How To Strengthen Your Home’s Foundation

By Shawn Kyles

There can be many reasons why your home’s foundation may need to be strengthened, including:

* The foundation has shifted or moved due to earthquakes
* Soil has eroded beneath or around the foundation, causing cracks, sloping or sinking
* You want to add a second story to the existing structure, which will exceed the amount of weight the building and foundation can support
* The foundation has decayed over time
* There has been a change in how the structure is being used
* The soil was poorly compacted when the home was built
* Weak and poor quality materials were used when the home was built
* A basement has been added to the structure
* A new building has been constructed near the home with a deeper foundation
* The foundation has settled due to poor soil conditions or a lowered water table

In Los Angeles, homes that were constructed before 1940 were not bolted to their foundations. During an earthquake, these structures can be easily shaken off their foundation. Many homes that were built after 1940 used weak materials on cripple walls. A cripple wall is the wall that surrounds the crawl space under a house and connects the home to the foundation.

If you live in an older home, bolting the house to your foundation is critical for earthquake preparedness. The bolts should be placed every 4 to 6 feet and more than one foot away from every joint. For homes that are built on a hill, make sure you also bolt the wood that is “stepping down” on the grade.

Underpinning can also increase the strength and stability of your foundation. The process involves either extending the foundation in depth or breadth so it rests on stronger soil or distributes its load across a broader area.

Using concrete foundation repair is one of the primary methods used for underpinning. Sections beneath or around the home are excavated and then filled by the concrete. The concrete is usually mixed with aggregates. Once the concrete is poured, it will typically take 2 days to set.

Other ways of underpinning involves the use of screw piles, brackets and beams. Sometimes the soil can be strengthened by adding grout.

The strength of cripple walls can be increased with plywood. How do you know if your cripple wall needs strengthening? If the exterior of your cripple wall is made of wood siding or stucco, it will need to be strengthened with plywood. The plywood should be nailed to the walls on every side of the house.

In addition to stabilizing a home and preventing future damage, strengthening a foundation will make the structure much safer to live in, as well as easier to insure and sell.

When a home is showing any signs of foundation settlement or damage, seek a local foundation inspection (Los Angeles area for example) from a licensed foundation repair Los Angeles professional. A local foundation expert can tell you what is causing the problem and how it should be corrected. This may include strengthening your home’s foundation to prevent any further damage and reduce the chances of your home sliding off the foundation or collapsing during an earthquake or even house leveling (Los Angeles).

Construction Expert Says Prepare for Next Big Quake

California Residents Should Be Ready for the Next Major Earthquake Says Expert

LOS ANGELES, CA: Julian Construction, (http://julianconstruction.com/) a construction and foundation construction and repair company in Southern California, recently announced to the public that they need to be better prepared for the next big earthquake in California. Shawn Kyles, Julian Construction’s structural inspection expert, is warning the general public that the next 6.7 or greater earthquake may hit California at any point in the next 30 years.

Homeowners are urged to take preparatory action against the coming quake.
Mr. Kyles stated: “If you are a Southern California homeowner, there are many things you can do for earthquake preparedness before the next big quake. Start by making sure furniture and other moveable items are properly secured. Stock up on supplies that may be needed following a quake and organize a disaster plan. You’ll also want to gather and keep important documents in a safe space.

You will also want to make sure your home is in good repair and structurally sound. Start by contacting a foundation repair expert and requesting an inspection. A foundation professional will know where to look for damage and potential weaknesses that could put you and your family in danger during an earthquake.”

Mr. Kyles article on the subject contains further tips on earthquake preparedness, which can be seen here: http://julianconstruction.com/get-ready-for-the-next-big-quake/

Julian De La Torre, founder and owner of Julian Construction, stated: “We definitely urge everyone to be ready for the next big earthquake. It is important you check on the general repairs of your home and you have the foundation inspected by a qualified expert. The foundation of a home can make the difference between structural collapse or remaining standing during an earthquake. These things are not a fun prospect to look at, and we do not know when and where to expect it. But we do know that we should be ready for it.”

