Prioritizing Repairs Based on Urgency and Budget Constraints

Prioritizing Repairs Based on Urgency and Budget Constraints

Understanding the different types of foundation issues and their severity


Understanding the different types of foundation issues and their severity is crucial when it comes to prioritizing repairs, especially when dealing with urgency and budget constraints. Soil stabilization ensures a strong foundation and prevents further shifting foundation wall repair service soil mechanics. Foundations are the backbone of any structure, and ensuring their integrity is paramount for the safety and longevity of a building. Here, we will explore common foundation problems, their potential severity, and how to prioritize them effectively.

One of the most common foundation issues is cracking. Cracks can vary in size and severity. Small, hairline cracks might be cosmetic and not pose an immediate threat, but larger cracks, especially those wider than a quarter-inch, can indicate more serious problems. These could be due to settling, poor construction, or even soil movement. Assessing the width, length, and pattern of the cracks is essential in determining their severity and urgency.

Another significant foundation problem is bowing or bulging walls. This often occurs in basements or retaining walls and is usually a result of excessive soil pressure. Bowing walls can compromise the structural integrity of a building and should be addressed promptly. Depending on the extent of the bowing, repairs can range from installing wall anchors to more extensive underpinning.

Uneven floors are another red flag. If you notice your floors sloping or sagging, it could be a sign of foundation settlement. This issue can lead to further damage if left unaddressed, such as misaligned doors and windows, and should be evaluated by a professional to determine the appropriate course of action.

Water intrusion is another critical issue. Foundations can be severely compromised by constant exposure to water, leading to cracks, mold growth, and even structural failure. Ensuring proper drainage around your home and addressing any leaks promptly can prevent more severe foundation problems down the line.

When prioritizing repairs, it's important to consider both the urgency and the budget constraints. Immediate threats to the structural integrity of your home, such as significant cracking, bowing walls, or water intrusion, should be addressed first. These issues can escalate quickly and pose safety risks.

For less urgent issues, such as minor cracks or uneven floors, it may be possible to stage the repairs. Creating a repair plan that addresses the most severe issues first, while budgeting for less critical repairs over time, can help manage costs effectively.

In conclusion, understanding the different types of foundation issues and their severity is essential for prioritizing repairs. By assessing the urgency and considering budget constraints, homeowners can ensure the safety and longevity of their structures while managing costs effectively.

Assessing the urgency of repairs based on potential risks to property and safety


When it comes to maintaining a property, whether it's a home, a commercial building, or any other type of structure, assessing the urgency of repairs is crucial. This assessment is not just about determining what needs to be fixed; it's about understanding the potential risks to both the property itself and the safety of those who occupy or visit it. Prioritizing repairs based on urgency and budget constraints requires a balanced approach that considers both immediate dangers and long-term financial planning.

First and foremost, safety should always be the top priority. If a repair poses a direct threat to the safety of individuals, it should be addressed immediately, regardless of the cost. This could include issues like structural damage that could lead to a collapse, electrical problems that risk fire, or plumbing issues that could cause flooding. These are not just inconveniences; they are serious hazards that could result in injury or even loss of life.

Beyond immediate safety concerns, there are other factors to consider when assessing the urgency of repairs. For instance, some repairs, while not immediately dangerous, could lead to more significant problems down the line if left unattended. A small leak in a roof might not seem urgent, but if ignored, it could lead to extensive water damage, mold growth, and ultimately, a much more expensive repair. Similarly, neglecting minor electrical issues could lead to a major outage or even a fire.

Budget constraints add another layer of complexity to the process. It's rare that property owners have unlimited funds to address every issue as soon as it arises. This means making tough decisions about which repairs can wait and which cannot. One effective strategy is to create a tiered system of urgency. Repairs that pose an immediate threat to safety are top priority. Next come those that could lead to significant damage or expense if not addressed promptly. Finally, there are those that, while important, can be scheduled around budget availability.

In conclusion, assessing the urgency of repairs based on potential risks to property and safety is a critical aspect of property management. It requires a careful balance of addressing immediate dangers, planning for future issues, and managing within budget constraints. By taking a thoughtful and strategic approach, property owners can ensure the safety of occupants, preserve the value of their property, and make the most of their repair budget.

