Julian Construction Offers Retaining Wall Design and Building Service

LOS ANGELES – Construction and foundation repair expert Julian De La Torre, founder of Julian Construction announced the company now offers retaining wall design and building services. Retaining walls are freestanding structures used to keep soil on a slope from moving down.

“Many homes are built in areas that require retaining walls to hold back ground on a hillside and create more usable space,” says Julian. “They can also be used to stop soil from sliding away from a foundation or damaging landscaping.”

Retaining walls can be built from various materials, including brick, stone and concrete. Some of the more common types of restraining walls include gravity, anchor, sheet piling, and cantilever. Gravity restraining walls are the most common, and rely on their own weight to keep soil from moving. Cantilever walls are made with steel-reinforced concrete and use less material than a gravity wall. They convert horizontal pressures from the soil to vertical pressures on the ground. Anchor walls made with cables anchored into nearby rock or soil. Sheet piling walls are made from wood, vinyl or steel planks that are driven into the ground.

According to Julian, one of the factors to consider when determining what type of wall to build is whether or not the soil that it will restrain is fill material or a cut face. Other important aspects to the project include the amount of space that is available for the wall, the type of soil it will be built on, the slope of the ground above and below the wall, and the location of pipes or other service lines near the structure.

“Retaining walls need to be constructed properly in order to prevent leaning, cracking or bulging,” says Julian. “This includes choosing the right type of wall for the project, as well as the materials that will be used to construct it.”

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.

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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:

• 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.

• 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.

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JulianConstruction.com: 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 you are as ready as possible, rather than regret later.

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JulianConstruction.com: ‘California’s Most Trusted Contractor’

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.

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JulianConstruction.com: Why Buildings Collapse During an Earthquake

By Shawn Kyles

The 1994 Northridge earthquake lasted approximately 45 seconds. Building damage from the 6.7 quake was extensive and occurred up to 85 miles away. It included the collapse of the Northridge Meadows apartment complex, parking structures at the Northridge Fashion Center and California State University and damage to the area’s freeway system.

Why do buildings and other structures collapse during an earthquake? An earthquake is a sudden release of energy from the earth’s crust that travels in waves. It is caused by a slip in a fracture, also called a fault. The slip or movement can be up, down or horizontal (lateral).

Most buildings are designed to support their own weight (vertical loads). Some attention is paid to lateral loads like the wind, but building design typically focuses on vertical loading.

Depending on the direction of the slip during an earthquake, a building can experience too much lateral or vertical stress, resulting in structural damage or, at its worst, failure. However, it is usually too much lateral load that causes the most damage.

Most houses that have been jolted off of their foundation during an earthquake have to be torn down. The really bad news is that even when a house in uninhabitable following a quake, the mortgage still needs to be paid.

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.

Retrofitting a home can help prevent earthquake damage. The process involves properly bolting the building’s understructure to its foundation, and bracing cripple walls (short stud walls between the floor and foundation of some houses) with structural-grade plywood. Tying the floor system down with approved framing anchors can also improve your home’s structural integrity.

Depending on the size of the quake, a retrofit may not prevent damage entirely, but it can definitely reduce it. It is also added insurance that you and your family will be kept safe during a seismic event.

The cost for retrofitting a home will vary depending on the size of the home and number of stories.

Older house rarely meet existing safety standards and almost always need retrofitting. In Los Angeles, homes built prior to 1940 were not bolted to the foundation. Some more modern wood frame homes built during the 1970s were bolted down, but came off their foundation during a quake because of improper bracing of the cripple walls.

The best way to determine whether or not your house is at risk for earthquake damage is to request a foundation inspection from an experienced and trained professional. You’ll find out exactly what needs to be done to prevent earthquake damage to your home and protect your family from injury.

Shawn Kyles is an expert in foundation repair & house bolting, and a partner at Julian Construction (http://www.julianconstruction.com) in Los Angeles. He has inspected over 15,000 structures, working with engineering firms & local departments of building & safety. Julian Construction owns its own company and is a “no middlemen” model--no salesmen or subcontractors--you get the principals of the company & its workers under your home. The company’s blog is http://julianconstruction.typepad.com/

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JulianConstruction.com: How to Prevent Foundation Damage from Water

By Shawn Kyles

Water is essential to life, and in most cases is probably viewed as helpful or benign to us.

But rainwater, sprinkler water, and water from broken plumbing can cause significant damage to a home’s foundation. Even though initial signs of water damage may seem insignificant, any evidence of water problems should be thoroughly investigated to prevent the foundation from weakening.