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. You can see tips and advice about home foundations on their blog, at http://julianconstruction.com/blog/ You can see a video about Julian Construction at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6I8j7dXzpj4&

Foundation Inspection Key in All Construction and Repair Projects

Construction Expert Advises on Role of Inspection in All Major Home Improvement

LOS ANGELES, CA: Julian Construction, (http://julianconstruction.com/) a foundation repair and general construction company, is advising the public at large on the use of inspection in major home improvement projects. The company spoke on the necessity of arranging and performing a competent and professional inspection with a qualified specialist, both before undertaking work on a home as well as for home maintenance as an ordinary check on a home. Projects ranging from retaining wall construction, foundation retrofitting and foundation repair would all require an inspection, according to the company.

Shawn Kyles, Julian Construction’s resident inspection specialist, released an article on the subject. He stated: “A home foundation inspection by a qualified expert is not only an important part of foundation maintenance, it can prevent the need for expensive repairs or foundation replacement. You’ll also get peace of mind knowing that your foundation is in good shape. When you request an inspection, both the outside and inside of your home will be checked for evidence of foundation problems.”

Julian De La Torre, founder and owner of Julian Construction, stated: “The inspection is such an important part of the process. It ensures home safety is kept up by disclosing early the problems a homeowner may have before they become big. We’ve had a number of clients who were able to make small repairs which would later have developed into large and costly projects. At the same time, in our 20 years of business we have seen plenty of bad situations which could have been caught earlier.”

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. You can see tips and advice about home foundations on their blog, at http://julianconstruction.com/blog/ You can see a video about Julian Construction at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6I8j7dXzpj4&

Foundation Company Reminds Homeowners to Prepare for Earthquakes Like Recent Napa Valley Quake

Napa Earthquake a Grim Reminder To Public of Earthquake Property Damage

LOS ANGELES, CA: Julian Construction, Inc., (http://julianconstruction.com/) a foundation repair company based in Los Angeles, is reminding residents and business owners to repair and reinforce their foundations for earthquake preparedness and safety, in light of the recent 6.0 earthquake which hit Napa Valley. The event is bringing the realities of earthquake damage back to the general public, from business property damage to homes.

On August 24th, at 3:20 AM, a 6.0 earthquake hit the Napa Valley. The quake has been dubbed the “South Napa Earthquake” by the USGS (United States Geological Society). Centered near the West Napa Fault, the earthquake caused considerable damage in the local area. Efforts are underway to help restore the damaged businesses and homes in the area. Julian Construction is seeking to raise public awareness on earthquake preparedness, strengthening foundations so that homes foundations can better stand up to the California earthquakes. Earthquake preparedness, says the company, ensures the safety of all a building’s occupants.

Julian De La Torre, founder and owner of Julian Construction, stated: “These events are tragic. But what we strive to do is help people become better prepared for them. When you use earthquake retrofitting to reinforce the foundation of a building, it helps the structure stand up better to the earthquake and prevents collapse during and after the quake. If we all prepare for this than we can rest safer.”

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. You can see tips and advice about home foundations on their blog, at http://julianconstruction.com/blog/. You can see a video about Julian Construction at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6I8j7dXzpj4&

Julian Construction Educates Public on Foundation Earthquake Retrofitting

Foundation Company Speaks Out on Earthquake Preparedness to General Public

LOS ANGELES, CA: Julian Construction, Inc., (http://julianconstruction.com/) a foundation construction and foundation repair company in Southern California, has been working to educate the public on earthquake preparedness. The company has been working in the field of public safety and repair for over 20 years.

Shawn Kyles, chief building safety inspector at Julian Construction, stated: “Thirty years ago California adopted a law to encourage earthquake retrofitting of old buildings. However, thousands of buildings have still not been upgraded. Has your home been retrofitted for an earthquake? Seismic activity occurs on a daily basis in California. Within the past 8 months, there have been four moderate to large quakes ranging in magnitude from 4.4 to 6.8., two of which occurred in Southern California. Earthquake retrofitting increases a structure’s ability to withstand seismic activity, including ground motion and ground failure.”

Julian De La Torre, founder and owner of Julian Construction, stated: “The reason we are working on this campaign is to bring about more home safety. We want everyone to be secure and safe in their homes and know that their home’s structure will remain stable. The way we do this is by helping people find the home’s foundation problems and find out what needs to be done to repair them. We’ve been working on this and will continue to do so to raise public safety.”

