Checking Perimeter Drains to Prevent Clogging

Checking Perimeter Drains to Prevent Clogging

Tips for communicating effectively with clients about follow up plans and expectations

Explanation of what perimeter drains are and their function in preventing water damage. Wireless tilt meters track foundation movement for long-term stability monitoring foundation repair service near me home improvement.


Perimeter drains are an essential component in many building structures, especially in regions prone to heavy rainfall or with high water tables. Essentially, a perimeter drain is a system of pipes or channels installed around the perimeter of a building's foundation. Their primary function is to intercept and redirect water away from the building, thereby preventing water damage.

The concept behind perimeter drains is quite straightforward yet highly effective. Water, when left unchecked around a building's foundation, can lead to a multitude of problems. It can seep into the basement or crawl space, causing mold growth, damaging walls, and even compromising the structural integrity of the building. By installing a perimeter drain, water is effectively channeled away from these critical areas.

The system typically consists of perforated pipes laid in a bed of gravel. The perforations allow water to enter the pipe from the surrounding soil. Once inside the pipe, the water is directed to a designated discharge point, such as a storm drain or a dry well, away from the building. This process significantly reduces the hydrostatic pressure against the foundation walls, minimizing the risk of water infiltration.

Regular maintenance of perimeter drains is crucial to ensure their effectiveness. Over time, these drains can become clogged with debris such as leaves, dirt, and other materials. When a perimeter drain is clogged, it can no longer effectively redirect water away from the building, leading to potential water damage. Therefore, checking perimeter drains for clogging is an important part of home or building maintenance.

In conclusion, perimeter drains play a vital role in protecting buildings from water damage. By understanding their function and ensuring they are kept clear of debris, property owners can significantly reduce the risk of water-related issues, preserving the integrity and longevity of their buildings.

Common signs that indicate a perimeter drain may be clogged or malfunctioning.


Certainly!

When it comes to maintaining the integrity of your home's foundation and preventing water damage, perimeter drains play a crucial role. These drains are designed to collect and redirect water away from the foundation, thus safeguarding against moisture-related issues. However, like any system, perimeter drains can become clogged or malfunction over time. Recognizing the signs early can save you from significant repairs down the line. Here are some common indicators that your perimeter drain may be clogged or not functioning properly.

Firstly, one of the most obvious signs is the presence of standing water around your foundation. If you notice puddles or areas where water seems to be collecting rather than draining away, this could be a red flag. Water that doesn't seem to dissipate even after a heavy rain is a strong indicator that the drain is not effectively doing its job.

Another sign to watch for is an increase in moisture or dampness in your basement or crawl space. If you start to notice musty odors, mold growth, or damp spots on walls or floors, it may be due to a malfunctioning perimeter drain. These symptoms often point to water seeping into areas it shouldn't, which can lead to more severe problems if left unaddressed.

Additionally, pay attention to any cracks or shifts in your foundation. While these issues can have various causes, a clogged perimeter drain can exacerbate them by allowing water to pool around the foundation, leading to increased pressure and potential structural damage.

Lastly, if you have a sump pump that seems to be working overtime, this could also indicate a problem with your perimeter drain. A sump pump that runs frequently or doesn't seem to keep up with the water levels may suggest that the drain is not efficiently redirecting water away from your home.

In conclusion, keeping an eye on these common signs can help you identify issues with your perimeter drain before they escalate into more serious problems. Regular inspections and maintenance can go a long way in ensuring your home remains dry and structurally sound.

Step-by-step guide on how to inspect perimeter drains for blockages.


Certainly! Here's a human-like, step-by-step guide on how to inspect perimeter drains for blockages, focusing on the topic of checking perimeter drains to prevent clogging:

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Inspecting perimeter drains for blockages is a crucial maintenance task to ensure your home's drainage system functions efficiently and prevents water damage. Here's a straightforward guide to help you through the process:

1. **Gather Your Tools**: Before you start, make sure you have the necessary tools. You'll need a flashlight, a garden hose, a bucket, gloves, and possibly a small trowel or brush.

2. **Locate the Drains**: Perimeter drains are typically installed around the foundation of your home. They may be visible as grates or hidden under mulch or soil. Take a walk around your house to find all the drain locations.

3. **Visual Inspection**: Begin with a visual check. Look for any obvious signs of blockage such as standing water, debris around the grate, or overgrown vegetation. Remove any visible debris by hand or with a brush.

4. **Remove the Grates**: Using a trowel or your hands, carefully lift the grates covering the drains. Set them aside in a safe place where they won't be misplaced.

