Preventing Foundation Failure
A home located on the edge of a hill in Colorado Springs, Colorado was built in a unique location. However, sloping into a small gulley, the home faced significant structural challenges as it began slipping towards the ravine. Consequently, the homeowner observed troubling signs of instability, including separations in the corners of rooms and cracks in the shower. Concerned about the structural integrity of their property, they sought professional assistance to stabilize their home’s foundation.
Overcoming Severe Slope Instability
- Severe Slope Instability: The home’s proximity to the ravine posed an ongoing risk of further movement and structural damage.
- Previous Repair Attempts: The homeowner had previous professional repairs done that had failed to stop the foundation’s movement.
- Rocky Soils: The site’s rocky subsurface required a specialized solution to achieve a secure and lasting repair.
Specialized Engineered Solutions
An engineer developed a comprehensive repair plan tailored to the unique conditions of the site. The solution included:
- 18 Vertical Micro Piles: Installed to stabilize the foundation and counteract vertical movement.
- 10 Tie-Back Micro Piles: Designed to anchor the structure and prevent lateral movement towards the ravine.
- 4 Vertical Micro Piles with Concrete Caps: The team installed four vertical micro piles with concrete caps to support the interior building columns, enhancing the stability of the home’s internal structure.
They designed the micro piles to penetrate and lock into the rocky bearing layer below the surface, effectively addressing the challenging soil conditions. Drilling reached depths of 25 feet, with penetration into the bearing layer ranging from 10 to 15 feet.
From Failure to Stability
Our team abandoned the previously installed push piers, which had proven ineffective. Using precision drilling equipment, we installed the engineered micro piles according to the repair plan. The drilling process ensured secure connections into the bearing layer, creating a solid and stable foundation to halt the home’s movement.
Ensuring Long-Term Stability
The comprehensive repair plan successfully stabilized the home, halting its movement towards the ravine. Specifically, the use of micro piles effectively counteracted both vertical and lateral forces, securing the structure and restoring the homeowner’s peace of mind. Furthermore, by addressing the unique challenges of the site with a carefully engineered solution, we ensured the long-term stability of the home. If you are unsure if your home is showing signs of foundation damage, find out more here.
Straight Line Construction’s Commitment
Throughout the project, Straight Line Construction demonstrated exceptional professionalism and dedication to quality. From start to finish, the team curated a tailored repair plan and executed it with precision, prioritizing clear communication, timely updates, and meticulous attention to detail. As a result, their expertise and commitment to excellence ensured a seamless process, providing the homeowner with confidence and satisfaction at every step.