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. You can see tips and advice about home foundations on their blog, at http://julianconstruction.com/blog/ You can see a video about Julian Construction at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6I8j7dXzpj4&

The Napa Earthquake – Another Warning

By Shawn Kyles

The recent earthquake in Napa, California is a reminder that seismic activity can occur at any time and cause considerable damage. The magnitude-6 quake hit at 3:20 a.m. on a Sunday morning. Damage is currently estimated at $1 billion – a harsh economic hit for an area with a population estimated at less than 150,000. Some predict that figure will increase to as much as $4 billion.

Approximately 50 buildings were red-tagged, and 100 building were yellow-tagged due to quake damage. It was the biggest quake to strike the Bay Area since the 6.9 Loma Prieta quake in 1989. The Loma Prieta earthquake was responsible for the deaths of 63 people and over 3,700 injuries.

Many of the structures damaged in Napa were masonry buildings. Thirty years ago California adopted a law to encourage earthquake retrofitting of old buildings. However, thousands of buildings have still not been upgraded.

Has your home been retrofitted for an earthquake?

Seismic activity occurs only a daily basis in California. Within the past 8 months, there have been four moderate to large quakes ranging in magnitude from 4.4 to 6.8., two of which occurred in Southern California.

Earthquake retrofitting increases a structure’s ability to withstand seismic activity, including ground motion and ground failure.

During a quake, ground motion is caused by the release of energy that occurs when the rocks on a fault move or “slip.” The motion is measured based on the duration of the quake, frequency of the shaking, ground motion velocity and acceleration. Ground motion from an earthquake will usually have little impact on you when you are outdoors in an open area. Homes and other structures however, can be severely damaged by ground motion.

Ground motion is considered strong when it occurs 30 miles from the fault.

Ground failure (also called soil failure) occurs when the soil a structure is built on is weak. Sandy and silt soil are weak soils that can start to sink during a quake. Liquification is a type of sinking that typically occurs when ground water is less than 30 feet from the surface. The seismic waves simply force the sand grains apart, causing the ground to become semi-solid.

There are several factors that determine whether or not liquification will occur during a quake, including the strength and location of the quake, where the water table is located and the grain size of the soil.

Not only can soil cause foundation sinking, it can also escalate the severity of the seismic wave.

Some of the ways homes are retrofitted include foundation bolting, bracing and adding brackets. The purpose of the retrofitting is to minimize damage from a quake and make the building safer for occupants. A cripple wall is the wall between the floor and foundation. It can be only a few inches in height or several feet tall. When a cripple wall collapses during a quake, the floor drops to the ground.

Bolting involves reinforcing the connection between wooden frames and concrete foundations. The bolts go through the wood and are attached to the foundation’s surface.

Homes that haven’t been retrofitted can slide off their foundation and overturn. Cripple walls can also buckle and collapse, at the least creating the need for expensive foundation repair.

To find out if your home is ready for the next big quake, contact a foundation specialist. Experienced foundation contractors can inspect your home and create a retrofitting plan to make your house safer. Earthquake preparedness can save you your home.

Slab Repair Projects Range from DIY to Major Repairs

Construction Company Says Slab Repair Can be DIY or Need Professional Attention

LOS ANGELES, CA: Julian Construction Inc., (http://julianconstruction.com/) a foundation repair and foundation construction company, are warning homeowners to get a foundation inspection before beginning on slab repairs. According to the company, an inspection of the foundation can determine the extent of the foundation problem and whether it is a DIY project or if the foundation is in need of professional attention.

An executive at the company stated: “Some cracks in the slab can be repaired in a very simple manner and do not require a foundation expert. But in the situation where experience is needed, Julian Construction can check the condition and help put your slab footing back in order. The following are some symptoms to look for in determining if you have a broken slab: 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.”

Julian De La Torre, owner and founder of Julian Construction, stated: “We cannot stress enough the importance of getting an inspection before starting a project to repair a broken or cracked slab. It could be as simple as getting the supplies and repairing it. But if the damage is bad enough, the project will not help and the work will have to be redone. A professional inspection will tell you exactly what you’re looking at and how to fix it. That way your home’s foundation remains structurally sound.”

