Prevent Foundation Repairs This Spring

Prevent Foundation Repairs This Spring. -

Do yo know where your water is going? With spring just around the corner, Dallas will start getting, hopefully, some intense storms and water downpours. While the water is much needed in the region, too much water not flowing correctly away from the residence can spell bad new for any homeowner.

Before the storms hit, it is a good idea to inspect and clean the gutters and downspouts.  During the fall and winter, leaves and debris can reduce or completely stop the flow of thousands of gallons of water during the raining season.

foundation repair standing water

People usually underestimate the amount of water displaced by a roof. Just 1 inch of rain over a 2,000 square feet home will divert over 1,200 gallons of water. That 1200 gallons of water should removed from around residence correctly by evacuating it far enough not to cause foundation problems. That is were the gutters and downspouts come into play.

Homeowners should make sure the gutters are not clogged or leaking. Once the water reaches the downspouts, the water should be released at least 4 feet away from the residence. Extension pieces (downspouts extenders) should be used to make sure the water is discharged far away.

The slope of the yard surround the foundation is also important as the homeowners should make sure the water does not flow back towards the house or puddles and becomes stagnant too close to the residence’s foundation.

The principal cause of foundation problems and associated repairs in Dallas, is a fluctuation of the moisture content in the ground. Making sure water does not stand next to the foundation is key to maintaining the moisture level as even as possible and preventing foundation problems.

Premier Foundation Repair Inc. (premierfoundationrepair.com) has been helping homeowners for over 30 years in Dallas and can help you with any of your foundation repairs needs.

Expansive Soil

Expansive Soils

This great and very informative presentation covers many aspect of our soil in North Texas and all around DFW. This presentation was created by Dr. J David Rogers At Missouri University of Science and Technology. It is shown here with Dr. Rogers consent.

We are sure any homeowner will find all this information very compelling and eye opening in understanding the issue of foundation repairs. We believe an educated consumer will always be a better consumer. Thank you Dr. Rogers from all of us at http://www.premierfoundationrepair.com

Great job showing soaker hoses benefits

This is a nice .pdf with good visuals on why your garden will benefit from soaker hoses...and so will your residence's foundation.  

http://www.savingwater.org/docs/successwithsoakerhoses.pdf

Happy Father's Day with long lasting gift ideas.

Need a father’s day gift that he surely will appreciate?

How many times can you buy ‘best dad ever’ mugs and t-shirts, really? This year, give him a gift that will save money and free up his time to spend with his loved ones. Here are a few great ideas:

1. Install soaker hoses around the foundation of the family residence. Have a game plan by tracing where the hoses should go before you start digging. Always start the project before the day gets hot and take frequent breaks to hydrate. If you need help with how-to make this project happen, visit our blog article on how to prevent foundation repairs with the proper use of soaker hoses here.
2. Install root barriers in the garden between the large trees and the residence foundation. Large trees can have massive root systems that can damage the foundation of your house by absorbing all the moisture out of the ground.
3. Clean out the gutters and down spouts. Have someone else in the family with you since you will be up on a latter most of the time. Afterwards, install gutter guards to help with the maintenance in the future.
4. Check and adjust the sprinkler’s head and make sure the ground around the house is getting the right amount of water and there are no wasteful leaks and broken heads. Dallas is already in a perennial drought and we need to help conserve as much water as possible.
5. Least but not last, clean out that garage! You know he see it every day when he comes home from work.

Those gifts idea are fairly inexpensive. The biggest investment will be your time and sweat. They will save your family money and free up Dad’s time to go out to dinner with the family or fire up the charcoal for some outdoor cooking. Furthermore, these are gifts that keep-on-giving long after Father’s Day is over and will surely put a smile on your proudest, greatest Dad on earth.

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Premier Foundation Repair Inc.

3767 Forest Ln, Dallas, TX 75244(972) 417-0823 (800) 705-7370 ‎

French Drains and Foundation Repairs

Water standing around your foundation can cause foundation repairs.

Do a quick check around your house after these spring showers we have had in Dallas. If you see water standing around your foundation, you may need to install a French drain. A French drain is a drainage system that allows water to filter down through several inches of gravel, into a pipe and flow away from your property. Building a French drain will make you remember of muscles you forgot you had, but is well worth your pain and suffering.

Step#1 -Find out where your water stands for long periods of time. This is easier to do and much more evident after a long storm has passed. Look for soggy, swampy lawns and decide which way is best to drain the water out of your yard. Aim for the natural low point going out of your yard and mark the path with spray paint.

Step#2 - Before you start digging, always check with your municipality and call 1-800-DIG-TESS to make sure you are safe and not digging into gas lines, power lines and so forth.

Step#3 - Put a stake at the beginning point of your French drain line and another one at the end. Tie a string on both stakes and hang a line level on it (make sure the string is tight) to make sure you are sloping in the right direction.

