There are several methods or piers available that will work depending on the application and or weight of the structure. The extent of the damage, the age and the condition of the soil, will most often determine what system is best.
The majority of the weight of a home is distributed around the outside perimeter. Though there are load barring walls within the interior, even second story weight, but the bulk of the weight is on the outside perimeter walls. Areas of poor soil compaction, poor drainage, water leaks that have saturated the soil, no gutters, clogged gutters or just poor soil in general, is when the problem occurs. When the soil is compromised for any reason, the weight of the structure is able to further compact the area; causing settlement.
The question is what can be done. What methods will work and what methods will not work. If the issue is the soil, the less weight being added to the soil the better. Many contractors might suggest using a form of concrete to beef up the area; lift it and realign it. The problem with this is the additional weight to an area that is already experiencing failure. Adding weight to an already burdened area may work for a short while but it is not a permanent repair. It is only a band aid.
The following are some repair methods most common in the industry:
- Steel Push Piers
- Helical Piers or Piles
- Tie Back, Wall & Plate Anchors
- Pressed Concrete Piers
- Bottle Jacks / Interior Support
- Mudkacking