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. You can see tips and advice about home foundations on their blog, at http://julianconstruction.com/blog/

Inspection an Important Part of the Foundation Repair Process

Construction Company on how Foundation Inspection Can Save on Costly Repairs

LOS ANGELES, CA: Julian Construction, Inc., (http://julianconstruction.com/) a general construction and foundation construction company in Southern California, recently released an article on how regular foundation inspection is an important part of keeping up the maintenance on a home. Regular inspections of a home foundation will detect foundation problems before they become more extensive, says the company. Julian Construction has over 10 years of experience in the field of foundation construction and foundation repair.

Shawn Kyles, chief safety inspector at Julian Construction, stressed that while foundation repairs are often needed, the extent of foundation damage can be drastically reduced by foundation inspections of a home. He stated: “A home foundation inspection by a qualified expert is not only an important part of foundation maintenance, it can prevent the need for expensive repairs or foundation replacement. You’ll also get peace of mind knowing that your foundation is in good shape. When you request an inspection, both the outside and inside of your home will be checked for evidence of foundation problems.”

Julian De La Torre, founder and owner of Julian Construction, stated: “We find that with a regular inspection, the homeowner knows the status of their foundation. They know if there is damage that needs to be addressed. Problems are picked up early. Because foundation problems can cause other problems throughout the house, fixing the foundation early ensures the structural integrity of the rest of the house. We are comforted by knowing we help homeowners rest at ease about the state of their home.”

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. You can see tips and advice about home foundations on their blog, at http://julianconstruction.com/blog/

Repairing Retaining Walls a Complicated and Professional Project

Construction Company Says Retaining Walls Not a DIY Project

LOS ANGELES, CA: Julian Construction, Inc., (http://julianconstruction.com/) a foundation construction and general contractor company in Los Angeles, has had many years of experience in the construction field, largely with their specialty of home foundation repair and replacement but also home construction projects such as the construction of retaining walls. Due to the complexity of the process and the number of different types of retaining walls that may be used, the company strongly recommends that only a licensed professional construct a retaining wall for a home.

A retaining wall is a stabilizing structure used when soil on a slope threatens to spill and cause soil erosion, ruining the landscape or causing other problems with the home’s foundation. A retaining wall holds back the falling soil and redistributes the pressure of the sloping ground. Many different materials are used for a wall, such as concrete, steel, stone, brick, composites, wood and even glass.

There are also several different types of walls, from those that use the wall’s own weight to hold back the soil to those which are supported by heavy steel cables. The type of wall needed is determined by the type and quantity of soil in the landscape, as well as the amount of space for the wall and other factors.

Due to the variety of different types of retaining walls, each one required by a different set of circumstances for that yard, Julian Construction strongly recommends that homeowners only use a licensed professional foundation contractor with many years experience constructing retaining walls on different properties.

Retaining wall projects done by inexperienced individuals could lead to a wall not strong enough to hold up the soil, drainage problems (which would damage the wall) or other problems which would lead to having to reconstruct the retaining wall entirely.

Julian De La Torre, founder and owner of Julian Construction, stated: “We have often installed a retaining wall where the soil erosion was the factor causing foundation damage. Definitely, if soil erosion is not handled in a home it will cause problems for a landscape but also can cause problems for the structure itself: if the soil is going away from the foundation it can weaken it. Homeowners also use a retaining wall to create more usable space in their yard. Whatever the reason it is needed, always hire a professional to construct a retaining wall.”

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. You can see tips and advice about home foundations on their blog, at http://julianconstruction.com/blog/

Solar Systems a Good Investment for Saving Energy

Julian Construction Recommends Installing Solar Systems in a Home

LOS ANGELES, CA: Julian Construction Inc., (http://julianconstruction.com/) a home foundation repair and general contractor company in Los Angeles, recommends that homeowners look at the long term benefits of installing solar systems on their home. The company has found that energy savings as well as property savings can be realized as a result of installing a solar energy system. The company has installed many such systems for homeowners.

In 2011, the International Energy Agency said that "the development of affordable, inexhaustible and clean solar energy technologies will have huge longer-term benefits. It will increase countries’ energy security through reliance on an indigenous, inexhaustible and mostly import-independent resource, enhance sustainability, reduce pollution, lower the costs of mitigating climate change, and keep fossil fuel prices lower than otherwise. These advantages are global. Hence the additional costs of the incentives for early deployment should be considered learning investments; they must be wisely spent and need to be widely shared".

