Soil-Structure Interaction Seminar - Foundation Performance ...

FOUNDATION REPAIR TECHNIQUES PAGE40F7
SITE WORK
SOLUTIONS
1 0) Poor siting and inadequate grade beam embedment deficiencies are often found. One of the
basic techniques used quite frequently in controlling excessive cracking in foundations is to
"desensitize" the exterior grade beams from the effects of sudden moisture changes. This
technique includes the following:
a) Addin& additional slope to divert water away from the building.
b) Extending downspout discharge away from the foundation.
b) Installation of French drain systems that allow surface water collection and dispersal
into the street or storm sewer system using either natural drainage or sump pumps.
c) Installation of water barriers underneath the existing grade, such as 3 layers of
polyethylene installed 12" below finish grade and 1' to 5' away from the building.
d) "Leaky pipe" installation to help maintain uniform moisture conditions around
portions of the building.
LEVELING TECHNIQUES
11) We do not believe that leveling piers are the only solution to level buildings, especially since
the appraisers will typically devalue a property if foundation leveling has been done. We do
believe that leveling piers should be the last option used to correct a foundation, only after other
methods have been ruled out or are not deemed adequate. The following methods are always
used to raise a foundation system:
a) Drilled bell-bottom leveling piers
b) Pressed piles (concrete or steel)
c) Helical anchors
d) Polyurethane injection
e) "Leaky pipe" watering systems