FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Foundation Repair Basics

What are the signs that my foundation needs repair?

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Common signs include cracks in walls or floors, sloping or uneven floors, sticking doors or windows, and gaps around doors or windows.

How much does foundation repair cost?

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This can vary depending on the specific foundation problem. Typically, foundation repair costs average between $2,000 and $9,000. However, some smaller jobs may be less than $2,000, and some larger projects could be well over $10,000. Learn More Here.

How long will it take to repair my foundation?

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This varies. Fixing a foundation crack may take only a few hours, but finding solutions to bowing or leaning walls may take several days. On the other hand, piering jobs can take a few weeks. Always inquire about time requirements with your contractor.

Will foundation repair disrupt my landscaping or outdoor areas?

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Depending on the repair method and the extent of the work needed, some landscaping or outdoor areas may be disrupted. However, our team takes precautions to minimize impact and restore the affected areas as much as possible after the repair is completed.

Can I fix my foundation myself?

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It is understandable to try to save money on home repairs, especially smaller repairs like cracks. However, if you aren't aware of the underlying problem, you will ultimately cost yourself more money. A structural engineer can really tell how serious the problems are.

Can foundation repair prevent future issues with my home?

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Yes, addressing foundation issues promptly can help prevent further structural damage and potential safety hazards. Repairing the foundation can also stabilize the structure, preventing future issues like cracks in walls or floors.

Signs of Foundation Issues

What causes bowed walls and how do you repair them?

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Bowed walls are typically caused by soil pressure, poor drainage, or foundation settlement. We repair them using methods such as carbon fiber reinforcement, wall anchors, or helical tiebacks to stabilize and straighten the walls.

What causes a floor joist to sag?

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Several factors can contribute to floor joists sagging or bowing over time. Some of the most common include excessive load, moisture damage, poor construction, foundation settlement, termite or pest damage, or age and wear. Read more about how Midwest Structural Solutions can repair sagging floor joists.

Can a stuck door or window be a sign of foundation issues?

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Yes, a stuck door or window can indeed be a potential sign of foundation issues. When a foundation settles unevenly or experiences movement, it can cause the frame of the house to shift slightly out of alignment. This misalignment can make doors and windows difficult to open or close properly.

Can you rebuild failing basement walls?

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Yes, our team of experienced contractors specializes in rebuilding failing basement walls. Whether your walls are cracked, bowed, or showing signs of deterioration, we have the expertise and resources to address the issue effectively. Contact us today to schedule an assessment and discuss your options for rebuilding your failing basement walls.

Foundation Repair Techniques

What are egress windows, and why are they necessary?

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Egress windows are large enough for an individual to exit through in an emergency. Building codes require them in basement living spaces to provide a safe exit route and natural light.

What's a GeoLock™ Wall Anchor?

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GeoLock™ Wall Anchors are a type of foundation repair system designed to stabilize and straighten bowing or leaning foundation walls. These anchors are composed of heavy-duty steel rods and plates, along with rugged earth anchors that are driven deep into stable soil outside the foundation. The system is installed by drilling small holes into the damaged wall and inserting steel rods through these holes. Once installed, the rods are connected to earth anchors buried in the soil outside the foundation. Tension is then applied to the anchors, pulling the foundation wall back into its original position over time. This process effectively counteracts the external pressure exerted by expansive soils or hydrostatic pressure, providing long-term stability and preventing further wall movement.

What is the difference between helical piers and underpinning?

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Helical piers stabilize and support foundations by transferring the structure's load to deeper, more stable soil or bedrock. Underpinning involves strengthening the foundation's existing footings or adding new footings to increase support.

How do carbon fiber straps work?

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Carbon fiber straps, also known as carbon fiber reinforcement, are commonly used to repair and strengthen foundation walls that are experiencing cracking or bowing.
These straps consist of high-strength carbon fiber sheets or fabrics bonded directly to the surface of the affected wall using a specially formulated epoxy adhesive. Once applied, the carbon fiber straps create a robust and flexible reinforcement layer that distributes stress and helps prevent further movement or cracking of the wall.
The carbon fiber material is lightweight and extremely durable, providing structural support without adding significant weight or thickness to the wall.
When it comes to practical application, carbon fiber straps are designed to utilize the tensile strength of the carbon fiber material. This strength enables them to effectively resist forces exerted on the wall, such as soil pressure or hydrostatic pressure. The straps can be installed vertically or horizontally along the length of the wall, depending on the specific repair requirements, providing a versatile solution for various foundation issues.

What are push piers?

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Push piers, also known as resistance or hydraulic piers, are structural support systems that stabilize and lift settling foundations. These piers are made of high-strength steel and are driven into stable soil or bedrock beneath the foundation. Push piers work by transferring the structure's weight from unstable soil to more competent soil or rock layers, providing permanent foundation support. They are installed vertically beneath the foundation footing and can be adjusted to lift the foundation back to its original position, correcting settlement issues. Push piers are an effective solution for addressing foundation settlement caused by soil consolidation, moisture changes, or poor soil compaction.

What's a helical tieback anchor?

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A helical tieback anchor is a structural support system used to stabilize and reinforce retaining walls, foundation walls, or other structures experiencing lateral movement or instability. These anchors consist of a steel shaft with helical plates attached, resembling a large screw. They are installed horizontally into the soil behind the affected wall and are designed to anchor into stable soil or load-bearing strata.

Waterproofing & Water Management

How can basement waterproofing benefit my home?

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Basement waterproofing helps prevent water intrusion, which can lead to mold growth, damage to belongings, and structural issues. It also helps maintain a healthier indoor environment. Read "Is Basement Waterproofing Worth It?"

Are there any warning signs that my crawl space needs encapsulation?

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Musty odors, increased humidity levels, visible mold growth, wood rot, or pest infestations are signs that your crawl space may need encapsulation. Encapsulation can help mitigate these issues and improve your home's overall health.

How do interior and exterior drain systems help with water management?

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Interior drain systems, such as French drains, collect water from inside the basement and channel it away to a sump pump for removal. Exterior drain systems, like perimeter drains, redirect water away from the foundation to prevent it from entering the basement.

Why is crawl space encapsulation important?

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Crawl space encapsulation helps prevent moisture issues, mold growth, and structural damage by sealing the crawl space from outside elements, controlling humidity levels, and improving indoor air quality.

About Midwest Structural Solutions

What areas do you serve?

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We are based in Evansville, Indiana, but serve the entire tri-state area, including southeast Illinois, northeast Kentucky, and southwest Indiana. Check out recent projects in our service area.

Do you offer financing?

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Yes! We offer quick rates, loan funds, and fixed monthly payments through Hearth financing. Check out our project financing calculator.

How do I request a FREE 29-point foundation evaluation?

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To request your FREE 29-point foundation evaluation, simply contact us via phone at (812) 408-1339 or fill out our online contact form.

Is Midwest Structural Solutions hiring?

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Visit our hiring page to see if we have any available job opportunities.

Still have questions? Contact us here!