Julian Construction Say Winter Rains Can Increase Drainage Problems

LOS ANGELES - Southern California construction and foundation repair expert Juan De La Torre, founder of Julian Construction (www.julianconstruction.com), says homeowners should be on the alert for increased drainage problems from this year’s winter rains. When rainwater isn’t able to drain properly, it can cause damage to a home’s walls, basement and foundation.

“Poor drainage can lead to water collecting on roofs, as well as pooling and soggy lawns,” says Julian. “If these conditions aren’t corrected, they can result in costly home repairs and other unanticipated expenses.”

Rainwater will accumulate on rooftops and overflow down walls when gutters and downspouts are clogged. The water produces moisture in the house, which can cause mildew and mold. It can also seep into the ground and penetrate cracks in the foundation.

“Gutters and downspouts need regular maintenance and cleaning to remove leaves, twigs and other debris,” say Julian. “In addition keeping downspouts cleared, they should be mounted and angled to release water several feet away from the house.”

Water pooling and soggy lawns can occur with certain types of soil that retain moisture, or when water on a high elevation drains to property at a lower level. Severe basement and foundation issues can occur from water pooling near a structure. Julian recommends installing drains to help direct the water to another location.

Excessive moisture can also make any clay-based soil swell. Expanding soil can lift up and crack a foundation. When it dries, it will contract, which triggering even more structural troubles.

“Drainage problems need to be fixed quickly to prevent water from making its way into the house and weakening the foundation.” says Julian.

Julian De La Torre has been doing earthquake retrofitting since the early 1990s and has personally worked on over 6,600 homes in Southern California. With this unmatched experience in the substructure areas of a home, Julian formed Julian Construction in 2001 with the goal of making safer homes, apartments and commercial properties throughout Southern California. His partner Shawn Kyles has inspected over 15,000 structures, working with both engineering firms and local departments of building and safety, and is an expert in foundation repair and house bolting. Julian Construction owns its own company and is built on a “no middlemen” model – no salesmen, no subcontractors. When you work with Julian Construction you get the principals of the company and workers of Julian Construction under your home.  The result is the highest quality work at affordable prices. They can be contacted by phone at 323 733-3377, by fax at 323 733-4477 or via their website, www.julianconstruction.com

 

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Julian Construction Offers 50% Off Winter Special on Foundation Replacement Services

Foundation Repair Process Strengthens and Stabilizes Foundations

 

LOS ANGELES – Julian Construction, a Los Angeles based construction company that specializes in foundation repair and construction, announced a 50% off Winter Special on foundation replacement services.

Julian De La Torre, founder of Julian Construction, stated “We’re offering this 50% off Winter Special to make it easier for people who need to replace their foundation. There are many good reasons a home or other building would need foundation replacement. Some homes were built without a concrete and steel foundation, while others were made of un-reinforced masonry, that of brick or stone. In some cases, the original concrete was made of poor quality materials or has been badly deteriorated over the years. In most cases you can live in your home while Julian Construction, Inc. installs your new foundation, and we also offer 0% interest, if you need to finance your replacement.”

Right now Julian Construction is offering the Winter Foundation Replacement Internet-Only Special of 50% Off, for a limited time. This includes all permits, engineering, and fixing any stucco and siding. And Free Floor Leveling is included. Julian can complete the work in two weeks.

Julian Construction is a Southern California leader in earthquake retrofitting and foundation repair. Founder and retrofit expert Julian, along with his partner Shawn Kyles, an expert in foundation repair and house bolting, have retrofitted more than 6,600 homes, apartments and commercial properties since the early 1990s.

The company, which is dedicated to building preservation and security, offers a wide variety of services designed to address individual structural needs. Julian Construction’s “no middlemen” (no salesmen, no subcontractors) business model, insures high quality work at affordable prices. They can be contacted by phone at 323 733-3377, by fax at 323 733-4477 or via their website, www.julianconstruction.com.

 

 

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The Importance of Earthquake Retrofitting

By Shawn Kyles

In southern California it is vital to consider the dangers of earthquakes. In order to prevent or minimize damage to a home during an earthquake, and prevent the possibility of the need for foundation replacement, it is important to consider earthquake retrofitting.

About fifty years ago, buildings were mainly designed architecturally to endure one type of load, namely gravity. That means an up-and-down pressure or motion.

In the recent years, however, it has been more widely recognized that most earthquakes create pressures on a structure moving from side to side. This creates, as engineers define it, a lateral load. Thus, older buildings that were originally designed only to adequately support gravity loads may actually collapse as a result of the lateral pressure of an earthquake.

As a result, during an earthquake, older warehouses or houses that are built out of brick and have thick walls and massive beams can be reduced to debris in seconds. But buildings that were built from wood frame are generally much more able to withstand lateral forces, because of their flexibility and the fact that they are able to move from side to side or up and down.

The idea of seismic retrofitting is not really complicated. A foundation expert bolts the house to the foundation, adds plywood to support any structurally weak walls, and then uses special hardware to bind those components together.

The idea here is to transfer forces of the earthquake to the foundation. A building that is properly joined together and then secured firmly to its foundation is less likely to collapse or slip off of its foundation.

Engineers and seismologists agree that seismic retrofitting, when done properly, will significantly reduce potential destruction from a major earthquake. And it will help avoid the chances of needing foundation replacement.

The concept may be simple, but rendering it is very technical. This is not an area of “do-it-yourself.” It is best to hire a contractor who is an expert in earthquake retrofitting, and foundation repair and construction. A competent foundation repair expert will know which areas need to be bolted and strengthened.

The most optimum thing you can do as the homeowner is obtain a better understanding of the retrofit process so that you can ask appropriate questions and select the contractor that will perform the best job for you.

The fact is, that for majority of people the home represents the greatest part of a family’s net worth (though that value has taken a hit in recent years). Most earthquake probability studies indicate that much of this net worth may be in danger if the home is not retrofitted properly.

