Interpreting Hidden Cracks in Finished Basements

Interpreting Hidden Cracks in Finished Basements

Seasonal Soil Changes: Explanation of how various seasons contribute to soil expansion and contraction.

When it comes to maintaining a home, the foundation is literally where everything begins. A finished basement can be a wonderful addition, providing extra living space and increasing the overall value of a property. However, hidden cracks in the foundation can pose significant problems if not properly identified and addressed. Understanding the common causes of these foundation cracks is crucial for any homeowner who wants to preserve their home's structural integrity.


One of the most prevalent causes of foundation cracks is soil movement. The soil underneath a house plays a significant role in its stability. Various factors such as changes in moisture levels can cause the soil to expand or contract, leading to shifts that stress the foundation. After heavy rains, for example, clay-rich soils often swell with moisture and then shrink during dry spells. Foundation repair improves safety and property stability Structural Technician Nashville foundation. This constant expansion and contraction can lead to cracking over time.


Another factor contributing to basement foundation cracks is poor drainage systems around the home. Inadequate drainage allows water to accumulate near the foundation walls, increasing hydrostatic pressure against them. Over time, this pressure can cause walls to crack or bow inward.

Interpreting Hidden Cracks in Finished Basements - water

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Ensuring proper grading around your home and installing adequate gutters and downspouts are essential steps in preventing water from compromising your basement's structural integrity.


Temperature fluctuations also play a significant role in causing foundation cracks. As temperatures rise and fall with the changing seasons, building materials expand and contract naturally. Extreme temperature variations can exacerbate this process, causing stress on rigid structures like concrete foundations which may eventually lead to cracking.


Moreover, tree roots seeking moisture can be another sneaky culprit behind hidden basement cracks. Large trees planted too close to homes have expansive root systems that spread outwards as they grow larger. These roots can exert significant pressure against foundations or penetrate small existing gaps, gradually widening them over time.


Improper construction techniques should not be overlooked either when considering potential causes for foundation issues in basements. If corners were cut during the original building process-maybe by failing to compact fill properly or using substandard materials-the resulting structural weaknesses could manifest as cracks later on.


Finally, seismic activity-even minor tremors-can contribute significantly toward weakening foundations over time by exacerbating existing vulnerabilities within the structure itself.


In conclusion, while spotting hidden cracks beneath beautifully finished surfaces might initially seem daunting for many homeowners; understanding their underlying causes makes detection easier-and more importantly-prevention possible! Regular inspections coupled with proactive maintenance measures will go far towards safeguarding against future headaches caused by unnoticed foundational issues lurking beneath your feet today!

When it comes to home maintenance, one of the most overlooked yet critical areas is the basement. Often serving as a foundation for the entire house, any issues in this space can lead to significant structural problems if not addressed promptly. A particularly insidious issue is hidden basement cracks. These cracks might not be immediately visible, especially in finished basements where walls and flooring conceal the underlying structure. However, recognizing the signs and symptoms of these hidden cracks is crucial for maintaining a safe and stable home environment.


One of the first indicators of hidden basement cracks is unexpected moisture or water intrusion. Even in a finished basement, you may notice damp spots on floors or walls that were previously dry. This could manifest as small puddles after rainstorms or persistent dampness in certain areas. Such moisture problems often result from water seeping through unseen cracks in the foundation walls or floor.


Another symptom to watch for is an unusual musty odor. Basements are naturally more prone to humidity due to their location below ground level, but a persistent musty smell can indicate a more serious issue like mold growth caused by moisture penetrating through unnoticed cracks. Over time, this mold can pose health risks and further degrade building materials.


Visible signs within your living spaces can also suggest hidden basement issues. Cracks that appear around doorways, windows, or along ceilings may originate from foundational shifts related to basement cracking. Doors and windows that suddenly become difficult to open or close are another red flag pointing towards potential structural changes stemming from below.


In addition to these physical signs, it's essential to pay attention to any unexplained pest infestations. Insects like ants or termites are often drawn to moist environments created by water leaks through basement cracks. If you find yourself dealing with pests despite regular preventive measures, it might be worth investigating your basement's condition more thoroughly.