Julian Construction has many years experience in the installation of personalized home solar energy systems, most often during the process of re-roofing a home. State and federal agencies offer tax benefits and rebates to homeowners who install clean energy solutions such as solar systems, in addition to the direct energy savings.

Julian De La Torre, founder and owner of Julian Construction, stated: “There are multiple benefits to installing a solar energy system in your home. State and Federal agencies often will offer tax benefits on this, the system will increase the property value, and there is the savings made on the energy itself. We’ve been very happy to supply this service to homeowners in the past and can highly recommend it as a very beneficial way for homeowners to save money.”

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. You can see tips and advice about home foundations on their blog, at http://julianconstruction.com/blog/

Get Ready For The Next Big Quake

By Shawn Kyles

Did you know that California has a 99% chance of experiencing a magnitude 6.7 quake or greater within the next 30 years?

The Northridge Earthquake, which hit at 4:31 a.m. on January 17, 1994 was a magnitude 6.7. The quake occurred at a depth of 11.4 miles on an unknown fault, and was followed by thousands of aftershocks. Fifty-seven people died and over 5,000 people were injured during the event. An estimated 1,600 people were hospitalized.

The Northridge quake actually took place in Reseda, CA, with property damage occurring more up to 85 miles away. Total property damage has been estimated at more than $20 Billion. It is considered one of the costliest U.S. natural disasters.

Structural collapses included the Northridge Meadows apartment complex which killed sixteen people, several commercial buildings and sections of the Santa Monica Freeway, the Antelope Valley Freeway and Interstate 5.

Multi-story wood frame buildings suffered the most damage, along with structures made of masonry, constructed on slopes or built over parking areas. The quake also caused hundreds of fires and left tens of thousands of people without utilities for several days.

If you are a Southern California home owner, there are many things you can do for earthquake preparedness before the next big quake. Start by making sure furniture and other moveable items are properly secured. Stock up on supplies that may be needed following a quake and organize a disaster plan. You’ll also want to gather and keep important documents in a safe space.

You will also want to make sure your home is in good repair and structurally sound. Start by contacting a foundation repair expert and requesting an inspection. A foundation professional will know where to look for damage and potential weaknesses that could put you and your family in danger during an earthquake.

Homes that have been built on concrete, especially unreinforced concrete, stone masonry or bricks, are at greater risk for structural failure during a quake. A home can also break away from its foundation if it hasn’t been secured properly. When a house shifts off of its foundation, it can disrupt gas lines, which can lead to fires.

Is your home built on a hill? When a house that has been built on a hill isn’t properly supported, it can collapse during a quake. If your home has a crawl space that hasn’t been braced correctly, it could fall during periods of increased seismic activity.

A foundation expert or foundation contractor will look at the interior and exterior of your home, including walls, windows, doors, floors, concrete slabs, crawl spaces and basements to determine if there are existing or potential foundation problems, if you need foundation bolting, or foundation repair, etc. You’ll get a post-inspection report and a summary of the issues that need to be addressed.

If any repairs are needed, get them done quickly! Foundation damage will only get worse over time.

Earthquake retrofitting and foundation bolting will not only give you peace of mind, it can help protect your property during an earthquake and may even save lives.

Signs of Roof Damage

by Shawn Kyles
Julian Construction

Keeping your roof in good repair is an important home maintenance task. A damaged roof can result in leaks that cause interior damage to your walls and cause the need for foundation repair. Signs of roof damage can include a sagging roof, cracking paint, wet spots, wet insulation and light shining through the roof. A damaged roof needs to be repaired quickly to prevent further damage and increased repair costs.

Causes of Roof Damage

The weather can damage your roof in many different ways. Wind, for example, can tear shingles off your roof and warp gutters. The wind can also lift and displace tiles. Snow, ice, storms, lightening, rainfall and extreme temperatures can also damage roofs.

Even heat can damage a roof. Too much sun can cause certain types of roof tiles to crack and blister. If an attic isn’t ventilated properly, rising hot air from inside the home will push its way to and through the roof.
Has there been a fire in your neighborhood? Heat from a fire near your home can melt tiles and other roofing materials.

Roofs can also be damaged by falling objects such as tree branches. If you see broken tree limbs on the ground near your home, check the roof closest to where the limb was found. Look for any signs of damage, including scrapes and gouges. Minor damage may be a sign of more serious issues. When a tree limb breaks and falls on a roof, it can also cause structural damage to the house.