Most foundation repair contractors will offer a foundation inspection, so you can find out the status of your home and its foundation and find greater peace of mind.

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Julian Construction Expands Its Headquarters

LOS ANGELES: Julian de La Torre, founder of Julian Construction, which specializes in House Bolting, Foundation Replacement, and Floor Leveling in Los Angeles, Long Beach, Santa Barbara, Burbank and all cities in between was proud when he expanded his headquarters to a large commercial building with a sizable material yard in Los Angeles.

Julian stated "This allowed us to buy more material and pass the savings on to the customer. It makes sense, if you buy material in larger quantities, then you can bring better prices to the marketplace. In order to do this you have to have a place to store the lumber and hardware.”

That was 2005, since then Julian has maintained the best price available in the Foundation business. They even guarantee it in writing. While some contractors price work on maximums, Julian looks at what is necessary in order to earn the business.

“We specialize in House Bolting, Foundation Replacement and Foundation Repair, areas of the structure that are not typically viewed by the consumer, but are the most important. It’s simple. We want to fix foundations, and to do that we have to earn the business. In order to have the workers and material to the job site on time, we needed a material yard. Some foundation contractors work out of their garage, a small office, or even a PO Box. They pick up material on the way to the job site. We did not want to be like that. I wanted the guys to be on time, not show up late, and get there with the right material,” said Julian

Julian Construction is here for the long haul, which means its customers can find them right at the corner of Jefferson and 9^th Street in the City of Los Angeles.

“Our foundation customers know we are not a paper contractor, one look at our yard will tell them that! I love the internet, but with it comes some dangers. A contractor can seem competent because he has to a nice web site, but in reality he just subcontracts the work out. Julian Construction completes all the work under the home without the use of subcontractors, which also saves the consumer money, and insures the quality of work. There are some other good companies out there, I know we are the best, that’s why I put my name on the door. Julian Construction will quake-proof your home, and you can find us at 2900 W. Jefferson Blvd in the heart of Los Angeles, on the web at www.julianconstruction.com, or by phone at 323-733-3377,” concluded Julian.

 

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Julian Construction Says Homeowners Need to Prepare for "The Big One"

LOS ANGELES - Southern California construction and foundation repair experts Julian Construction (www.julianconstruction.com) say homeowners need to prepare for the next major earthquake which, according to a new study by US researchers, could happen at any time.

“It’s not a question of “if” California will be hit by a major quake, but when,” say Julian Construction founder Julian De La Torre.

Julian points to a study released in September by geologists at the University of California Irvine and Arizona State University, in which scientists concluded that large quakes strike the San Andreas fault every 45 to 144 years.

“The last big quake in California was in 1857 – over 150 years ago,” says Julian. “We are actually overdue for a major quake and we need to be prepared.”

It is estimated that a large earthquake in the region could cause between 2,000 – 50,000 people to lose their lives, and result in billions of dollars in damage.

Julian recommends Southern California residents take advantage of disaster preparedness programs offered by groups such as California Volunteers and the American Red Cross. He also suggests residents have their homes inspected for “earthquake readiness.”

“The motion of an earthquake can shake a house off of its foundation,” says Julian. “Earthquake retrofitting can prevent homes from falling down or from experiencing major damage during seismic activity.”

Julian De La Torre has been doing earthquake retrofitting and foundation repair since the early 1990s and has personally worked on over 6,600 homes in Southern California. With this unmatched experience in the substructure areas of a home, Julian formed Julian Construction in 2001 with the goal of making safer homes, apartments and commercial properties throughout Southern California. His partner Shawn Kyles has inspected over 15,000 structures, working with both engineering firms and local departments of building and safety, and is an expert in foundation repair and house bolting. Julian Construction owns its own company and is built on a “no middlemen” model – no salesmen, no subcontractors. When you work with Julian Construction you get the principals of the company and workers of Julian Construction under your home.  The result is the highest quality work at affordable prices. They can be contacted by phone at 323 733-3377, by fax at 323 733-4477 or via their website, www.julianconstruction.com

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Broken Foundation Slabs Can Be Repaired Says Julian Construction

Company Says Homeowners Can Save Money on Repair vs. Replacement

LOS ANGELES - Southern California foundation repair experts Julian Construction (www.julianconstruction.com), advise homeowners that in many cases broken concrete slab foundations can be repaired, saving property owners thousands of dollars in replacement costs.

“Simple cracks, and even more extensive foundation damage can usually be repaired,” says Julian De La Torre, founder of Julian Construction. “In either case, homeowners can save money by repairing broken slab foundations if the situation is detected early enough.”

Julian says cracked or broken slabs can be caused by shrinkage from water damage, foundation settlement, and poor soil preparation during construction. He recommends homeowners get a thorough foundation inspection if any of the following problems are observed:

• Stretched or buckled linoleum flooring

• Unlevel floors

• Broken floor tiles

• Bumps in carpet

• Cracks around windows and door frames

• Sloping floors

• Domed floors in center of room

• Sticky doors or windows that are difficult to open and close.

“Professional foundation inspections are a homeowner’s first line of defense in preventing foundation damage,” says Julian. “The longer you wait to identify and handle a foundation problem, the worse it gets - and the more money it will cost to fix it.”

Julian De La Torre has been doing foundation repair and earthquake retrofitting since the early 1990s and has personally worked on over 6,600 homes in Southern California. With this unmatched experience in the substructure areas of a home, Julian formed Julian Construction in 2001 with the goal of making safer homes, apartments and commercial properties throughout Southern California. His partner Shawn Kyles has inspected over 15,000 structures, working with both engineering firms and local departments of building and safety, and is an expert in foundation repair and house bolting. Julian Construction owns its own company and is built on a “no middlemen” model – no salesmen, no subcontractors. When you work with Julian Construction you get the principals of the company and workers of Julian Construction under your home.  The result is the highest quality work at affordable prices. They can be contacted by phone at 323 733-3377, by fax at 323 733-4477 or via their website, www.julianconstruction.com.

