This property rescue story began when our homeowners engaged Mike and Neil at Rebilt for internal renovations.
However, the team identified external and internal cracking that flagged property movement. Generally, cracks tend to appear when a home’s structural system is compromised by movement which may be caused by settling, shifting and/or material deterioration.
Cracks may begin as hairline-thin and appear inconspicuous. But over time, these same cracks can expand, lengthen, or multiply if the underlying root cause remains unaddressed.
In this case the team accessed beneath the sub-floor and noticed soil erosion and salty white efflorescence on many of the brick pier foundations. Efflorescence can suggest ongoing water penetration into the home. Some of these brick piers sat on deteriorated bases while the piers themselves were crooked and unsupportive. The home’s suspended concrete slab appeared to be arching and under stress. Upon further inspection around the home, it appeared that there was persistent external surface water leaking into the subfloor area of the home.
Persistent water leaks and seepage in a building can compromise structural integrity over time. Exposure to unremitting water penetration deteriorates building materials, erodes foundations, and causes ongoing shifting as the water gains access into the ground and the foundational materials. Left unaddressed this can undermine the structural integrity of the home.
In our case study, Rebilt consulted with a structural and hydraulic engineer to collaborate for a solution to regain the property’s structural strength. This rectifying solution meant that water was pumped out, drains installed strategically, waterproofing installed, dish drains created and retaining wall built.
If water intrusion is suspected in your property and structural repairs required, fill out the fast form for a FREE site visit by Rebilt.