Earthquakes, even small ones, can damage roofs as well. Many times, the damage is caused by the collapse of masonry chimneys. Improperly built roofs or roofs with too much weight can also lead to buckling during a quake.

Most homes are built with asphalt shingles. The asphalt tiles are coated with tiny granules that provide UV protection. Damage to an asphalt roof can include missing granules (bald tiles), holes in the tile, as well as cracked, torn or missing tiles. Asphalt tiles can also become “bruised” or dented. Large amounts of tile granules in rain gutters means your roof is deteriorating.

Tile roofs can be damaged very easily, particularly from falling objects. Indicators of tile roof damage include chipped, broken or missing tiles. If you find pieces of tile on the ground, it’s time for a roof inspection.

Cedar roof tiles can split, particularly in dry climates. In areas where there is consistent or excessive rainfall, moss can start growing on the tiles. In general, natural roofing tiles and materials will deteriorate faster than synthetic roofing.

Your roof should be inspected on a regular basis – at least twice a year. Make sure it is inspected closely both inside as well as outside. On the inside, look for water stains, which can be an indicator of a leak, or insulation that has been stripped away. This can be done at the same time as a foundation inspection

If your roof is severely damaged it may need to be re-roofed. Contact a licensed and qualified roofing contractor or trusted general contractor who can help you with roof shingle installation.

Foundations And Soil Issues

by Shawn Kyles

Soil is made up of sand, silt and clay, along with organic materials. Soil types are determined by the mixture of these elements. For example, expansive soil, also called clay soil, has a higher concentration of clay particles than any other type of soil, while sandy soil has more sand particles. Sand particles are also large, while clay particles are extremely small. The clay particles also stick together, which prevents air from passing through the soil and causes any water that accumulates in the soil to drain more slowly.

A foundation built on expansive soil can have foundation problems more easily than those built on other types of soil. This is because when expansive (clay) soil becomes moist, it expands. The expansion lifts the foundation. The lifting can occur in different places, depending on building load (the weight that is carried by the structure) and the amount of moisture present. For example, expansive soil may push up the corners of a structure more than the center.

When the clay dries, the soil shrinks, leaving gaps in the soil.

Soil expansion can cause foundation cracks and put stress on a building’s structure. Soil contraction can also result in cracks, as well as foundation settlement.

Cracks in a foundation will allow more moisture to enter the structure, which can impact its stability.

Foundation settlement can prevent doors and windows from closing properly, cause sloping floors and other structural problems.

Homeowners in regions with distinct wet and dry seasons will usually experience more problems with expansive soil compared to places where soil conditions are consistent all year long. However, rain isn’t the only cause of soil expansion. Sprinklers and plumbing leaks can also affect soil moisture content.

Beginning in the 1950s, many homes were built with piers to prevent foundation damage caused by expansive soil. Over time it was discovered that if the piers weren’t placed deep enough, they could also be raised by expanding soil, sometimes to the point where the pier would fall.

Foundation damage from expansive soil can be minimized if the foundation is extended past the area where the soil’s water content fluctuates. Other solutions to the problem include drainage that directs water away from the structure, or making sure the foundation is strong enough to withstand any swelling and contraction. Grading the soil around the foundation can deter the problem as well.

Another soil issue that can lead to foundation damage is improper compaction. This usually occurs when the foundation is built. If the soil beneath and around the foundation wasn’t compacted properly, it can cause uneven settlement.

How do you know if you have soil issues or a foundation problem? Contact a foundation repair expert and ask for a foundation inspection. A foundation contractor will not only know where to look, but what to look for, when conducting the inspection. If there is a situation that needs to be addressed, a foundation repair specialist will be able to recommend the right foundation repair solution for your particular situation. Resolving problems quickly can reduce foundation repair costs and help prevent more severe damage that could require foundation replacement.

Severe California Droughts Will Cause Foundation Problems

Home Foundations Will Be Affected By Droughts as Soil Moisture Drops

LOS ANGELES, CA: Julian Construction, Inc., (http://julianconstruction.com/) a foundation repair specialist company in Southern California, recently issued a warning to homeowners that the 2014 California droughts will affect the foundations of many homes in California. The extreme droughts will affect the soil of many homes’ foundations.

