Foundation Repair Photo Album: Soil Movement Foundation Damage - Newark, NJ

A resident in Newark, New Jersey noticed cracking in their foundation of the building. After a home is constructed, changes in the surrounding soil are the primary cause of foundation settlement. Extreme moisture changes, such as drought or oversaturation, and poorly compacted soils, this creates soil movement. The movement shifts the foundation, causing cracked walls, uneven floors, and sinking foundation. The resident contacted Quality 1st Basement Systems and our System Design Specialist, Steve Ventriglio, was able to help them with a plan. He suggested they install steel piers under the foundation to lift the home back to its original position. Our foreman, Esau Aquino, installed the Push Pier System to permanently stabilize the foundation. Rugged steel tube sections are hydraulically driven through steel foundation brackets to reach the competent soil. The weight of the home is then transferred from the unstable soils, through the piers, and to the competent soil. These piers do not require the use of heavy equipment, and will lift and stabilize the foundation to a level position.

Stair Step Cracking

Stair step cracking in brick is a common symptom of foundation settlement. As the home settles further, the cracks will widen, indicating that the wall is rotating.

Sign of Foundation Settlement

Signs of foundation settlement can be seen inside the home, but also outside. Cracking in the foundation is a sign of foundation settlement issues.

Push Piers Being Installed

This is the process of the push piers being installed. The steel pier sections are hydraulically driven through the bracket to the stable soil layer.

Push Piers Install Process

The push piers are a quick installation and the best opportunity to lift the home back to the original position.

Push Piers Installed

As a below-grade solution, the push piers are concealed from sight. Once the system is secured, our team will begin backfilling the soil over the system.