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Poor soil and other factors can cause a building foundation to settle unevenly. Many foundation repair specialists have begun using micropiles to stabilize buildings due to the relative ease of installation in a wide range of conditions. Below is a brief introduction to this concept and why they come in handy for foundation work. 

What Are Micropiles?

Micropiles are materials used to bear the load of structures with foundations buried deep underground. Made of durable steel casings, rebar, and grout, micropiles are typically between five and 12 inches in diameter.

Louisville-Kentucky-foundation-repairDuring installation, a hole with a small diameter is first dug into the ground.  A micropile is then lowered into the hole, able to reach a depth of 200 feet. Torque-powered machinery is used to force a micropile into the pit and secure it in place. Once the pile is in position, concrete grout is poured into the opening to reinforce it. After the mixture dries, a support apparatus is installed on top of the pile to help evenly distribute the weight of the foundation. 

Why Use Micropiles for Foundation Repair & Construction?

In the case of an uneven foundation, micropiles help reduce soil settlement, as the surrounding grout helps bear the load. If rock formations are under a foundation, micropiles can also be drilled into the layers. The rock is then used to carry some of the load and take pressure off the pile. Beyond foundation repair, micropiles are also helpful for constructing new infrastructure supports in tight spaces. The piles are installed vertically, which means equipment and machinery take up less space. Noise pollution during foundation construction is reduced, as drilling methods are used instead of jackhammering into the earth.   

 

If the base of your property is sinking, cracked, or suffers from additional damage, the foundation repair experts at Case Foundation Systems in Louisville, KY, are available to find solutions to the problem. As the Tri-State area’s oldest, most respected basement waterproofing and foundation repair company, they’ve provided homeowners with state-of-the-art solutions and excellent service since 1944. Visit their website for more on their foundation repair services, get more expert advice on Facebook, or call (502) 367-7706 for a free estimate.

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