Homeowners are advised to be on the watch for indications of foundation problems, and arrange a foundation inspection by a qualified inspector at the first sign of trouble.

Mark Cowin, director of the state Department of Water Resources, stated: “The time has come to protect drinking water and wisely divide the little water left in the state's reservoirs among cities, farms and nature. We're not in a developing crisis, this is a current crisis. Everyone will get less water this year."

Shawn Kyles, chief home inspector of Julian Construction, stated: “Unfortunately, California is currently experiencing one of the worst droughts on record. The situation is so severe, Governor Jerry Brown recently declared a drought emergency. The lack of rain will cause the moisture content in soil throughout the state to decrease. As the drought continues, homeowners may find themselves with new and unexpected foundation issues.”

Julian Construction strongly recommends that at the first sign of abnormality in a home’s foundation, the homeowner schedule a foundation inspection. For a list of common indications of foundation problems, read more at: http://julianconstruction.com/new-year-foundation-checklist/

Julian De La Torre, founder of Julian Construction, stated: “In these conditions we have to be even more careful than usual. We have never had such a long and dry drought, so we don’t fully know the effect it will have on the California soil, and thus what effect it will have on home foundations. We can only wait and see as the season passes.”

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. You can see tips and advice about home foundations on their blog, at http://julianconstruction.com/blog/

Water Constitutes Single Greatest Threat To Home Foundation

Water Leaks and Drastic Changes in Soil Moisture a Threat to Home Foundations

LOS ANGELES, CA: Julian Construction, Inc., (http://julianconstruction.com/) a foundation repair and foundation construction company based in Los Angeles, is advising home owners to be extra careful of water leaks, seepages and other causes of water damage in a home which can affect a home’s foundation.

The company urges homeowners to schedule a foundation inspection by a qualified inspector at the first sign of danger, and to be on the watch for water in a home to prevent the foundation problems before they occur. The company released an article recently detailing a few of the factors to watch for that can be caused by water damage: http://julianconstruction.com/water-a-foundations-worst-enemy/

Shawn Kyles, Julian Construction’s chief building inspector, stated: “Water is a leading cause of foundation damage and one of its worst enemies. It can ruin your foundation through interior moisture build-up and pooling. The water can come from many sources, such as broken pipes, appliances and clogged sinks or toilets. It can also enter your home through cracks, or gaps in windows or doors. If downspouts aren’t kept clean, water can build up on the roof and drip down the walls and into the basement. Once inside your home, it can cause the wood in crawl spaces to decay. It can also create an environment where mold can grow, which may lead to wood rot. A wet crawl space, or even one that smells musty, should be inspected immediately by a qualified foundation repairs professional to determine if there are any foundation problems.”

Julian De La Torre, founder of Julian Construction, Inc., stated: “Our nearly 20 years of experience in the field as a foundation contractor has shown water to be the worst offender in damaging home foundations. More than any other threat to a foundation, water damage shows up again and again as the most common. There are so many ways for it to get into a home’s structure and some of them are not even widely known. We hope the information here helps make homeowners more aware of the danger from water damage on a home’s foundation.”

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. You can see tips and advice about home foundations on their blog, at http://julianconstruction.com/blog/

Water: a Foundation’s Worst Enemy

By Shawn Kyles

Water is a leading cause of foundation damage and one of its worst enemies. It can ruin your foundation through interior moisture build-up and pooling.
The water can come from many sources, such as broken pipes, appliances and clogged sinks or toilets. It can also enter your home through cracks, or gaps in windows or doors. If downspouts aren’t kept clean, water can build up on the roof and drip down the walls and into the basement.

Once inside your home, it can cause the wood in crawl spaces to decay. It can also create an environment where mold can grow, which may lead to wood rot. A wet crawl space, or even one that smells musty, should be inspected immediately by a qualified foundation repairs professional to determine if there are any foundation problems.

Water can also cause soil to expand and contract. When there is too much moisture, the soil surrounding a foundation will swell. As the soil dries, it will begin to shrink and pull away from the foundation. This is especially true with soils that have a high concentration of clay.

As the soil expands, it presses against foundation walls, which can cause them to crack or begin to bow. When the moisture decreases, it leaves spaces. Your foundation will start to settle into these gaps. If the settlement is uneven, the foundation can become damaged.

