Weak soils generally are the root cause of house settlement and foundation failure. Helical Piles may be retrofitted to an existing foundation to transfer the weight of the home from the weak upper soils down to the dense or very dense soil well below the existing footing.
One of the most common and concerning issues homeowners may face is their house to settle. It can manifest as uneven floors, cracks in walls, or doors that no longer close properly, causing significant worry and potential structural damage. But what exactly causes a house to settle, and how can you address this problem effectively? In many cases, the root cause of foundation failure can be attributed to weak soils, and a promising solution is helical piles.
The Culprit: Weak Soils
Weak soils are often the underlying cause of house settlement. When your home is built on soil that lacks the necessary load-bearing capacity, it can lead to a range of foundation problems.
These soils may include clay, silt, or loam, which are prone to compaction, shifting, and settling over time.
The weight of your house exerts pressure on the soil beneath it. If the soil is not dense or stable enough to support this weight, it will gradually give way, causing your home to settle unevenly.
As a result, you may notice structural issues like cracks in your foundation, walls, or ceilings, as well as doors and windows that no longer function properly.
Helical Piles: A Solution for House Settlement
While house settlement due to weak soils can be a significant concern, there is a reliable solution: helical piles. These innovative foundation support systems are designed to transfer the weight of your home from the weak upper soils down to denser or very dense soil layers well below the existing footing.
Helical piles consist of steel shafts with helical plates that resemble screws. These plates are securely screwed into the ground until they reach the stable soil or bedrock, providing a solid foundation for your home. The benefits of using helical piles for addressing house settlement include:
1. Load-Bearing Capacity:
Helical piles can support significant loads, ensuring your home’s stability even in challenging soil conditions. They effectively distribute the weight of your house, preventing further settlement.
2. Minimal Disruption:
Installing helical piles requires minimal excavation and disruption to your property. It’s a cost-effective and efficient solution that doesn’t entail extensive digging.
3. Long-term Reliability:
Helical piles are durable and resistant to environmental factors, such as moisture and corrosion. This ensures the longevity and stability of your home’s foundation.
4. Versatility:
Helical piles can be retrofitted to an existing foundation, making them a practical choice for addressing house settlement issues without needing a complete foundation replacement.
In conclusion, weak soils are often the cause of house settlement, leading to structural problems and concerns for homeowners. Fortunately, helical piles offer a reliable solution by transferring the weight of your home to stable soil layers, effectively addressing settlement issues.
If you’re experiencing house settlement due to weak soils, consider consulting with Helical Piles of New load-bearing capacity to assess your situation and explore the benefits of helical piles. With this innovative solution, you can regain confidence in the stability and longevity of your home’s foundation.