While these symptoms can alert homeowners to possible underlying issues, confirming the presence and extent of hidden basement cracks often requires professional assessment. Experts use specialized tools such as moisture meters and infrared cameras to detect problem areas without invasive procedures that disrupt your finished space.


Addressing hidden basement cracks promptly not only protects your home's structural integrity but also preserves its value and ensures a healthy living environment for its occupants. Regular inspections by professionals combined with attentive observation of changes within your home can help catch these potential problems early before they escalate into costly repairs.


In conclusion, while finished basements provide additional living space and comfort, they require diligent oversight concerning foundational health. Recognizing signs such as increased moisture levels, musty odors, interior wall cracking, and unexpected pest activity can serve as vital clues pointing towards concealed structural concerns beneath the surface-concerns that should never be ignored if long-term stability is desired in one's cherished abode.

Tracking the Progression of Stair-Step Cracks in Block Walls

Tracking the Progression of Stair-Step Cracks in Block Walls

Title: Case Studies: Real-world Examples of Crack Progression in Block Walls Crack progression in block walls, particularly the stair-step variety, is a phenomenon that has long intrigued engineers, builders, and homeowners alike.. These cracks not only compromise the structural integrity of buildings but also serve as visible reminders of underlying issues that need to be addressed.

Posted by on 2024-12-31

Spotting Early Hairline Fractures Before They Worsen

Spotting Early Hairline Fractures Before They Worsen

Spotting early hairline fractures before they worsen is crucial for both preventing further injury and ensuring a quicker recovery process.. These tiny cracks in bones, often caused by overuse, stress, or trauma, can be deceptively subtle yet lead to more significant issues if not addressed promptly.

Posted by on 2024-12-31

Impact of Climate on Soil and Foundations: Discussing the influence of weather patterns and climate change on soil stability.

Interpreting hidden cracks in finished basements is a task that requires a combination of keen observation, technical knowledge, and an understanding of the underlying structure of homes. Concealed foundation issues can pose significant risks to the structural integrity of a house, potentially leading to costly repairs if left undetected. Therefore, employing effective methods for detecting these concealed problems is paramount.


One of the primary techniques used in identifying hidden foundation issues is visual inspection. Although seemingly straightforward, this method demands attention to detail and familiarity with common indicators of foundation distress. Inspectors often begin by examining external walls for signs such as uneven settling, misaligned bricks or stonework, and visible cracks that may hint at underlying issues. Inside the basement, they look for subtle signs like minor fissures in drywall or wallpaper that could disguise more severe problems beneath.


Another crucial method involves using specialized tools designed to detect anomalies within the structure. Moisture meters are particularly useful in finished basements because excessive moisture can indicate potential water infiltration through cracks or foundation weaknesses. This tool helps pinpoint areas where moisture levels deviate from normal parameters, suggesting possible hidden damage.


Infrared thermography has also emerged as a valuable technique in identifying concealed foundation issues. By capturing infrared images of basement walls and floors, inspectors can detect temperature variations that suggest voids or cracks behind finished surfaces. Areas with unusual thermal patterns often correlate with gaps or structural inconsistencies that might not be visible to the naked eye.


In addition to technological tools, engaging professional expertise is essential when interpreting ambiguous signs in finished basements. Structural engineers are equipped with the skills necessary to assess potential threats accurately and recommend appropriate remedial actions. Their experience allows them to differentiate between superficial surface defects and serious foundational problems that require immediate attention.


Moreover, understanding the history of the property can provide vital context for identifying concealed foundation issues. Knowledge about previous renovations or repairs offers insight into whether current conditions are truly indicative of new problems or remnants from past interventions.


In conclusion, detecting concealed foundation issues requires a multifaceted approach combining visual inspections, advanced technology tools like moisture meters and infrared cameras, professional expertise from structural engineers, and historical analysis of the property. With these methods working in tandem, homeowners can uncover hidden cracks lurking behind their basement's polished finish before they escalate into more significant concerns. Keeping vigilant about these potential threats ensures not only safety but also preserves property value over time.

