Frequently Asked Foundation Repair Questions And Answers

Unfortunately a price cannot be given until an inspection is completed. Anyone who tells you otherwise is either stretching the truth or is not competent. Structural repairs run the gamut from simple crack repairs to full blown underpinning and tiebacks. Our inspections are free and upon completion, we can give you a complete cost and scope of services.

United Structural Systems uses only products from the leading manufacturers in the foundation repair industry. Our products have the recognition and acceptance of the major U.S. Building Codes and engineering community across the country.

Not necessarily. Engineering, steel quality, manufacturing methods and welding procedures, among other factors, vary widely. Our piering products have withstood the rigors of virtually every challenging installation condition and meet engineering specifications. The mechanical ratings have been laboratory tested and time tested. Lesser foundation repair products and methods can break down during challenging installations, in much the same way lower-quality tools can. Trouble is, it can happen below the ground surface, escaping detection until your foundation fails.

Each type has minor advantages and disadvantages. Generally, either one will work just fine in the correct situations. Round shaft helicals can hold their capacity better in extremely soft soils that offer low shaft support. Square-shaft helicals are best suited for tieback situations and high-torque installations.

Yes, particularly in situations where there is new construction in poorly-consolidated fill material or corrosive situations. Ultimate settling of soils under and around footings, grade beams and floors creates airspaces which can also collect water - providing a haven for rust and corrosion. Stand-alone structures supported on helical piers, such as walkways, docks and machine bases can leave exposed shafts vulnerable to corrosion at the ground line. In these situations, hot-dip galvanizing is a must. If your steel piering is engineered for your situation you can trust that you have a permanent engineered deep foundation.

Not necessarily. Some are coated with clear lacquer, painted or powder-coated. Some are even sprayed with silver paint to appear as though they're galvanized. Others do not galvanize because it is cheaper for them. Make sure you ask!

There is no exact science to designing underpinning or new construction support with steel piers. The ability to save money on piers by increasing the span between them depends upon the weight and integrity of the structure along with the engineered capacity of the pier. More support piers of comparable capacity within the same area translates to a greater margin of safety. If a contractor is proposing a project with significantly fewer support piers, he should have the engineering and warranty to back it up and there should be a significant bottom-line cost savings to you.

Be careful about awarding an underpinning contract to a contractor based upon their promise of a lifted, "leveled" structure. In some cases, it's more realistic to lift slightly to stabilize a structure in place than to attempt major corrective jacking using steel piers. Improper lifting can cause more damage than was originally there. Make sure your contractor is using an engineer approved manifold lifting system. Lifting with bottle jacks does not allow for control of the lifting procedure.

While a good, solid warranty is always an important consideration, consider the source. A shorter warranty from a well-regarded company that's been doing business in the area for 15 years may offer more security than a “Life Time” warranty from a company that's been around only a few years or too much fine print. Check the complaint history of any company you're considering. Contact the appropriate state contractor licensing agency as well as the Better Business Bureau. When all else fails ask an engineer about us, he’ll tell you.