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Checklist for Diagnosing Foundation Problems

By Shawn Kyles

Early identification and repair of foundation problems can save you money by preventing more extensive damage and, in worst case scenarios, building collapse. 

There are many factors that contribute to foundation failure, some visible and some not.  Any foundation inspection should take into consideration movement history, environmental conditions, evidence of cracking and other physical manifestations of problems, as well as soil composition.

Here is a checklist for diagnosing foundation problems:

1. Uneven or slopping floors. One of the most common indicators of foundation problems.

2. Wall cracks. When cracks are wider at the top than bottom, it is usually a sign of foundation settlement.  Exterior wall cracks that run diagonally along joints can also indicate problems.

3. Wall separation. Walls that are separating from windows, doors, garage doors, floors and ceilings are often evidence of foundation problems. 

4. Wall bulging. Any masonry walls that bulge above the ground are dangerous and could result in structural failure.

5. Wall rotation. Settling can cause walls to rotate outward as the structure sinks.

6. Nail Popping. Nails can pop out of sheetrock or gypsum walls when there is a foundation settlement program.

7. Floor and foundation cracks.

8. Doors and windows that don’t open properly.

9. Weak Soil.  A foundation can sink when it is built on weak soil.

10. Leaning chimneys.

11. Poor Soil Compaction. Many houses are built using fill soils.  If the soil isn’t properly compacted, it can cause structure settlement.

12. Excessive Soil Moisture. Typically caused by poor drainage and water leaks, moisture can soften soil.  Settlement damage occurs when the soil can no longer support the weight of the structure.

13. Soil Consolidation. The weight of a structure can cause additional soil compression and settlement after the house has been built.

Also look out for:

* Poor drainage and leaking roofs – causes water puddles to form around the house weakening the soil.
* Large trees and shrubs growing near the structure – roots will draw moisture from the soil beneath the foundation.
* Roads, streets and driveways that expand in the heat and push against foundation walls.

Diagnosing foundation problems can require help from an expert to really understand what is causing the situation and how to fix it. If you have any doubts or concerns about your foundation, contact a specialist and ask for an inspection. Any foundation issues should be handled quickly to avoid more severe problems.

When people have their foundation repaired, they often opt to take on other related home repairs at the same time. These services often include such things as earthquake proofing, and the installation of seismic anchor bolts. This will allow you to have all the necessary services done at one time. Many foundation repair companies offer financing to make the repair project easier for the homeowner.

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Julian Construction Offers Foundation Underpinning Services

Foundation Repair Process Strengthens and Stabilizes Foundations

LOS ANGELES – Julian Construction, a Los Angeles based construction company that specializes in foundation repair and construction, today announced the availability of foundation underpinning services to stabilize building foundations and support second-story home additions.

“Underpinning is a highly specialized construction tecnhnique that requires either professional engineering or architectural design ,”says Julian De La Torre, founder of Julian Construction. “Our underpinning services cover the entire process, from planning to completing the repair.”

Underpinning involves increasing the depth or width of a building’s foundation by removing the soil beneath or to the side of the foundation, and replacing it with foundation material. It is used to strengthen a building’s existing foundation when a second-story has been added, or other modifications have taken place that effect wall load capacities. The technique also addresses and resolves problems associated with foundation settlement. Because of the many technical aspects of the process and to avoid further foundation damage, underpinning requires professional planning and execution.

Julian Construction is a Southern California leader in earthquake retrofitting and foundation repair. Founder and retrofit expert Julian, along with his partner Shawn Kyles, an expert in foundation repair and house bolting, have retrofitted more than 6,600 homes, apartments and commercial properties since the early 1990s.

The company, which is dedicated to building preservation and security, offers a wide variety of services designed to address individual structural needs. Julian Construction’s “no middlemen” (no salesmen, no subcontractors) business model, insures high quality work at affordable prices. They can be contacted by phone at 323 733-3377, by fax at 323 733-4477 or via their website, www.julianconstruction.com.

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Julian Construction Helps Energy-Conscious Homeowners & Businesses Qualify for CA Solar Rebates

Company Offers Solar System Installation Services for Customers of Investor-Owned Utilities

LOS ANGELES – Julian Construction, a Los Angeles based construction company that specializes in foundation repair and construction, is helping energy-conscious homeowners and businesses qualify for California Solar Initiative rebates through its solar system installation program.

“You can increase property values, save energy, reduce utility costs and even receive tax benefits by installing solar systems on a new roof,” says Julian De La Torre, founder of Julian Construction.

Julian Construction provides complete and professional solar panel installation services for new roofs on homes or businesses, insuring compliance with the California Solar Initiative (CSI) and other statewide solar rebate programs.

CSI offers cash back incentives for any PG&E, SCE and SDG&E electricity consumers that install solar panels on their house or business. The solar rebate program also includes a hot water rebate program (CSI-Thermal), a rebate program for low-income residents that own their own single-family home (SASH), and a multi-family affordable solar housing program (MASH). The initiative is part of California’s “Go Solar” campaign, which was implemented to transform the market for solar energy. It is overseen by the California Public Utilities Commission.

Julian Construction is a Southern California leader in earthquake retrofitting and foundation repair. Founder and retrofit expert Julian De La Torre, along with his partner Shawn Kyles, an expert in foundation repair and house bolting, have retrofitted more than 6,600 homes, apartments and commercial properties since the early 1990s.

The company, which is dedicated to building preservation and security, offers a wide variety of services designed to address individual structural and foundation needs. Julian Construction’s “no middlemen” (no salesmen, no subcontractors) business model, insures high quality work at affordable prices. They can be contacted by phone at 323 733-3377, by fax at 323 733-4477 or via their website, www.julianconstruction.com.

