Your St Louis Foundation Repair Experts
Stratum Structural Systems is an Expert in Foundation Repair for the St. Louis Metropolitan Area
Stratum Structural Systems is a highly rated St. Louis, MO foundation repair company, and we treat our customers’ homes as if they were our own. We offer solutions for the following basement repair and foundation problems.
HYDROSTATIC PRESSURE PROBLEMS
Hydrostatic pressure is a term used to describe a high or rising water table. In St. Louis, water tables can fluctuate dramatically depending on rainfall amounts. If the water table rises enough, water can come up through foundation cracks in the floor or around the perimeter, at the floor and wall seam. Basement waterproofing relieves the hydrostatic pressure and prevents water from entering the basement.
EXTERIOR WATER ISSUES
Exterior water issues are among the primary reasons for the necessity of St. Louis foundation crack repair. Challenges such as standing water in the yard, water intrusion over the foundation, downspouts releasing water close to the foundation, and overflowing window wells contribute to this issue. Implementing solutions like adjusting the yard’s grade, setting up French drains, and extending downspouts can offer effective and straightforward remedies to these complications.
SETTLING FOUNDATION
Foundation settlement is a common challenge faced by homeowners, often resulting from clay soil shrinkage during droughts, soil erosion, or improperly compacted fill material. To address these concerns, foundation repairs become essential, and reputable foundation repair companies might suggest the installation of support mechanisms like helical or resistance piers. These piers offer added support, preventing further settlement and ensuring the structure’s stability. In instances where settlement is minor, primarily from moisture issues, integrating water management solutions can not only halt further damage but also enhance the effectiveness and longevity of the foundation repairs.
Testimonial
Karen (Homeowner)After 30 years in our home, we began finding several cracks in our 2-story vaulted great room and our foyers. We thought it was just some minor settling but it ended up being major foundation settling that needed to be addressed. Tim came out and inspected everything and provided a quote. He was wonderful to work with and because we had a very large project, he went out of his way to try to find some ways to lower the cost. Ultimately, it was not our most inexpensive quote but we felt most comfortable with Stratum and their reputation. We cannot say enough positive things about the young men who then came to work on our foundation. They were kind, considerate, polite, and always took time to answer all our questions as our piers were installed. They encountered more water than one would expect around our foundation and ultimately ended up recommending a new waterproofing system and a second sump pump while a lot of the foundation was already opened up. This saved a lot in pricing because it was done right after the piers and before the concrete was replaced. While one never enjoys spending a lot of money on a foundation, we are glad we found and used Stratum for our needs. We totally recommend them to anyone needing foundation repair/waterproofing.
FOUNDATION CRACKS
Foundation cracks can occur for many reasons. Not all cracks are structural concerns and often, simple epoxy or urethane injections can be administered to prevent water from entering the basement. If cracks widen, run diagonally or horizontally then they may be a symptom of a larger issue and further structural repairs may be needed.
BRICK & DRYWALL CRACKS
Cracks in brick, mortar, and drywall can indicate foundation movement, commonly seen after heavy rainfall or during extreme weather conditions such as high temperatures and droughts. This movement can also cause windows and doors to malfunction or stick, and you might observe significant cracks in the soil. If these signs are evident, hiring an expert foundation repair provider becomes essential. Stratum Structural Systems is adept at piering foundations to address and rectify these issues.
BOWING OR ROTATING WALLS
Bowing or rotating walls are normally a result of lateral movement caused by expanding clay soils. Expansion occurs during times of heavy, prolonged rains. You may notice diagonal or horizontal cracks in the basement walls. The installation of tieback anchors or soldier I Beam columns can be used to provide structural reinforcement to the foundation walls. In some cases of highly expansive soils, excavation and exterior pressure relief systems may also be needed to fully solve the problems.
WHY ST. LOUIS, MO FOUNDATION REPAIR REQUIRES A LOCAL EXPERT
The importance of local expertise when it comes to St. Louis foundation repairs is characterized by the midwest’s distinct soil composition, which can significantly impact the stability of foundations. At Stratum, we are attuned to these soil types, and this allows us to apply the most effective repair methods tailored specifically for our region. As leaders in the foundation repair industry, our deep-rooted understanding of St. Louis’s building codes ensures that all repair work not only addresses the core issues but also strictly adheres to local standards. Factor in the unique weather patterns we experience, from intense rainfall to the challenges of freeze-thaw cycles, and it becomes clear that a foundation repair in St. Louis, MO necessitates the seasoned knowledge of a local expert.
FAQS ABOUT ST LOUIS FOUNDATION REPAIR
Question: Is it expensive to get foundation repairs in St. Louis, MO?
Answer: The cost can vary depending on the severity of the damage and the repair method chosen. It’s best to get an estimate from a reputable St. Louis foundation repair company. However, neglecting the issue can lead to more severe and expensive problems down the road.
Question: Why are foundation repairs more common in St. Louis, MO compared to some other regions?
Answer: St. Louis has a unique soil composition, especially clay-rich soils, which tend to expand when wet and contract when dry. This constant shifting can lead to foundation problems over time, making foundation repairs and crack repair more common in the region.
Question: How can I tell if my home needs foundation repair?
Answer: Common signs include cracks in the walls, bricks, or drywall, doors and windows that stick or won’t close properly, uneven or sloping floors, and gaps between the walls and ceiling or floor. If you notice any of these, it’s advisable to consult a foundation repair expert.
Schedule a Home Inspection Today
Stratum Structural Systems provides foundation repair services in the St. Louis, MO, backed by our lifetime transferable warranty. Call us today at (314) 620-8153 or contact us online to schedule a free foundation inspection and basement repair quote.