5. **Check for Debris Inside**: Shine your flashlight into the drain to look for any accumulated debris. Common culprits include leaves, dirt, and small stones. If you see blockages, use a small brush or your hands (wearing gloves) to remove them.

6. **Flush the Drain**: To ensure the drain is clear, use a garden hose to flush water through it. Start with a gentle stream and gradually increase the pressure. Watch how the water flows; if it drains slowly or pools, there may still be a blockage.

7. **Inspect the Surrounding Area**: Look at the ground around the drain. If it's mushy or shows signs of erosion, it could indicate a problem with the drain's efficiency.

8. **Repeat the Process**: Move to the next drain and repeat steps 3 through 7 until you've checked all perimeter drains around your home.

9. **Replace the Grates**: Once you've inspected and cleared all the drains, replace the grates securely to protect them from future debris.

10. **Monitor Regularly**: To prevent future clogs, make it a habit to check your perimeter drains seasonally, especially before heavy rains. Keeping them clear will help maintain the integrity of your home's foundation and prevent water damage.

By following these steps, you can effectively inspect and maintain your perimeter drains, ensuring they remain free of blockages and function properly.

Tools and materials needed for checking and maintaining perimeter drains.


Maintaining perimeter drains is crucial to prevent clogging and ensure the efficient functioning of your property's drainage system. To check and maintain these drains, you'll need a variety of tools and materials. Here's a comprehensive list and brief explanation of each:

1. **Gloves**: Safety should be your top priority. Wearing gloves protects your hands from debris, chemicals, and potential hazards within the drain.

2. **Flashlight**: Many perimeter drains are in dark, hard-to-reach areas. A flashlight helps you see inside the drain to check for clogs or other issues.

3. **Bucket**: A bucket is useful for collecting water and debris when you flush out the drain. It also helps in transporting any materials you might need.

4. **Scrub Brush**: A sturdy scrub brush is essential for dislodging and removing debris stuck inside the drain. Look for one with stiff bristles that can handle tough clogs.

5. **Plunger**: A plunger can help dislodge minor clogs. Ensure you have one that fits the size of your drain openings.

6. **Garden Hose**: A garden hose is invaluable for flushing out the drain. High-pressure water can help remove loose debris and ensure the drain is clear.

7. **Drain Snake or Auger**: For more stubborn clogs, a drain snake or auger can reach deep into the drain to break up and remove obstructions.

8. **Bucket Trowel**: This tool is handy for digging around the drain if you need to access it from the outside. It can also help in removing sediment build-up.

9. **Shop Vacuum**: A shop vacuum can be used to suction out water and debris from the drain, making the cleaning process more efficient.

10. **Enzyme-Based Drain Cleaner**: While mechanical tools are essential, an enzyme-based drain cleaner can help break down organic matter that causes clogs. Ensure it's safe for use in outdoor drains.

11. **Gravel or Crushed Stone**: If you need to refill the drain after cleaning, having gravel or crushed stone on hand ensures you restore the drain to its proper function.

Regularly checking and maintaining your perimeter drains with these tools and materials will help prevent clogs, ensuring your drainage system operates smoothly and efficiently.

Best practices for keeping perimeter drains clear and functioning effectively.


Maintaining perimeter drains is crucial for preventing water damage and ensuring the structural integrity of your property. Here are some best practices for keeping these drains clear and functioning effectively.

Firstly, regular inspections are key. You should check your perimeter drains at least once a season, preferably after heavy rains or during changes in weather. Look for any visible signs of clogging such as debris, leaves, or sediment buildup. Early detection can prevent more severe issues down the line.

Secondly, clean the drains thoroughly. Use a garden hose to flush out any loose debris. For stubborn clogs, a plumber's snake or a wet/dry vacuum can be effective. Be gentle to avoid damaging the drain structure.

Thirdly, consider installing a mesh cover over the drains. This simple addition can significantly reduce the amount of debris that enters the system, making your cleaning tasks easier and less frequent.

Fourthly, ensure proper grading around your property. The ground should slope away from your home to facilitate effective water runoff. If necessary, adjust the landscaping to improve drainage.

Lastly, be mindful of what you dispose of outdoors. Avoid pouring grease, oils, or other non-biodegradable substances near the drains, as these can cause long-term clogging issues.

By following these best practices, you can keep your perimeter drains clear and ensure they function effectively, safeguarding your property from potential water damage.

Potential consequences of ignoring clogged perimeter drains in residential properties.


