Extending Gutter Downspouts for Extra Protection

Extending Gutter Downspouts for Extra Protection

Explanation of how improper gutter downspouts can lead to foundation damage.


Certainly! Expert contractors use specialized techniques to stabilize shifting foundations foundation repair service areas asset.

When it comes to maintaining a home, one might not immediately think of the humble gutter downspout as a critical component in preventing major structural issues. However, improper gutter downspouts can indeed lead to significant foundation damage over time. Let's delve into how this happens and why extending gutter downspouts can offer extra protection.

Gutters serve the essential function of channeling rainwater away from the roof and the sides of a house. When working correctly, they prevent water from pooling near the foundation. However, if gutter downspouts are too short or not extended far enough from the house, water can still end up close to the foundation.

Here's a step-by-step look at the process:

1. **Water Accumulation**: Rainwater flows into the gutters and then down the downspouts. If the downspouts don't extend far enough away from the house, the water will drop close to the foundation.

2. **Soil Saturation**: The soil around the foundation becomes overly saturated with water. This can lead to an increase in soil volume due to the water content, a phenomenon known as soil expansion.

3. **Hydrostatic Pressure**: As the soil expands, it exerts pressure on the foundation walls. Prolonged or excessive hydrostatic pressure can cause the foundation to crack or shift.

4. **Erosion**: Additionally, the force of falling water can erode the soil around the foundation. Over time, this erosion can undermine the structural integrity of the foundation, leading to settling or even collapse in extreme cases.

5. **Mold and Mildew**: Excess moisture near the foundation can also create a hospitable environment for mold and mildew, which can further degrade the structural materials.

Extending gutter downspouts is a relatively simple yet effective solution to these problems. By ensuring that downspouts extend at least four to six feet away from the house, preferably with underground drainage systems, homeowners can significantly reduce the risk of water accumulating near the foundation.

In summary, improper gutter downspouts can lead to foundation damage through a series of interconnected issues involving water accumulation, soil saturation, hydrostatic pressure, erosion, and mold growth. Extending gutter downspouts is a practical and affordable measure that can provide extra protection, ensuring the longevity and stability of a home's foundation.

Discussion on the benefits of extending gutter downspouts for extra protection.


Sure, here's a human-like discussion on the benefits of extending gutter downspouts for extra protection:

When it comes to maintaining a home, one of the often overlooked but incredibly important aspects is the proper management of rainwater runoff. Extending gutter downspouts is a simple yet effective strategy that offers a multitude of benefits. Let's dive into why this small modification can make a big difference.

First and foremost, extending gutter downspouts helps to direct rainwater away from the foundation of your home. This is crucial because water pooling near the foundation can lead to a host of problems, including erosion, cracks, and even basement flooding. By ensuring that water is channeled further away, you significantly reduce the risk of these issues, ultimately saving you from costly repairs down the line.

Another significant benefit is the prevention of waterlogging in your yard. When rainwater is allowed to pool close to your home, it can saturate the soil, making it difficult for grass and plants to thrive. Extended downspouts help to disperse water more evenly, keeping your landscape healthy and avoiding muddy, uneven patches.

Additionally, extending your gutter downspouts can enhance the overall aesthetic of your property. Many homeowners choose to incorporate decorative elements or extensions that not only serve a functional purpose but also add a touch of style to their home's exterior. This can be particularly appealing if you're looking to increase your home's curb appeal for a potential sale.

Furthermore, extended downspouts contribute to better maintenance of your gutters. When water is efficiently directed away from your home, it reduces the strain on your gutter system, making it less likely to become clogged or damaged. This means you'll spend less time and money on gutter cleaning and repairs.

Lastly, consider the environmental benefits. By effectively managing rainwater runoff, you're contributing to better water management practices. This can help reduce erosion in local waterways and promote healthier ecosystems.

In conclusion, extending gutter downspouts is a practical and beneficial modification for any homeowner. It protects your home's foundation, improves your yard's health, enhances aesthetic appeal, eases maintenance, and contributes to environmental sustainability. It's a small change with substantial rewards.

Step-by-step guide on how to extend gutter downspouts effectively.


Extending gutter downspouts is a practical solution to improve the drainage system around your home, ensuring water is directed away from the foundation and preventing potential water damage. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to extend your gutter downspouts effectively.

First, assess the current positioning of your downspouts. It's important to ensure that water is being directed at least four to six feet away from your home's foundation to prevent erosion and basement flooding. If your downspouts aren't extending far enough, you'll need to plan an extension.