Evaluating budget constraints and available resources for repair


When it comes to prioritizing repairs, one of the most crucial factors to consider is the budget constraints and available resources. It's essential to evaluate these elements carefully to ensure that the necessary repairs are completed efficiently and effectively without straining the financial resources.

First and foremost, it's important to assess the overall budget allocated for repairs. This involves understanding the total amount of money available and how it can be distributed across various repair projects. It's also crucial to consider any potential additional costs that may arise during the repair process, such as unexpected damages or the need for specialized equipment or materials.

Once the budget has been established, it's essential to evaluate the available resources. This includes assessing the manpower, tools, and materials required to complete the repairs. It's important to ensure that the necessary resources are available and that they align with the budget constraints. This may involve prioritizing certain repair projects based on the resources available and the urgency of the repairs.

Another critical factor to consider is the urgency of the repairs. Some repairs may be more critical than others and may require immediate attention to prevent further damage or safety hazards. In these cases, it may be necessary to allocate a larger portion of the budget to ensure that these repairs are completed promptly.

In conclusion, evaluating budget constraints and available resources is a crucial step in prioritizing repairs. By carefully assessing the budget, available resources, and urgency of the repairs, property managers can ensure that the necessary repairs are completed efficiently and effectively without straining financial resources. It's important to approach this process with a strategic mindset and to be willing to make difficult decisions when necessary to ensure the long-term health and safety of the property.

Discussing the role of professional assessments in determining repair priorities


In the realm of maintaining and managing properties, whether they are commercial, industrial, or residential, the process of prioritizing repairs is crucial. It ensures that the most critical issues are addressed promptly, resources are utilized efficiently, and the overall safety and functionality of the property are maintained. Professional assessments play a pivotal role in this prioritization process, serving as the cornerstone upon which informed decisions are made.

First and foremost, professional assessments bring a level of expertise and objectivity to the table that is invaluable. When faced with a multitude of repair needs, it can be challenging for property managers or owners to determine which issues pose the greatest risk or have the most significant impact on the property's value and functionality. Professional assessors, with their specialized knowledge and training, can evaluate the condition of a property, identify potential hazards, and assess the severity of various issues. This expert evaluation ensures that repair priorities are based on accurate and comprehensive assessments rather than subjective judgments or assumptions.

Moreover, professional assessments help in aligning repair priorities with budget constraints. In an ideal world, every repair would be addressed immediately upon identification. However, in reality, budget limitations often dictate that repairs must be prioritized based on urgency, cost, and impact. Assessors can provide detailed reports that not only highlight the most pressing issues but also estimate the costs associated with each repair. This information is crucial for property managers and owners as they navigate the delicate balance between addressing urgent needs and managing financial resources. It allows for a more strategic allocation of funds, ensuring that critical repairs are not delayed due to lack of funds while also preventing unnecessary expenditures on less urgent issues.

Another significant aspect of professional assessments is their role in long-term planning and maintenance. By conducting thorough evaluations, assessors can identify patterns or underlying issues that may not be immediately apparent. This proactive approach allows property managers to address potential problems before they escalate into more significant, costly issues. Furthermore, the data and insights gained from these assessments can inform future maintenance schedules and budgets, leading to more effective and efficient property management practices.

In conclusion, the role of professional assessments in determining repair priorities cannot be overstated. They provide the expertise, objectivity, and detailed information necessary to make informed decisions that balance urgency, budget constraints, and long-term property management goals. By leveraging professional assessments, property managers and owners can ensure that their properties remain safe, functional, and valuable for years to come.

Exploring cost-effective repair solutions without compromising quality


When it comes to maintaining a property, whether it's a home, a commercial space, or any other type of building, the challenge often lies in balancing the need for repairs with the available budget. As property owners and managers, we all face the dilemma of prioritizing repairs based on urgency while ensuring that we don't break the bank. The key to success in this arena is exploring cost-effective repair solutions without compromising on quality.

First and foremost, it's crucial to assess the urgency of each repair. Not all issues are created equal, and some may pose immediate threats to the safety and functionality of the property. For instance, a leaking roof or a faulty electrical system should take precedence over cosmetic issues like chipped paint or a cracked tile. By categorizing repairs into urgent, important, and non-urgent, we can allocate our budget more effectively.

