Company Announces Official Area of Service For Homeowners In the Greater LA AreaLOS ANGELES, CA: Julian Construction (http://www.julianconstruction.com), a construction company specializing in building foundation construction and foundation repair, recently announced its updated areas of service in the greater LA area and Southern California. 
Foundation Company Is Urging Home Owners to Take Steps To Verify Standing First 
By Shawn Kyles
While some homeowners prefer to do the work themselves, many construction and remodeling jobs will require hiring either a general building contractor or specialized contractor. A contractor manages the entire project from start to finish, including architectural planning, securing any required building permits, as well as providing all of the materials, equipment and labor that will be needed.
Under state law, a contractor bidding on a job valued at $500 or more must by licensed by the Contractors State License Board (CSLB). The CSLB licenses contractors in 43 different classifications, including general contractors who manage projects involving two or more subcontractors, and specialized contractors such as:
The qualifications for a contractor’s license include 4 years of journey-level trade experience, passing a trade and license law examination and posting a license bond.
When hiring a contractor, always ask to see his or her pocket license. Also verify that the contractor is insured and carries workers’ compensation. If you hire a contractor that doesn’t have workers’ compensation, you are legally considered the employer, and can be held accountable for any job-related injuries. Once you have verified that the contractor is licensed and insured, ask for references. Hearing what former clients have to say about the work that was performed can be extremely helpful when deciding who to hire.
Another step in the hiring process is to ensure that all of the details regarding the job are written out. This includes a complete description of the work that will be done, any necessary permits, what materials and equipment will be needed, the cost of the job, schedule of payments, and when the job will begin and end. Make sure you get clarification on any terms in the agreement that you are unfamiliar with.
Depending on the type and extent of your construction project or home remodel, hiring a contractor to perform the work can save you time and money. A general building contractor will know who to hire when the project involves specialized skills, such as plumbing, electrical, foundation repair, or masonry, and will manage all aspects of the job. Both general and specialized contractors will also know the building codes that need to be followed, and what permits to pull. If you are uncertain about the type of work that may be needed, such as the best way to repair a foundation, professional help can be critical and will ensure the job is done properly.
Foundation Construction And Repair Company Urges Keeping Foundation In Good Condition LOS ANGELES, CA: Julian Construction Inc. (http://www.julianconstruction.com/) deals with homes 
Company Seeks To Raise Awareness Of Repairing Home Foundation Construction Difficulties
LOS ANGELES, CA: Julian Construction Inc. (http://www.julianconstruction.com/) seeks to raise awareness of home owners to the importance of the necessity of home foundation repairs, foundation construction or older structures requiring maintenance. The company is recommending the use of helical piles for some structures that could greatly assist a foundation requiring retrofitting maintenance.
The purpose of a foundation is to support and spread the weight of the structure that sits on top of it. A foundation can become damaged due to poor soil conditions, moisture and foliage. Foundation problems can lead to cracks in walls and tiles, bowed walls and sloping floors. It can even become difficult to open and shut windows and doors. One solution to stabilizing foundations is the installation of helical piles, also referred to as screw piles. A helical pile is a steel shaft with blades attached in a spiral pattern, similar to a wood screw. The pile is attached at the foundation on one end, and screwed into the ground on the other. Not only do they stabilize a structure, they can also increase load bearing capacities in a retrofit. Julian De La Torre was stated the following regarding the procedure: “Many people do not realize their foundation sometimes needs repair. It is something that needs to be inspected. Helical piles are a good solution for a home needing foundation retrofitting, because they are not very expensive, the installation can be fast and they are very strong, with a high load capacity. People should get their home inspected to see if their foundation is safe.” 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.typepad.com. By Shawn Kyles
Some of the early warning signs of foundation trouble include:
Water that seeps into the building from rain, sprinkler systems and other sources of moisture is often one of the main causes of foundation damage. When water is unable to drain properly, it will accumulate in puddles near the structure. Water can also collect on rooftops when there are insufficient or clogged drain spouts. Certain types of soil will also expand when wet and contract when dry, leaving a void for the foundation to settle into. Tree and shrub roots can also drain water from the soil, creating a similar affect. Another common cause of settlement is soil that wasn’t compacted properly under and around the building.
