When it comes to repairing cracks in your foundation, there are a few different methods that can be used. Our epoxy and urethane injection systems are both cost-effective, minimally invasive methods that repair cracks, reinstate structural soundness, and prevent the future deterioration of your foundation. However, a crack repair method that is superior to epoxy and urethane injections is carbon fiber. With woven carbon fiber, our team can repair bowing or bulging walls that have sustained more structural damage and cannot be repaired with our crack injection solutions. Read on to learn more about the benefits of carbon fiber in foundation repair.
How Carbon Fiber is Used in Foundation Repair
Carbon fiber foundation repair is a minimally invasive method that requires only 1-3 team members utilizing a couple of simple tools. First, we will use either our epoxy or urethane injection systems to fill in the crack. The material used will depend upon the condition of the individual crack. Next, we will cover this material with strips of woven carbon fiber. These provide reinforcement to the wall and ensure that further damage will not be incurred. Finally, we will add a steel angle to the top of the wall to finish the repair process.
Advantages of Carbon Fiber
The main advantage of carbon fiber in foundation repair is the fact that it is extremely strong. This material is essentially incapable of breaking, and it also will not stretch. We can use carbon fiber that is woven either uni-directionally or bi-directionally, which means that it offers resistance against movement in either one or two directions. Carbon fiber also eliminates moisture from the area and prevents your foundation from deteriorating further. In addition, carbon fiber is beneficial because it requires zero maintenance and can easily be painted to blend in with the rest of the space.
Disadvantages of Carbon Fiber
While carbon fiber is a superior method of foundation repair, it does have a couple of disadvantages. First, carbon fiber cannot be used for foundation damage that exceeds two inches. If your foundation damage has progressed past this point, we will need to utilize more invasive options that include drilling below your foundation and inserting a new support system. Second, carbon fiber is more expensive than our other crack repair methods. However, in spite of this initial cost, carbon fiber is a valuable repair method that will last throughout your home’s lifetime. We even offer a transferrable warranty for the next owners of your home.
Conclusion
Overall, carbon fiber is a superior foundation repair solution due to its high strength and durability. Carbon fiber is not only a versatile option, but it is also minimally invasive to your home. While carbon fiber is more expensive than epoxy and urethane injections, its benefits make it a valuable choice. In addition, carbon fiber is much less expensive than the more invasive foundation repair solutions necessary for more extensive damage. To learn more about the benefits of woven carbon fiber and to talk to an expert about your foundation problems, call Intech Anchoring Systems today at 844-244-7319.