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Julian Construction Says Prevention is Best Solution for Concrete Slab Failure

LOS ANGELES: Julian Construction (www.julianconstruction.com), a construction company in the Los Angeles area that specializes in foundation repair, says prevention is the best solution for concrete slab failure.

“Slab replacement and extensive slab repairs can be costly,” says Julian De La Torre, founder of Julian Construction. “Regularly inspecting foundations for cracks, sinking or other damage is the best way to prevent concrete slab failure.”

According to Julian, most slabs crack or break due to water problems. Too much or not enough water can cause a shift in the soil under the foundation. Left undetected, the situation will worsen over time, resulting in expensive repairs or even the need for foundation replacement.

Julian recommends homeowners take advantage of professional foundation inspections that check for flooring problems, wall cracks, and sticky doors and window – indicators of possible foundation issues that may need addressing.

Julian also warns that some structural problems may not be visible during their early stages of development. “A foundation expert will also be able evaluate the potential for any future trouble.”

Julian De La Torre has been doing earthquake retrofitting since the early 1990s and has personally worked on over 6,600 homes in Southern California. With this unmatched experience in the substructure areas of a home, Julian formed Julian Construction in 2001 with the goal of making safer homes, apartments and commercial properties throughout Southern California. His partner Shawn Kyles has inspected over 15,000 structures, working with both engineering firms and local departments of building and safety, and is an expert in foundation repair and house bolting.

Julian Construction owns its own company and is built on a “no middlemen” model – no salesmen, no subcontractors. When you work with Julian Construction you get the principals of the company and workers of Julian Construction under your home. The result is the highest quality work at affordable prices. They can be contacted by phone at 323 733-3377, by fax at 323 733-4477 or via their website, www.julianconstruction.com.

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Julian Construction Offers Re-Roofing Services

Company Removes and Replaces Excessive Roof Layers to Prevent Sagging

LOS ANGELES – Julian Construction, a Los Angeles based construction company that specializes in foundation repair and construction, is offering re-roofing services to prevent roof sagging and broken wood members from too many roof layers.

“When too many layers are added to a roof, the weight increase causes problems,” says Julian De La Torre, founder of Julian Construction. “We properly remove, repair and shear the roof to make it safe and perform longer.”

According to Julian, most cities have ordinances regarding the total number of allowable roof layers. When the limit is reached, the old layers must be removed before new ones can be added.

Julian also notes that a thorough checking for roof problems often requires removing all layers of a roof, which can add significant time and money to a roofing job.

“Installing a proper roof has several benefits. It can reduce heat absorption and increase attic ventilation which lowers home cooling costs, and more effectively prevent water intrusion, which causes dry rot and molds,” says Julian, who adds that “a roof that is properly installed also lasts longer.”

Homeowners can choose from a wide selection of roofing materials that meet building codes and requirements for any type of structure.

Julian Construction is a Southern California leader in building retrofitting and foundation repair. Founder and retrofit expert Julian De La Torre, along with his partner Shawn Kyles, an expert in foundation repair and house bolting, have retrofitted more than 6,600 homes, apartments and commercial properties since the early 1990s.

The company, which is dedicated to building preservation and security, offers a wide variety of services designed to address individual structural needs. Julian Construction’s “no middlemen” (no salesmen, no subcontractors) business model, insures high quality work at affordable prices. They can be contacted by phone at 323 733-3377, by fax at 323 733-4477 or via their website, www.julianconstruction.com.

 

 

 

 

 

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Extreme Earthquake Overdue for California

California lies on one of the most active faults on the United Sates, the San Andreas Fault, which runs from the middle of the southern part of the state near San Diego, then west toward the coast and north up the coast to north of San Francisco. It runs for roughly 810 miles and forms the tectonic boundary between the Pacific Plate and the North American Plate.

Ask any Californian and they will tell you that the last major earthquake to strike our state was back in the 90s, with the devastating Northridge earthquake of 1994. Yet this is by no means is the largest earthquake on record to hit California.

The last massive earthquake on record in California was the great San Francisco earthquake (and resulting fire) of 1906, which was estimated to be 7.9 on the Richter scale and resulted in an estimated 3,000 deaths. The quake stretched 296 miles north and south along the fault, and shaking was felt from Oregon to Los Angeles, and as far inland as central Nevada. The earthquake and resulting fire are remembered as one of the worst natural disasters in the history of the United States, with economic impact comparable to Hurricane Katrina.

Recently the University of California Irvine and Arizona State University have determined that California is overdue for another major earthquake. Scholars have concluded that major earthquakes in relation to the San Andreas Fault occur every 45-144 years on average.

Therefore, our fair region of California is unfortunately far overdue for another colossal earthquake. Experts suggest the next earthquake could range anywhere from 7.0 and up, thus creating chaos and devastation in many heavily populated California cities.

Now more than ever is the time to prepare for the obvious reality of another impending earthquake occurring in our near future. Older structures can collapse completely, trapping loved ones, and creating lasting injuries and even in the most extreme cases, death.

However, these disastrous results can be reasonably prevented in many cases by having work done on the foundation of the building, such as bolting a structure to its foundation (also called earthquake retrofitting), bracing cripple walls, or even in cases of severe age or deterioration, foundation replacement. Such work is beyond the capability of a do-it-yourselfer, so a competent foundation contractor should be hired.

Therefore, as a California resident, before earthquake predictions become a reality one should take every precaution to protect their homes and their safety by securing the foundations of their homes and/or business.

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Julian Construction Says Foundation Inspection First Step in Remodeling

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Structurally Sound and Level Foundations Key to Remodeling Success

 

LOS ANGELES – Julian Construction (http://www.julianconstruction.com), a Los Angeles based construction company that specializes in foundation repair and foundation construction, says getting a foundation inspection is a critical first step in home remodeling.