Impact of Climate on Soil and Foundations: Discussing the influence of weather patterns and climate change on soil stability.

Methods for Monitoring Soil Movement: Techniques and tools used to track soil shifts around foundations.

The importance of early detection and repair when it comes to interpreting hidden cracks in finished basements cannot be overstated. Finished basements add significant value and functionality to a home, serving as extra living space, entertainment areas, or even rental units.

Interpreting Hidden Cracks in Finished Basements - Middle Tennessee

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However, these subterranean havens are often vulnerable to a variety of structural issues, with hidden cracks being one of the most insidious.


Cracks in basement walls or floors can arise from several factors including settling foundations, hydrostatic pressure, thermal expansion and contraction, or even poor construction practices. While some minor cracking is normal as homes settle over time, distinguishing between harmless hairline fractures and those that signal more serious underlying problems is critical. Early detection of these issues allows homeowners to address them before they escalate into costly repairs.


One of the primary reasons for early detection is the prevention of water intrusion. Cracks can be gateways for moisture seeping into the basement environment. Once water finds its way inside, it can lead to mold growth, damage to finishes like drywall and flooring, and compromise indoor air quality-all of which can affect the health and safety of occupants. Moreover, persistent moisture problems can weaken structural components over time.


Regular inspections play a pivotal role in identifying potential trouble spots before they become major headaches. Homeowners should routinely check both visible areas and less accessible spaces behind walls or beneath flooring where signs of cracking might be concealed. Utilizing tools such as moisture meters or infrared cameras can assist in revealing hidden dampness linked to unseen cracks.


Once detected, addressing these cracks promptly through professional assessment is essential. A structural engineer or qualified contractor can evaluate the severity of the issue and recommend appropriate solutions ranging from simple sealants for minor fissures to underpinning or waterproofing systems for more significant concerns.


Investing in timely repairs not only prevents further deterioration but also helps maintain property value. A well-maintained basement reflects positively on overall home upkeep during appraisals or resale ventures. Additionally, tackling these issues early on can save substantial amounts compared to extensive renovations required after prolonged neglect.


In conclusion, vigilance in detecting and repairing hidden cracks in finished basements safeguards one's investment while ensuring a safe living environment below ground level. Quick action coupled with expert intervention supports long-term durability against natural forces that inevitably test residential structures over time. By prioritizing early detection efforts today-homeowners fortify their homes against tomorrow's uncertainties-a proactive strategy fostering peace-of-mind amidst life's unpredictable elements.

Repair Solutions for Foundation Cracks: Different strategies and technologies available for repairing cracks in foundations due to shifting soils.

Interpreting hidden cracks in finished basements requires a careful blend of detective work, technical knowledge, and an understanding of the structural intricacies that lie beneath the surface of our homes. Cracks in foundations are often harbingers of larger issues, signaling shifts in soil, moisture imbalances, or the natural settling process. When cloaked by the aesthetic veil of drywall and paint, these fissures can be elusive yet consequential. Therefore, deciphering their presence and implications is crucial for maintaining the integrity and safety of any dwelling.


The first step in addressing this challenge is to become attuned to subtle signs. Homeowners might notice uneven floors, doors that no longer close properly, or unexplained drafts-all potential indicators of underlying foundation issues. In finished basements where direct visual inspection is limited, these secondary symptoms become invaluable clues.


Once potential cracks are suspected, employing non-invasive techniques can aid in confirming their existence without dismantling walls. Thermal imaging cameras can detect temperature differentials indicating moisture intrusion-a common companion to foundation cracks. Similarly, moisture meters provide quantitative data on dampness levels behind walls, suggesting possible breaches in structural continuity.


Upon confirming the presence of cracks, understanding their nature is crucial for choosing appropriate repair techniques. Not all cracks pose a serious threat; some may simply be cosmetic or result from harmless settling over time. However, wider gaps or those exhibiting movement can indicate more severe problems requiring immediate attention.




