Foundation Repair Methods

Noticing cracks in your walls, uneven floors, or doors that stick? These are signs your foundation may need to be inspected. At Bluebird CFW, we use proven foundation repair techniques to fix these problems and bring stability back to your home. From helical piers to carbon fiber straps for foundation repair, each method is designed to solve a specific issue, like sinking, bowing walls, or shifting. Wondering what might work for your home? Let’s look at the most common foundation repair methods we use and how they help.

4 Methods for Foundation Repair

From lifting a sinking foundation to strengthening bowing walls, there are a few trusted ways to fix foundation problems. Wondering how foundation repair is done? Below, we’ll explain common methods that help stop damage and keep your home strong for years to come.

Helical Piers

Foundation helical piers are steel rods with screw-like plates that are drilled deep into firm soil under your foundation. They help by transferring your home’s weight to solid ground, making them a good choice if your house is sinking unevenly or if the soil is compacting or eroding. Installing helical piers is usually faster and less messy than other methods. They can be used for both new and old foundations.

Pros

• Versatile solution that works for multiple building types
• High loading bearing capacity
• Lasts for decades

Cons

• Requires a more significant initial investment

Carbon Fiber Straps

Carbon fiber straps are a simple way to strengthen basement walls that are starting to bow or crack. These thin, strong strips are attached to the inside of the wall. There’s no large equipment or digging needed, and the straps are barely visible once installed. They work best for walls that are bowing less than two inches and are an affordable fix for minor issues.

Pros

• No digging or big equipment needed
• Doesn’t take up space in your basement

Cons

• Must be installed by a professional for best results
• Only works if the wall is bowing less than two inches
• Won’t straighten walls or fix sinking foundations

Wall Anchors

Wall anchors are an effective way to fix basement walls that are bowing or leaning. Steel plates are installed on the interior basement wall and connected to earth anchors in the ground with steel walls. This setup pulls the wall back and helps keep it from moving more. Wall anchors work well for walls bowing more than two inches and are stronger than carbon fiber straps.

Pros

• Strong, long-lasting fix for leaning or bowing walls
• Good for walls that are bowing more than 2 inches
• Anchors into solid soil for extra support
• Can be tightened over time if needed

Cons

• Involves digging in the ground near your home

Wall Braces

Wall braces are strong metal supports placed inside your basement to keep bowed or cracked walls from moving further. They work well when the wall is bending too much for carbon fiber straps, but doesn’t need wall anchors.

Pros

• Fast and simple to install inside your basement
• No digging or mess outside
• Provide quick support to bowed or cracked walls
• Works well for moderate wall problems
• In some cases, the bowing wall can be straightened

The best repair method depends on your home’s condition, the soil, and your budget. If your foundation is sinking, helical piers can help level it. For bowing walls, you might need carbon fiber straps, wall braces, or wall anchors, depending on how much the wall has moved. Not sure what you need? Bluebird CFW is here to help. We’ll check your home, explain the foundation issue, and recommend the right fix. Contact us today to schedule your inspection and get a repair plan that works for you.