 

“Home remodeling projects should never be started without first conducting a complete foundation inspection,” says Julian De La Torre, founder of Julian Construction. “Any foundation repair issues must be thoroughly addressed before the remodeling work is done.”

 

Foundations that are in poor condition can cause interior and exterior wall cracks and crumbling, tile cracks, sloping floors and leaks. Foundation damage can be caused by weak or poor soil, earth movement, the age of the structure, poor drainage, and maturing trees and shrubs. A professional foundation inspection will identify all defects and damage, as well as potential problem areas.

 

“Homeowners will be throwing away good money if they try to remodel a home with a bad foundation,” says Julian who adds “Without a sound and level foundation, remodeling will not only be time consuming and costly, it can turn into a complete disaster.”

 

Julian Construction is a Southern California leader in earthquake retrofitting and foundation repair. Founder and retrofit expert Julian De La Torre, along with his partner Shawn Kyles, an expert in foundation repair and house bolting, have retrofitted more than 6,600 homes, apartments and commercial properties since the early 1990s.

 

The company, which is dedicated to building preservation and security, offers a wide variety of services designed to address individual structural needs. Julian Construction’s “no middlemen” (no salesmen, no subcontractors) business model, insures high quality work at affordable prices. They can be contacted by phone at 323 733-3377, by fax at 323 733-4477 or via their website, www.julianconstruction.com.

 

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Julian Construction Says floor leveling Can Fix Sinking Foundations

Leveling Process Lifts Foundation, Restores Floors to their Original Position

LOS ANGELES – Julian Construction (http://www.julianconstruction.com), a Los Angeles based construction company that specializes in foundation repair and foundation construction, says floor leveling can fix sinking foundations that cause floors to sag, doors and windows not to open or close properly, and cracks in walls and tiles.

“Foundation sinking can be a problem for both new and older homes, says Julian De La Torre, founder of Julian Construction. “The process of floor leveling can return most floors to their original position and make the home safe.”

Floor leveling requires lifting up the foundation. First, the structure must be properly shored. Then beams are inserted under the house with jacks. The jacks are then raised evenly, and new piers are added to provide permanent support.

According to Julian, floor leveling should be done by an experienced professional to prevent further damage to the house. “Floor leveling is both an art and a science,” says Julian. “Any mistakes can cause more damage and even result in the house falling down.”

Julian Construction is a Southern California leader in earthquake retrofitting and foundation repair. Founder and retrofit expert Julian De La Torre, along with his partner Shawn Kyles, an expert in foundation repair and house bolting, have retrofitted more than 6,600 homes, apartments and commercial properties since the early 1990s.

The company, which is dedicated to building preservation and security, offers a wide variety of services designed to address individual structural needs. Julian Construction’s “no middlemen” (no salesmen, no subcontractors) business model, insures high quality work at affordable prices. They can be contacted by phone at 323 733-3377, by fax at 323 733-4477 or via their website, www.julianconstruction.com.

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Why House Bolting is Important

by Shawn Kyles

 

House bolting, also known as earthquake retrofitting or seismic retrofitting, is the process of attaching a house to its concrete foundation using foundation plates and anchor bolts. The concept of how retrofitting works is simple. The basic idea is to keep the house from falling or moving off its foundation during an earthquake.

To keep a house from moving off its foundation in an earthquake, house bolting or seismic retrofitting strengthens three different areas of the house. These areas are all located in the crawl space, which is the space between the ground under the house and the floor you walk on. If any one of these three areas is not adequately retrofitted, the house will be susceptible to damage in an earthquake.

These three areas are:

1. The bracing and reinforcement of the cripple walls with structural-grade plywood. (A cripple wall is a short wall built upon the foundation of a house that produces a high crawlspace. Not all houses have a cripple wall. If you go up a set of stairs to enter your home, you probably have one. Un-reinforced cripple walls are the weakest part of a house because they quickly collapse in an earthquake.)

2. The bolting of the braced cripple walls to the foundation.

3. The attachment of the floor of the house to the braced cripple walls.

By doing these three actions, your susceptibility to earthquake damage is greatly lessened. It’s highly unlikely that your cripple wall will collapse bringing your house down with it, requiring expensive repairs.

California is "earthquake country." We had a 7.2 magnitude earthquake in northern Mexico in April, with lesser aftershocks hitting as far north as Los Angeles in the time since then. We also know that the next “big one” could happen at any time, and probably when we least expect it, leaving widespread destruction in its wake.

We who live in Los Angeles or other parts of California need to be aware that the up-and-down and side-to-side motion of an earthquake can shake an unbolted house off its foundation. If this happens to you, it could mean very expensive repairs to your home, as the house would have to be moved back onto the foundation and secured against future damage.

The best thing to do is get a foundation inspection, which will include looking at the house bolting and seeing if it is adequate and if any other reinforcements are needed in your home. The inspection is usually free and the cost of any house bolting and reinforcements will usually be a lot less than moving your house back onto its foundation if an earthquake causes it to slide off.

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Julian Construction Helps Mobile Home Owners Qualify for FHA Financing

Company’s Mobile Home Foundation Service Helps HUD Compliance

 

LOS ANGELES – Julian Construction, a Los Angeles based construction company that specializes in foundation repair and construction, today announced that its Mobile Home Foundation Service helps existing and new manufactured home owners qualify for Federal Housing Administration (FHA) financing. The service, which includes installation of concrete footers, slabs and skirts, ensures mobile home foundations meet FHA mortgage program criteria.

“Without FHA financing, it can be difficult for mobile home owners to get low interest home loans,” says Julian De La Torre, founder of Julian Construction. “Our foundations help manufactured home owners qualify for the FHA mortgage program. Plus our service makes a mobile home more safe in the event of a major earthquake.”

FHA mortgage program eligibility criteria is based on Housing and Urban Development (HUD) mobile home foundation and installation standards.