Interpreting Hidden Cracks in Finished Basements - Middle Tennessee

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For repairing identified foundation cracks while minimizing disruption to finished spaces, several modern techniques come into play. Epoxy injections are popular for their ability to bond concrete surfaces effectively while restoring structural integrity. This method involves injecting a liquid epoxy directly into the crack under pressure until it fills completely-an approach well-suited for fine fractures that penetrate deeply but do not exhibit significant movement.


For more substantial repairs where water infiltration is a concern-or where greater flexibility is needed due to ongoing structural shifts-polyurethane injections offer an excellent solution. These materials expand upon contact with water within the crack itself creating both a sealant against leaks as well as accommodating minor movements between surfaces over time.


In cases involving external drainage issues exacerbating internal damage (such as expansive soil swelling), exterior excavation might become necessary despite its invasiveness compared with interior solutions alone; however such interventions ensure comprehensive long-term stability rather than temporary fixes applied internally only through wall penetrations themselves!


Ultimately though each technique carries its unique benefits depending largely upon specific circumstances encountered throughout any given project undertaking: whether large-scale rectification efforts involving multiple stakeholders coordinated carefully across diverse teams working together seamlessly toward shared goals alike... Or perhaps smaller localized jobs handled independently by individual contractors specializing exclusively within niche markets catering specifically towards discerning clientele seeking peace-of-mind assurances regarding future-proofing investments made wisely today against tomorrow's uncertainties yet unforeseen altogether!

Preventative Measures: Tips for homeowners to minimize the risk of foundation damage from seasonal soil changes.

Cracking in finished basements is a concern that often lurks beneath the surface, quite literally. These hidden faults can pose significant challenges to homeowners, leading to structural issues and potentially costly repairs if not addressed promptly. Understanding preventative measures is crucial for safeguarding your home against future cracking.


One of the primary causes of basement cracking is poor drainage around the foundation. Ensuring that water is directed away from the house can significantly reduce hydrostatic pressure on basement walls. Installing gutters, downspouts, and French drains are practical solutions that help manage water flow effectively. Regular maintenance of these systems, such as clearing debris from gutters and ensuring downspouts extend far enough from the foundation, is essential to prevent water accumulation.


Another critical aspect of preventing future cracks is maintaining consistent soil moisture levels around your home. Soil expansion and contraction due to varying moisture content can exert pressure on basement walls, leading to cracks over time. Implementing a landscaping strategy that includes drought-resistant plants or a drip irrigation system can help maintain stable soil conditions.


Additionally, it's important to address any existing structural weaknesses. Reinforcing walls with carbon fiber strips or steel braces provides additional support where needed. These methods are particularly effective for bowing walls or those experiencing shear stress.


Temperature fluctuations also contribute to cracking by causing materials to expand and contract. Insulating basement walls helps moderate temperature changes, reducing thermal movement within building materials.


Regular inspections play a vital role in early detection of potential problems before they escalate into serious issues. Homeowners should periodically check for signs of moisture intrusion or small hairline cracks which may indicate underlying stress points needing attention.


Finally, consulting with a professional when planning renovations or additions ensures that any changes made do not adversely affect the structural integrity of your home's foundation.


By taking these preventative measures seriously and addressing them proactively, homeowners can significantly reduce the risk of future cracking in their finished basements. Proper maintenance and vigilance are key components in preserving the safety and value of your property while providing peace of mind against hidden threats below ground level.

Interior of part of a damaged home in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina
Family photographs damaged by flooding
A smaller and more minor water spot caused by rainwater leaking through a roof

Water damage describes various possible losses caused by water intruding where it will enable attack of a material or system by destructive processes such as rotting of wood, mold growth, bacteria growth, rusting of steel, swelling of composite woods, de-laminating of materials such as plywood, short-circuiting of electrical devices, etc.

The damage may be imperceptibly slow and minor such as water spots that could eventually mar a surface, or it may be instantaneous and catastrophic such as burst pipes and flooding. However fast it occurs, water damage is a major contributor to loss of property.