Step#4 -The slight downward slope should be 1 inch for every 100 feet. Mark your second stake by lowering the string and mark the spot.

Step#5 - Start digging a trench between the two stakes following the path you marked earlier. Reserve the dirt and turf for later use. Dig a trench 6 inches wide and 2 feet deep. As you dig, periodically measure from the string to the bottom of the trench. To ensure a proper slope, there must be a constant 2 feet.

Step#6 - Shovel 2-3 inches of gravel into the bottom of the trench. The drain pipe needs to be laid on top of the gravel. Re-check the slope and make sure you don’t have any high spots in the line that will prevent draining. Cover the pipe with landscaping fabric to prevent the pipe for clogging.

Step 7 - Cover the fabric with more gravel all the way up to two inches from the surface of the yard. Shovel the saved dirt and turf over the gravel to fill up the trench.  Flatten the new dirt over the trench with a hand tamper.

Should You Buy a House with Foundation Repairs?

Should You Buy a House with Foundation Repairs?

Without a doubt!! If you can verify that the repairs were done by a good, professional repair company and if you can rest assured the work is still under warranty, go ahead!

In fact, it maybe to your advantage and may help in the negotiation of the purchase price.

Make sure a reputable, knowledgable inspector checks out the foundations. It is a great idea to get a second or third opinion. Some of the best foundation inspectors are actually working for foundation repair companies. Have one of the inspector come out and give you an assessment of your situation.

Do also an inspection yourself. Here is a checklist for your to follow

Foundation Repairs Secret

Our little secret? Finding a house that has or has had foundation problems maybe a GOOD thing.

If you find a house that has had foundation repairs already done, do not be afraid of considering its purchase solely based on that fact. If the repairs were done correctly, fully disclosed and with proper transferable warranty, this could actually be an asset. Since the entire DFW metroplex is built on very expansive soil, remember the old saying - “There are two type of homes in Dallas, those with foundation repairs already done and those that still need to have it done”.

Conversely, if the house you ‘must have’ is just beginning to shows signs of foundation troubles make sure your inspector is experienced in assessing distressed properties. If the inspector finds a need to perform foundation repairs, don’t turn your back to the property. Instead, discuss possible solutions, adjust the price you are willing to pay based on the extend of the repairs. Discuss with your real estate agent how to implement the repairs and make sure the following is described in writing:

1. What are the repairs that need to be completed
2. Who is doing the repair. This should be a contractor of YOUR choice.
3. Time of completion for the job.
4. Who does the final inspection and how is it determined that job is completed.
5. Who’s paying for it.
6. How is it going to be handled if the job is NOT completed satisfactorily.

With spring fever here, this is the time when the residential market is the most active. If you are in the process of looking for a new house, do your homework and inspections, paying particular attention to the home's foundations.

Keep an open mind and use the house foundation conditions to your advantage.

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PremierFoundationRepair.com

Water Standing Next to Your Foundations

North Texas just had a pretty intense storm come through over the week-end. If after the storm you noticed wafer standing around the foundation of your residence, it is time to address the problem. Standing water causes the North Texas soil to become over saturated and swell up. Once the dryer climate will start, that same soil will shrink incredibly, causing stress to the foundations of your residence.

Remember the a constant (or as constant as it can be) moisture in the ground is the key to your residence foundation's health. Have your drainage issues addressed soon!

More Foundation Repairs News :) Our super nice customer's reviews

This is the excerpt from the latest one, again from Angie's list. Thank you!

...I has several estimates from foundation companies before deciding on Premier.  I even checked the BBB and Angie's List.  I went with them for 2 reasons: 1.)  They were much less expensive than some of the other companies.  Some estimates I recveived were over $5,000 for pretty much the same work.  2.) I preferred their poured concrete pier method over the pushed pier methods of most of the other companies. Do your research!...

This Summer is Almost over...

This is an article that always comes handy once our Texas scorching summer is over. Help your foundations and prevent foundation repairs. http://www.premierfoundationrepair.com/foundation-repairs/index.html

The Olympics are over, the drought is not.

Status of Foundation repairs in Dallas.

The Olympic games are officially over. Can't wait for Rio in four years. While watching the closing ceremony, our area was once again missed by the rain. If you were lucky, last night you may have seen some rain in the Fort Worth areas but for most of the region, the ground is as dry as ever. This is what I saw, from my car, driving around while working. It is amazing how dry things are!

If you need help get in touch with us...don't put it off, it won't get better over time. We have financing option to help you get the the foundation repairs done. www.premierfoundationrepair.com

New Angie's List Report for foundation repairs.

