Foundation Services

The foundation is the backbone of any structure, and its health is paramount to the safety and durability of your home. Various factors can jeopardize its integrity, from shifting soils to natural wear over time. Advanced Basement Technologies offers a range of services in Topeka, KS, to tackle these challenges head-on, ensuring a firm foundation for years to come.

Exterior Waterproofing

Significance: Just as a home requires a roof to protect against rain from above, it needs strong waterproofing to defend against moisture from below. Exterior waterproofing acts as a barrier, preventing groundwater and rainwater from seeping into the foundation.

Process: This involves ensuring effective drainage systems, like gutters and downspouts, are in place. Additionally, drain footings at the foundation base play a crucial role in directing water away from your home.

Crack Repair

Importance: Cracks are often the first sign of foundation distress. Left unchecked, they can widen over time, leading to water intrusion, increased energy bills, and even structural damage.

Methods: Whether it's minor surface cracks or deeper structural issues, our team has the expertise and equipment to address them. We repair both the interior and exterior wall cracks, ensuring comprehensive protection. The right approach depends on the crack's nature, and after an assessment, our technicians will recommend the most effective solution.

Piering Services

Overview: Over time, the soil beneath your home can shift, leading to uneven foundations. Piering is a technique used to stabilize and lift these compromised foundations, ensuring longevity.

Benefits: By stabilizing the foundation, piering not only rectifies current issues but also acts as a preventative measure against future problems.

Process: We collaborate with Earth Contact Products to use the industry's best materials for our piering services. The process involves inserting supports beneath the foundation to distribute its weight evenly and prevent further sinking or shifting.

Wall Rotation

Explanation: The pressure from shifting soil can cause basement walls to tilt or bow inward. This not only weakens the structural integrity of your home but also increases the risk of water seepage and other related issues.

Remedies:

  • Plate Anchors: These are external supports that hold onto the basement walls, counteracting the pressure from the soil. By drilling rods into the foundation and connecting steel plates on both ends, we can relieve this pressure and stabilize the wall.

  • I-Beams Installation: Used for severely tilted or bowed walls, I-beams act as an internal bracing system, providing additional support to resist the external soil pressure.

  • Carbon Fiber Straps: These are advanced, modern solutions that provide support for bowing walls. Lightweight yet incredibly strong, carbon fiber straps offer a less intrusive alternative to traditional methods.

Protect Your Foundation, Protect Your Home

At Advanced Basement Technologies, our commitment is to safeguard the structural health of your home. From proactive waterproofing measures to repairing existing damages, our team brings expertise, dedication, and state-of-the-art solutions to every project. Recognizing early signs of foundation distress can save considerable time, money, and stress in the long run. Ensure your home stands on a foundation as strong as the memories you make within its walls.

FAQS

Why is it important to waterproof my basement?

Waterproofing your basement is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it prevents structural damage caused by water seepage, which can weaken your home's foundation over time. Secondly, a damp basement can lead to mold growth, which poses health risks to the occupants. Additionally, waterproofing enhances the value of your home, ensuring a safer, more durable living space.

How can I tell if my foundation needs repair?

Several signs indicate foundation issues. These include visible cracks in the walls or floors, doors and windows that stick or don't close properly, uneven or sagging floors, gaps between the wall and ceiling or floor, and a tilting chimney. If you notice any of these signs, it's essential to consult a foundation specialist promptly to assess the situation and recommend appropriate solutions.

Are mold problems limited only to old homes?

No, mold problems can arise in both old and new homes. Mold growth is primarily due to moisture presence, which can be caused by factors like poor ventilation, water leaks, or flooding. Whether your home is newly built or has stood for decades, it's essential to regularly check for mold signs and address any moisture problems immediately.

What is the purpose of a sump pump, and do I really need one?

A sump pump is a device installed in the lowest part of your basement or crawlspace to help keep the area dry and prevent flooding. It works by collecting excess water and pumping it away from your home. If your basement is prone to flooding or if you live in an area with a high water table, a sump pump is highly recommended to prevent water damage and protect your property's structural integrity.