An insurance policy may or may not cover the costs associated with water damage and the process of water damage restoration. While a common cause of residential water damage is often the failure of a sump pump, many homeowner's insurance policies do not cover the associated costs without an addendum which adds to the monthly premium of the policy. Often the verbiage of this addendum is similar to "Sewer and Drain Coverage".

In the United States, those individuals who are affected by wide-scale flooding may have the ability to apply for government and FEMA grants through the Individual Assistance program.[1] On a larger level, businesses, cities, and communities can apply to the FEMA Public Assistance program for funds to assist after a large flood. For example, the city of Fond du Lac Wisconsin received $1.2 million FEMA grant after flooding in June 2008. The program allows the city to purchase the water damaged properties, demolish the structures, and turn the former land into public green space.[citation needed]

Causes

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Water damage can originate by different sources such as a broken dishwasher hose, a washing machine overflow, a dishwasher leakage, broken/leaking pipes, flood waters, groundwater seepage, building envelope failures (leaking roof, windows, doors, siding, etc.) and clogged toilets. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, 13.7% of all water used in the home today can be attributed to plumbing leaks.[2] On average that is approximately 10,000 gallons of water per year wasted by leaks for each US home. A tiny, 1/8-inch crack in a pipe can release up to 250 gallons of water a day.[3] According to Claims Magazine in August 2000, broken water pipes ranked second to hurricanes in terms of both the number of homes damaged and the amount of claims (on average $50,000 per insurance claim[citation needed]) costs in the US.[4] Experts suggest that homeowners inspect and replace worn pipe fittings and hose connections to all household appliances that use water at least once a year. This includes washing machines, dishwashers, kitchen sinks, and bathroom lavatories, refrigerator icemakers, water softeners, and humidifiers. A few US companies offer whole-house leak protection systems utilizing flow-based technologies. A number of insurance companies offer policyholders reduced rates for installing a whole-house leak protection system.

As far as insurance coverage is concerned, damage caused by surface water intrusion to the dwelling is considered flood damage and is normally excluded from coverage under traditional homeowners' insurance. Surface water is water that enters the dwelling from the surface of the ground because of inundation or insufficient drainage and causes loss to the dwelling. Coverage for surface water intrusion[5] to the dwelling would usually require a separate flood insurance policy.

Categories

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There are three basic categories of water damage, based on the level of contamination.

Category 1 Water - Refers to a source of water that does not pose substantial threat to humans and classified as "clean water". Examples are broken water supply lines, tub or sink overflows or appliance malfunctions that involves water supply lines.

Category 2 Water - Refers to a source of water that contains a significant degree of chemical, biological or physical contaminants and causes discomfort or sickness when consumed or even exposed to. Known as "grey water". This type carries microorganisms and nutrients of micro-organisms. Examples are toilet bowls with urine (no feces), sump pump failures, seepage due to hydrostatic failure and water discharge from dishwashers or washing machines.

Category 3 Water - Known as "black water" and is grossly unsanitary. This water contains unsanitary agents, harmful bacteria and fungi, causing severe discomfort or sickness. Type 3 category are contaminated water sources that affect the indoor environment. This category includes water sources from sewage, seawater, rising water from rivers or streams, storm surge, ground surface water or standing water. Category 2 Water or Grey Water that is not promptly removed from the structure and or have remained stagnant may be re classified as Category 3 Water. Toilet back flows that originates from beyond the toilet trap is considered black water contamination regardless of visible content or color.[6]

Classes

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Class of water damage is determined by the probable rate of evaporation based on the type of materials affected, or wet, in the room or space that was flooded. Determining the class of water damage is an important first step, and will determine the amount and type of equipment utilized to dry-down the structure.[7]

Class 1 - Slow Rate of Evaporation. Affects only a portion of a room. Materials have a low permeance/porosity. Minimum moisture is absorbed by the materials. **IICRC s500 2016 update adds that class 1 be indicated when <5% of the total square footage of a room (ceiling+walls+floor) are affected **