Julian Construction is a Southern California leader in building retrofitting and foundation repair. Founder and retrofit expert Julian De La Torre, along with his partner Shawn Kyles, an expert in foundation repair and house bolting, have retrofitted more than 6,600 homes, apartments and commercial properties since the early 1990s.

The company, which is dedicated to building preservation and security, offers a wide variety of services designed to address individual structural needs. Julian Construction’s “no middlemen” (no salesmen, no subcontractors) business model, insures high quality work at affordable prices. They can be contacted by phone at 323 733-3377, by fax at 323 733-4477 or via their website, www.julianconstruction.com.

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* Julian Construction Launches Homeowner Earthquake-Ready Campaign

Company Says Education Key to Preventing Injuries and Damage

 

LOS ANGELES – Julian Construction, a Los Angeles based construction company that specializes in foundation repair and construction, today announced the launch of an educational campaign to help homeowners prevent earthquake injury and damage. The new initiative will include a series of articles on the company’s blog that focus on how to increase a home’s resistance to earthquakes, along with foundation inspections at no charge.

“The recent 5.7 earthquake in Southern California was followed by more than a dozen smaller quakes. It’s a good example of the type of on-going seismic activity we get in this region,” says Julian De La Torre, founder of Julian Construction. “Homeowners need to know how to keep themselves and their family safe during an earthquake by reducing the risk of structural failure.”

The company’s free foundation inspection checks foundation integrity, including poor construction, improperly done repairs, settling, shifting, bowing, cracks and other damage that can cause a house to slip off of its foundation during a quake. The inspection will also check for proper earthquake retrofitting, also known as house bolting, having been done.

Julian Construction is a Southern California leader in building retrofitting and foundation repair. Founder and retrofit expert Julian De La Torre, along with his partner Shawn Kyles, an expert in foundation repair and house bolting, have retrofitted more than 6,600 homes, apartments and commercial properties since the early 1990s.

The company, which is dedicated to building preservation and security, offers a wide variety of services designed to address individual structural needs. Julian Construction’s “no middlemen” (no salesmen, no subcontractors) business model, insures high quality work at affordable prices. They can be contacted by phone at 323 733-3377, by fax at 323 733-4477 or via their website, www.julianconstruction.com.

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Earthquakes on the Rise--Is Los Angeles Next?

by Brittany Kyles

On May 18, 2010, the seismically active California-Mexico border area was rattled by a sizeable earthquake shaking the San Diego region, reaching 4.5 in magnitude. The quake was an aftershock of the major 7.2 magnitude earthquake that hit the northern Mexico region April 4, Easter Sunday, and the new quake was felt throughout the San Diego area, even reaching as far north as parts of Los Angeles.

The quake was centered approximately 18 miles southwest of El Centro, the Imperial County seat in California’s southeastern corner. It occurred only miles below the earth’s surface, reaching 8.1 miles in depth. No damage was immediately reported.

Within the last year, several major earthquakes have led to death, damage and destruction across the world, including in Haiti, Chile, Indonesia, Spain and Puerto Rico. With the recent quakes in San Diego it seems more than likely that Los Angeles could be due for another big one.

Therefore, now more than ever is the time to prepare, for the more than obvious natural disaster that could be headed our way. We want to avoid the drastic consequences that these violent earthquakes create within our lives, with loved ones, and with our homes and communities.

The Northridge earthquake in 1994 took a serious toll on the community and the individuals affected. Buildings collapsed, apartment buildings were split in two, and lives were lost.

Most older homes in California and elsewhere throughout the United States do not have the reinforcement needed to protect against a large earthquake, and as a result these disasters can destroy a life, a home or a business.

Therefore, having your home reinforced, by a process known as earthquake retrofitting or house bolting, will prove very beneficial. This process secures your house to the foundation, so that during an earthquake, with its sideways forces and motions, the home does not move off of its foundation. It will essentially protect your home and family from the inevitable earthquake that may be due for Los Angeles.

An earthquake retrofit is the process of firmly attaching a house to its concrete foundation using foundation plates and anchor bolts. Because California is "earthquake country," the up-and-down and side-to-side motion of an earthquake can shake an unbolted house off its foundation, making for a very costly repair job.

It is important to find a company in your area that specializes in home foundation repair and construction, and have them do a foundation inspection on your home. They will determine if there is currently any damage or weaknesses in your foundation, and advise you on any needed earthquake retrofitting or other reinforcement or repairs that are needed to protect you from a potential major quake. The foundation inspection would include looking at the house bolting and seeing if it is adequate and if any other reinforcements are needed in your home. The inspection is usually free and the cost of any house bolting and reinforcements will usually be a lot less than moving your house back onto its foundation if an earthquake causes it to slide off.

It is much better to prepare now and have the peace of mind that are as ready as possible, rather than kick yourself later.

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Home Foundation Contractor Gives No-Cost Foundation Inspections

Julian Construction Does Home Foundations Inspections at No Charge to Check for Damage Due to Fires, Heavy Rains, & Earthquakes

 

LOS ANGELES – Julian Construction, a Los Angeles based construction company that specializes in foundation repair and construction, is helping homeowners take preparedness measures for potential landslides and earthquakes by giving free home foundation inspections.

“The harsh temperature changes, heavy rainfall, and fires this past year have potentially affected foundation integrity in regions all over Southern California,” says Julian De La Torre, founder of Julian Construction, foundation contractors. “We want to ensure home properties are safe after environmental situations like this.”

A lot of people had to evacuate their homes because of the fires and subsequent rains. These people may have experienced relief when their tribulation was over, however Julian said, “Now they face a new danger, which is the potential instability of a home foundation which often arises from those circumstances.”

According to Julian, changes in hydrology and temperature can soften the soil and liquefy it, potentially causing problems with the integrity of the foundation. Even when it was deemed safe to return or remain home, the stability of a property’s foundation is unknown and should be tested.

