It can take between 1 to 3 weeks to complete foundation repairs on a property. However, the exact duration will depend on various factors.
If they’re only minor issues, the repairs can take Adelaide underpinning experts just a week to finish. The more severe problems can take as long as 3 weeks to complete.
In this blog, we’ll talk more about the main factors affecting the timetable for foundation repairs.
Factors That Affect Foundation Repair Timeline
The factors that affect the foundation repair timeline are the amount of damage, its location, and the overall size of the house.
Amount of Damage
The extent of the damage significantly impacts the duration of foundation repair. Minor cracks or settling may require only simple fixes, taking days to complete. However, extensive damage, like major structural issues, can take weeks or even months to repair. Recognising the signs you need foundation repair early can often lead to quicker and less invasive repairs. The longer the damage is ignored, the more complex and time-consuming the repair process becomes.
Location of Damage
The location of the damage on the foundation plays a crucial role in determining the repair time. Damage in easily accessible areas can be repaired more quickly compared to damage in hard-to-reach places like under heavy, built-in structures. Foundations with damage in multiple locations or in areas that require extensive excavation for access generally lengthen the repair process.
Home Size
The size of the home is a significant factor in foundation repair time. Larger homes not only have bigger foundations but may also distribute weight unevenly, leading to complex damage patterns. Consequently, repairing foundations under larger homes often involves more extensive assessment and more elaborate repair strategies, which can extend the overall time needed for effective and safe foundation restoration. Smaller homes typically result in shorter repair times due to their less complex structures.
How Long Does a Specific Foundation Repair Approach Take?
When considering the duration of specific foundation repair techniques, it’s essential to understand that each method varies in complexity and time requirements.
Pier Systems
Pier systems are a common solution for settling or sinking foundations. This technique involves driving steel piers into the ground until they reach a stable soil layer, followed by lifting and securing the structure to these piers.
Typically, this method takes about 1 to 3 days to complete for a standard-sized home. However, this timeframe may be extended if multiple piers are required or unexpected complications arise.
Crawl Space Supports
Crawl space supports are used to rectify sagging floors above crawl spaces. These supports, usually made of steel, are strategically placed to provide necessary lift and stability.
This process can be completed for homes with noticeable sagging areas within 1 to 2 days. But, if the entire crawl space needs extensive support adjustments, the duration might extend up to a week.
Basement Wall Repair
Basement wall repairs are crucial for reinforcing walls that are bowed or cracked. Minor cracks can be sealed and reinforced within a single day. More extensive repairs might take anywhere from 2 to 4 days.
It’s vital to choose from the various underpinning types based on the specific structural needs of the building to ensure effective and lasting repairs.