Restoring Stability: A Full Foundation and Waterproofing Solution

Challenge

When we arrived at the homeowner's basement for an inspection, it was clear that serious foundation issues were developing. A long horizontal crack ran almost the entire length of one of the basement walls, and sections of the wall were bowing inward. This type of damage occurs when the pressure from surrounding soil becomes too much for the foundation to handle, often due to moisture fluctuations and soil movement. Over time, if left unaddressed, the wall could continue to shift, leading to structural instability or even collapse. 

As we continued our inspection, we noticed stair-stepping cracks in a different section of the basement. This pattern of cracking is a common sign of foundation settlement, which happens when the soil beneath a home shifts, causing parts of the foundation to sink unevenly. This can lead to serious structural problems, including misaligned doors and windows, uneven floors, and further wall cracking. To access this area, a built-in shelf had to be removed during installment, revealing that the large crack from the original room extended into this space as well.

Just as we were finalizing our structural assessment and solutions, another major issue arose. When we opened the concrete floor to install the necessary foundation supports, we discovered a significant amount of water pooling underneath. The homeowner had experienced water issues in the past, but the sheer volume we found was unexpected. Water intrusion in basements can lead to mold growth, musty odors, and damage to belongings, making it a serious concern for any homeowner. This situation required not just structural repair but also a long term waterproofing solution. 

Solution

To address the bowing basement walls, we installed C-Channels, a heavy duty steel reinforcement system designed to stabilize walls that are being pushed inward by external pressure. These channels provide continuous support and preventing further movement. Over time, they can even help straighten the wall back to its original position, restoring the integrity of the foundation.

For the foundation settlement issue, we installed Push Piers, which are long steel piers driven deep into the ground until they reach stable bedrock or load-bearing soil. These piers effectively transfer the weight of the home from the unstable soil to a more solid foundation, preventing further sinking and, in some cases, lifting the structure back to its original level. With these piers in place, the home's foundation was stabilized, eliminating concerns about continued settlement and damage. 

Once the foundation was secured, it was time to tackle the water intrusion problem. To provide a long-term waterproofing solution, we installed a full WaterGuard® system. This system consists off a specially designed drainage channel that sits along the perimeter of the basement, just above the footing. Unlike traditional drains that can clog over time, WaterGuard® is designed to collect water at the base of the walls and direct it to a sump pump before it can cause damage. 

To ensure effective water removal, we installed a SuperSump® sump pump, a high-performance sump pump system designed for maximum efficiency. Equipped with a powerful motor, an airtight lid to prevent moisture from escaping, and a built-in alarm to notify homeowners of potential issues, this sump pump provides reliable protection against flooding. By working in tandem with the WaterGuard® drainage system, the SuperSump® ensures that any water entering the basement is quickly collected and pumped away from the home. 

With both foundation stabilization and waterproofing in place, this basement went from being a serious structural concern to a fully protected, stable, and dry space. We not only restored the integrity of the foundation, but also gave the homeowner peace of mind knowing her basement was safeguarded against future issues.