A foundation repair expert can conduct an in-depth inspection of your property to make sure there are no existing situations that need addressing. Someone that is skilled in fixing foundations will be able to analyze the location, size and pattern of wall cracks to determine if there are any underlying problems, and look for other indicators of foundation damage. Staying alert to potential foundation issues can be vital, and help prevent future structural trouble.
Foundation Construction Company Urges More Readiness In Event Of An Earthquake
Earthquake preparation is a large factor in security for homeowners. An unstable foundation can greatly increase the chance of risk if a quake hits.
According to the United States Geological Survey: “There's a 100 percent chance of an earthquake today. Though millions of persons may never experience an earthquake, they are very common occurrences on this planet. So today -- somewhere -- an earthquake will occur.” they also state “Since a major portion of the world's earthquakes each year center around the rim of the Pacific Ocean (Ring of Fire), referred to by seismologists as the circum-Pacific belt, this is the most probable location for today's earthquake.”
Due to the possibility of earthquakes hitting the L.A. area Julian Construction is recommending that homeowners get a foundation inspection to ensure their home is secure in the event of another earthquake.
Julian De La Torre, founder of the company, stated: “I was actually working with foundations before the Northridge quake hit back in 1994. I have seen what it’s like when the big one hits. And I’ve seen what it’s like when a home foundation is in need of repair versus one that has been inspected and strengthened against the danger of an earthquake. It’s the safe thing to do.”
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.typepad.com.
Foundation Construction Company Reflects On Their Objectives Over The Last Ten Years 
By Shawn Kyles
Water, including rain and water from sprinklers, down spouts, condensation from an air conditioning unit and broken pipes, is the basis of most foundation damage. It causes soil to expand, which can quickly become a problem when it seeps beneath a foundation. The amount of soil expansion will depend on the composition of the soil, and is rarely uniform.
When the soil expands, it lifts the foundation; when it dries, it contracts and creates a void. A concrete foundation will sink into the void created by the soil’s contraction. Other causes of soil expansion that you should be wary of include overwatering and uneven watering. Soil expansion and contraction can occur over and over again throughout the year, causing numerous foundation cracks and other damage. Eventually it will affect the structural integrity of the building, and may even lead to a collapse.
A foundation will also sink when the soil around and underneath it hasn’t been compacted correctly. Excessive foundation settlement will usually occur when the soil is too loose, and can result in cracks and breaks. Settlement damage can also result from poorly planned landscaping. The roots of large trees and dense foliage planted too close to a home will dry out the soil around and under a foundation. When the roots absorb the water from the soil, the soil will contract, leaving empty space below the foundation that will cause settlement.
There are many ways to prevent foundation damage, beginning with an inspection by an experienced foundation repair expert. A foundation specialist will be able to determine if you have any water issues that need correcting, and can indentify other potential problems that could result in foundation settlement, cracks and breaks. If your foundation is already damaged, it should be fixed as soon as possible. The longer you wait to repair a foundation issue, the worse it will get.
Southern California Company Offers 0% Interest Financing on Foundation Repair Projects
LOS ANGELES, CA: Julian Construction Inc. (http://www.julianconstruction.com), a foundation repair, foundation construction and general construction company located in Southern California, is now offering 0% financing and several other financing options to homeowners. The company has long realized the need for ease of availability for foundation repair services. A few of the options offered by the company are:
Julian Construction Inc. Can Set Up Solar Electric Systems When Refitting A Roof
LOS ANGELES, CA: Julian Construction Inc. (http://www.julianconstruction.com), a foundation repair and construction company in Southern California, is encouraging Southern California residents to install solar power systems for their roofs. These systems can be installed during the repair or refitting of a roof, or at any time one wishes to increase the cost efficiency of one’s electrical use. Solar electrical systems began in 1954 with the development of the first practical silicon-based solar cell. Since then efficiency of solar energy has made great strides, now nearing 15% efficiency rates. Julian Construction, Inc. has been offering solar electrical system installation in an effort to help residents go green. Benefits include long term energy savings that accrue from solar electrical systems, as well as tax benefits and rebates by state and federal agencies. Julian Construction Inc. founder, Julian De La Torre, was available for comment, “We want to assist people to go green so that we can all decrease our impact on the environment, but also because the person benefits long-term by saving on energy costs. When replacing your roof it’s a good thing to consider installing a solar electrical system on the new roof.” 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.typepad.com.
