Basement and foundation repair industry manufacturers work to find the best products and solutions. Of course, there are a lot of good products out there for foundation contractors and many of them rival each other on performance. The specific product and brand really depends on the contractor’s personal preference. However, there are categories that every foundation industry professional should carry solutions.
Low-pressure crack injector system:
Foundation cracks must be injected. If a foundation crack is leaking it means that the crack completely goes through the wall of the foundation. This means water, insects, rodents or harmful soil gases can enter in through these cracks. Surface treatments will not work to fix these cracks. Even if a foundation crack is nonstructural it needs to be completely filled. Low-pressure crack injection systems are recommended for most foundation crack repair work.
The right injection materials:
On the topic of crack injection, what you inject into the wall is also important. Determining epoxy versus polyurethane depends on the nature of the crack and the intended result. Do you want the crack to be able to flex or are you looking for a rigid hold? There are products out there for everything. Some products react with water. Some expand in water. Some stop water. Some react and bond with the concrete. The manufacturers will know how to help you get a tool box full of products to fit every need.
Carbon Fiber:
Carbon fiber has been used in the foundation industry for years. Manufacturers have developed various products using this manmade, lightweight, stronger-than-steel material. You can find carbon fiber mesh and sheets for whole wall repair and carbon fiber staples for crack repair. Carbon fiber is a great tool to have and works best in conjunction with other foundation stabilization products and systems. Find the right combination of systems and products that work best for you.
Wall bowing solutions:
If you are in a region with concrete block foundations, every contractor should have a solution for bowing walls. There are several systems on the market but again, the choice depends on personal preference. However, whether you choose an interior steel beam system or an exterior wall anchor system you should have a solution to fix bowed foundation walls.
Underpinning solutions:
Underpinning also known as piering using piers or pilings (terms are interchangeable depending on the area of the country) is an important skill and solution for foundation repair contractors. This does require a different knowledge set and skill level. It is important if you decide to add underpinning work to your business you should have the proper training and certifications. Each manufacture will offer specific installation training for their product. Everyone in the foundation repair industry should understand the signs of settlement and moving foundations. It is important to have this knowledge even if it is just to say this is what you need, let me refer you to someone who can help you.