Begin by purchasing extension pipes that match the diameter of your existing downspouts. These can typically be found at home improvement stores. You'll also need some additional materials such as downspout brackets, elbows if you plan to change the direction of the water flow, and possibly some sealant to ensure a watertight connection.

The next step is to cut the existing downspout to the desired length. Use a hacksaw or a fine-toothed saw to make a clean cut. It's crucial to measure accurately to ensure the extension will reach the desired distance from your home.

Once cut, slide the extension pipe onto the end of the existing downspout. If the fit is snug, you might not need additional brackets, but for extra security, use downspout brackets to hold the extension in place. These brackets can be screwed into the side of the downspout and the extension pipe to create a sturdy connection.

If you need to redirect the flow of water, install an elbow fitting. This will allow you to guide the water away from your home at an angle. Simply cut the downspout at the point where you want to install the elbow, slide the elbow onto the end of the downspout, and then attach the extension pipe to the other end of the elbow.

Finally, check all connections for leaks. You can do this by running water through the gutter system and observing where it exits the downspout. If you notice any leaks, apply some sealant to the joints to ensure a tight fit.

In conclusion, extending your gutter downspouts is a straightforward process that can significantly enhance the effectiveness of your home's drainage system. By following these steps, you can ensure that water is efficiently directed away from your home, protecting your foundation and landscaping from potential water damage.

Tips for choosing the right materials and tools for gutter downspout extension.


When it comes to extending gutter downspouts for added protection, selecting the right materials and tools is crucial to ensuring the job is done efficiently and effectively. Here are some tips to help you make the best choices:

Firstly, consider the material of the existing gutters. If your gutters are made of aluminum, it's best to use aluminum extensions to maintain uniformity and prevent any potential corrosion issues that can arise from mixing metals. For gutters made of vinyl, opt for vinyl extensions to ensure a seamless fit and finish.

Next, think about the length of the extension you need. Measure the distance from your current downspout outlet to the area where you want the water to be directed. This will help you determine the appropriate length of the extension. It's often a good idea to go a bit longer than you think you need to ensure the water is directed far enough away from your home's foundation.

When it comes to tools, having the right ones can make the installation process much smoother. Basic tools you'll need include a tape measure, a hacksaw or tin snips for cutting the extensions to size, and screws or clamps to secure the extensions in place. If you're working with metal gutters, a deburring tool can be useful for smoothing any rough edges after cutting.

Additionally, consider the climate in your area. If you live in a region with heavy rainfall or freezing temperatures, you may want to choose extensions that are specifically designed to withstand these conditions. Look for extensions that are reinforced or have additional features like built-in filters to prevent debris from clogging the downspouts.

Lastly, don't forget about safety. When working on gutters and downspouts, always use a sturdy ladder and consider wearing non-slip footwear to prevent accidents. If you're uncomfortable working at heights, it might be worth hiring a professional to ensure the job is done safely and correctly.

By carefully selecting the right materials and tools, you can extend your gutter downspouts effectively, providing your home with the extra protection it needs against water damage.

Common mistakes to avoid when extending gutter downspouts.


When it comes to extending gutter downspouts for extra protection, there are several common mistakes that homeowners often make. Avoiding these pitfalls can save you time, money, and hassle in the long run. Here are some key mistakes to watch out for:

1. **Improper Measurement**: One of the most frequent errors is failing to measure the necessary length accurately. Downspouts need to extend far enough away from your home to ensure water doesn't pool near the foundation, which can lead to erosion and basement flooding. A general rule of thumb is to extend them at least four to six feet away from the house.

2. **Neglecting Slope**: Ensuring that your extended downspouts have a proper slope is crucial. Water should flow away from your home, not towards it. If the extension isn't angled correctly, water can back up and cause issues. Use a level to check the slope and make adjustments as needed.

3. **Using Inadequate Materials**: Another common mistake is using low-quality materials for the extension. Cheaper materials may not withstand the elements as well, leading to quicker degradation and potential leaks. Invest in durable materials like PVC or metal to ensure longevity.

4. **Ignoring Local Climate Conditions**: Different regions have varying weather patterns, and it's important to consider these when extending your downspouts. In areas with heavy rainfall, you may need more robust extensions and additional drainage solutions to handle the volume of water.

5. **Poor Connection Points**: Ensuring a secure and watertight connection between the existing downspout and the extension is vital. Loose or improperly connected sections can lead to leaks and reduced efficiency. Use appropriate connectors and sealants to create a strong bond.

6. **Overlooking Maintenance**: Extended downspouts require regular maintenance to function effectively. Ignoring this can lead to clogs, debris buildup, and eventual failure. Make it a habit to check and clean your downspouts seasonally to prevent issues.

