Foundation Settling Repair Services in Chicago
A strong and stable foundation is a key component to the structural integrity of your home. Even minor foundation cracks should not be ignored. What may seem like a small crack could lead to serious structural damage if left untreated. Whether it’s a simple waterproofing crack repair or a sign of more serious structural failure, addressing foundation issues early can save you from major repairs in the future. Your home depends on a solid foundation because, without it, you risk diminishing the structural stability of your home. The foundation's purpose is to transfer the entire load of your home's frame to a solid footing. The footing of a foundation is the most important key component of your structure because if it becomes cracked or compromised, it could lead to a major foundation problem.
Ground movement can cause a shift affecting your homes foundation to settle unevenly. Water problems are usually caused by grading problems around your foundation. Having a drainage issue may cause a big impact leading to foundation failure. American Foundation Repair is the most trusted and experienced company in the Chicagoland area. Our team members are by far the most trusted and experienced team in Chicago. Receiving a Super Service Award from Angie's List for 2018.
Foundation Repair Services | Residential | Commercial
American Foundation Repair offers a wide range of foundation repairs. All of our repairs are custom fabricated on-site and we pay special attention to detail which paramount when it comes to foundation repair. A professional team with resources not available to other companies, such as steel crack plates, 3/4" anchor bolts and welding equipment just to name a few. Special tools allow us to custom-tailor a solution for your foundation problem. Our commitment to you is our expertise in foundation repair. Our foundation repair methods have been proven to be the best engineered solution to specifically solve your homes problems by using the highest in quality standards and procedures.
Warning Signs That Your Foundation May Be Settling
Identifying the early signs of foundation settling can help you act before the problem worsens. Here are some of the most common warning signs that homeowners should look for:
Un-level Windows and Doors
Windows and doors that are difficult to open or close are often early indicators of foundation movement. When a foundation settles unevenly, it can cause your home’s frame to shift, resulting in misaligned windows and doors.
Stair-Step Cracks in Masonry
If you notice stair-step cracks in your brick or masonry walls, this could be a sign of foundation settlement. These cracks are typically wider at the top and narrower at the bottom, indicating uneven movement beneath the home.
Cracks in the Foundation and Footing
Cracks in your foundation or footing may indicate structural settlement and should be addressed immediately. Foundations with these cracks are at a higher risk of shifting further, leading to more extensive damage.
Sagging or Sloping Floors
Floors that slope or sag are often caused by foundation issues or damaged support beams. These issues can lead to costly repairs if left unchecked.
Tilting Chimneys
A tilting or leaning chimney is a clear sign of foundation problems. If your chimney is pulling away from your home, it’s a strong indicator that your foundation needs immediate attention.
Sinking or Shifting Foundation
If you notice visible cracks that expand or contract with the seasons, this could signal ongoing foundation movement or soil instability beneath your home.
Cracks in Drywall
Cracks in your drywall, though often considered cosmetic, may be a symptom of a deeper foundation problem. If these cracks grow over time, it’s important to have your foundation inspected.
Sometimes homes sink because of poor site preparation, especially if the grading on the house is pitched toward the house instead of away from the home. Another reason for under-pining your home, would be to add a second addition on top of your existing one to strengthen your existing foundation.
How American Foundation Repair Fixes Foundation Settling
Not to worry, we can raise your foundation, frame, and or floor by using our underpinning method. Underpinning is a meticulous engineering process to strengthen and stabilize the foundation of an existing home or structure. A home’s foundation depends on sturdy soil to keep it from sinking. If ground soil loses its strength and begins to shift then the only other alternative is to strengthen the foundation of your home by using our engineered method of underpinning system. American Foundation Repair will secure your home from further settling. We raise and stabilize sinking foundations since 1986.
Steel Pipe Pile Installation (Push Piers - Resistance Piers)
A 90 degree heavy duty under-footing bracket is placed underneath footing (partial footing is shaved off). The under-footing bracket is then anchored with six ( 3/4″) anchor bolts. This under-footing bracket is now securely mounted against the existing foundation wall. Two temporary harness are erected to aid with the pushing of steel pipe piles. A hydraulic ram drives the steel pipe pile sections into the ground up to 30 or 60 tons PSI. The steel pipe piles are driven until they reach hard pan (solid rock). After raising (to a compromise level) or stabilizing your foundation we can then proceed to fuse the two metals together. The pipe pile gets welded to the under-footing bracket to hold the entire weight of the structure accordingly to engineered specifications. Your home is now secure and stable from any further settling. The newly installed pipe piles are now resting on solid rock-like soil, reaching depth of up to 90 feet or more. No more worries about a sinking foundation. Make sure to meet with one of our professional experienced team members for your free consultation or schedule an online appointment today. Raising sinking foundations since 1986.
Permits and Engineering Drawings for Foundation Repairs
All foundation repairs are done accordingly to engineered specifications and municipality codes. Village department inspectors come and inspect our work, on-site from your local village or town. All work confirms to ASTM standards (American Society for Testing and Materials) and inspected for (NCBCS) National Council on Building Codes and Standards. These types of complex foundation repair jobs can only be done by a trusted foundation repair team with experience and knowledge. Meet with one of our professional team members for a free in-home consultation on all your foundation repair needs.
Visit the specific service pages for more detailed information on what each service includes.
Call us toll free at 1-800-644-1900 with any questions you may have about our services. Always delivering the best products and service all year around!
Schedule Your Free Foundation Inspection Today
Schedule your free inspection today, with an honest and friendly foundation repair expert consultant. Being a family owned and operated business means we are the best qualified consultants in all of the Chicagoland area. Get a professional assessment of your problem and NEVER cross-sales or up sales. Receive a complimentary written proposal provided on-site or delivered in a timely manner by email. All of our proposals come with a 60 day price guarantee and a transferable warranty bringing peace of mind to you and your family. No gimmicks just great service and an expert evaluation from American Foundation Repair. A family owned and operated company since 1986.