Once we've identified the urgent repairs, it's time to delve into cost-effective solutions. This doesn't mean cutting corners or opting for the cheapest option available. Rather, it involves a strategic approach to finding quality materials and services that won't drain our finances. Here are some strategies to consider:

1. **Research and Compare**: Take the time to research different suppliers and contractors. Get multiple quotes and compare not only the prices but also the quality of materials and the reputation of the service providers. Sometimes, a slightly higher-priced option can offer better value in the long run.

2. **Consider DIY Options**: For less complex repairs, consider doing some of the work yourself. There are plenty of online tutorials and resources available that can guide you through the process. This can significantly reduce labor costs while still ensuring a quality outcome.

3. **Look for Discounts and Deals**: Keep an eye out for discounts, sales, or bulk purchase deals on materials. Many suppliers offer seasonal discounts or loyalty programs that can help you save money.

4. **Prioritize Energy Efficiency**: When making repairs, especially to HVAC systems or insulation, consider upgrading to more energy-efficient options. While the initial cost may be higher, the long-term savings on energy bills can offset the expense.

5. **Plan for the Future**: When making repairs, think about future maintenance. Choose materials and solutions that are durable and require less frequent upkeep. This can help you avoid costly repairs down the line.

6. **Negotiate**: Don't be afraid to negotiate with contractors and suppliers. Often, they may be willing to offer a discount or include additional services if you commit to a larger project.

In conclusion, exploring cost-effective repair solutions without compromising quality is all about strategic planning and smart decision-making. By assessing the urgency of repairs, researching options, considering DIY solutions, looking for discounts, prioritizing energy efficiency, and negotiating when possible, we can ensure that our properties remain safe, functional, and well-maintained within our budget constraints. Remember, the goal is to strike a balance between immediate needs and long-term value, creating a sustainable approach to property maintenance.

Implementing a phased approach to repairs based on urgency and budget


Implementing a phased approach to repairs based on urgency and budget is a strategic methodology that ensures efficient allocation of resources while addressing critical issues promptly. This approach is particularly vital in environments where budget constraints are a constant challenge, such as in municipal management, large-scale property management, or any organization maintaining extensive infrastructure.

The first phase involves a comprehensive assessment of all repair needs. This step is crucial as it provides a clear picture of the scope of work required. During this phase, each repair is evaluated based on its urgency, potential impact on safety, and cost. This evaluation helps in categorizing repairs into different levels of priority.

The second phase is the planning phase. Here, a detailed plan is formulated based on the assessments from the first phase. The plan should outline a timeline for addressing repairs, taking into account the urgency and available budget. It's important to be realistic and flexible in this phase, as budgets and priorities can shift.

The third phase is the execution phase. Repairs are carried out according to the plan, starting with the most urgent and critical ones. This phase requires close monitoring to ensure that the work is being done efficiently and within budget. It's also important to maintain open communication with all stakeholders during this phase.

The final phase is the review and adjustment phase. After a set period, the effectiveness of the repairs and the approach taken should be reviewed. This phase allows for adjustments to be made to the plan based on what has been learned and any changes in budget or priorities.

Implementing a phased approach to repairs not only helps in managing budget constraints effectively but also ensures that critical repairs are addressed in a timely manner. It fosters a sense of order and control in what can often be a chaotic process, leading to more sustainable and long-term solutions.



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Residential Foundation Repair Services

Strong Foundations, Strong Homes


 

Basement waterproofing involves techniques and materials used to prevent water from penetrating the basement of a house or a building. Waterproofing a basement that is below ground level can require the application of sealant materials, the installation of drains and sump pumps, and more.

Purpose

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Waterproofing is usually required by building codes for structures that are built at or below ground level. Waterproofing and drainage considerations are especially important in cases where ground water is likely to build up in the soil or where there is a high water table.

Water in the soil causes hydrostatic pressure to be exerted underneath basement floors and walls. This hydrostatic pressure can force water in through cracks, which can cause major structural damage as well as mold, decay, and other moisture-related problems.

Methods

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Several measures exist to prevent water from penetrating a basement foundation or to divert water that has penetrated a foundation:

  • French Drain
    French drain
    Interior wall and floor sealers
  • Interior water drainage
  • Exterior drainage
  • Exterior waterproofing coatings
  • Box type waterproofing[1]
  • Foundation crack injections
  • French drains
  • Sump pump

Interior sealants

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In poured concrete foundations, cracks and pipe penetrations are the most common entry points for seepage. These openings can be sealed from the interior. Epoxies, which are strong adhesives, or urethanes can be pressure injected into the openings, thus penetrating the foundation through to the exterior and cutting off the path of the seepage.

