Piering
Get Reliable Piering Services in the Cincinnati, OH Area
Get Reliable Piering Services in the Cincinnati, OH Area
Piering is a structural repair method used to stabilize and support foundations that have been damaged or weakened. It involves the installation of metal or concrete piers deep into the ground, beneath the foundation of a building. These piers are used to transfer the weight of the building from the unstable or compromised soil to more solid, stable soil or rock below.
There are several different types of piers that can be used for piering, including steel piers, concrete piers, and helical piers. Steel piers are made of interlocking steel sections that are driven deep into the ground until they reach a stable soil or rock layer. Concrete piers are made of concrete that is poured into a hole in the ground and allowed to cure. Helical piers, also known as screw piers, are made of steel and have a helical shape that allows them to be screwed into the ground.
Expert Piering Services from Sohan & Sons
Piering is often used to repair foundations that have been damaged by soil movement or settlement. This can occur for a variety of reasons, including soil erosion, poor compaction during construction, or the presence of expansive soils that expand and contract with changes in moisture content. Piering can also be used to stabilize foundations that have been damaged by natural disasters, such as earthquakes or floods.
The process of piering typically begins with a thorough inspection of the foundation and surrounding soil. This is done to determine the cause of the foundation damage and to identify the best repair method. Once the cause of the damage has been identified, the repair team will determine the number and placement of the piers needed to support the foundation.
Next, holes are dug at the locations where the piers will be installed. The size and depth of the holes will depend on the type of piers being used and the soil conditions. Once the holes are dug, the piers are installed and secured in place. This may involve driving the piers into the ground with a hydraulic ram or screwing them into place using a special torque motor.
Once the piers are in place, they are attached to the foundation using a series of steel beams or brackets. These beams transfer the weight of the building from the foundation to the piers, providing a stable support system for the structure.
When Piering Services Are Needed
In some cases, the process of piering may also involve the use of underpinning, which involves digging down to the bedrock or stable soil layer and reinforcing the foundation from below. Underpinning is often used in conjunction with piering to provide additional support and stability to the foundation.
Piering is a highly effective method for stabilizing and repairing foundations that have been damaged or weakened. It is a permanent solution that can help to prevent further damage to the building and protect its value. However, it is important to choose a reputable and experienced repair company to ensure that the work is done properly and that the piers are installed correctly.