7. **Failing to Consider Aesthetics**: While functionality is paramount, don't overlook the aesthetic aspect. Poorly designed or installed extensions can be eyesores. Choose extensions that complement your home's style and consider painting them to match your gutters.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your extended gutter downspouts provide the extra protection your home needs, keeping it safe from water damage and ensuring a more efficient gutter system.

Maintenance tips for extended gutter downspouts to ensure long-lasting protection.


Sure, here's a short essay on maintenance tips for extended gutter downspouts to ensure long-lasting protection.

Maintaining extended gutter downspouts is crucial for ensuring they provide long-lasting protection for your home. Here are some practical tips to keep your gutters in top condition.

Regular Cleaning: The most important step in maintaining your gutters is to clean them regularly. Debris such as leaves, twigs, and dirt can accumulate, leading to clogs and water overflow. Use a ladder to safely access your gutters and remove any buildup. For easier cleaning, consider installing gutter guards, which can significantly reduce the amount of debris that enters your gutters.

Check for Damage: Inspect your gutters and downspouts for any signs of damage, such as cracks, leaks, or loose sections. Even small cracks can lead to significant water damage over time. If you notice any issues, repair them promptly to prevent further damage. Use gutter repair tape or call a professional for more extensive repairs.

Ensure Proper Slope: Gutters need to have a slight slope towards the downspouts to ensure water flows efficiently. Check that your gutters are properly aligned and adjust them if necessary. This will help prevent water from pooling and overflowing.

Clean Downspouts: Just like the gutters, downspouts can also get clogged with debris. Use a garden hose to flush out any buildup inside the downspouts. You can also use a downspout cleaning tool to remove stubborn clogs.

Paint or Seal: If your gutters are made of metal, consider painting or sealing them to protect against rust and corrosion. For gutters made of other materials, ensure they are kept clean and free of mildew or moss, which can weaken the material over time.

Trim Overhanging Branches: Trees can be a significant source of debris in your gutters. Trim back any branches that hang over your roof to reduce the amount of leaves and twigs that fall into your gutters.

Professional Inspection: Consider having a professional inspect your gutters annually. They can identify potential issues that you might miss and provide expert advice on maintenance and repairs.

By following these maintenance tips, you can ensure that your extended gutter downspouts continue to provide effective protection for your home, preventing water damage and maintaining the integrity of your roof and foundation.



Facebook about us:

Residential Foundation Repair Services

Strong Foundations, Strong Homes


 

Hoffman Estates is located in Illinois
Hoffman Estates
Hoffman Estates
 
Hoffman Estates is located in the United States
Hoffman Estates
Hoffman Estates
 
Hoffman Estates, Illinois
Village
Hoffman Estates scenery
Hoffman Estates scenery
Flag of Hoffman Estates, Illinois
Official seal of Hoffman Estates, Illinois
Motto: 
"Growing to Greatness"
Location of Hoffman Estates in Cook County, Illinois
Location of Hoffman Estates in Cook County, Illinois
Hoffman Estates is located in Chicago metropolitan area
Hoffman Estates
Hoffman Estates
 

Coordinates: 42°03′50″N 88°08′49″W / 42.06389°N 88.14694°W / 42.06389; -88.14694CountryUnited StatesStateIllinoisCountiesCookTownshipsSchaumburg, Palatine, Hanover, BarringtonIncorporated1959 (village)Government

 

 • MayorWilliam D. McLeod[citation needed] • Village ManagerEric J. Palm[citation needed]Area

[1]
 • Total

21.25 sq mi (55.03 km2) • Land21.07 sq mi (54.56 km2) • Water0.18 sq mi (0.47 km2)  0.86%Elevation

[2]

824 ft (251 m)Population

 (2020)
 • Total

52,530 • Density2,493.71/sq mi (962.82/km2)Zip Code

60169, 60010, 60192

Area code(s)847 / 224FIPS code17-35411GNIS feature ID2398519[2]Websitewww.hoffmanestates.org

Hoffman Estates is a village in Cook County, Illinois, United States. It is a suburb of Chicago. Per the 2020 census, the population was 52,530.[3]

The village previously served as the headquarters for Sears and is one of the American headquarters for Mori Seiki. Now Arena, home of the Windy City Bulls of the NBA G League is part of the village. Between 2006 and 2009, the village hosted the Heartland International Tattoo, one of the largest music and dance festivals of its kind in the Midwest.