In masonry foundations, interior sealers will not provide permanent protection from water infiltration where hydrostatic pressure is present. However, interior sealers are good for preventing high atmospheric humidity inside the basement from absorbing into the porous masonry and causing spalling. Spalling is a condition where constant high humidity or moisture breaks down masonry surfaces, causing deterioration and shedding of the concrete surfaces.

Other coatings can be effective where condensation is the main source of wetness. It is also effective if the problem has minor dampness. Usually, interior waterproofing will not stop major leaks.

Interior water drainage

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Although interior water drainage is not technically waterproofing, it is a widely accepted technique in mitigating basement water and is generally referred to as a basement waterproofing solution. Many interior drainage systems are patented and recognized by Building Officials and Code Administrators(BOCA) as being effective in controlling basement water.

A common system for draining water that has penetrated a basement involves creating a channel around the perimeter of the basement alongside the foundation footers. A French drain, PVC pipe, or other drainage system is installed in the newly made channel. The installed drain is covered with new cement.

The drainage system collects any water entering the basement and drains it to an internally placed sump pump system, which will then pump the water out of the basement. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends basement waterproofing with a water alarm and "battery-operated backup pump" as a preventive measure against the high cost of flooding.[2] Wall conduits (such as dimple boards or other membranes) are fastened to the foundation wall and extend over the new drainage to guide any moisture down into the system.

Exterior waterproofing

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Waterproofing a structure from the exterior is the only method the U.S. International Building Code (IBC) recognizes as adequate to prevent structural damage caused by water intrusion.

Waterproofing an existing basement begins with excavating to the bottom sides of the footings. Once excavated, the walls are then power washed and allowed to dry. The dry walls are sealed with a waterproofing membrane,[3] and new drainage tiles (weeping tiles) are placed at the side of the footing.

A French drain, PVC pipe, or other drainage system is installed and water is led further from the basement.

Polymer

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Over the past ten years, polymer-based waterproofing products have been developed. Polymer-based products last for the lifetime of the building and are not affected by soil pH. Polymer-based waterproofing materials can be sprayed directly onto a wall, are very fast curing, and are semi-flexible, allowing for some movement of the substrate.

Causes of water seepage and leaks

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Water seepage in basement and crawl spaces usually occurs over long periods of time and can be caused by numerous factors.

  • Concrete is one of the most commonly used materials in home construction. When pockets of air are not removed during construction, or the mixture is not allowed to cure properly, the concrete can crack, which allows water to force its way through the wall.
  • Foundations (footings) are horizontal pads that define the perimeter of foundation walls. When footings are too narrow or are not laid deep enough, they are susceptible to movement caused by soil erosion.
  • Gutters and downspouts are used to catch rain water as it falls and to discharge it away from houses and buildings. When gutters are clogged or downspouts are broken, rainwater is absorbed by the soil near the foundation, increasing hydrostatic pressure.
  • Weeping tile is a porous plastic drain pipe installed around the perimeter of the house. The main purpose of external weeping tile is preventing water from getting into a basement. However, these pipes can become clogged or damaged, which causes excess water to put pressure on internal walls and basement floors.
  • Water build up inside window wells, after heavy rain or snow, can lead to leaks through basement window seams. Window well covers can be used to prevent water from accumulating in the window well.
  • Ground saturation is another common form of basement leaks. When the footing drain fails the ground around the basement can contain too much water and when the saturation point is met flooding can occur.

Warning signs of water damage

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Signs that water is seeping into a basement or crawlspace often take years to develop and may not be easily visible. Over time, multiple signs of damage may become evident and could lead to structural failure.

  • Cracked walls: Cracks may be horizontal, vertical, diagonal or stair-stepped. Severe pressure or structural damage is evident by widening cracks.
  • Buckling walls: Usually caused by hydrostatic pressure. Walls appear to be bowed inward.
  • Peeling paint: Water seeping through walls may lead to bubbling or peeling paint along basement walls.[4]
  • Efflorescence: White, powdery residue found on basement walls near the floor.
  • Mold: Fungi that usually grow in damp, dark areas and can cause respiratory problems after prolonged exposure.

