What Is

Compaction Grouting?

Compaction grouting piers are an advanced technique used in the realm of foundation stabilization and soil densification. This method involves the injection of a thick, mortar-like grout into the ground through drilled holes at specific locations around the affected foundation. The process is meticulously planned, with the depth and placement of the injections carefully calculated based on soil conditions and the needs of the structure.

The injected grout displaces and compacts the loose or weak soil, filling voids and creating columns or "piers" of solidified material. These grout columns significantly enhance the load-bearing capacity of the soil, providing a more stable base for the foundation. Compaction grouting is particularly effective in treating issues related to soil instability, such as sinking or settling foundations, and is often used in areas with problematic soils.

The technique offers several advantages, particularly in terms of its low impact on the surrounding environment. Unlike some other foundation repair methods, compaction grouting requires minimal excavation, preserving the integrity of the landscape and causing less disruption. This approach is also faster and typically less noisy, making it suitable for residential areas and commercial settings where minimizing disturbance is a priority.

Benefits of

Compaction Grouting

Compaction grouting piers present a host of benefits, especially when dealing with unstable soil conditions and sinking foundations. One of the primary advantages is their effectiveness in densifying loose or weak soils, which improves the overall stability of the foundation. This method can be precisely targeted to specific problem areas, ensuring a focused and efficient stabilization process.

Another significant benefit is the minimal disruption caused during installation. The process involves drilling small holes and injecting grout, which means there is little to no need for large-scale excavation. This reduced disturbance is a key factor for property owners concerned about maintaining their landscape and minimizing impact on daily activities.

The speed of the process is also a notable advantage. Compaction grouting can be completed relatively quickly compared to some other foundation repair methods, reducing the overall project time and associated costs. This quicker turnaround is advantageous for both residential and commercial properties where time is a critical factor.

In terms of durability, compaction grouting creates long-lasting improvements in soil stability. The grout columns are resistant to further compaction or shifting, providing a permanent solution to foundation problems caused by unstable soil. This long-term stability reduces the likelihood of future foundation issues and related expenses.

Environmental considerations are another aspect where compaction grouting stands out. The method is less invasive and has a smaller environmental footprint compared to traditional excavation-based approaches. Additionally, the materials used in the grout are typically environmentally friendly, aligning with sustainability goals.

Finally, the use of compaction grouting can enhance the value of a property. By addressing and resolving foundational and soil stability issues, property owners can assure potential buyers of the building's structural integrity. This assurance, combined with the long-term benefits and reduced future maintenance costs, makes compaction grouting a valuable investment for any property facing soil stability challenges.

Signs You May Need Helical Piers

Floor & Wall Cracks

Cracks aren’t always scary. Sometimes they are superficial, such as minor or hairline cracks in plaster, cornices and skirting boards. Bigger cracks are another story and usually point to bigger underlying problems, such as uneven weight distribution due to weak foundations.

Cracks to look for could be interior (plaster, wall and floor tiles) or exterior (brickwork, render, concrete slab).

Ideally try to observe the cracks over a period of weeks or months to determine if the cracks you’ve noticed get bigger, wider or longer - or if new cracks appear. If they remain unchanged over a long period, the subsidence has likely run its course and the house has settled.

Unlevel Floors

Something that isn’t always as obvious as cracks is unlevel floors. When you are able to identify them however, a lean to one or more sides of your home is a strong sign that there are significant foundation issues at play.

In serious cases we’ve seen, you can stand at one end of a hallway and see the fall of the house as you look down the hall. Other times, unlevel floors will contribute to misaligned doors.

Generally you can use a spirit level to get some idea of how unlevel a room is. Or place a ball in a room and see if it remains still or if it rolls in a particular direction. But to understand how significant this is usually will require a professional.

Another thing to look for are irregular trenches forming around the edge of the building or slab, in the top layers of the soil. This is another sign of subsidence.

Unaligned Doors & Windows

Doors and windows can be good indicators of foundation problems.

Gaps appearing and getting wider around your windows and doors. Finding it hard to close (or reopen) your doors or windows, or not being able to lock them.

In more advanced cases, there are more visible leans to door, and door or window frames may begin pulling away from their surrounding walls.