Foundation Repair in Charlottesville, Virginia
Challenge
A homeowner in Charlottesville contacted Fortress Foundation Solutions after noticing signs of foundation settlement throughout their home. Interior drywall cracks had formed above door frames, several doors and windows were sticking, and gaps had appeared between walls and ceiling corners. Outside the home, stair-step cracks were visible along the brick veneer.
Over time, these issues became more pronounced, raising concerns about structural stability. A detailed inspection revealed that unstable, compressible soils beneath the foundation had shifted due to seasonal moisture changes. As the soil settled and consolidated, portions of the foundation footing began to sink unevenly. Without proper support beneath the footing, continued movement could result in more extensive structural damage. The homeowner wanted a permanent solution that would stabilize and potentially restore the home’s original elevation.
Solution
Fortress Foundation Solutions recommended the installation of a steel push pier system to permanently stabilize the settling foundation. Push piers are engineered steel supports that are hydraulically driven deep into the ground until they reach stable, load-bearing soil or bedrock.
During installation, small sections of soil were excavated at key foundation points to access the footing. Heavy-duty steel brackets were secured to the foundation, and the push piers were advanced into the ground using the weight of the home to achieve proper depth and resistance. Once all piers were installed, synchronized hydraulic lifting was performed to carefully raise the settled portion of the foundation toward its original position.
After the lift, the foundation was permanently stabilized, preventing further settlement. The homeowner noticed immediate improvements, including better door and window alignment. With the push pier system in place, the home was restored to structural stability, protecting its long-term integrity and value.