Foundation Repair

We at Hargrave and Hargrave utilize the CHANCE Helical Pier Foundation System.  This system offers a technically superior and cost-effective alternative to other remedial systems.  Our system is backed by more than 80 years of structural engineering experience.  The concept is founded on the principle of turning a helical (screw) pier into stable subsoil strata until the torque applied indicates that the necessary load capacity has been achieved.  Adjustable brackets are then attached to the base of your foundation walls, connecting the piers to the foundation.  The weight of your home is then shifted to the piers.  In the process, the foundation, walls, and floors are re-positioned and retained from further movement.  This innovative system contrasts with other methods which use the structure’s weight to force pipes or concrete cylinders down into the ground.  Such costly and time-consuming methods require extensive excavation which can disturb site features, such as walkways and landscaping.

Typically, your home is your largest investment and we at Hargrave and Hargrave want to help you protect your investment in the years to come.  All the components of your home, such as the air conditioner and roof, require periodic maintenance.  For you convenience, we have provided a helpful foundation maintenance program in the link below.

Foundation Maintenance Program

The Process:

Following the design specifications outlined by a representative of Hargrave and Hargrave, Inc., or a registered professional engineer of the state, pier locations will be identified while monitoring obstructions, such as site utilities, trees, shrubs, and air conditioner units. Once appropriate pier locations has been set, plywood is laid on the ground to protect the homeowner’s yard. Also, the limbs of shrubs and trees can be tied back to allow adequate excavation of soil below the structure’s foundation. Once completed, excavation will begin and the soil removed will be laid on plywood to ensure adequate protection and cleanliness to the property.

CHANCE Helical Piers can now be installed under your home’s foundation. Torque is constantly monitored by the operator to ensure proper installation is achieved. If the load achieved is not met with the lead helical section, extension material is attached to achieve greater depth to reach capacity.

Once proper installation torque has been achieved, a termination bracket will be placed over the shaft of the CHANCE helical pier. Jacks will be set on the bracket and your home is ready to be lifted. Employees will be placed on the interior and exterior of your home. They will monitor visible notifications of structural damage, such as brick cracks, window separations, freeze board pulls, and sticking doors.

Once the structure is lifted to a proper elevation and no undue stress is put on the foundation, the bracket system transitions the weight of the home to the CHANCE helical piering system with the use of a concrete block and metal shims. The excavated soil is then put back in the hole and adjustments can be made in the future if unforeseen disturbances occur, such as water leaks and poor drainage.

We at Hargrave and Hargrave, Inc., take great care in protecting your property. We finalize clean up by washing areas that experience heavy traffic to ensure a fast and effective