The type of foundation your home has matters because the repair solutions may differ depending on the type of foundation. First, let’s start with the depth of your foundation, and then cover the different types. Shallow foundations are more prone to issues, increasing the probability of foundation problems.
Types of Foundations Depths
- Slab Foundation – A flat concrete pad, typically used on room additions or detached garages. This type of foundation is prone to sinking and requires slab foundation repair.
- Crawl Space – Lifted off the ground by at least 24 inches, crawl spaces are prone to mold and fungi growth due to the empty space. They may require crawl space encapsulation to prevent moisture problems.
- Basement – Typically 8 feet tall, adding extra square footage for living space. Basements are prone to leaning walls, sinking floors, and water seepage, often requiring basement waterproofing and wall bracing.
- Telephone Post | Pier or Beam – Elevated slightly above the ground, this foundation is inexpensive and easy to build, but may need pier stabilization over time.
- No Foundation – In rare cases, homes may have no foundation at all, requiring the installation of a new 42" deep trench foundation to ensure structural stability.
Different Types of Foundations in Chicago
Concrete Foundation Walls
Concrete foundation walls are made from precast forms with footings. Normal shrinkage cracks may appear due to the water content in the ready mix at the time of the pour. While small cracks are common, wider or leaking cracks signal a foundation problem. Diagonal and horizontal cracks are also signs of more serious structural issues requiring foundation crack repair.
Concrete Block Foundation Walls
These walls are made of cinder blocks. The biggest issue with concrete block foundations is inward movement or bowing, caused by lateral soil pressure. This type of foundation often needs wall bracing or reinforcement to address the bowing problem.
Limestone Foundation Wall
Homes over 100 years old may have limestone foundations. This type of foundation is constructed by stacking stone on top of each other, filled with mortar. Due to the age of these walls, settling and shifting are common and often require foundation stabilization solutions.
Red Brick
Made from bricks, these foundations are susceptible to bowing due to deterioration in the brick and mortar. Foundation settlement and cracking are also common, often requiring foundation repair to restore stability.
Get a Professional Foundation Assessment
No matter the type of foundation your home has, early detection of issues is key to preventing costly repairs. Contact American Foundation Repair today for an expert evaluation of your home’s foundation. Our experienced team provides tailored solutions for foundation cracks, bowing walls, basement waterproofing, and more.