Class 2 - Fast Rate of Evaporation. Water affects the entire room of carpet and cushion. May have wicked up the walls, but not more than 24 inches. **IICRC s500 2016 update adds that class 2 be indicated when 5% to 40% of the total square footage of a room (ceiling+walls+floor) are affected **

Class 3 - Fastest Rate of Evaporation. Water generally comes from overhead, affecting the entire area; walls, ceilings, insulation, carpet, cushion, etc. **IICRC s500 2016 update adds that class 3 be indicated when >40% of the total square footage of a room (ceiling+walls+floor) are affected **

Class 4 - Specialty Drying Situations. Involves materials with a very low permeance/porosity, such as hardwood floors, concrete, crawlspaces, gypcrete, plaster, etc. Drying generally requires very low specific humidity to accomplish drying.

Restoration

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Water damage restoration can be performed by property management teams, building maintenance personnel, or by the homeowners themselves; however, contacting a certified professional water damage restoration specialist is often regarded as the safest way to restore water damaged property. Certified professional water damage restoration specialists utilize psychrometrics to monitor the drying process.[8]

Standards and regulation

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While there are currently no government regulations in the United States dictating procedures, two certifying bodies, the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) and the RIA, do recommend standards of care. The current IICRC standard is ANSI/IICRC S500-2021.[9] It is the collaborative work of the IICRC, SCRT, IEI, IAQA, and NADCA.

Fire and Water Restoration companies are regulated by the appropriate state's Department of Consumer Affairs - usually the state contractors license board. In California, all Fire and Water Restoration companies must register with the California Contractors State License Board.[10] Presently, the California Contractors State License Board has no specific classification for "water and fire damage restoration."

Procedures

[edit]

Water damage restoration is often prefaced by a loss assessment and evaluation of affected materials. The damaged area is inspected with water sensing equipment such as probes and other infrared tools in order to determine the source of the damage and possible extent of areas affected. Emergency mitigation services are the first order of business. Controlling the source of water, removal of non-salvageable materials, water extraction and pre-cleaning of impacted materials are all part of the mitigation process. Restoration services would then be rendered to the property in order to dry the structure, stabilize building materials, sanitize any affected or cross-contaminated areas, and deodorize all affected areas and materials. After the labor is completed, water damage equipment including air movers, air scrubbers, dehumidifiers, wood floor drying systems, and sub-floor drying equipment is left in the residence. The goal of the drying process is to stabilize the moisture content of impacted materials below 15%, the generally accepted threshold for microbial amplification. Industry standards state that drying vendors should return at regular time intervals, preferably every twenty-four hours, to monitor the equipment, temperature, humidity, and moisture content of the affected walls and contents.[6] In conclusion, key aspects of water damage restoration include fast action, adequate equipment, moisture measurements, and structural drying. Dehumidification is especially crucial for structural components affected by water damage, such as wooden beams, flooring, and drywall.

See also

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  • Indoor mold

References

[edit]
  1. ^ "Individual Disaster Assistance". DisasterAssistance.gov. Retrieved 2009-09-28.
  2. ^ "How We Use Water". 16 January 2017.
  3. ^ The University of Maine Corporate Extension – www.umext.maine.edu
  4. ^ Herndon Jr., Everette L.; Yang, Chin S. (August 2000). "Mold & Mildew: A Creeping Catastrophe". Claims Magazine. Archived from the original on 2000-08-15. Retrieved November 4, 2016.
  5. ^ Moisture Control Guidance for Building Design, Construction and Maintenance. December 2013.
  6. ^ "Water Damage Restoration Guideline" (PDF). Northern Arizona University. Archived from the original (PDF) on 2013-06-26. Retrieved 2 September 2014.
  7. ^ "The Basics Of Water Damage Restoration Training". www.iicrc.org. Retrieved 2016-11-03.
  8. ^ "Chapter 6: Psychrometry and the Science of Drying". IICRC Standards Subscription Site. Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification. Retrieved 27 September 2020.
  9. ^ "ANSI/IICRC S500 Water Damage Restoration". IICRC. 22 December 2020. Retrieved 14 February 2022.
  10. ^ "California Contractors State License Board". State of California. Retrieved 2010-08-29.