Expansive soil problems are usually the result of poor drainage. If rainwater or water from a sprinkler system doesn’t drain away for your home, it will remain in the soil and cause it to expand.

Water can also build up in backfill soil – the soil that was used to cover the holes around your house after the foundation was built. Backfill soil is generally much looser than the more compacted soil the house was built on. Looser soil will absorb more water. The more water that is absorbed, the more the soil will expand.
Water can even wash away the soil that surrounds your house and foundation, which can result in sinking.
Some homes have also been built on soil with unusually high moisture content at the time of construction. This moisture will decrease over time, which can also lead to foundation settlement. If the settlement is extensive or uneven, it can damage both your home’s foundation and its structural integrity of your home.

There are many ways to prevent water-related foundation problems from occurring, including making sure any drainage pipes or systems slope away from the house. You can also request a foundation inspection from a foundation repair expert, who will look for signs of potential foundation damage or looming problems that could lead to expensive foundation repair cost down the road.

Unfortunately, California is currently experiencing the worst droughts on record. The situation is so severe, Governor Jerry Brown recently declared a drought emergency. The lack of rain will cause the moisture content in soil throughout the state to decrease. As the drought continues, homeowners may find themselves with new and unexpected foundation issues.

Julian Construction Helps Homeowners Plan Maintenance In 2014

Foundation Repair Company Helps Homeowners Work Out Their Home Maintenance Program

LOS ANGELES, CA: Julian Construction Inc., (http://julianconstruction.com/) a foundation construction and foundation repair company in Southern California, has begun a project of helping homeowners work out their foundation maintenance program for the year 2014. The company wishes to help homeowners properly keep up the maintenance of their home’s foundation and prevent safety risks to the building’s occupants. The company’s principles have decades of experience in the field, helping homeowners repair foundation problems.

Shawn Kyles, Julian Construction’s chief building inspector, recently stated: “Now is a good time to start thinking about your foundation maintenance program for the coming year. Regular inspections of your home, landscape, roof and basement are extremely important. They can help you avoid serious foundation issues and the need for major reconstruction. Approximately 1 in 5 homeowners put off making needed repairs. Remember that waiting to fix problems often results in more significant damage and escalated costs. If you want a thorough and detailed inspection of your home and property, contact a foundation repair company with extensive experience. A company that has inspected thousands of homes and businesses will know exactly what to look for when checking out your house. They can also give you knowledgeable advice on any repairs that may be needed.”

The company provides free inspection of home properties’ foundations, and can be contacted at http://julianconstruction.com/contact/schedule-an-inspection/

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. You can see tips and advice about home foundations on their blog, at http://julianconstruction.com/blog/

Julian Construction Creates Foundation Checklist For Homeowners

New Foundation Checklist Can Help Spot Indicators Of Foundation Damage Early

LOS ANGELES, CA: Julian Construction Inc., (http://julianconstruction.com/) a foundation construction and foundation repair company in the Los Angeles area, recently drew up a checklist for use in detecting foundation problems in a home. The checklist can be used by a homeowner without training in the field of home foundation repair or structural inspection, to look for early signs of foundation problems. These are problems which, according to the company, would lead to bigger structural problems down the road if left unhandled. The full checklist can be found on the company’s website: http://julianconstruction.com/new-year-foundation-checklist/

Shawn Kyles, Julian Construction’s chief building inspector, wrote the checklist as one that homeowners, “...can use to spot situations that are an indicator of foundation damage as well as problems that can lead to foundation trouble.”

A few of the 11 points on the checklist are:

- If you have sprinklers, make sure the water is not draining into your home or basement. The soil around your home may need grading to ensure proper water drainage.
- Check the plumbing for leaks and loose fitting pipes.
- If you have a slab foundation, look for warm spots or moisture on the slab. There may be a pipe leak under the slab.
- Do you have a fireplace? Look for cracks in the brick that may have resulted from settlement.
- Looks for interior wall and ceiling cracks, which are also signs of foundation problems.

Mr. Kyles further stated: “The safety of your family is also at stake. When foundation problems are ignored, the building’s structural integrity becomes increasingly compromised. During an earthquake, there is a greater chance of the home shifting off of its foundation. Even minor seismic activity could lead to a wall or roof collapse depending on the severity of the foundation problem.”

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. You can see tips and advice about home foundations on their blog, at http://julianconstruction.com/blog/