Last report from Angie's list of today...got an "A" again :)Report Date: August 08, 2012

Overall -A Price - A Quality - A Responsiveness - A Punctuality - A Professionalism - A

Member Comments: "We contacted five companies to give us estimates. We honestly thought we were going to hear the same thing. Julie came to our house and explained her company's process for installing piers. She was extremely straightforward and professional. We liked her knowledge and method for pier installation. The next week we contacted her to begin the work. Everything went well."

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Premier-Foundation-Repair/150062511691063

http://www.premierfoundationrepair.com/

Foundation Problems and issues around town.

This extreme drought is causing some serious foundation problems. Some of the recent finding from the filed:

This chimney is finally giving up. This is a good example of why over time, foundation problems don't get better but keep getting worst.

The science behind expansive soils.

Want to know more about expansive soils and how it can damage your foundation? Here, without sales pitches, get the science of it. From the University of Missouri and Prof Mr. Rogers. Foundation Repairs and Expansive Soil

Foundation Repairs and Residential Landscape

How foundation repairs relate to residential landscape?

Over the years, homeowners have heard many conflicting stories about how landscaping can cause foundation problem and induce foundation repairs.

Of course the benefit of landscaping are many and easily outweigh the potential negatives, specially if the landscaping is done with a correct plan. When homeowners plan the landscape, they should keep in mind the visible part of the landscape above ground but also what's under the surface, primarily the root systems.

Trees are usually the most significant element in a landscape design. They can greatly affect the residence energy power consumption by providing shade and increase the property value. However, there have been studies where it has been proven that large trees' root system affect the moisture content of the subgrade and can cause foundation damage.

If the residence was build on land where the trees where already established and there was adequate watering after the foundation was put in place, there is a good chance to minimize impact by promoting root growth away from the foundation. When the homeowners water the tree, it should be done on the side of the tree away from the house  so that the new roots will grow in that direction to satisfy the tree's watering requirements.

If the root system extend under the house foundations, it maybe necessary to install a root barrier. When installing a root barrier, homeowners should place it as far away as possible from the tree in order to reduce the damage to the tree. The barrier should at least 4 feet deep and be made of a material capable of blocking the roots, typically reinforced concrete or corrugated hard plastic.

Sufficient watering is essential to the tree and to prevent foundation repairs. Always water the tree one the side away from the house if possible to encourage root growth in that direction. A local reputable nursery should be able to help with estimating watering needs.

Of course this is just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to having a healthy and balanced environment around the house to prevent large soil moisture levels and therefore damaging the residence's foundations. Homeowners should inspect the slope of the yard, the gutters and downspouts and they sprinkler system to make sure all the components are working properly.

In a very expansive soil substrate, In the end, it is all about moisture levels and keeping them as constant as possible.

Foundation Repairs Article from Texas A&M

The weather is getting hot, the ground is getting dry and you know what than means with our north Texas expansive clay. We hope you enjoy your Fourth of July! but once the partying is over :) take a read at this Texas A&M article we found (it's a PDF) about maintenance of residential foundation in expansive soil. http://fcs.tamu.edu/housing/construction_maintenance_repair/pdf/maintenance-of-existing-foundations.pdf

You will find some good information about gutters, drain systems, soil slope and landscaping. All the good things we always like to talk about.

Ya'll have a great holiday!

Save water and foundation repairs

Update Dallas watering plan and help prevent foundation repairs.

As always a soaker hose is the best way to keep your ground moist and stable preventing severe shrinking during the summer. Here is a good article and update information on Dallas' plan for outdoor watering.

http://savedallaswater.com/twice-weekly-watering-schedule/

Find A Good Company To Avoid Foundation Repairs Issues.

When the residence is affected by foundation problems, residences have to choose a foundation repair company carefully. Here are some tips of help from the pro's at premierfoundationrepair.com.

Dallas, TX April  2012

Once homeowners suspect that the residence may have foundation problems the solutions are often confusing and contradictory. Regarding the methodology of the foundation repairs, homeowners should keep in mind that the drilled piers systems is oldest method in use almost always the only method recommended by structural engineers for large commercial application a high-rise buildings, highways, airports, etc.

Once the homeowners have selected the correct method to fix the foundation, choosing the company to carry out the repairs is just as critical and confusing. Obviously, the method of the repairs as good as the company carrying out the repairs and completing the job.

The different companies advertisement and sales pitches are often confusing and do not state the exact process and responsibilities for the foundation repair project.

Homeowners should always ask for references and check the standing with the local Better Business Bureau for any issues the company may have left unresolved.

Sometime the response to an customer issue is just as important as the issue itself.

If possible, the homeowners should find a previous project the company completed that is similar to their own situation and inquire about the outcome of that project.

Also, the homeowner should make sure that the selected company has a clear and transferable warranty. The fine prints should be read and understood completely and the company should address any issues or questions the homeowner may have before starting with the project.