History

[edit]
Sunderlage Farm Smokehouse[4](National Register of Historic Places) in Hoffman Estates

Prior to the 1940s, German settlers moved into the area west of Roselle Road and north of Golf Road, then known as Wildcat Grove. The area was sparsely populated until farmers purchased land in the area in the 1940s.

In 1954, Sam and Jack Hoffman, owners of a father-son owned construction company, bought 160 acres of land in the area.[5] The pair constructed homes and began the development of the region which now bears their name. As residents moved in, they voted to incorporate the area, and the Village of Hoffman Estates was incorporated on September 23, 1959.[6][5][7] In 1973, six former town officials, including mayors Edward F. Pinger (1959−1965) and Roy L. Jenkins (1965−1969) were indicted on bribery and tax charges.[8]

Once the Northwest Tollway opened, Schaumburg Township became more attractive to Chicago commuters. In the early 1960s, land annexations north of the tollway and in other neighboring regions more than doubled Hoffman Estates' land area.[9]

The opening of the Woodfield Mall in Schaumburg to the east in 1971 made the area a major business center. An attempt to change the name of the village to East Barrington, among other names, was made in the early 1980s but failed upon a residential vote.[10]

In the 1990s, the Prairie Stone Business Park began development. This 750-acre (3.0 km2) planned multi-purpose business park[11] is bounded by Illinois Route 59 on the east, Interstate 90 on the south, Illinois Route 72 on the north, and Beverly Road on the west. The business park came to fruition in 1993 when Sears, Roebuck and Company relocated from the Sears Tower in Chicago to a sprawling headquarters in the northwest part of Prairie Stone.[12][11] That was followed in by Indramat and Quest International, which in 1995 also opened facilities in the park.[13][14][15] Throughout the 1990s, a health and wellness center and child care facility were developed, as well as other smaller office buildings, and a branch of Northern Illinois University. Development of the business park is still ongoing, and recent additions in the 2000s include the 11,000-seat Now Arena; office buildings for Serta, WT Engineering, I-CAR, and Mary Kay; a Cabela's outdoor outfitters store; a 295-room Marriott hotel; and the 400,000-square-foot (37,000 m2) Poplar Creek Crossing Retail Center, which is anchored by Target and numerous other big-box retailers. Future development will include further office buildings and retail development, Sun Island Hotel and Water Park, an amphitheater, and restaurants.

In 2011, the Village of Hoffman Estates took over ownership of the Now Arena.[16] On June 23, 2020, the Village of Hoffman Estates approved an $11.5 million deal to rename the Sears Centre Arena to the "NOW Arena".[17]

In the fall of 2016, papers and artifacts from President Barack Obama's administration began to arrive in town, where they are being stored in a building on Golf Road. The site is their temporary home while construction takes place on the Barack Obama Presidential Center in Jackson Park, Chicago, and is not open to the public.[18]

In January 2020, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed the second U.S. case of COVID-19 in a Hoffman Estates resident. The patient, a woman in her 60s returning from Wuhan, China, was treated at St. Alexius Medical Center.[19] Her husband was later infected in the first case of human-to-human transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in the United States.[20]

Geography

[edit]

According to the 2021 census gazetteer files, Hoffman Estates has a total area of 21.25 square miles (55.04 km2), of which 21.07 square miles (54.57 km2) (or 99.15%) is land and 0.18 square miles (0.47 km2) (or 0.85%) is water.[21]

Demographics

[edit]
Historical population
Census Pop. Note
1960 8,296  
1970 22,238   168.1%
1980 37,272   67.6%
1990 46,363   24.4%
2000 49,495   6.8%
2010 51,895   4.8%
2020 52,530   1.2%
U.S. Decennial Census[22]
2010[23] 2020[24]
Hoffman Estates village, Illinois – Racial and ethnic composition
Note: the US Census treats Hispanic/Latino as an ethnic category. This table excludes Latinos from the racial categories and assigns them to a separate category. Hispanics/Latinos may be of any race.
Race / Ethnicity (NH = Non-Hispanic) Pop 2000[25] Pop 2010[23] Pop 2020[24] % 2000 % 2010 % 2020
White alone (NH) 33,789 29,357 26,014 68.27% 56.57% 49.52%
Black or African American alone (NH) 2,141 2,393 2,472 4.33% 4.61% 4.71%
Native American or Alaska Native alone (NH) 54 60 69 0.11% 0.12% 0.13%
Asian alone (NH) 7,429 11,701 13,733 15.01% 22.55% 26.14%
Pacific Islander alone (NH) 10 4 2 0.02% 0.01% 0.00%
Other race alone (NH) 73 70 183 0.15% 0.13% 0.35%
Mixed race or Multiracial (NH) 801 1,013 1,579 1.62% 1.95% 3.01%
Hispanic or Latino (any race) 5,198 7,297 8,478 10.50% 14.06% 16.14%
Total 49,495 51,895 52,350 100.00% 100.00% 100.00%

