Case Studies Crawl-Space Tie-Backs

During a home inspection related to the sale of the property in Birmingham, Alabama, which appeared flawless to the average person’s eye, foundation settlement was revealed.

Situation: After a professional inspection of the home revealed severe erosion and raveling of the bearing soil underneath the home as well as associated foundation settlement, the homeowners knew repair was needed. Complicating the foundation issues was an exterior patio and deep backfill that worked together to make exterior access for repairs incredibly difficult.

Proposed Solution: Alabama Ram Jack proposed the installation of six helical piles in the crawl space to form a permanent support for the exposed footings. Additionally, Ram Jack advised that a retaining wall should be built to stabilize the soil bank under the house. In order to provide maximum support, the retaining wall would be comprised of steel helical tie-back anchors connected to a rebar grid within the shotcrete.

Outcome: All plans were executed as proposed, permanently stabilizing the home and protecting it from further soil bank erosion and resultant foundation settlement. When finished, nine helical piles were installed to an average depth of 5 ft.

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