Job completed for Jonathan F

Completion date: July 22, 2020

Location: Cherry Hill, NJ

Why did the customer contact us?

A homeowner in Cherry Hill, NJ, contacted Jamison Basement Waterproofing after noticing significant cracks and bowing in the foundation block wall of their basement. Concerned about the structural integrity of their home, the homeowner sought professional advice to prevent further damage and ensure the safety of the foundation.

Upon inspection, it became clear that the foundation wall was experiencing lateral pressure from the surrounding soil, causing it to bow inward. The visible cracks were a sign of ongoing stress, and if left unaddressed, the situation could worsen, potentially leading to more extensive damage and costly repairs.

Solutions provided:

After a thorough assessment, our team recommended reinforcing the bowing foundation wall using carbon fiber straps. Carbon fiber is a modern, highly effective solution for stabilizing foundation walls without the need for invasive excavation.
1. Preparation and Wall Cleaning: To begin, we cleaned the foundation wall to remove dirt and debris, ensuring proper adhesion of the carbon fiber straps. This step is crucial for ensuring the straps bond securely to the surface.
2. Installation of Carbon Fiber Straps: We installed carbon fiber reinforcement straps vertically across the affected wall. These straps are incredibly strong, and when bonded to the wall, they provide support and prevent further bowing. The straps were applied in a pattern that effectively redistributed the lateral pressure, helping to stabilize the wall and halt any further inward movement.
3. Securing the Straps: The carbon fiber straps were then bonded to the foundation wall with a special epoxy resin that ensures the straps stay securely in place. This process not only stabilized the wall but also helped to prevent further cracking.
4. Final Inspection: Once the straps were securely in place, we conducted a final inspection to ensure that the reinforcement system was properly aligned and that no additional movement was occurring. The wall was now reinforced, providing long-term protection.

Results: A Stronger, Stable Foundation

After the installation of the carbon fiber straps, the homeowner experienced the following improvements:
• Stopped Bowing: The carbon fiber straps effectively halted the inward movement of the foundation wall, stabilizing it and preventing further bowing.
• Crack Prevention: The cracks in the wall were no longer widening, and the wall’s structural integrity was restored. The homeowner no longer had to worry about worsening damage.
• Minimal Disruption: Since the installation of carbon fiber straps requires minimal disruption, the homeowner’s basement remained usable throughout the process. The solution was efficient and non-invasive.
• Cost-Effective Long-Term Solution: Carbon fiber reinforcement offers a cost-effective solution compared to traditional methods like foundation replacement or major wall excavation. The homeowner now has peace of mind knowing that their foundation is secure and protected from future damage.

Team members on this project:

Elleri Bailey