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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