As of the 2020 census[26] there were 52,530 people, 18,110 households, and 14,048 families residing in the village. The population density was 2,472.58 inhabitants per square mile (954.67/km2). There were 19,160 housing units at an average density of 901.86 per square mile (348.21/km2). The racial makeup of the village was 52.08% White, 26.26% Asian, 4.87% African American, 0.60% Native American, 0.02% Pacific Islander, 7.51% from other races, and 8.68% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 16.14% of the population.

There were 18,110 households, out of which 36.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 61.71% were married couples living together, 11.97% had a female householder with no husband present, and 22.43% were non-families. 18.07% of all households were made up of individuals, and 5.43% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 3.16 and the average family size was 2.77.

The village's age distribution consisted of 23.1% under the age of 18, 7.3% from 18 to 24, 27.7% from 25 to 44, 28.3% from 45 to 64, and 13.5% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 38.2 years. For every 100 females, there were 97.6 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 96.4 males.

The median income for a household in the village was $92,423, and the median income for a family was $103,641. Males had a median income of $56,210 versus $42,288 for females. The per capita income for the village was $40,016. About 3.3% of families and 4.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including 4.9% of those under age 18 and 3.5% of those age 65 or over.

Economy

[edit]

Employers

[edit]

Many Japanese companies have their U.S. headquarters in Hoffman Estates and Schaumburg[27] but the largest employers in Hoffman Estates as of 2023[28] are:

No. Employer No. of employees
1 St. Alexius Medical Center 2,500
2 Siemens Medical Systems 400
3 Claire's[29] 400
4 Village of Hoffman Estates 370
5 FANUC America[30] 350
6 Vistex 350
7 Leopardo Companies, Inc. 300
8 Wells Fargo 300
9 The Salvation Army 270
10 Tate & Lyle 220

Education

[edit]

The village is served by several public school districts. The majority of residents who live in Schaumburg Township attend:

  • Township High School District 211 (9–12)[31]
  • Community Consolidated School District 54 (K–8)[32]

North Hoffman Estates (north of I-90) residents are served by:

  • Township High School District 211
  • Community Consolidated School District 15 (K–8)[33] (East of Huntington Blvd)
  • Barrington School District 220 (K–12) (Unit District) (West of Huntington Blvd).[34]

Residents west of Barrington Road primarily attend Unit School District, Elgin Area U46.

High schools

[edit]

Schools located in the Hoffman Estates village limits:

  • Hoffman Estates High School
  • James B. Conant High School

Other high schools in the same township high school district:

  • Schaumburg High School
  • William Fremd High School
  • Palatine High School

Community college

[edit]

Most of the village is served by Harper College Community College District 512.

Miscellaneous education

[edit]

The Xilin Northwest Chinese School (simplified Chinese: 希林西北中文学校; traditional Chinese: 希林西北中文學校; pinyin: XÄ«lín XÄ«bÄ›i Zhōngwén Xuéxiào) holds its classes at Conant High School in Hoffman Estates.[35] It serves grades preschool through 12.[36] The school predominately serves mainland Chinese families. In 2003 the school held its classes in Palatine High School in Palatine. In 2000 the school had served around 300 students. This figure increased almost by 100%, to almost 600 students. This made it one of the largest of the Chinese schools in the Chicago area.[37]

Library

[edit]
  • Barrington Area Library
  • Schaumburg Township District Library
  • Gail Borden Public Library District
  • Palatine Township Library

Sister city

[edit]

Hoffman Estates has one sister city:[38]

  • Angoulême, Charente, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France

Transportation

[edit]

Pace provides bus service on multiple routes connecting Hoffman Estates to Elgin, Rosemont, and other destinations.[39]

Notable people

[edit]
  • Tammy Duckworth, U.S. Senator from Illinois (2016–present)[40]
  • Rob Valentino (b. 1985), former soccer player who is an assistant coach for Atlanta United[41]
  • William Beckett, lead singer of the band The Academy Is...

