Foundation Failures.

Major Foundation Failures

Over the centuries, mankind has seen some pretty shocking foundation failures, from the Tower of Pisa the the recent Ocean Tower resort in South Padre Island. While the root causes may differ, in Dallas, the expansive clay is by far the main reason for a residence’s foundation to settle and crack.  As the developers of the major project of the Ocean Tower, the condition of the soil can not be underestimated. After it was all over, the developers sued everyone in sight involved in the project. Here is the crooks of the matter quoted from the lawsuit documents:

The facts are that the soil upon which the building was placed contains a substratum of expandable clay at the 120 to 190 foot level. This clay is also known as compressable clay and, as a result of Raba's miscalculation of the piers necessary to support the building (Raba authorized 95 foot piers, after testing only down 100 feet) the building weight was focused on the clay stratum, which compressed, and allowed the building to settle. The settlement was uneven (differential settling) which stressed the beams and columns designed by Datum, and resulted in cracking, spalling and breaking of the beams and columns.

This is how this luxury project was pitched in the beginning:

Ocean Tower Foundation

Before the building was even completed, it started to lean, just like the Tower of Pisa, due to a 14” uneven foundation settling.

Premier Foundation Repairs

In the end, the the project could not be saved, or maybe it wasn’t worth saving after such bad publicity. Regardless, CDI was brought in to  bring it down in a spectacular implosion.

[embed width="500" height="400"]http://youtu.be/QO2q4LErGN4?t=30s[/embed].

Premier Foundation Repair Inc has seen thousands of foundation failures in Dallas over the last 30 years. We can help you like we have helped many others in DFW.

Sources:

http://www.valleymorningstar.com/news/article_9190e0e4-f032-563e-9a44-51bce0505dc4.html

http://www.controlled-demolition.com/article/faulty-tower%E2%80%99s-implosion-will-set-new-height-record

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!...

Before you buy a house, check the foundations.

When a new home is put on the market, if the house had prior foundation problems and repairs, it should be disclosed. However, that does not happen all the time. To avoid ugly surprises later, make sure you do an inspection of your future home's foundation. Most foundation repair companies can visit the residence and relate to you their findings, including any possible corrections you can make to the yard, drainage, gutters, landscape to reduce the risk of you every needing foundation repairs. Premier Foundation Repair website at www.premierfoundationrepair.com has tips on what to look for to make the right decision.

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.

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

Foundation Repairs Cost PR

Tips On The Long Term Real Cost of Foundation Repairs Versus Short Term Explained by Premier Foundation Repair Inc

With foundation repairs costs in the thousands of dollars, most homeowners have to find ways to finance the project. Delaying a foundation repair may cost you more in the long term as explained at http://www.premierfoundationrepair.com

Delaying the foundation repairs may most likely increase the overall cost.

Dallas, TX (PRWEB) March 06, 2012

With foundation repairs costs in the thousands of dollars, most homeowners have to find ways to finance the project.

As always, before plunging a large amount of money into any project with any company, the homeowner needs to be comfortable with the work ahead and have a clear picture of what the scope of the repair will be. The homeowners need to make sure they understand the warranty coverage offered by the company bidding for the repairs, including all the fine print. Always check references and previous jobs the bidding company may have performed. Foundation repairs are sometimes complicated and experience in the field is of great importance. The lowest bid is not always the best option and, with enough self education, homeowners can also make sure that they are not overpaying for the job

While selecting the company, homeowners should keep in mind that some of the more established foundation repairs companies will offer financing and allow the homeowner to spread the burden of what sometimes can be a very costly project. Home equity loans are sometimes a good option due to the low interest on the borrowed money.

Homeowners insurance policies most of the time do not cover foundations issues and foundation repairs unless those issue are caused by a sudden release of water due to a malfunctioning appliance, improperly installed or defective plumbing. Of course the homeowner should consult with their insurance company and the policy documents to see if the repairs are covered.

In some cases the project gets put off to a later date which will in most cases increase the cost of repairs and reduce the property value. Therefore, the homeowners needs to consider the implications of short term cost, versus long term cost keeping in mind that unfortunately, foundation problems will not go away or improve over time, if left unaddressed.

