Leveling and stabilization of foundation and
concrete slab
Symptoms and causes
The emergence of large cracks in the foundation and in brick walls,
often accompanied by doors and windows that have become difficult
to close, are key signs of a settling foundation.
The soil found throughout Quebec in general and Montreal in particular
tends, because of its clayey composition, to settle. The presence
of nearby trees and paved areas and the occurrence of dry spells can
cause clay-based soils to dehydrate and settle. Since clay never recovers
more than a portion of the water it loses, dehydrated soil will fail
to regain its initial volume. The structure above them will then gradually
settle under its own weight into the sunken earth.
The solution
Hydraulic driven piles represent the definitive solution to this
kind of problem. A four-step process is involved:
- Foundation pier wall and footing brackets are solidly anchored
to the foundation.
- Piers are hydraulically driven to supporting stratum
- The building is raised using a series of hydraulic jacks
- The repaired foundation is reinforced and the piles filled with
concrete.
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