Certainly! Here's a human-like essay on the potential consequences of ignoring clogged perimeter drains in residential properties.

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In residential properties, perimeter drains play a crucial role in managing excess water around the foundation. These drains are designed to direct water away from the house, preventing moisture from seeping into the basement or crawl space. However, when these drains become clogged, the repercussions can be significant and far-reaching.

One of the most immediate consequences of ignoring clogged perimeter drains is the risk of water accumulation around the foundation. When water isn't properly diverted, it can lead to increased hydrostatic pressure, which exerts force on the foundation walls. Over time, this pressure can cause cracks and structural damage, compromising the integrity of the entire building.

Moreover, stagnant water created by clogged drains provides an ideal environment for mold and mildew growth. These fungi not only pose health risks to residents but can also lead to unpleasant odors and further deterioration of the property. Mold can spread rapidly in moist conditions, infiltrating walls, insulation, and even personal belongings, leading to costly remediation efforts.

Another significant issue is the potential for insect infestations. Clogged drains can attract pests such as mosquitoes, which breed in standing water, and other insects that thrive in damp environments. These pests can become a nuisance and may even transmit diseases, adding another layer of concern for homeowners.

Financially, the consequences of neglecting perimeter drain maintenance can be substantial. Repairing structural damage, addressing mold issues, and exterminating pests can accumulate significant costs. Additionally, if the property is ever put on the market, these problems could lower its value and deter potential buyers.

In conclusion, the potential consequences of ignoring clogged perimeter drains in residential properties are multifaceted and serious. From structural damage and mold growth to pest infestations and financial burdens, the risks are substantial. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to any signs of clogging are essential to preserving the safety, health, and value of your home.



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Interior of part of a damaged home in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina
Family photographs damaged by flooding
A smaller and more minor water spot caused by rainwater leaking through a roof

Water damage describes various possible losses caused by water intruding where it will enable attack of a material or system by destructive processes such as rotting of wood, mold growth, bacteria growth, rusting of steel, swelling of composite woods, de-laminating of materials such as plywood, short-circuiting of electrical devices, etc.

The damage may be imperceptibly slow and minor such as water spots that could eventually mar a surface, or it may be instantaneous and catastrophic such as burst pipes and flooding. However fast it occurs, water damage is a major contributor to loss of property.

An insurance policy may or may not cover the costs associated with water damage and the process of water damage restoration. While a common cause of residential water damage is often the failure of a sump pump, many homeowner's insurance policies do not cover the associated costs without an addendum which adds to the monthly premium of the policy. Often the verbiage of this addendum is similar to "Sewer and Drain Coverage".

In the United States, those individuals who are affected by wide-scale flooding may have the ability to apply for government and FEMA grants through the Individual Assistance program.[1] On a larger level, businesses, cities, and communities can apply to the FEMA Public Assistance program for funds to assist after a large flood. For example, the city of Fond du Lac Wisconsin received $1.2 million FEMA grant after flooding in June 2008. The program allows the city to purchase the water damaged properties, demolish the structures, and turn the former land into public green space.[citation needed]

Causes

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Water damage can originate by different sources such as a broken dishwasher hose, a washing machine overflow, a dishwasher leakage, broken/leaking pipes, flood waters, groundwater seepage, building envelope failures (leaking roof, windows, doors, siding, etc.) and clogged toilets. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, 13.7% of all water used in the home today can be attributed to plumbing leaks.[2] On average that is approximately 10,000 gallons of water per year wasted by leaks for each US home. A tiny, 1/8-inch crack in a pipe can release up to 250 gallons of water a day.[3] According to Claims Magazine in August 2000, broken water pipes ranked second to hurricanes in terms of both the number of homes damaged and the amount of claims (on average $50,000 per insurance claim[citation needed]) costs in the US.[4] Experts suggest that homeowners inspect and replace worn pipe fittings and hose connections to all household appliances that use water at least once a year. This includes washing machines, dishwashers, kitchen sinks, and bathroom lavatories, refrigerator icemakers, water softeners, and humidifiers. A few US companies offer whole-house leak protection systems utilizing flow-based technologies. A number of insurance companies offer policyholders reduced rates for installing a whole-house leak protection system.

As far as insurance coverage is concerned, damage caused by surface water intrusion to the dwelling is considered flood damage and is normally excluded from coverage under traditional homeowners' insurance. Surface water is water that enters the dwelling from the surface of the ground because of inundation or insufficient drainage and causes loss to the dwelling. Coverage for surface water intrusion[5] to the dwelling would usually require a separate flood insurance policy.