Notes

[edit]
  1. ^ "2020 U.S. Gazetteer Files". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved March 15, 2022.
  2. ^ a b U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Hoffman Estates, Illinois
  3. ^ "Hoffman Estates village, Illinois". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved April 15, 2022.
  4. ^ "The Sunderlage Smokehouse: Hoffman Eestates' National Register Landmark". History of Schaumburg Township: A Blog of the Schaumburg Township District Library. February 21, 2010. Retrieved March 3, 2017.
  5. ^ a b Collins, Catherine (August 24, 1986). "Hoffman Estates Plans a Revamp of Future Image". Chicago Tribune.
  6. ^ "Hoffman Estates, IL". The Encyclopedia of Chicago. Retrieved March 8, 2020.
  7. ^ "HR0614 96th General Assembly". State of Illinois.
  8. ^ Davis, Robert (October 27, 1973). "U.S. indicts builder, seven ex-officials in suburb bribe". Chicago Tribune.
  9. ^ "History of Hoffman Estates". Village of Hoffman Estates. Retrieved March 8, 2020.
  10. ^ "Name history of Hoffman Estates". Falcon Living. Retrieved November 26, 2017.
  11. ^ a b Sulski, Jim (May 11, 2000). "Versatile Network Brings Workers to Prairie Stone Business Park". Chicago Tribune.
  12. ^ Bernstein, David (May 16, 2020). "The Sears Headquarters Deal Cost Taxpayers $500 Million. 30 Years Later, There's Little to Show for It". ProPublica.
  13. ^ Russis, Martha (December 28, 1994). "PRAIRIE STONE GETS ELECTRONIC FIRM FOR TENANT". Chicago Tribune.
  14. ^ Kerch, Steve (October 30, 1994). "GETTING THE NOD". Chicago Tribune.
  15. ^ "Village of Hoffman Estates: History of Hoffman Estates". Hoffmanestates.com. Archived from the original on May 11, 2012. Retrieved April 30, 2012.
  16. ^ Manson, Ken (December 23, 2009). "Suburb takes over Sears Centre". Chicago Tribune.
  17. ^ Zumbach, Lauren (June 23, 2020). "Sears name disappearing from another Chicago-area building. Hoffman Estates arena gets a new name this fall". Chicago Tribune. Retrieved June 24, 2020.
  18. ^ Skiba, Katherine (October 21, 2016). "Military Soon to Start Moving Obama's Papers to Hoffman Estates". Chicago Tribune. Washington DC. Retrieved March 3, 2017.
  19. ^ "Coronavirus Confirmed In Chicago; Woman In Her 60s Being Treated For Symptoms". CBS Chicago. Chicago. January 24, 2020. Retrieved February 13, 2020.
  20. ^ Hauck, Grace (January 30, 2020). "Chicago man is first US case of person-to-person coronavirus spread". USA Today. Chicago. Retrieved February 13, 2020.
  21. ^ "Gazetteer Files". Census.gov. Retrieved June 29, 2022.
  22. ^ "Decennial Census of Population and Housing by Decades". US Census Bureau.
  23. ^ a b "P2 Hispanic or Latino, and Not Hispanic or Latino by Race – 2010: DEC Redistricting Data (PL 94-171) – Hoffman Estates village, Illinois". United States Census Bureau.
  24. ^ a b "P2 Hispanic or Latino, and Not Hispanic or Latino by Race – 2020: DEC Redistricting Data (PL 94-171) –Hoffman Estates village, Illinois". United States Census Bureau.
  25. ^ "P004: Hispanic or Latino, and Not Hispanic or Latino by Race – 2000: DEC Summary File 1 – Hoffman Estates village, Illinois". United States Census Bureau.
  26. ^ "Explore Census Data". data.census.gov. Retrieved June 28, 2022.
  27. ^ Selvam, Ashok. "Asian population booming in suburbs". Daily Herald (Arlington Heights, Illinois). March 6, 2011. Retrieved on June 19, 2013.
  28. ^ "Village of Hoffman Estates Comprehensive Annual Financial Report". June 25, 2024.
  29. ^ " FAQ Archived July 13, 2014, at the Wayback Machine." Claire's. Retrieved on December 25, 2011. "Claire’s Stores, Inc. has its investor relations and customer service located in Pembroke Pines , Florida . The buying, marketing and distribution offices are located in Hoffman Estates, a suburb of Chicago . Please visit Contact Us if you would like to send correspondence to our corporate headquarters."
  30. ^ "Village of Hoffman Estates Top Employers". Hoffmanestates.org. March 21, 2012. Archived from the original on April 22, 2012. Retrieved April 30, 2012.
  31. ^ "d211.org". d211.org. Archived from the original on May 4, 2012. Retrieved April 30, 2012.
  32. ^ "sd54.k12.il.us". sd54.k12.il.us. April 19, 2012. Archived from the original on February 1, 1998. Retrieved April 30, 2012.
  33. ^ "ccsd15.net". ccsd15.net. Retrieved April 30, 2012.
  34. ^ "cusd220.lake.k12.il.us". cusd220.lake.k12.il.us. Archived from the original on July 3, 2006. Retrieved April 30, 2012.
  35. ^ "School Location." Northwest Xilin Chinese School. Retrieved on February 24, 2014. "School Address 700 East Cougar Trail,Hoffman Estates,IL 60194 Located at Conant High School campus."
  36. ^ "About Us." Northwest Xilin Chinese School. Retrieved on February 24, 2014.
  37. ^ Ray, Tiffany. "Schools connect students to China." Chicago Tribune. March 2, 2003. Retrieved on February 24, 2014.
  38. ^ "Archived copy". Archived from the original on April 5, 2017. Retrieved April 4, 2017.cite web: CS1 maint: archived copy as title (link)
  39. ^ "RTA System Map" (PDF). Retrieved January 30, 2024.
  40. ^ "Endorsement: Duckworth for U.S. Senate". Daily Herald. October 8, 2022.
  41. ^ "Rob Valentino Biography". ESPN. Retrieved March 31, 2024.
[edit]
  • Village of Hoffman Estates official website