Julian De La Torre and his partner Shawn Kyles have been retrofitting homes in Southern California since the early 1990s, and they work with both engineering firms and local departments of building and safety. As experts in foundation repair, Julian Construction is giving home foundation inspections at no charge. For those who need repair or retrofit, the company offers 0% financing.

Julian De La Torre has been doing earthquake retrofitting since the early 1990s and has personally worked on over 6,600 homes in Southern California. With this unmatched experience in the substructure areas of a home, Mr. De La Torre formed Julian Construction in 2001 with the goal of making safer homes, apartments and commercial properties throughout Southern California. His partner Shawn Kyles has inspected over 15,000 structures, working with both engineering firms and local departments of building and safety, and is an expert in foundation repair and house bolting. Julian Construction owns its own company and is built on a “no middlemen” model - no salesmen, no subcontractors. When you work with Julian Construction you get the principals of the company and workers of Julian Construction under your home. The result is the highest quality work at affordable prices. They can be contacted by phone at 323 733-3377, by fax at 323 733-4477 or via their website, www.julianconstruction.com.

 

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Avoid Landslides: Get a Home Foundation Inspection

Foundation Contractor Julian Construction Advises Homeowners in Potential Landslide Areas to Get Foundation Inspected

 

LOS ANGELES – The recent killer landslide in Quebec brings concern to other corners of the world with homes in high-risk areas, prompting homeowners in various regions to get their home foundations inspected to avoid a similar tragedy.

“Foundations of a home can get damaged by water, especially after a heavy rain fall, and exposure to water accumulation can weaken not only hillsides, but foundations of a home as well,” says Julian De La Torre of Julian Construction, which specializes in foundation repair and construction.

Julian De La Torre has been retrofitting homes in Southern California since the early 1990s and urges homeowners to get their home foundations inspected. Julian reported, “Certain types of soil may be more stable than others, changes in hydrology and temperature can soften the soil and turn it to liquid, which can cause serious erosion to any kind of soil. This in turn can weaken the home foundation.”

Even when people return to their evacuated homes after it is deemed safe, the stability of their property and its foundation is still unknown. In an appeal to homeowners to get their home foundations checked, Julian Construction is giving home foundation inspections at no charge. For those who need foundation repair or retrofit, the company offers 0% financing.

“You shouldn’t wait until you have trouble opening doors and windows,” says Julian. “Damage to home foundations isn’t always so obvious and needs to be checked by experts.”

With soil stability having changed conditions due to the fires and heavy rains in Southern California, the integrity of home foundations might be at risk and should be tested. Because of its potential threat to homes, this extra precaution could save huge property loss, as well as save lives.

Julian De La Torre has been doing earthquake retrofitting and repairing foundations since the early 1990s and has personally worked on over 6,600 homes in Southern California. With this unmatched experience in the substructure areas of a home, Julian formed Julian Construction, foundation contractors, in 2001 with the goal of making safer homes, apartments and commercial properties throughout Southern California. His partner Shawn Kyles has inspected over 15,000 structures, working with both engineering firms and local departments of building and safety, and is an expert in foundation repair and house bolting. Julian Construction owns its own company and is built on a “no middlemen” model - no salesmen, no subcontractors. When you work with Julian Construction you get the principals of the company and workers of Julian Construction under your home. The result is the highest quality work at affordable prices. They can be contacted by phone at 323 733-3377, by fax at 323 733-4477 or via their website, www.julianconstruction.com.

 

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So. California’s Rainfall Good News for Reservoirs – but How About Your Home’s Foundation?

Julian Construction Warns that Undetected Drainage Problems Can Damage Home Foundations

Founder of Julian Construction (www.julianconstruction.com), Julian De La Torre, knows we need the rain after several years of drought. “We have exceeded the annual rainfall average in Los Angeles two and half months early. That is good news for the Southland overall, but we are seeing more and more instances on home foundations damaged by water.” Julian said. “Exposure to water accumulation and soil erosion can weaken foundations and cause problems.”

Annual rainfall, measured from July 1 in one year to June 30^th of the next, is about 15 inches for Los Angeles. So far this year we have had more than 16 inches and we may get still more before the end of the 2009 – 2010 season on July 30^th. Water accumulation can damage the concrete in foundations and can erode the soil on which footings rest. Homes built on slabs can be adversely affected in the same way.

“Don’t wait until your doors and windows won’t close or your house begins to tilt.” Julian continued. “Just get your home foundation inspected. Foundations are not a part of the home where damage makes itself immediately obvious to the average person so it makes sense to bring in experts. Especially when the inspection is free.”

Julian Construction is offering an inspection of your home’s foundation at no charge. For those who need to finance any needed repair or retrofit, Julian Construction offers 0% financing.

Julian De La Torre has been retrofitting since the early 1990s and has personally worked on over 6,600 homes in Southern California. With this unmatched experience in the substructure areas of a home, Mr. De La Torre formed Julian Construction in 2001 with the goal of making safer homes, apartments and commercial properties throughout Southern California. His partner Shawn Kyles has inspected over 15,000 structures, working with both engineering firms and local departments of building and safety, and is an expert in foundation repair and house bolting. Julian Construction owns its own company and is built on a “no middlemen” model - no salesmen, no subcontractors. When you work with Julian Construction you get the principals of the company and workers of Julian Construction under your home. The result is the highest quality work at affordable prices. They can be contacted by phone at 323 733-3377, by fax at 323 733-4477 or via their website, www.julianconstruction.com.

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Rampant Earthquakes: Will California Be Next?

by Brittany Kyles

In the last year regions all over the world have become affected by increasing natural disasters. The catastrophic earthquake in Haiti ranging in a magnitude of 7.0 left the impoverished country in ruins due to unstable structures and foundations. Over three million people were affected by the quake and an estimated 230,000 people have died.

