type of foundation cracks could worsen, leading to serious risks to the stability and safety of the home, not to mention the financial burden of future repairs.
Delinia reached out to LUX Foundation Solutions for a comprehensive inspection. Our experts identified the root cause: shifting and sinking of the foundation. Further investigation revealed that plumbing fixtures, including a water tank and sink, were positioned directly against the foundation walls, adding extra pressure to the weakened structure. This, combined with natural settling over time, worsened the bowing of the walls and the formation of the stair-step cracks.
Additionally, moisture was entering through the cracks, threatening both the foundation and the plumbing, which could result in further structural damage.
Solution: Carbon Fiber Foundation Repair & Repointing
LUX Foundation Solutions designed and implemented a comprehensive solution using carbon fiber foundation repair and repointing to stabilize the foundation and prevent future water intrusion. Here’s how we solved the problem:
Step 1: Repointing the Stair-Step Foundation Cracks
We started by addressing the two stair-step cracks in foundation. Both the interior and exterior foundation walls were carefully inspected. The cracks were then repointed with high-quality mortar to seal them, stopping moisture from seeping through and preventing further structural damage. This process stabilized the cracks and mitigated the risk of additional foundation movement.
Step 2: Carbon Fiber Installation for Wall Stabilization
After sealing the cracks, we prepared the foundation wall by cleaning its surface and applying high-strength epoxy for carbon fiber reinforcement. This epoxy created a strong bond between the foundation wall and the carbon fiber straps.
Once the epoxy set, we installed the carbon fiber straps according to final engineering specifications. The straps provided permanent stabilization, halting the inward movement of the bowing walls and preventing further shifting.
Step 3: Top-Mounted Steel Brackets for Additional Support
To provide further reinforcement, top-mounted steel brackets were installed at the top of the wall. These brackets, placed according to the engineering plan, offer additional support to the foundation and help ensure long-term stability.
The Outcome: A Stable and Secure Foundation
The combination of carbon fiber reinforcement and repointing of the two stair-step cracks successfully stabilized the foundation and stopped the inward movement of the bowing walls. The cracks were sealed, preventing moisture from infiltrating the foundation and protecting it from future damage.
Delinia’s family now enjoys peace of mind with a secure foundation. The work is backed by a 25-year warranty, covering both materials and labor for the treated areas of the foundation. This long-term warranty ensures that the solution will remain effective for many years to come.
Get Expert Foundation Repair in Gore, VA, Today!
If you’re dealing with bowing walls, shifting, or stair-step cracks in your foundation, LUX Foundation Solutions is here to help. Our carbon fiber foundation repair provide lasting stabilization and can restore the safety and integrity of your home.
Contact us today at 540-508-8587 or request a free estimate to schedule a consultation. Let us help you protect your home with expert foundation repair services tailored to your needs.