By Shawn Kyles
Severe earthquakes can not only result in injuries and fatalities, they also cause considerable property damage to roads, buildings and other structures. Advance preparation is your best chance of avoiding the dangerous situations and consequences that can result from a quake. If you are a homeowner, developing an earthquake plan will help ensure the safety of your family, and provide greater protection for your property. Persons that reside in your home should know the best place to go when a quake hits, such as interior walls, corners and door frames. They should also know which areas of the house to avoid, including walls with windows, or rooms with mirrors and heavy furniture. Another vital component of an emergency plan is the purchasing and storing of emergency supplies, including water, food, first aid items, flashlights, battery operated or hand crank radio, extra batteries, tools, blankets, clothing, fire extinguishers, a camp stove and extra pet food. Your emergency kit should also contain any valuable documents, important phone numbers, and extra money. After your plan has been prepared, have family members drill various earthquake scenarios. In addition to creating an emergency plan, you will also need to physically prepare your home for a quake. Secure any furniture and appliances that can fall over with straps, such as bookcases, refrigerators and water heaters. Move beds that are near windows, bookshelves or other items that can fall to a different place in the room, or eliminate any potential hazards. Use earthquake putty to prevent vases, antiques, statutes and other objects sitting on shelves from moving. Install latches on your cupboards and store objects that can break on low shelves. Also secure hazardous and flammable liquids, and bolt or eye screw paintings and other hanging objects to the wall. Cover windows with film to prevent shattering, or install safety glass. Replace any weak or damaged plumbing, wiring and gas lines, and make sure each person in your house knows how to shut off the gas, water and electricity. During an earthquake, a house can move from side to side, as well as up and down. To prevent structural damage, ask an experienced earthquake retrofitting company to inspect your house to determine the best way to prevent your home from slipping off of its foundation. This may include bolting, adding shear walls and installing additional supports such as connectors, anchors, straps and braces. When all of the parts of a house are secured together, they will be less likely to move. A knowledgeable retrofitter may also recommend the repair of any existing foundation damage to further strengthen the structure. The time you spend now on earthquake preparation can have a significant impact on your family’s safety during a quake, and reduce damage to your home and personal property. It is added insurance that you will be ready when the big one hits. Older Homes and Poor Installations Most Prone To Stucco And Drywall Damage
Julian Construction's Clients Say It In Their Own Words About Their Experience
A man from Lomita said: “Julian Construction is the only company you should call to retrofit your house. Not only did they do a great job, but they made us feel like we could trust them to make our house safer for the next earthquake. They did so at a very competitive price. The Julian team was here ON TIME (something like 10 guys showed up) and proceeded to complete the job as promised. They also did not want a single penny until the job was completely finished and the permit approved by a city inspector. The clincher was that they are fully insured with liability insurance and workers’ comp."
A woman from Long Beach stated: “Your company was a pleasure to work with. You were fast, your workers were on time, respectful and they cleaned up after they finished each day. I will refer you to my neighbors, friends and family. Great job!!"
And from a woman in Los Angeles: “This is how you run a business. I paid a fair price and got what was promised. A small army of workers showed up on time, were incredibly efficient, and cleaned up so you’d never know they were there. The foreman was patient with a nervous and exacting homeowner."
Julian De La Torre, founder of the company, stated: “We're always happy to see our customers happy. It's what we work for, to know we are helping them have a safer home. Living in the Los Angeles area, the threat of another earthquake is ever present. With our services, our goal is to make your home safer and less likely to sustain damage the next time the earth moves underneath 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.typepad.com.
Company Says for Older Homes, Often Foundation Replacement is the “Permanent Solution”
Los Angeles: Julian Construction (http://www.julianconstruction.com/), a foundation construction and foundation repair company in Southern California, is offering 50% discount on foundation replacement services through the month of July 2011. The company has been repairing and constructing home foundations since 2001.