If the homeowner needs more clarifications, the can consult with Premier Foundation Repair Inc in 3767 Forest Ln, Dallas, TX 75244 or visit http://www.premierfoundationrepair.com/

Prevent Foundation Repairs In Dallas And Save Money

New Ideas And Suggestions To Prevent Foundation Repairs From Premierfoundationrepair.com

New idea and suggestions trying to prevent foundation repairs in Dallas and surrounding areas suggested by Julie Goines with Premier Foundation Repairs Inc. Most of the foundation issues are caused by moisture levels in the ground. Keeping those levels constant is the key to stable foundations.

This is the wrong way to setup a downspout.

This type of soil is very sensitive to moisture, causing large amount of swelling and shrinking depending on how much water is present

Preventing foundation repair in Dallas is becoming more and more of a challenge. Due to the severe drought conditions, several cities have been forced to mandate watering restrictions even in the middle of winter.

Foundation repairs in Dallas are a common occurrence says Julie from Premier Foundation Repairs Inc. "The foundation of your house in Dallas are unfortunately sitting on very expansive soils. This type of soil is very sensitive to moisture, causing large amount of swelling and shrinking depending on how much water is present".

Premier Foundation Repair Inc. has few suggestions for the homeowners that will help prevent the need of foundation repairs in Dallas.

1. Homeowners should check the drainage around their residence by making sure gutters and spouts drain away from the foundations. By far the most important improvement a homeowner can do to the residence is to install gutters and down spouts.

2. Plumbing leaks under the house foundations are not uncommon. The homeowner can have a plumbing pressure test done to make sure there are no leaks under the slab.

3. The ground moisture around the home's perimeter should remain as constant as possible. Premier Foundation Repairs Inc. recommends periodical use of a sprinkler system and soaker hoses. Draining water from the yard away from the house is just as important as watering the yard. Some solutions include sloping the grounds (grading), french drains, in same cases a pit and a sub pump are necessary to evacuate the water.

The condition of the ground around the slab. Too wet, with standing water or cracked and pulled away from the slab are indications of too much or not enough watering.

A slightly more precise method is to use a long screw driver and insert it into the ground. If the screw driver comes out completely dry more water should be applied to the ground. If the screw driver comes out caked with mud, the homeowners should reduce the about of water. The screw driver should come out moist but not completely wet of bone dry.

Also, the vegetation around the the foundations like flower beds, bushes and ground covers also will give you and indication of the moisture in the ground.

Most likely, using all these methods together will give the homeowner the best idea of the conditions and health of the residence's foundations. Over time the homeowner can determine the right amount of watering during the different weather conditions.

If a residence shows signs of foundation problems, the customer needs to remember that the root cause, most likely a moisture level issue, will need to be addressed in order for the foundation repairs to last permanently.

Premier Foundation Repair Inc has performed thousands of foundation repairs in Dallas and can evaluate each customer individual situation and unique needs. Premier Foundation Repair Inc in Dallas can be reached at 3767 Forest Ln Dallas, TX 75244. Telephone (972) 417-0823. Website: http://www.premierfoundationrepair.com

If you need foundation repairs find us on Google+

We now have a new Google + page...just another way to stay in touch.https://plus.google.com/b/101594515806670772047/101594515806670772047/about

Still busy bidding the damage from last brutal summer..

Last summer was just brutal. Some of the foundations just could not endure without water. Remember the soaker hoses before it gets hot again. We wrote about it several times...here is one of the articles http://ezinearticles.com/?Prevent-Foundation-Repairs-With-the-Proper-Use-of-a-Soaker-Hose&id=6513967. Also, please don't put them too close to the house...this is what we found in a residence http://www.premierfoundationrepair.com/foundation/foundation-repair/

New Year Starts With An Old Enemy For Foundation Repairs - A Very Prolonged Drought

Causes for foundation repairs are still the same with the major offender being 'expansive soils'. An expansive soil has the ability to change it's volume greatly based on the amount of moisture present in the soil itself. Maintaining the moisture level at a constant level, or as close to constant as it can be, is the key factor in keeping the residence foundation problem free. The geological map present at premierfoundationrepair.com shows North Texas to be built on some of the most expansive soils in the nation. That fact in combination with an ongoing, historically severe drought, is a recipe for severe foundation problems.

The most effective method to keep the moisture levels constant is the use of soaker hoses. Here are some guidelines on how to properly use a soaker hoses:

1. Most manufacturers recommend positioning the hoses 3-4 inches under ground and 12-24" away from the edge of the residence's foundation. Of course each homeowner will have to find the best solutions also depending on their garden and vegetation arrangement around the house.

