Case Studies
Failed Concrete Pilings
As a homeowner, when a repair issue arises, one wants nothing more than
a job done right the first time at a fair price. So the owners of this
residence were less than thrilled about the need for further foundation
repairs after paying for an inferior repair method that ultimately failed
and required a permanent solution. Alabama Ram Jack was called to take
care of the classic brick home in Hoover, Alabama.
Situation: The customer previously hired a local engineer to evaluate the issue, who
recommended increasing the footing depth by placing more concrete under
the existing footings. The owner followed the engineer’s recommendations
despite the substantial cost associated with the proposed repair; however,
it did not provide a permanent solution. Settlement continued, and new
cracks formed in the brick.
Proposed Solution: Alabama Ram Jack proposed using 18 steel helical piles to penetrate deep
into the ground and provide maximum support for the structure. These piles
would reach a much greater depth than the previous, more superficial attempt
to fix the foundation, penetrating the weak fill soils down to a load-bearing
strata to provide necessary support.
Outcome: Alabama Ram Jack encountered rocky conditions, so five helical piles and
13 driven piles were installed, lifting the foundation 1 in. for maximum
practical recovery. The steel piles provided a permanent solution to the
recurring foundation problem, and the repair cost was about the same as
the previously implemented inferior repair that failed.
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