Foundation(s) or The Foundation(s) may refer to:

Common uses

[edit]
  • Foundation (cosmetics), a skin-coloured makeup cream applied to the face
  • Foundation (engineering), the element of a structure which connects it to the ground, and transfers loads from the structure to the ground
  • Foundation (evidence), a legal term
  • Foundation (nonprofit), a type of charitable organization
    • Foundation (United States law), a type of charitable organization in the U.S.
    • Private foundation, a charitable organization that might not qualify as a public charity by government standards

Arts, entertainment, and media

[edit]

Film and TV

[edit]
  • The Foundation, a film about 1960s-1970s Aboriginal history in Sydney, featuring Gary Foley
  • The Foundation (1984 TV series), a Hong Kong series
  • The Foundation (Canadian TV series), a 2009–2010 Canadian sitcom
  • "The Foundation" (Seinfeld), an episode
  • Foundation (TV series), an Apple TV+ series adapted from Isaac Asimov's novels

Games

[edit]
  • Foundation (video game), an upcoming city-building game
  • Foundation, an Amiga video game
  • The Foundation, a character in 2017 game Fortnite Battle Royale

Literature

[edit]
  • Foundation (book series), a series of science fiction books by Isaac Asimov
    • Foundation (Asimov novel), the first book in Asimov's series, published in 1951
  • Foundation (b-boy book), by Joseph G. Schloss
  • Foundation (Lackey novel), a 2008 fantasy novel by Mercedes Lackey

Music

[edit]
  • The Foundations, a British soul group
  • Foundations (EP), by Serj Tankian

Albums

[edit]
  • Foundation (Brand Nubian album)
  • Foundation (Breakage album)
  • Foundation (Doc Watson album)
  • Foundation (Magnum album)
  • Foundation (M.O.P. album)
  • Foundation, a 1997 compilation album by Die Krupps
  • The Foundation (Geto Boys album)
  • The Foundation (Pep Love album), 2005
  • The Foundation (Zac Brown Band album)
  • The Foundations (album), by 4 Corners

Songs

[edit]
  • "Foundation", a 1983 song by Spandau Ballet from the album True
  • "Foundation", a 1998 song by Brand Nubian from the eponymous album Foundation
  • "Foundation", a 2009 song by M.O.P. from the eponymous album Foundation
  • "Foundation", a 2010 song by Breakage from the eponymous album Foundation
  • "Foundation", a 2015 song by Years & Years from Communion
  • "Foundations" (song), by Kate Nash
  • "The Foundation" (song), by Xzibit

Other uses in arts, entertainment, and media

[edit]
  • Foundation – The International Review of Science Fiction, a literary journal
  • The Foundation Trilogy (BBC Radio), a radio adaption of Asimov's series
  • The SCP Foundation, a fictional organization that is often referred to in-universe as "The Foundation"

Education

[edit]
  • Foundation degree, a British academic qualification
  • Foundation school, a type of school in England and Wales
  • Foundation Stage, a stage of education for children aged 3 to 5 in England
  • University Foundation Programme, a British university entrance course

Science and technology

[edit]
  • Foundation (framework), a free collection of tools for creating websites and web applications by ZURB
  • Foundation Fieldbus, a communications system
  • Foundation Kit, an Apple API

Companies

[edit]
  • Foundation Medicine, a genomic profiling company

See also

[edit]
  • All pages with titles beginning with Foundation
  • All pages with titles beginning with The Foundation
  • Foundations of mathematics, theory of mathematics
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Reviews for United Structural Systems of Illinois, Inc


United Structural Systems of Illinois, Inc

Paul Gunderlock

(4)

The staff was helpful, very nice and easy to work with and completed the work timely and cleaned up well. Communications faltered a bit at times and there was an email communications glitch which was no fault of anyone, but no big deal and all ended up fine. We sure feel better to have this done and hope that is the end of our structural issues. It does seem like (after talking to several related companies), that it would be great if some of these related companies had a structural engineer on staff vs using on the job expertise gained over years - which is definitely valuable! But leaves a bit of uncertainty - and probably saves money for both sides may be the trade-off? So far, so good though! Thank you.