Categories

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There are three basic categories of water damage, based on the level of contamination.

Category 1 Water - Refers to a source of water that does not pose substantial threat to humans and classified as "clean water". Examples are broken water supply lines, tub or sink overflows or appliance malfunctions that involves water supply lines.

Category 2 Water - Refers to a source of water that contains a significant degree of chemical, biological or physical contaminants and causes discomfort or sickness when consumed or even exposed to. Known as "grey water". This type carries microorganisms and nutrients of micro-organisms. Examples are toilet bowls with urine (no feces), sump pump failures, seepage due to hydrostatic failure and water discharge from dishwashers or washing machines.

Category 3 Water - Known as "black water" and is grossly unsanitary. This water contains unsanitary agents, harmful bacteria and fungi, causing severe discomfort or sickness. Type 3 category are contaminated water sources that affect the indoor environment. This category includes water sources from sewage, seawater, rising water from rivers or streams, storm surge, ground surface water or standing water. Category 2 Water or Grey Water that is not promptly removed from the structure and or have remained stagnant may be re classified as Category 3 Water. Toilet back flows that originates from beyond the toilet trap is considered black water contamination regardless of visible content or color.[6]

Classes

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Class of water damage is determined by the probable rate of evaporation based on the type of materials affected, or wet, in the room or space that was flooded. Determining the class of water damage is an important first step, and will determine the amount and type of equipment utilized to dry-down the structure.[7]

Class 1 - Slow Rate of Evaporation. Affects only a portion of a room. Materials have a low permeance/porosity. Minimum moisture is absorbed by the materials. **IICRC s500 2016 update adds that class 1 be indicated when <5% of the total square footage of a room (ceiling+walls+floor) are affected **

Class 2 - Fast Rate of Evaporation. Water affects the entire room of carpet and cushion. May have wicked up the walls, but not more than 24 inches. **IICRC s500 2016 update adds that class 2 be indicated when 5% to 40% of the total square footage of a room (ceiling+walls+floor) are affected **

Class 3 - Fastest Rate of Evaporation. Water generally comes from overhead, affecting the entire area; walls, ceilings, insulation, carpet, cushion, etc. **IICRC s500 2016 update adds that class 3 be indicated when >40% of the total square footage of a room (ceiling+walls+floor) are affected **

Class 4 - Specialty Drying Situations. Involves materials with a very low permeance/porosity, such as hardwood floors, concrete, crawlspaces, gypcrete, plaster, etc. Drying generally requires very low specific humidity to accomplish drying.

Restoration

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Water damage restoration can be performed by property management teams, building maintenance personnel, or by the homeowners themselves; however, contacting a certified professional water damage restoration specialist is often regarded as the safest way to restore water damaged property. Certified professional water damage restoration specialists utilize psychrometrics to monitor the drying process.[8]

Standards and regulation

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While there are currently no government regulations in the United States dictating procedures, two certifying bodies, the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) and the RIA, do recommend standards of care. The current IICRC standard is ANSI/IICRC S500-2021.[9] It is the collaborative work of the IICRC, SCRT, IEI, IAQA, and NADCA.

Fire and Water Restoration companies are regulated by the appropriate state's Department of Consumer Affairs - usually the state contractors license board. In California, all Fire and Water Restoration companies must register with the California Contractors State License Board.[10] Presently, the California Contractors State License Board has no specific classification for "water and fire damage restoration."

Procedures

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Water damage restoration is often prefaced by a loss assessment and evaluation of affected materials. The damaged area is inspected with water sensing equipment such as probes and other infrared tools in order to determine the source of the damage and possible extent of areas affected. Emergency mitigation services are the first order of business. Controlling the source of water, removal of non-salvageable materials, water extraction and pre-cleaning of impacted materials are all part of the mitigation process. Restoration services would then be rendered to the property in order to dry the structure, stabilize building materials, sanitize any affected or cross-contaminated areas, and deodorize all affected areas and materials. After the labor is completed, water damage equipment including air movers, air scrubbers, dehumidifiers, wood floor drying systems, and sub-floor drying equipment is left in the residence. The goal of the drying process is to stabilize the moisture content of impacted materials below 15%, the generally accepted threshold for microbial amplification. Industry standards state that drying vendors should return at regular time intervals, preferably every twenty-four hours, to monitor the equipment, temperature, humidity, and moisture content of the affected walls and contents.[6] In conclusion, key aspects of water damage restoration include fast action, adequate equipment, moisture measurements, and structural drying. Dehumidification is especially crucial for structural components affected by water damage, such as wooden beams, flooring, and drywall.

