Foundation Repair

This method utilizes concrete cylinders that are approximately 12 inches long by 6 inches in diameter. There are two basic types of cylinders, some are solid and some have holes through the centers from end to end.

There are companies that claim that placing various materials in the center holes makes the piers more effective. They have even patented the process of placing different materials in the core of the piers to gain a marketing advantage.

Others point out that leaving a void at the core of the pier weakens it making in susceptible to crushing under the weight that is used to press it into the ground. The bottom line is that there are structures that are supported by hollow and solid concrete piers that are lasting and performing equally well.

Installation consists of digging holes next to the foundation in the areas where piers are required to allow access directly beneath the foundation. A hydraulic press is then used to press concrete cylinders into the soil directly beneath the foundation using the full weight of the foundation and the structure it supports.

The cylinders are pressed one on top of the next until they refuse to move any further. This process is continued until all piers are installed. Next the foundation is raised simultaneously in multiple locations and a cap and shims are placed on top of each pier and then the weight of the foundation is allowed to rest on the piers. This method is very effective because the weight of the structure is carried by multiple piers with each pier supporting only a fraction of the weight that was used to press it into.