What is a Sister Foundation?
A sister foundation is a foundation repair method that builds a new foundation around an already existing foundation.
This type of foundation repair method is especially useful for homes that were built using masonry or stone foundations. When an existing home foundation becomes weak, a sister foundation can be built around it to reinforce the existing structure without having to replace the entire foundation system. Once completed, the sister foundation takes on the weight of the structure instead of the old foundation.
What’s the process of adding a sister foundation?
The first step in adding a sister foundation is to dig a trench next to the original foundation. Next, gaps are created in the original foundation to attach the sister foundation to the old one. Once these are connected, rebar and wood frames are added to secure the structures, and concrete is poured to lock everything in. Once the sister foundation has been completed, this new foundation will support the entire weight of the house instead of the original, weakened foundation.
What are the signs of foundation issues?
If your house is suffering from foundation issues, oftentimes there will be signs around your home. Indications that your foundation is damaged, or degrading include:
- Cracked interior walls and exterior walls.
- Basement leaks or pooling water.
- Cracks in ceilings, floors, or floor tiles.
- Uneven and/or sloping floors.
- Doors and windows that stick or that have trouble opening.
- Cracked fireplace chimney and/or mantle.
If you suspect your foundation may be damaged and in need of repair, it’s essential to have it inspected by a specialist – like Julian Construction – as soon as possible. Most foundations can be repaired easily and at a low cost when issues are caught early. When left unchecked and uncorrected, these problems can become larger and much more costly to fix.
Damaged home foundations also pose a hazard to residents, especially when it comes to protecting them from earthquakes and/or heavy storms. When a foundation becomes weak or vulnerable, severe shaking from an earthquake can cause it to slide right off of its base and crumble.
If you think your home is in need of foundation repair, house leveling, foundation replacement and/or earthquake retrofitting, contact Julian Construction today and we will send one of our foundation specialists out to conduct a free, thorough inspection with a quote for repair.
We have extensive experience serving our Los Angeles community and nearby regions. In fact, Julian Construction has inspected over 30,000 structures in the area!
Julian Construction was formed in 1994 and our focus has always been on building and maintaining foundations, doing foundation repair and replacement, earthquake retrofitting, and house leveling.
When you work with Julian Construction, you get the principles of the company and the workers of Julian Construction under your home.
And in order to keep foundation repair affordable for our customers, we offer a price guarantee — because we know our quote for repair will represent your very best value.
Give us a call at (323) 733-3377 to schedule your free inspection or complete the inspection request form.