Finally, the longevity of the company selected is of the utmost importance. A company that has been in business locally from many years, sometime decades, will most likely have a track record of success and the experience necessary to successfully complete the foundation repairs. No promises or warranties can be honored if the company is no longer in business should issues arise for the homeowner

Premier Foundation Repairs Inc has been doing foundation repairs in Dallas for over 30 years. If you have any question do not hesitate to contact them at premierfoundationrepair.com. They are located at 3767 Forest Lane, Dallas, TX 75244

(972) 417-0823

Julie Goines Premier Foundation Repair Inc (972) 416-0786 Email Information

Foundation Repairs Using Drilled Piers vs. Pressed Piers

New Tip For Homeowners To Check Proper Foundation Repairs Using Drilled Piers vs. Pressed Piers

Before starting the work on the foundations, homeowners should check this from the pro's at http://www.premierfoundationrepair.com. When it comes to foundation repairs not all methods are equal.

Dallas Tx April 27, 2012

When it comes to foundation repairs not all methods are equal. The principle difference is in the methodology the different piers are applied. In the pressed piers application, the pilings are pressed into the ground with hydraulic means while, in same cases, using the weight of the house above as resistance to the push of the hydraulic jack. The pilings are pushed into the ground to some determined pounds per square inch which in most cases means that the pilings do not reach the bedrock stratus or other more stable ground layers. In addition this method causes lots of up ad down motions and stress on the residence foundations, load bearing walls and other systems such as plumbing.

"In most cases pressed piers will fail where a properly installed drilled pier will last a lifetime.Several times during the years we have to remedy foundation repairs previously done using pressed piers.” says Julie from Premier Foundation Repairs Inc.

Drilled piers have been in use since the beginning of foundation repairs and are still the most recommended method prescribed by structural engineers. In virtually all commercial applications, from highways to airports, roads, commercial buildings, high-rise buildings, drilled piers is the only method used. At a smaller scale, the homeowner residence can also be helped with the use of drilled piers for the foundation repairs.

The drilled piers are built to sustain more than 3000 psi and are drilled deep enough to rest of bedrock or equivalent resistance stratus. The residence is not put the same stress as it is with pressed piers and the repairs are permanent.

Premier Foundation Repairs Inc has been doing foundation repairs in Dallas for over 30 years. If you have any question do not hesitate to contact them at premierfoundationrepair.com. They are located at 3767 Forest Lane, Dallas, TX 75244 (972) 417-0823

Julie Goines Premier Foundation Repair Inc (972) 416-0786 Email Information

Prevent Foundation Repairs in Dallas -- Spring CheckList

The rain is bringing plenty of water but soon, the scorching heat will be back causing severe drought conditioning and causing the ground to shrink. This is the time to put in place the things that will help prevent possible foundation repairs. Get help from http://www.premierfoundationrepair.com.

Before the ground drys up and gets really hard to work with, homeowners should attempt to prevent any possible foundation repairs by following the checklist provided by Premier Foundation Repairs inc. at premierfoundationrepair.com

1. Make sure the residence's foundation has soaker hoses installed all around it. Soaker hoses are one of the best methods to control moisture in the ground and prevent foundation repairs. More over, soaker hoses maybe the only allowed method of watering the foundations once each municipality starts enforcing watering restrictions. Homeowners need to keep in mind that even in the winter, some cities already have some levels of watering restrictions.

2. Gutters and Downspouts. While the rain is coming down heavy, check the gutters and downspouts to make sure the water is displaced correctly and away from the residence's foundations. During the fall and winter, gutters and downspouts tend to get clogged and sometime the downspouts are even moved by windstorms.

3. While doing the spring gardening, the homeowners should make sure any large trees or shrubs are not too close to the residence's foundations. Remove any over grown plant that maybe contributing to unbalancing the moisture content of the ground. Remember that the primary reason for foundation problems and possible foundation repairs, is the shrinking and swelling of the expansive soil found under the foundation.

4. The season of heavy usage for the sprinkler system is at the door. The homeowner should check the entire system for leaks or heads pointing the wrong way. In many instances the sprinkler systems are not using for the entire winter and a good check up before the summer is a wise investment of the homeowner time.

5. Homeowner should make sure the sprinkler system is set to water during the night when the water evaporation is at a minimum and in some cases the water rates are actually lower. Also, the watering times have to cross-checked with the city's water plans to make sure there are no conflict.

Following the basic checks above is a good start for the homeowner trying to get ahead of the dry weather while preventing any possible foundation repairs. If the homeowners has any questions the professionals at Premier Foundation Repairs Inc at 3767 Forest Lane Dallas, TX 75244. Call them at (972) 417-0823 or visit http://www.premierfoundationrepair.com.

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Premier Foundation Repair Inc. 3767 Forest Lane Dallas, TX 75244 (972) 417-0823