Foundation crack injections

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Foundation crack injections are used when poured concrete foundations crack, either from settlement or the expansion and contraction of the concrete. Epoxy crack injections are typically used for structural purposes while hydrophobic or hydrophilic polyurethane injections are used to seal cracks to prevent penetration of moisture or water. Concrete is both strong and inexpensive, making it an ideal product in construction. However, concrete is not waterproof.

References

[edit]
  1. ^ Waheed, M. A. (11 July 2014). "Top tips to optimally use conventional waterproofing techniques". Business Standard India. Archived from the original on 5 July 2022. Retrieved 28 May 2021.
  2. ^ "FloodSmart | How to Prepare for a Flood and Minimize Losses". Archived from the original on 9 May 2020. Retrieved 20 March 2020.
  3. ^ Carter, Tim. "How to redirect water around a damp garage". The Washington Post. Archived from the original on 15 August 2016. Retrieved 2 November 2015.
  4. ^ Chodorov, Jill. "Basement flooding may put a damper on your home sale". The Washington Post. Archived from the original on 18 May 2018. Retrieved 2 November 2015.

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  • Piling

In geotechnical engineering, soil compaction is the process in which stress applied to a soil causes densification as air is displaced from the pores between the soil grains. When stress is applied that causes densification due to water (or other liquid) being displaced from between the soil grains, then consolidation, not compaction, has occurred. Normally, compaction is the result of heavy machinery compressing the soil, but it can also occur due to the passage of, for example, animal feet.

In soil science and agronomy, soil compaction is usually a combination of both engineering compaction and consolidation, so may occur due to a lack of water in the soil, the applied stress being internal suction due to water evaporation[1] as well as due to passage of animal feet. Affected soils become less able to absorb rainfall, thus increasing runoff and erosion. Plants have difficulty in compacted soil because the mineral grains are pressed together, leaving little space for air and water, which are essential for root growth. Burrowing animals also find it a hostile environment, because the denser soil is more difficult to penetrate. The ability of a soil to recover from this type of compaction depends on climate, mineralogy and fauna. Soils with high shrink–swell capacity, such as vertisols, recover quickly from compaction where moisture conditions are variable (dry spells shrink the soil, causing it to crack). But clays such as kaolinite, which do not crack as they dry, cannot recover from compaction on their own unless they host ground-dwelling animals such as earthworms—the Cecil soil series is an example.

Before soils can be compacted in the field, some laboratory tests are required to determine their engineering properties. Among various properties, the maximum dry density and the optimum moisture content are vital and specify the required density to be compacted in the field.[2]

A 10 tonne excavator is here equipped with a narrow sheepsfoot roller to compact the fill over newly placed sewer pipe, forming a stable support for a new road surface.
A compactor/roller fitted with a sheepsfoot drum, operated by U.S. Navy Seabees
Vibrating roller with plain drum as used for compacting asphalt and granular soils
Vibratory rammer in action

In construction

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Soil compaction is a vital part of the construction process. It is used for support of structural entities such as building foundations, roadways, walkways, and earth retaining structures to name a few. For a given soil type certain properties may deem it more or less desirable to perform adequately for a particular circumstance. In general, the preselected soil should have adequate strength, be relatively incompressible so that future settlement is not significant, be stable against volume change as water content or other factors vary, be durable and safe against deterioration, and possess proper permeability.[3]

When an area is to be filled or backfilled the soil is placed in layers called lifts. The ability of the first fill layers to be properly compacted will depend on the condition of the natural material being covered. If unsuitable material is left in place and backfilled, it may compress over a long period under the weight of the earth fill, causing settlement cracks in the fill or in any structure supported by the fill.[4] In order to determine if the natural soil will support the first fill layers, an area can be proofrolled. Proofrolling consists of utilizing a piece of heavy construction equipment to roll across the fill site and watching for deflections to be revealed. These areas will be indicated by the development of rutting, pumping, or ground weaving.[5]

To ensure adequate soil compaction is achieved, project specifications will indicate the required soil density or degree of compaction that must be achieved. These specifications are generally recommended by a geotechnical engineer in a geotechnical engineering report.