Plumbing should be regularly checked for leaks, along with washing machine hoses and water heaters. One way to find out if there are any plumbing issues, is to take a water meter reading and then turn off all faucets and any appliances that use water. Don’t flush toilets for an hour. Then, re-check the meter to see if the amount of water used has increased. If so, that indicates that you have a plumbing leak that could then cause damage to the foundation. You can also purchase water alarms with built-in moisture sensors, and install them near water-using appliances, and under sinks and toilets.

Also keep your roof free of debris and regularly clean gutters and downspouts. When rainwater can’t pass through a clogged gutter, it can flow down walls to the ground, where it can seep into the home’s foundation. Examine your home’s exterior walls for cracks or holes where rain can seep in, and have them sealed. This includes places where plumbing or wiring enter or exit the building.

Make sure any exterior windows and doors, particularly in the basement, are well sealed and close properly. If you find any windows or doors that don’t open and shut correctly, your foundation may already be damaged and should immediately be inspected by an experienced foundation repair expert.

When water seeps into the soil underneath a foundation, it can cause the soil to expand and lift the foundation, resulting in foundation cracks. When the soil dries, the foundation will settle. Constant expansion and contraction will increase and worsen structural damage. Water can also create foundation cracks and make any existing fissures larger. Other problems resulting from water entering a home include moisture-induced mildew and mold.

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.

Studies show that seemingly benign water causes more structural damage to homes than any other hazard. If you have drainage problems or suspect foundation problems may already exist, have your home looked at by an experienced foundation repair expert. Quickly resolving water leakage or drainage problems can prevent costly foundation repairs or replacement down the road.

Shawn Kyles is an expert in foundation repair & house bolting, and a partner at Julian Construction (http://www.julianconstruction.com) in Los Angeles. He has inspected over 15,000 structures, working with engineering firms & local departments of building & safety. Julian Construction owns its own company and is a “no middlemen” model--no salesmen or subcontractors--you get the principals of the company & its workers under your home. The company’s blog is http://julianconstruction.typepad.com/

 

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JulianConstruction.com: Preventing Indoor Mold Problems

By Shawn Kyles

Mold is a type of fungus that travels through the air. When it lands on something that contains moisture, the spores will multiply. When it propagates indoors, it can create serious health problems, including allergies, asthma attacks and pneumonia. Mold can be detected visually or, in some cases, by smell. There are also air and surface tests that can be conducted to determine if mold is present in the environment. After the mold has been found, it needs to be scrubbed off with warm water, detergent and/or bleach. Don’t forget to dry the area after it has been cleaned to prevent the mold from returning. Then, the source of the moisture needs to be identified so it can be eradicated.

There are many ways that the growth of mold on interior walls, surfaces and building materials can also be prevented.

Begin by inspecting any drainage systems, including gutters and downspouts. Look for standing puddles of water, which is an indicator of improper drainage. Remove any debris that has accumulated in the drains, and make repairs as needed. Also inspect doors, windows, and exterior light fixtures for leaks that can cause water to enter your home.

Check to see that your roof is in good repair and keep it properly maintained. Call a qualified roofing company to ensure there are no leaks and for help in fixing any problems. Also inspect your plumbing and make any necessary repairs. This includes preventing or stopping leakage from sinks, toilets and washing machines. Make sure there are no foundation cracks or other damage that can result in water seepage. A foundation repair expert can conduct a thorough inspection of your home to detect any existing or potential problems that could lead to mold growth.

Whenever possible, use mold-resistant materials in basements and avoid materials that facilitate mold growth.

Here are some additional steps to take following a water leak or flooding:

 

1. Locate where the water has entered your home or building

 

1. Stop any more water from coming in to the structure

 

1. Get rid of any water that has accumulated

 

1. Remove any objects that have gotten wet, including carpeting

 

1. Remove the lower and upper portions of a walls, including trim

 

1. Dry any wet areas with fans or heaters

 

Besides mold, rainwater, sprinkler water, and water from broken plumbing can cause significant damage to a home’s foundation. Even though initial signs of water damage may seem insignificant, any evidence of water problems should be thoroughly investigated to prevent the foundation from weakening. When water seeps into the soil underneath a foundation, it can cause the soil to expand and lift the foundation, resulting in foundation cracks. When the soil dries, the foundation will settle. Constant expansion and contraction will increase and worsen structural damage. Water can also create foundation cracks and make any existing fissures larger.

Studies show that seemingly benign water causes more structural damage to homes than any other hazard. If you have drainage problems or suspect foundation problems may already exist, have your home looked at by an experienced foundation repair expert. Quickly resolving water leakage or drainage problems can prevent costly foundation repairs or replacement down the road.

Many homes have mold. It is the extent of the mold growth that is often the problem. A company that specializes in mold testing and remediation can answer your questions regarding and will usually conduct a free inspection of your property if you are concerned about mold issues. They can also give you good advice on how to eliminate any mold problems.

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