See also

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  • Indoor mold

References

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  1. ^ "Individual Disaster Assistance". DisasterAssistance.gov. Retrieved 2009-09-28.
  2. ^ "How We Use Water". 16 January 2017.
  3. ^ The University of Maine Corporate Extension – www.umext.maine.edu
  4. ^ Herndon Jr., Everette L.; Yang, Chin S. (August 2000). "Mold & Mildew: A Creeping Catastrophe". Claims Magazine. Archived from the original on 2000-08-15. Retrieved November 4, 2016.
  5. ^ Moisture Control Guidance for Building Design, Construction and Maintenance. December 2013.
  6. ^ "Water Damage Restoration Guideline" (PDF). Northern Arizona University. Archived from the original (PDF) on 2013-06-26. Retrieved 2 September 2014.
  7. ^ "The Basics Of Water Damage Restoration Training". www.iicrc.org. Retrieved 2016-11-03.
  8. ^ "Chapter 6: Psychrometry and the Science of Drying". IICRC Standards Subscription Site. Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification. Retrieved 27 September 2020.
  9. ^ "ANSI/IICRC S500 Water Damage Restoration". IICRC. 22 December 2020. Retrieved 14 February 2022.
  10. ^ "California Contractors State License Board". State of California. Retrieved 2010-08-29.

A load-bearing wall or bearing wall is a wall that is an active structural element of a building, which holds the weight of the elements above it, by conducting its weight to a foundation structure below it.

Load-bearing walls are one of the earliest forms of construction. The development of the flying buttress in Gothic architecture allowed structures to maintain an open interior space, transferring more weight to the buttresses instead of to central bearing walls. In housing, load-bearing walls are most common in the light construction method known as "platform framing". In the birth of the skyscraper era, the concurrent rise of steel as a more suitable framing system first designed by William Le Baron Jenney, and the limitations of load-bearing construction in large buildings, led to a decline in the use of load-bearing walls in large-scale commercial structures.

Description

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A load-bearing wall or bearing wall is a wall that is an active structural element of a building — that is, it bears the weight of the elements above said wall, resting upon it by conducting its weight to a foundation structure.[1] The materials most often used to construct load-bearing walls in large buildings are concrete, block, or brick. By contrast, a curtain wall provides no significant structural support beyond what is necessary to bear its own materials or conduct such loads to a bearing wall.[2]

History

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Load-bearing walls are one of the earliest forms of construction.[3] The development of the flying buttress in Gothic architecture allowed structures to maintain an open interior space, transferring more weight to the buttresses instead of to central bearing walls. The Notre Dame Cathedral is an example of a load-bearing wall structure with flying buttresses.[4]

Application

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Depending on the type of building and the number of floors, load-bearing walls are gauged to the appropriate thickness to carry the weight above them. Without doing so, it is possible that an outer wall could become unstable if the load exceeds the strength of the material used, potentially leading to the collapse of the structure. The primary function of this wall is to enclose or divide space of the building to make it more functional and useful. It provides privacy, affords security, and gives protection against heat, cold, sun or rain.[5]

Housing

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In housing, load-bearing walls are most common in the light construction method known as "platform framing", and each load-bearing wall sits on a wall sill plate which is mated to the lowest base plate. The sills are bolted to the masonry or concrete foundation.[6]

A beam of PSL lumber installed to replace a load-bearing wall at the first floor of a three-story building.

The top plate or ceiling plate is the top of the wall, which sits just below the platform of the next floor (at the ceiling). The base plate or floor plate is the bottom attachment point for the wall studs. Using a top plate and a bottom plate, a wall can be constructed while it lies on its side, allowing for end-nailing of the studs between two plates, and then the finished wall can be tipped up vertically into place atop the wall sill; this not only improves accuracy and shortens construction time, but also produces a stronger wall.

Skyscrapers

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The Chicago Willis Tower uses a bundle of tube structures which, in turn, include numerous outer wall columns.