2. The homeowner should make sure the hoses are not right up against the slab. This may cause the water to flow under the foundations without dispersing uniformly causing additional problems with the foundations.

3. Once the soaker hoses are in place follow the manufacturer's directions for water pressure, back-flow device, pressure regulator and timer valves.

4. Soil composition will also make a difference when determining the best location of the soaker hoses. One of the best gauges of the effectiveness of the soaker hoses is the condition of the ground around the slab. Too wet, with standing water or cracked and pulled away from the slab are indications of too much or not enough watering. Another method is to use a metal rod or re-bar 2-3 feet in length. While inserting the rod in the ground, the rod will stop or find very strong resistance once the dry ground is encountered.

Also, homeowners should look at the vegetation around the foundation (flower beds, shrubs, ground covers, etc. etc.). If the plants look healthy, that's an indication the roots are in moist soil. In the end, all of those methods, used together, give the most accurate assessment of the homeowner's ground conditions.

Homeowners should remember to check with the local municipalities to insure about times and days allowed for watering.

For more information on the proper use of a soaker hose in regards to foundation repairs, contact Premier Foundation Repair Inc at 3767 Forest Ln, Dallas, TX 75244 (972) 417-0823 http://www.premierfoundationrepair.com

Prospective Homeowners Should Check This List Twice and Potentially Save A Bundle

Dallas, TX (PRWEB) December 13, 2011 In almost all cases, a professional inspection is required by law and, most likely, by the landing institution, before any home sale can be completed. Once the professional inspection is completed, the pro's at premierfoundationrepair.com strongly suggests that the prospective homeowners do some of their own looking around.

"Obviously, no one has more at heart the interest of the homeowners than the homeowners themselves. Should the inspector miss something, the new homeowner could save thousands of dollars and lots of headaches by catching potential foundation repairs themselves", says Julie Goines, CEO of Premier Foundation Repair Inc.

Here is a short but very important list of items to look for:

1. Do a slow walk around the perimeter of the house, possibly during and after a storm. This may sound a bit strange but any issues with drainage are easier to be highlighted during a heavy rain storm or shortly after.

2. If you are doing the walk-around during the rain storm, closely inspect the gutters and downspout all around the house. Look for leaking corners and overflowing gutters. Also, check the downspouts and make sure they are channeling the water away from the foundation of the house either with a long drain above ground or in some sort of underground drainage system.

3. If you are walking around the house after the storm look for standing water around the foundation. You do not want to see any standing water within 10 feet from the foundation’s perimeter. You also don’t want to see dirt pulling away from the foundation slab and exposing the bottom of the foundation.

4. On the outside walls, look for separations in the mortar between the bricks and or cracking in the bricks themselves. Pay close attention the foundation’s corners for signs of cracking. Most the stress in a foundation is pointed at the corners. Also make sure the dirt or grade is not too high over the foundation ‘s height.

5. Inspect bushes and trees around the house for signs of possible over grown roots system. Mature trees with large root systems should not be closer than 20 feet from the foundations. Most of the damage to residence foundations is not caused by a root pushing up of the foundation, although possible. Instead, most of issues occur when large root systems soak up a large quantity of water and with a poorly compacted soil, the foundation looses support. Look for close by sidewalks and walkways to notice if root systems have caused any damages to those nearby structures.

6. Ask neighbors if they had to do foundation repairs on their residences

Once you step inside, there are few more things to check:

1. Make sure all door’s frames are straight and plumb and that the doors close properly or don’t swing open due to being out of square.

2. Look around the corners of the door and windows for cracks in the sheetrock.

3. Wherever tiles are present, look for splitting tiles and separating grout lines.

4. Check for cracks in the garage floor or other concrete floors.

5. Look for separation between molding, walls and ceiling.

6. Look for uneven and sloping floors.

This checklist will greatly reduce the chances of anyone missing a possible issue with the residence foundation and will give you a chance to address the issues before purchasing the house.

If you have any questions or need any help with your inspection, get in touch with the pros at Premier Foundation Repair Inc. for any assistance. They are a Dallas - Ft. Worth foundation repairs company located at 3767 Forest Ln  Dallas, TX 75244. They can be reached at (972) 417-0823