Older homes present a problem in that many constructed before 1940 do not meet current standards of foundation construction. Those built up to 1970, while many are bolted properly to the foundation, may have suffered damage over the years needing attention. Julian Construction sees the need to ensure that living in an older home feels safe in the event of an earthquake. That’s why they are offering a 50% discount on foundation replacement.
Julian De La Torre, founder of the company, stated: “Even if a home foundation was built with only stone or brick, or if poor quality concrete was used in the construction, foundation replacement will effectively handle it. Older homes are more likely to have suffered foundation structural damage, even if the original structure was built soundly. In some cases it is possible for a resident to continue living in their home while we reinforce, repair and replace a home’s foundation. Structural damage due to the many earthquakes in Southern California is a real problem. Older homes have been though a lot of that and their foundations are the most at risk. Our team is confident they can give your foundation new strength so you won’t have to worry about that.”
Julian De La Torre has been doing foundation repair and retrofitting buildings since the early 1990s and has personally worked on over 6,600 homes in Southern California. He formed Julian Construction in 2001 with the goal of making safer homes, apartments and commercial properties throughout the region. Julian’s 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. You can see tips and advice about home foundations on their blog, at http://julianconstruction.typepad.com.
A property owner can experience many different types of drainage issues, including 
Clogged gutters and downspouts can cause rainwater to accumulate on rooftops, which can result in moisture seeping into your house. When any type of moisture enters a home, it can penetrate existing wall and foundation cracks, weakening the structure even further. Standing water on a roof can also produce mold and mildew that can prompt asthma attacks, and cause allergies and pneumonia.
Whenever water pools in a yard, it is an indicator of a possible drainage problem. Water pooling can be caused by poor soil conditions or water draining into the yard from another location. You can also have problems with pooling water due to soil erosion or a yard that isn’t graded properly.
Before any drainage problem can be corrected, the source of the problem must be located. Rooftop water problems are often the result of rainwater that can’t drain because of clogged gutters and downspouts. Many times the solution to this problem is to clean your gutters and downspouts, and keep them free of debris. If necessary, you can also install additional downspouts in problem areas to ensure the water is transported off the roof and away from the house.
Moisture-retaining soil will expand and cause a foundation to lift and crack. It will also put pressure on vertical walls, which can cause movement. Additional damage can occur when the soil contracts and the foundation settles. Expansive soil can fluctuate in volume by as much as 30% depending on the amount and type of clay in the soil.
One way to fix a standing water problem is to install a French drain, which is trench that contains a drainage pipe or gravel. French drains are used to transport excess water away from your home. Drainage problems caused by soil conditions can be corrected with chemicals that help prevent expansion. Other moisture control methods include erecting various types of barriers.
If you already have foundation cracks or settlement, contact a foundation repair expert to inspect your foundation and determine the cause of the problem. If drainage is an issue, you can find out how best to remedy the situation. A skilled foundation repair company can also repair your foundation to prevent slopping floors, bulging walls and windows and doors that won’t shut properly.
Julian Construction Goes From Estimate at Start to Final Inspection
Los Angeles, CA: Julian Construction (http://www.julianconstruction.com/), a company specializing in foundation repair, foundation replacement and foundation construction in the Los Angeles area, has a company policy of cutting out the middle man. Using no salesmen or subcontractors, up to the final inspection everything is done in-house by qualified construction and foundation repair professionals.
The company is headed by professionals who can take a job from start to finish with no outside collaboration required. With a record of having inspected over 15,000 structures, Julian Construction will send a qualified inspector that will make a complete, free inspection of the building’s foundation to assess what work is needed to ensure that the foundation is totally safe, with an estimate for any needed work. From there Julian Construction’s team of construction professionals will do the project quickly and efficiently leaving the site in the same or better condition than when they arrived. No subcontractors have to be referred to, adding potential complications, delays and headaches.
Julian De La Torre, the company’s founder, stated: “Repairing a home doesn’t have to be a complicated process, with all these other subcontractors and middlemen increasing the cost and the time. We set up our company to bypass all of that. We just bring the service to your home and get the job done efficiently and cost-effectively. So it’s easier for everyone and you can enjoy knowing that your home foundation is as safe as possible when the next earthquake hits.”
