When and Where to Underpin – A Peer Review Approach For Foundation Repair in Arizona

As a Foundation Repair Team, we often have peer review discussions on the needs for underpinning, and if established, where to stop and start. We have built a system of checks and balances to ensure that multiple points of view are utilized. I have written a series of blogs on common human biases. One of the ways to minimize human biases is to get multiple opinions on a case; we call this process peer review.

We, as a group, have had many discussions on foundation repair requirements. One of the first things we look at is whether the house foundation exceeds the allowable limits of the FPA (Foundation Performance Association) and PTI (Post Tensioning Institute) guidelines. You can also search for "Residential foundation repair contractors near me" to find experts who are familiar with these standards. This is a good place to start. While there is some uncertainty about the original elevations, we can look at the signs of stress and make some inferences about post-construction movement.

Foundation Diagnosis: 16 Factors to Consider for Your Home

After all, 16 factors in diagnoses are analyzed, and an opinion of settlement beyond the allowable limits has been established, the next step is to determine where underpinning is needed, and what the starting and stopping points are. To find the right professionals for this job, search for "Foundation specialist near me" or "Foundation contractors" in your area.

Following our rule that the best predictor of future movement is documentation of past movement; we recommend underpinning where significant movement has already occurred. This is crucial for effective "Foundation crack repair." One of the first things to do is to determine the hinge points of movement. This can be done by noting signs of stress. This is not always the exact same place as the actual deflection as the structures, particularly frame structures, tend to be somewhat elastic with some tensile capacity that shifts the stress point further away from the hinge point.

Foundation Frustrations in Arizona: How Topographical Lines Reveal Your Home's Foundation Health

One tool is to look at the spacing of the topographical lines. Usually tight spacing (i.e., steeper slope) indicates movement. The topo lines spacing out indicates a grade break, also known as a hinge point. To address these issues, consider searching for "Foundation work near me" to find experienced professionals. Sometimes, we see evenly spaced topo lines from one end of the house to the other. In other words, no grade breaks and no deflection - just tilt - like a big raft. In this case, the entire house transverse to the topo lines needs to be underpinned.

Fully understanding the foundation problem will allow us to recommend the appropriate solution(s). If you're facing foundation issues, it's essential to consult with experts in "House foundation repair." You can easily find "House foundation repair companies near me" to get the necessary assistance and ensure the structural integrity of your home.