 

Redirect to:

  • Structural integrity and failure

In geotechnical engineering, soil compaction is the process in which stress applied to a soil causes densification as air is displaced from the pores between the soil grains. When stress is applied that causes densification due to water (or other liquid) being displaced from between the soil grains, then consolidation, not compaction, has occurred. Normally, compaction is the result of heavy machinery compressing the soil, but it can also occur due to the passage of, for example, animal feet.

In soil science and agronomy, soil compaction is usually a combination of both engineering compaction and consolidation, so may occur due to a lack of water in the soil, the applied stress being internal suction due to water evaporation[1] as well as due to passage of animal feet. Affected soils become less able to absorb rainfall, thus increasing runoff and erosion. Plants have difficulty in compacted soil because the mineral grains are pressed together, leaving little space for air and water, which are essential for root growth. Burrowing animals also find it a hostile environment, because the denser soil is more difficult to penetrate. The ability of a soil to recover from this type of compaction depends on climate, mineralogy and fauna. Soils with high shrink–swell capacity, such as vertisols, recover quickly from compaction where moisture conditions are variable (dry spells shrink the soil, causing it to crack). But clays such as kaolinite, which do not crack as they dry, cannot recover from compaction on their own unless they host ground-dwelling animals such as earthworms—the Cecil soil series is an example.

Before soils can be compacted in the field, some laboratory tests are required to determine their engineering properties. Among various properties, the maximum dry density and the optimum moisture content are vital and specify the required density to be compacted in the field.[2]

A 10 tonne excavator is here equipped with a narrow sheepsfoot roller to compact the fill over newly placed sewer pipe, forming a stable support for a new road surface.
A compactor/roller fitted with a sheepsfoot drum, operated by U.S. Navy Seabees
Vibrating roller with plain drum as used for compacting asphalt and granular soils
Vibratory rammer in action

In construction

[edit]

Soil compaction is a vital part of the construction process. It is used for support of structural entities such as building foundations, roadways, walkways, and earth retaining structures to name a few. For a given soil type certain properties may deem it more or less desirable to perform adequately for a particular circumstance. In general, the preselected soil should have adequate strength, be relatively incompressible so that future settlement is not significant, be stable against volume change as water content or other factors vary, be durable and safe against deterioration, and possess proper permeability.[3]

When an area is to be filled or backfilled the soil is placed in layers called lifts. The ability of the first fill layers to be properly compacted will depend on the condition of the natural material being covered. If unsuitable material is left in place and backfilled, it may compress over a long period under the weight of the earth fill, causing settlement cracks in the fill or in any structure supported by the fill.[4] In order to determine if the natural soil will support the first fill layers, an area can be proofrolled. Proofrolling consists of utilizing a piece of heavy construction equipment to roll across the fill site and watching for deflections to be revealed. These areas will be indicated by the development of rutting, pumping, or ground weaving.[5]

To ensure adequate soil compaction is achieved, project specifications will indicate the required soil density or degree of compaction that must be achieved. These specifications are generally recommended by a geotechnical engineer in a geotechnical engineering report.