Julian De La Torre has been retrofitting buildings and doing foundation repair and construction since the early 1990s and has personally worked on over 6,600 homes in Southern California. He formed Julian Construction in 2001 with the goal of making safer homes, apartments and commercial properties throughout the region. Julian’s 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. You can see tips and advice about home foundations on their blog, at http://julianconstruction.typepad.com.
Homeowners Should Ensure their Foundation is Ready for Next Major Earthquake
LOS ANGELES: Julian Construction (http://www.julianconstruction.com/), a professional foundation repair and retrofitting company in Southern California, is urging homeowners to get a free foundation inspection to ensure their home is prepared for the next earthquake. Julian’s staff are experts in earthquake retrofitting, also called house bolting, a process designed to ensure safety in the event of an earthquake.
Julian De La Torre founded foundation contractor company Julian Construction in 2001, though his experience in the field dates to prior to the 1994 Northridge Earthquake. The company is dedicated to preventing earthquake damage by securing a home to its foundation, among its other services.
Julian stated “Getting a free foundation inspection is an important first step in making sure your home is protected against the next earthquake. Earthquake retrofitting is sometimes needed. This is the process of attaching a house to its concrete foundation using foundation plates and anchor bolts. 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.”
He continued: “Julian Construction Inc. specializes in foundation bolting and the bracing of cripple walls (short stud walls between the floor and foundation of some houses) by using structural-grade plywood which, if needed, provides greater resistance to earthquakes. These steps, along with properly tying the floor system down with approved framing anchors, will make yours a safer home.”
One customer had the following to say regarding their experience with Julian Construction: “Julian Construction is the only company you should call to retrofit your house. Not only did they do a great job, but they made us feel like we could trust them to make our house safer for the next earthquake.”
Julian De La Torre has been retrofitting buildings since the early 1990s and has personally worked on over 6,600 homes in Southern California. He formed Julian Construction in 2001 with the goal of making safer homes, apartments and commercial properties throughout the region. Julian’s 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: http://www.julianconstruction.com.
Foundation Repair and Construction Specialist Announces House Leveling Services
LOS ANGELES: Julian Construction (http://www.julianconstruction.com/), a foundation construction 
House leveling is a very precise procedure. Determining the exact location of the difficulty and extent of the problem, the floor of the house is then slowly raised and reinforced by temporary supports until the floor is completely level, at which time permanent supports are installed. Many homes can experience difficulty with unlevel floors, as foundations settle over time. Even new homes may experience some movement of the foundation. The house leveling process does involve using some heavy equipment, such as a hydraulic jack and steel beams for load distribution. Julian Construction has professional experience using this machinery and is overseen from start to finish by licensed and experienced managers.
Julian De La Torre stated “While house retrofitting is a science, house leveling is an art. Many homeowners live with sloping floors, doors that won’t open and cracking walls. Most floors can be leveled and returned to their original position. This work can be completed in a structurally sound manner, making yours a safer home.”
Julian De La Torre has been retrofitting buildings since the early 1990s and has personally worked on over 6,600 homes in Southern California. He formed Julian Construction in 2001 with the goal of making safer homes, apartments and commercial properties throughout the region. Julian’s 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
By Shawn Kyles
The purpose of a foundation is to support and spread the weight of the structure that sits on top of it. A
Helical piles were first used in the 1800’s for English lighthouse foundations. The first recording of their use was in 1836 by a blind brick maker and civil engineer named Alexander Mitchell. These days, helical piles are used all over the world on many kinds of projects, including excavation, anchoring pipelines and light poles, supporting transmission towers and tunnels, tiebacks for soil retaining walls, and tie downs for manufactured as well as residential and commercial buildings.
Helical piles are installed at intervals around the perimeter at affected locations. They are then extended to the depth needed for the load. Special brackets are used to secure the piles to the concrete foundation. The pile is then torqued into the soil and connected to each bracket. The nuts on the vertical bolts of the bracket are then tightened to lock off the load.
Some of the benefits of helical piles include fast and relatively easy installation, reduced costs compared to other forms of foundation repair, and extremely high load capacities. Other advantages include installation with minimal excavation and without heavy equipment, as well as low vibration. Helical piles can also be used with a variety of soil conditions. They are considered as an alternative to pressed pilings which are attached to concrete and steel blocks; and steel pilings, which are driven into solid rock.
