American Waterworks Case Studies: Helical Piers Restore Foundation in De Soto, WI

Challenge

Josh D. in De Soto, WI noticed part of his foundation separating from the house and some cracks in the block walls of his sinking foundation that were getting larger and widening over time. The soil beneath the foundation was unstable and if left unattended, the entire foundation could eventually fail. While doing his research, he learned that American Waterworks has been restoring foundations for almost 3 decades! Our Design Specialist, Michel Ramirez, assured him that we could lift and support the foundation by installing 7 helical piers. He approved of the proposed solution and moved forward with an installation date. 

Solution

Our Foreman, Jose Castillo, and his production crew got to work and began the project by excavating the soil around the home where the foundation started settling and shifting. They placed the bracket of the piers underneath the foundation and then installed the piers with helical plates. These plates help to pull the pier into the competent, supporting soil during installation and provide anchoring strength as the weight of the foundation is transferred to the pier. Helical piers not only support the weight of the home, but they provide the best opportunity to lift a home back to its original position. Josh’s peace of mind has been restored, knowing his foundation is permanently supported.

Project Summary

Design Specialist: Michel Ramirez

Foreman: Jose Castillo

Installing Contractor: American Waterworks

Products Installed: Helical Piers