In Chile the recent earthquake reached a magnitude of 8.8, which created a tsunami that devastated many neighboring coastal cities. Yet, because Chile homes bear much stronger foundations, many deaths were prevented. And recently the earthquake in Baja California with a magnitude of 7.2 left over 100 people injured and was felt from Mexico all the way to Malibu. Furthermore, the current shattering 7.8 earthquake in Indonesia has created additional detrimental effects on the nation.

In recent months it seems earthquakes have become ever more present and severe; magnitudes of these quakes continue to be extremely high, resulting in many deaths, injuries and destruction to the areas affected.

Thus, it has become evident that earthquakes, now more than ever, pose a serious threat to the state of California, because California shares the same fault line as many of the regions that have been recently affected by these gigantic quakes. With the latest series of earthquakes that have continued to persist and affect regions all over the world, it seems that as a resident in California, it is extremely important to prepare one’s home foundation and structures in case one of these epidemic quakes strikes here.

There are many benefits to living in California, yet California also is one of the most prevalent sites for earthquakes in the United States. Therefore, in order to secure your future, the future of your loved ones and belongings, now is the time to reinforce your home, before one of these rising seismic quakes shatters your home, business, or leaves loved ones in danger. California is ‘earthquake country’ and we who live here should be aware that the up-and-down and side-to-side motion of an earthquake can shake an unbolted house off its foundation.

Therefore, in order to secure your future and safety, you need to see a foundation specialist in your area, who will create a safe environment by securing and bolting the foundation, in order to withstand an earthquake or diminish the damage inflicted. Now is the time to take action in preventing the future destruction of the next earthquake which is likely to strike California sooner, rather than later.

 

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Earthquakes in the News – Has Earth Become More Unstable in 2010?

Julian Construction Checks the Records to See Whether Earthquake Frequency and Magnitude Are on the Rise

Founder of Julian Construction (www.julianconstruction.com), Julian De La Torre, could not help but notice that major earthquakes seemed to be in the news almost weekly. “Haiti, Chile, Baja California, China – all 7.0 or greater and all within the first 3 months of 2010.” Julian said. “Given the nature of our business, I wanted to know what this might be telling us and whether the planet was experiencing an unusually high number of earthquakes.” So he looked it up.

The U.S. Geological Survey tracks earthquake activity around the world. It turns out there is a great deal more activity than generally thought - about 50 earthquakes are recorded every day. The yearly average is 17 major earthquakes (7.0 to 7.9) and one that will be measured at 8.0 or higher. So, at least so far, this year’s activity is not out of line with the past and the data is not showing any increase in seismic events. This year’s earthquakes are striking populated areas, causing tremendous damage and generating headlines, but neither the frequency nor the magnitude are unusual.

“What this year’s earthquake news is telling us is not that the world is ending, but simply ‘Be prepared’.” Julian continued. “The location and timing of earthquakes is not subject to prediction with current technology, so good preparation is the best defense.”

Julian Construction is offering an inspection of your home’s foundation at no charge. For those who need to finance any needed repair or retrofit, Julian Construction offers 0% financing.

Julian De La Torre has been retrofitting since the early 1990s and has personally worked on over 6,600 homes in Southern California. With this unmatched experience in the substructure areas of a home, Mr. De La Torre formed Julian Construction in 2001 with the goal of making safer homes, apartments and commercial properties throughout Southern California. His partner Shawn Kyles has inspected over 15,000 structures, working with both engineering firms and local departments of building and safety, and is an expert in foundation repair and house bolting. Julian Construction owns its own company and is built on a “no middlemen” model - no salesmen, no subcontractors. When you work with Julian Construction you get the principals of the company and workers of Julian Construction under your home. The result is the highest quality work at affordable prices. They can be contacted by phone at 323 733-3377, by fax at 323 733-4477 or via their website, www.julianconstruction.com.

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Comparison of Earthquakes in Chile and Haiti Shows Value of Preparation

Julian Construction Points to Building Codes as a Key Factor that Minimized Tragedy in Chile and Devastated Haiti.

Founder of Julian Construction (www.julianconstruction.com), Julian De La Torre, was stunned by the vastly different outcomes of the two natural disasters. “Chile’s earthquake was 500 times more powerful than Haiti’s, yet less than 1000 people died compared to more than 220,000 in Haiti.” De La Torre said. “Chile is used to earthquakes and has experienced huge events within the last 50 years, resulting in rigorous building codes that kept most buildings from collapse. Haiti’s last big earthquake was 250 years ago and it is reported there are no building codes there at all. Experience and preparation made an enormous difference.”

Chile’s quake was also centered deeper and further away from population areas, both favorable factors for survival of both people and architecture. Chile’s emergency services have been in place and were in evidence at once – this kind of natural disaster was not new to them. Haiti, the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere, had no planning in place.

“California also has good building codes designed to prevent building collapse and minimize damage from earthquakes.” Julian continued. “But much of our housing stock and a considerable number of commercial buildings predate these codes and so are at risk. The anchoring of the structure to the foundations of the building is a common area of vulnerability. It is also our area of expertise.”

Julian Construction is offering an inspection of your home’s foundation at no charge. For those who need to finance any needed repair or retrofit, Julian Construction offers 0% financing.

Julian De La Torre has been retrofitting since the early 1990s and has personally worked on over 6,600 homes in Southern California. With this unmatched experience in the substructure areas of a home, Mr. De La Torre formed Julian Construction in 2001 with the goal of making safer homes, apartments and commercial properties throughout Southern California. His partner Shawn Kyles has inspected over 15,000 structures, working with both engineering firms and local departments of building and safety, and is an expert in foundation repair and house bolting. Julian Construction owns its own company and is built on a “no middlemen” model - no salesmen, no subcontractors. When you work with Julian Construction you get the principals of the company and workers of Julian Construction under your home. The result is the highest quality work at affordable prices. They can be contacted by phone at 323 733-3377, by fax at 323 733-4477 or via their website, www.julianconstruction.com.

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