The soil type—that is, grain-size distributions, shape of the soil grains, specific gravity of soil solids, and amount and type of clay minerals, present—has a great influence on the maximum dry unit weight and optimum moisture content.[6] It also has a great influence on how the materials should be compacted in given situations. Compaction is accomplished by use of heavy equipment. In sands and gravels, the equipment usually vibrates, to cause re-orientation of the soil particles into a denser configuration. In silts and clays, a sheepsfoot roller is frequently used, to create small zones of intense shearing, which drives air out of the soil.

Determination of adequate compaction is done by determining the in-situ density of the soil and comparing it to the maximum density determined by a laboratory test. The most commonly used laboratory test is called the Proctor compaction test and there are two different methods in obtaining the maximum density. They are the standard Proctor and modified Proctor tests; the modified Proctor is more commonly used. For small dams, the standard Proctor may still be the reference.[5]

While soil under structures and pavements needs to be compacted, it is important after construction to decompact areas to be landscaped so that vegetation can grow.

Compaction methods

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There are several means of achieving compaction of a material. Some are more appropriate for soil compaction than others, while some techniques are only suitable for particular soils or soils in particular conditions. Some are more suited to compaction of non-soil materials such as asphalt. Generally, those that can apply significant amounts of shear as well as compressive stress, are most effective.

The available techniques can be classified as:

  1. Static – a large stress is slowly applied to the soil and then released.
  2. Impact – the stress is applied by dropping a large mass onto the surface of the soil.
  3. Vibrating – a stress is applied repeatedly and rapidly via a mechanically driven plate or hammer. Often combined with rolling compaction (see below).
  4. Gyrating – a static stress is applied and maintained in one direction while the soil is a subjected to a gyratory motion about the axis of static loading. Limited to laboratory applications.
  5. Rolling – a heavy cylinder is rolled over the surface of the soil. Commonly used on sports pitches. Roller-compactors are often fitted with vibratory devices to enhance their effectiveness.
  6. Kneading – shear is applied by alternating movement in adjacent positions. An example, combined with rolling compaction, is the 'sheepsfoot' roller used in waste compaction at landfills.

The construction plant available to achieve compaction is extremely varied and is described elsewhere.

Test methods in laboratory

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Soil compactors are used to perform test methods which cover laboratory compaction methods used to determine the relationship between molding water content and dry unit weight of soils. Soil placed as engineering fill is compacted to a dense state to obtain satisfactory engineering properties such as, shear strength, compressibility, or permeability. In addition, foundation soils are often compacted to improve their engineering properties. Laboratory compaction tests provide the basis for determining the percent compaction and molding water content needed to achieve the required engineering properties, and for controlling construction to assure that the required compaction and water contents are achieved. Test methods such as EN 13286-2, EN 13286-47, ASTM D698, ASTM D1557, AASHTO T99, AASHTO T180, AASHTO T193, BS 1377:4 provide soil compaction testing procedures.[7]

See also

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  • Soil compaction (agriculture)
  • Soil degradation
  • Compactor
  • Earthwork
  • Soil structure
  • Aeration
  • Shear strength (soil)
Multiquip RX1575 Rammax Sheepsfoot Trench Compaction Roller on the jobsite in San Diego, California

References

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  1. ^ Soil compaction due to lack of water in soil
  2. ^ Jia, Xiaoyang; Hu, Wei; Polaczyk, Pawel; Gong, Hongren; Huang, Baoshan (2019). "Comparative Evaluation of Compacting Process for Base Materials using Lab Compaction Methods". Transportation Research Record: Journal of the Transportation Research Board. 2673 (4): 558–567. doi:10.1177/0361198119837953. ISSN 0361-1981.
  3. ^ McCarthy, David F. (2007). Essentials of Soil Mechanics and Foundations. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Prentice Hall. p. 595. ISBN 978-0-13-114560-3.
  4. ^ McCarthy, David F. (2007). Essentials of Soil Mechanics and Foundations. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Prentice Hall. pp. 601–602. ISBN 978-0-13-114560-3.
  5. ^ a b McCarthy, David F. (2007). Essentials of Soil Mechanics and Foundations. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Prentice Hall. p. 602. ISBN 978-0-13-114560-3.
  6. ^ Das, Braja M. (2002). Principles of Geotechnical Engineering. Pacific Grove, CA: Brooks/Cole. p. 105. ISBN 0-534-38742-X.
  7. ^ "Automatic Soil Compactor". cooper.co.uk. Cooper Research Technology. Archived from the original on 27 August 2014. Retrieved 8 September 2014.

 

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Reviews for


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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