It is common knowledge that Los Angeles is situated in an active seismic zone and many homes here are built on expansive soil.
Consequently, distressed or sinking and settling foundations are common issues faced by homeowners here. Concrete slab foundations are the most common type of foundations in newer construction owing to their ability to stand up well to earthquakes and wet soil. However, over time, they may develop minor cracks and fractures or incur extensive damage. This puts the building as well as its residents at risk and should, therefore, be addressed instantly. Slab foundations are usually 4”-6” thick at the center and are often constructed over a layer of sand to help facilitate drainage or act as a buffer between the soil and the foundation. Damages to this kind of foundation may occur if it is built on expansive clay or improperly compacted fill soils, or if the soil is oversaturated owing to poor drainage.
A distressed slab foundation makes itself known through several different signs around the house. It is crucial that you stay alert and look out for these signs so that foundation issues may be detected at an early stage and tended to immediately. Some of the most common warning signs include:
If you are concerned about the safety of your slab foundation, look for these signs around the house. If you notice one or more of them, contact Alpha Structural right away to quickly and efficiently take care of it.
Depending on the nature and extent of damage, it is important to employ a slab foundation repair method that is best suited for the needs of your slab foundation. In most cases where repair is needed, Alpha Structural uses either underpinning or slab foundation replacement to repair slab foundations. Underpinning buttresses an existing slab foundation, adding strength and allowing it to support more weight.
This technique is used in cases where the existing slab can be saved. If it can’t, it may be necessary for a slab foundation replacement. In this case, our engineers and repair specialists will be able to manage the project for you from start to finish to ensure the highest quality results for a great value. Our team of well-trained and highly skilled technicians here at Alpha Structural will accurately assess the nature and extent of damage to your foundation and choose a method that is most appropriate to treat it.
Repairing a distressed foundation, if delayed, can end up costing much more than it initially would. The damages worsen over time and can seriously compromise both the structural integrity and the cosmetics of the property. A building with an unstable foundation is also a hazard to its residents. The benefits of treating foundation problems are endless. Not only does it make the structure safe to live in, but it also preserves the aesthetic value of your home, keeping it in top shape for generations to come.
Alpha Structural, in addition to having been in business for over 25 years, has upwards of 850 years of combined technical experience. Our in-house engineers and technicians are among the most experienced in Los Angeles and all of Southern California. If you would like to know more about slab foundation repair Los Angeles residents can call us, or email today to schedule a consultation.
In order to determine whether or not your property truly needs a slab foundation repair, it is important that you look for signs that point towards a distressed foundation. This includes cracks in exterior, interior, or foundation walls, uneven floors, and doors or windows that do not open and shut properly, among others.
The approximate cost of repairing a slab foundation depends entirely on the extent of its damage and what caused it. If you are interested in learning more, email or call Alpha Structural to set up an inspection and get an estimate.
A foundation is more than just the bottom floor of your property. It is the base that supports everything you work so hard to protect. At Alpha Structural, Inc., we treat each project with that level of responsibility and respect. That’s why families and businesses across Los Angeles choose us to protect the structures that protect them. If you want your foundation built to the Alpha Standard, contact us today to schedule an inspection.