Failing stairwell in Westminster, MD
Challenge
Homeowners in Westminster reached out to Fortress after fearing their stairwell was going to cave in. They had noticed small cracks that quickly became severe and were concerned the structure was becoming unsafe. Matt, one of our skilled System Designers, performed a thorough evaluation and discovered that water pooling behind the stairwell due to an improperly directed gutter discharge had created hydrostatic pressure, causing the stairwell wall to fail.
Solution
Matt recommended a GeoLock® Wall Anchor System with an extension to reach stable, virgin soil beyond the failing stairwell. The anchors were installed to permanently stabilize the wall and provide the opportunity to gradually pull it back toward its original position, restoring the safety and stability of the stairwell.