The soil type—that is, grain-size distributions, shape of the soil grains, specific gravity of soil solids, and amount and type of clay minerals, present—has a great influence on the maximum dry unit weight and optimum moisture content.[6] It also has a great influence on how the materials should be compacted in given situations. Compaction is accomplished by use of heavy equipment. In sands and gravels, the equipment usually vibrates, to cause re-orientation of the soil particles into a denser configuration. In silts and clays, a sheepsfoot roller is frequently used, to create small zones of intense shearing, which drives air out of the soil.

Determination of adequate compaction is done by determining the in-situ density of the soil and comparing it to the maximum density determined by a laboratory test. The most commonly used laboratory test is called the Proctor compaction test and there are two different methods in obtaining the maximum density. They are the standard Proctor and modified Proctor tests; the modified Proctor is more commonly used. For small dams, the standard Proctor may still be the reference.[5]

While soil under structures and pavements needs to be compacted, it is important after construction to decompact areas to be landscaped so that vegetation can grow.

Compaction methods

[edit]

There are several means of achieving compaction of a material. Some are more appropriate for soil compaction than others, while some techniques are only suitable for particular soils or soils in particular conditions. Some are more suited to compaction of non-soil materials such as asphalt. Generally, those that can apply significant amounts of shear as well as compressive stress, are most effective.

The available techniques can be classified as:

  1. Static – a large stress is slowly applied to the soil and then released.
  2. Impact – the stress is applied by dropping a large mass onto the surface of the soil.
  3. Vibrating – a stress is applied repeatedly and rapidly via a mechanically driven plate or hammer. Often combined with rolling compaction (see below).
  4. Gyrating – a static stress is applied and maintained in one direction while the soil is a subjected to a gyratory motion about the axis of static loading. Limited to laboratory applications.
  5. Rolling – a heavy cylinder is rolled over the surface of the soil. Commonly used on sports pitches. Roller-compactors are often fitted with vibratory devices to enhance their effectiveness.
  6. Kneading – shear is applied by alternating movement in adjacent positions. An example, combined with rolling compaction, is the 'sheepsfoot' roller used in waste compaction at landfills.

The construction plant available to achieve compaction is extremely varied and is described elsewhere.

Test methods in laboratory

[edit]

Soil compactors are used to perform test methods which cover laboratory compaction methods used to determine the relationship between molding water content and dry unit weight of soils. Soil placed as engineering fill is compacted to a dense state to obtain satisfactory engineering properties such as, shear strength, compressibility, or permeability. In addition, foundation soils are often compacted to improve their engineering properties. Laboratory compaction tests provide the basis for determining the percent compaction and molding water content needed to achieve the required engineering properties, and for controlling construction to assure that the required compaction and water contents are achieved. Test methods such as EN 13286-2, EN 13286-47, ASTM D698, ASTM D1557, AASHTO T99, AASHTO T180, AASHTO T193, BS 1377:4 provide soil compaction testing procedures.[7]

See also

[edit]
  • Soil compaction (agriculture)
  • Soil degradation
  • Compactor
  • Earthwork
  • Soil structure
  • Aeration
  • Shear strength (soil)
Multiquip RX1575 Rammax Sheepsfoot Trench Compaction Roller on the jobsite in San Diego, California

References

[edit]
  1. ^ Soil compaction due to lack of water in soil
  2. ^ Jia, Xiaoyang; Hu, Wei; Polaczyk, Pawel; Gong, Hongren; Huang, Baoshan (2019). "Comparative Evaluation of Compacting Process for Base Materials using Lab Compaction Methods". Transportation Research Record: Journal of the Transportation Research Board. 2673 (4): 558–567. doi:10.1177/0361198119837953. ISSN 0361-1981.
  3. ^ McCarthy, David F. (2007). Essentials of Soil Mechanics and Foundations. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Prentice Hall. p. 595. ISBN 978-0-13-114560-3.
  4. ^ McCarthy, David F. (2007). Essentials of Soil Mechanics and Foundations. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Prentice Hall. pp. 601–602. ISBN 978-0-13-114560-3.
  5. ^ a b McCarthy, David F. (2007). Essentials of Soil Mechanics and Foundations. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Prentice Hall. p. 602. ISBN 978-0-13-114560-3.
  6. ^ Das, Braja M. (2002). Principles of Geotechnical Engineering. Pacific Grove, CA: Brooks/Cole. p. 105. ISBN 0-534-38742-X.
  7. ^ "Automatic Soil Compactor". cooper.co.uk. Cooper Research Technology. Archived from the original on 27 August 2014. Retrieved 8 September 2014.

 

Photo
Photo
Photo
Photo

Reviews for


Jeffery James

(5)

Very happy with my experience. They were prompt and followed through, and very helpful in fixing the crack in my foundation.

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.

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!

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

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.

View GBP