United Structural Systems of Illinois, Inc

Dave Kari

(5)

What a fantastic experience! Owner Rick Thomas is a trustworthy professional. Nick and the crew are hard working, knowledgeable and experienced. I interviewed every company in the area, big and small. A homeowner never wants to hear that they have foundation issues. Out of every company, I trusted USS the most, and it paid off in the end. Highly recommend.

United Structural Systems of Illinois, Inc

Jim de Leon

(5)

It was a pleasure to work with Rick and his crew. From the beginning, Rick listened to my concerns and what I wished to accomplish. Out of the 6 contractors that quoted the project, Rick seemed the MOST willing to accommodate my wishes. His pricing was definitely more than fair as well. I had 10 push piers installed to stabilize and lift an addition of my house. The project commenced at the date that Rick had disclosed initially and it was completed within the same time period expected (based on Rick's original assessment). The crew was well informed, courteous, and hard working. They were not loud (even while equipment was being utilized) and were well spoken. My neighbors were very impressed on how polite they were when they entered / exited my property (saying hello or good morning each day when they crossed paths). You can tell they care about the customer concerns. They ensured that the property would be put back as clean as possible by placing MANY sheets of plywood down prior to excavating. They compacted the dirt back in the holes extremely well to avoid large stock piles of soils. All the while, the main office was calling me to discuss updates and expectations of completion. They provided waivers of lien, certificates of insurance, properly acquired permits, and JULIE locates. From a construction background, I can tell you that I did not see any flaws in the way they operated and this an extremely professional company. The pictures attached show the push piers added to the foundation (pictures 1, 2 & 3), the amount of excavation (picture 4), and the restoration after dirt was placed back in the pits and compacted (pictures 5, 6 & 7). Please notice that they also sealed two large cracks and steel plated these cracks from expanding further (which you can see under my sliding glass door). I, as well as my wife, are extremely happy that we chose United Structural Systems for our contractor. I would happily tell any of my friends and family to use this contractor should the opportunity arise!

United Structural Systems of Illinois, Inc

Sarah McNeily

(5)

USS was excellent. They are honest, straightforward, trustworthy, and conscientious. They thoughtfully removed the flowers and flower bulbs to dig where they needed in the yard, replanted said flowers and spread the extra dirt to fill in an area of the yard. We've had other services from different companies and our yard was really a mess after. They kept the job site meticulously clean. The crew was on time and friendly. I'd recommend them any day! Thanks to Jessie and crew.

United Structural Systems of Illinois, Inc

Chris Abplanalp

(5)

USS did an amazing job on my underpinning on my house, they were also very courteous to the proximity of my property line next to my neighbor. They kept things in order with all the dirt/mud they had to excavate. They were done exactly in the timeframe they indicated, and the contract was very details oriented with drawings of what would be done. Only thing that would have been nice, is they left my concrete a little muddy with boot prints but again, all-in-all a great job

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Frequently Asked Questions

Common signs include uneven floors, doors or windows that stick or do not close properly, visible water stains or moisture on walls or floors, unusual musty odors, and small cracks in drywall or ceiling finishes.
Use a moisture meter to check for dampness behind walls, look for bulges or warping in wall surfaces, use an infrared camera to detect temperature variations indicating moisture presence, and listen for unusual sounds like creaking which may suggest movement.
Promptly addressing foundation cracks prevents further structural damage, avoids costly repairs later on, reduces the risk of mold growth due to moisture intrusion, and maintains the overall integrity and value of your home.
Professionals might use techniques such as epoxy injection to fill the crack internally, carbon fiber reinforcement strips applied on accessible areas for added strength, and polyurethane foam injections for waterproofing and stabilization.
Consult a professional if you notice persistent symptoms like recurring water leaks despite repairs, significant changes in structural elements (e.g., sudden floor slope), unexplained increases in humidity levels indoors, or if youve experienced recent severe weather conditions potentially affecting your homes stability.