Due to the immense weight of skyscrapers, the base and walls of the lower floors must be extremely strong. Pilings are used to anchor the building to the bedrock underground. For example, the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building as well as the world's tallest structure, uses specially treated and mixed reinforced concrete. Over 45,000 cubic metres (59,000 cu yd) of concrete, weighing more than 110,000 t (120,000 short tons) were used to construct the concrete and steel foundation, which features 192 piles, with each pile being 1.5 m diameter × 43 m long (4.9 ft × 141 ft) and buried more than 50 m (160 ft) deep.[7]

See also

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  • Column – in most larger, multi-storey buildings, vertical loads are primarily borne by columns / pillars instead of structural walls
  • Tube frame structure – Some of the world's tallest skyscrapers use load-bearing outer frames – be it single tube (e.g. the old WTC Twin Towers), or bundled tube (e.g. the Willis Tower or the Burj Khalifa)

References

[edit]
  1. ^ "How to Identify a Load-Bearing Wall". Lifehacker. Retrieved 2020-06-26.
  2. ^ "Load-bearing wall". www.designingbuildings.co.uk. Retrieved 2020-06-26.
  3. ^ Montaner, Carme (2021-03-31). "8º Simposio Iberoamericano de Historia de la Cartografía. El mapa como elemento de conexión cultural entre América y Europa. Barcelona, 21 y 22 de octubre del 2020". Investigaciones Geográficas (104). doi:10.14350/rig.60378. ISSN 2448-7279. S2CID 233611245.
  4. ^ Mendes, Gilmar de Melo (2012). El equilibrio de la arquitectura organizativa desde el enfoque de agencia: estudio de un caso (Thesis). Universidad de Valladolid. doi:10.35376/10324/921.
  5. ^ "7 FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENTS A BUILDING WALL SHOULD SATISFY". CivilBlog.Org. 2015-07-08. Retrieved 2020-05-31.
  6. ^ "What is Platform Framing? (with pictures)". wiseGEEK. Retrieved 2020-06-26.
  7. ^ "Burj Khalifa, Dubai | 182168". Emporis. Archived from the original on August 5, 2011. Retrieved 2018-09-17.
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Jeffery James

(5)

Very happy with my experience. They were prompt and followed through, and very helpful in fixing the crack in my foundation.

Sarah McNeily

(5)

USS was excellent. They are honest, straightforward, trustworthy, and conscientious. They thoughtfully removed the flowers and flower bulbs to dig where they needed in the yard, replanted said flowers and spread the extra dirt to fill in an area of the yard. We've had other services from different companies and our yard was really a mess after. They kept the job site meticulously clean. The crew was on time and friendly. I'd recommend them any day! Thanks to Jessie and crew.

Jim de Leon

(5)

It was a pleasure to work with Rick and his crew. From the beginning, Rick listened to my concerns and what I wished to accomplish. Out of the 6 contractors that quoted the project, Rick seemed the MOST willing to accommodate my wishes. His pricing was definitely more than fair as well. I had 10 push piers installed to stabilize and lift an addition of my house. The project commenced at the date that Rick had disclosed initially and it was completed within the same time period expected (based on Rick's original assessment). The crew was well informed, courteous, and hard working. They were not loud (even while equipment was being utilized) and were well spoken. My neighbors were very impressed on how polite they were when they entered / exited my property (saying hello or good morning each day when they crossed paths). You can tell they care about the customer concerns. They ensured that the property would be put back as clean as possible by placing MANY sheets of plywood down prior to excavating. They compacted the dirt back in the holes extremely well to avoid large stock piles of soils. All the while, the main office was calling me to discuss updates and expectations of completion. They provided waivers of lien, certificates of insurance, properly acquired permits, and JULIE locates. From a construction background, I can tell you that I did not see any flaws in the way they operated and this an extremely professional company. The pictures attached show the push piers added to the foundation (pictures 1, 2 & 3), the amount of excavation (picture 4), and the restoration after dirt was placed back in the pits and compacted (pictures 5, 6 & 7). Please notice that they also sealed two large cracks and steel plated these cracks from expanding further (which you can see under my sliding glass door). I, as well as my wife, are extremely happy that we chose United Structural Systems for our contractor. I would happily tell any of my friends and family to use this contractor should the opportunity arise!

Chris Abplanalp

(5)

USS did an amazing job on my underpinning on my house, they were also very courteous to the proximity of my property line next to my neighbor. They kept things in order with all the dirt/mud they had to excavate. They were done exactly in the timeframe they indicated, and the contract was very details oriented with drawings of what would be done. Only thing that would have been nice, is they left my concrete a little muddy with boot prints but again, all-in-all a great job

Dave Kari

(5)

What a fantastic experience! Owner Rick Thomas is a trustworthy professional. Nick and the crew are hard working, knowledgeable and experienced. I interviewed every company in the area, big and small. A homeowner never wants to hear that they have foundation issues. Out of every company, I trusted USS the most, and it paid off in the end. Highly recommend.

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