If you have foundation damage, contact an experienced foundation repair company and request an inspection of your property. A foundation expert can give you useful feedback regarding the problems you are experiencing and their source. You can find out the best way to repair your foundation, and whether or not helical piles are the right solution for your situation.
Properly maintaining a home’s foundation will prevent structural damage such as cracks, slopping
Keep soil moisture at a constant level. Soil can expand with moisture and contract when it dries, causing settlement problems. Water the soil around your home during dry periods to keep moisture levels consistent with soil under your foundation.
Install a root barrier. If there are trees or shrubs planted near your home, install a barrier to prevent roots from growing under the foundation. Make sure any new trees or foliage is planted far enough away from the structure to avoid root problems in the future. Also remove any mulch that accumulates near the house.
If there are already cracks or other damage to your foundation, contact an experienced and knowledgeable foundation repair company to find out what is causing the damage. A skilled foundation expert can inspect your property and give you valuable advice regarding any repairs that may be needed to prevent further problems.
Keeping your foundation in good condition is extremely important. When a foundation is allowed to deteriorate, the building it supports will become unstable and will eventually collapse. Southern California homeowners in particular need to monitor the condition of their foundation due to the region’s regular seismic activity. Earthquakes can cause even more considerable damage to a home when the foundation is already damaged.
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:
Uneven or sloping floors - one of the most common indicators of foundation problems.
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.
Wall separation. Walls that are separating from windows, doors, garage doors, floors and ceilings are often evidence of foundation problems.
Wall bulging. Any masonry walls that bulge above the ground are dangerous and could result in structural failure.
Wall rotation. Settling can cause walls to rotate outward as the structure sinks.
Nail Popping: Nails can pop out of sheetrock or gypsum walls when there is a foundation settlement program.
Floor and foundation cracks.
Doors and windows that don’t open properly.
Weak Soil. A foundation can sink when it is built on weak soil.
Leaning chimneys.
Poor Soil Compaction. Many houses are built using fill soils. If the soil isn’t properly compacted, it can cause structure settlement.
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.
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.
by Shawn Kyles
Last week when I returned home there was a flyer in my door with the above statement, “California’s Most Trusted Contractor,” by a construction company that was looking for business. Among their list of approximately 40 specialties, (yes, I did say 40) they listed Bolting and Retrofitting so it caught my eye. At Julian Construction, Inc. we are experts in Foundation work, including House Bolting, and Earthquake Retrofitting, which includes Bracing Cripple Walls, and Anchor Bolts. We also will replace a foundation as needed, and we can complete a foundation repair to the existing stem wall and footing.
So as I reviewed the flyer, I noted that they did not list a California Contractor License Number on their flyer. Julian Construction, Inc. has a license and its number is 788526. If we send a mailing out, or place a door hanger at your home, we have our number on it. So as a consumer, if you see no license number you should be concerned, and do further investigation, as this is a red flag. Also as a consumer you should note the license number itself, our number 788… is 10 years plus old, a license that starts with say 876… would be around about 4 years, 918…would be only two years old and so on. This lets you know if the company has experience or is new to the business of construction.
So I turned the flyer over to look for the address, none to be found. Our address is 2900 W. Jefferson Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90018. This is where our office and yard is. Some contractors use a PO Box, a garage or a small office. The concern here is if they have been in business long, or possibly if they are just paper contractors. So as a consumer, drive by the place of business and ask does this look like a construction company? Check for a license and verify the number, make sure they have been around a while, and remember verify your contractor’s location and license number.
If you have a foundation issue involving a broken or cracked slab, or are in need of house bolting, seismic retrofitting, or floor and house leveling, foundation repair or replacement, make sure you select a truly reputable contractor. By law, every piece of promotion they send out should have their license number. Pick someone who has been around for a while, and who has a yard you can visit.
Those are some of the things you can check to find a reputable company.
The fact is, that for the 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. The most optimum thing you can do as the homeowner is obtain a better understanding of foundation problems and processes so that you can ask appropriate questions and select the contractor that will perform the best job for you. 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.
