When One Problem Becomes Another - How to Fix Cracking

Brian S. Called into Mid-State Basement Systems looking for an estimate on crawl space encapsulation. We sent an inspector over to help. Our Inspector Jio came out to the home and started to take a look at the crawl space but noticed severe cracks in the basement walls as well. Stair step cracking typically means that the problem is getting worse. As the wall bows more severely in the middle, the corners are held up by the adjacent walls, creating the stair step cracking effect. We have multiple routes of solution here at Mid-State Basement Systems. The first option is Carbon Fiber Straps. These straps are a suitable repair option when the wall is bowing in the middle and hasn’t started to slide in at the bottom or lean in at the top. Carbon fiber installations don’t require any outside digging or use of large equipment inside your home. Not all carbon fiber straps are the same! Our knowledgeable inspectors will make sure that what solution you choose is right for your home. Another option for this problem is our CarbonArmor System. This is the use of carbon fiber-reinforced polymers (CFRPs), which is a type of carbon fiber that is ten times stronger in tension than steel designed specifically for basement walls. CarbonArmor has a fabric-like quality that makes it flexible enough to contour tightly against basement walls. The two-part epoxy is another feature that truly sets this system apart. This adhesive penetrates the surface of the concrete, rather than just sitting on top of the wall’s surface. This two-part epoxy provides a stronger bond between the strap and wall than other solutions. Our PowerBrace System is another great option designed to permanently stabilize your home’s foundation. Zinc-plated steel beams are custom fit to the basement wall height and secured tightly against it. The PowerBrace unique patented design allows them to be tightened over time, stopping wall failure without any invasive drilling on the property. There are so many options you can choose from when it comes to keeping your home safe and securing the foundation. Give us a call today so we can help!