Installing Exterior Waterproof Barriers for Walls

Installing Exterior Waterproof Barriers for Walls

Examination of the methods used to identify expansive clay in a property

Types of waterproof barriers available for residential walls.


When it comes to protecting residential walls from water damage, installing an exterior waterproof barrier is a smart and effective solution. Expert contractors use specialized techniques to stabilize shifting foundations foundation repair service market ventilation. There are several types of waterproof barriers available, each with its own set of advantages and considerations. Understanding these options can help homeowners make informed decisions to safeguard their homes.

One common type of waterproof barrier is bituminous membrane. This is essentially a layer of asphalt-based material that is applied to the exterior walls. It's highly effective at preventing water penetration and is often used in combination with other waterproofing methods. Bituminous membranes are durable and can withstand a lot of wear and tear, making them a popular choice for many homeowners.

Another option is cementitious waterproof coatings. These are applied as a liquid and then harden to form a solid, waterproof layer. They are easy to apply and can be used on a variety of wall surfaces. Cementitious coatings are also breathable, which means they allow moisture vapor to escape from inside the wall, reducing the risk of mold and mildew.

Elastic waterproof membranes are another great choice. These are flexible materials that can stretch and move with the wall, accommodating any shifts or settlements without cracking. This makes them ideal for areas with high moisture or where the ground may shift over time. Elastic membranes are often made from rubber or synthetic materials and provide a robust barrier against water.

For those looking for an eco-friendly option, there are waterproof barriers made from natural materials. These can include clay-based coatings or plant-derived sealants. While they may not be as widely available as synthetic options, they offer a sustainable alternative for environmentally conscious homeowners.

Lastly, there are pre-formed waterproof barriers, which are panels or sheets that are installed on the exterior wall. These are often made from plastic or rubber and provide a seamless waterproof layer. They are easy to install and can be a great option for DIY enthusiasts.

In conclusion, there are several types of waterproof barriers available for residential walls, each with its own benefits. Whether you choose a bituminous membrane, cementitious coating, elastic membrane, natural material, or pre-formed barrier, the key is to ensure proper installation to achieve maximum effectiveness. By taking the time to research and select the right waterproof barrier, homeowners can protect their walls from water damage and enjoy peace of mind for years to come.

Factors to consider when choosing the right waterproof barrier for your home.


When it comes to protecting your home from water damage, installing exterior waterproof barriers for walls is a crucial step. Choosing the right waterproof barrier involves considering several factors to ensure optimal protection and longevity. Here are the key factors to consider:

Firstly, the climate and weather conditions of your region play a significant role. If you live in an area with heavy rainfall or frequent storms, you'll need a waterproof barrier that can withstand high water pressure and prolonged exposure to moisture. Conversely, in drier climates, the focus may be more on preventing moisture infiltration during occasional rain events.

Secondly, the type of wall construction is important. Different wall materials, such as brick, concrete, or wood, may require specific types of waterproof barriers. For instance, porous materials like brick may need a more robust barrier to prevent water seepage, while smoother surfaces might require a different approach.

Thirdly, consider the intended use of the space. Are you protecting an exterior wall, a basement, or perhaps a retaining wall? Each application may demand a different level of waterproofing. For example, basements often require more comprehensive waterproofing solutions due to their susceptibility to flooding.

Fourthly, think about the durability and lifespan of the waterproof barrier. Some materials may offer short-term protection but require frequent maintenance or replacement. Opting for a high-quality, long-lasting barrier can save you time and money in the long run.

Additionally, ease of installation is a practical consideration. Some waterproof barriers are more complex to install and may require professional help, while others are designed for DIY application. Assess your own capabilities and budget when choosing between these options.

Lastly, consider the environmental impact of the waterproof barrier. Eco-friendly options are increasingly available and can be a valuable choice for those concerned about sustainability.

In conclusion, selecting the right waterproof barrier for your home involves a careful evaluation of climate, wall type, intended use, durability, installation ease, and environmental impact. By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision that will effectively protect your home from water damage for years to come.

Step-by-step guide on how to install exterior waterproof barriers on walls.


Installing exterior waterproof barriers on walls is a crucial step in protecting your home from water damage, ensuring longevity and maintaining the integrity of your structure. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

1. **Assessment and Planning**: Begin by assessing the area where you plan to install the waterproof barrier. Identify any existing water damage or vulnerabilities. Plan the layout and gather all necessary materials and tools, including the waterproof membrane, adhesive, primer, and protective gear.

2. **Surface Preparation**: Clean the wall surface thoroughly to remove dirt, debris, and any loose material. This ensures proper adhesion of the waterproof membrane. Repair any cracks or holes using a suitable filler.

3. **Apply Primer**: Apply a primer to the cleaned surface. This step enhances the adhesion of the waterproof membrane to the wall. Allow the primer to dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions.

4. **Cutting the Membrane**: Measure and cut the waterproof membrane to fit the wall area. Ensure you have enough material to cover the entire surface with minimal seams.

5. **Installation**: Start by applying a bead of adhesive along the bottom edge of the wall. Peel off the backing from the waterproof membrane and press it firmly onto the adhesive, smoothing out any air bubbles or wrinkles as you go. Continue this process, working from the bottom upwards, ensuring seamless overlap at the seams.

6. **Seam Taping**: Use waterproof seam tape to seal any overlaps or seams in the membrane. Press the tape firmly onto the membrane to create a watertight seal.

7. **Final Inspection**: Once the membrane is installed, inspect the entire surface for any missed spots, bubbles, or wrinkles. Make necessary adjustments to ensure a smooth and continuous barrier.

8. **Allow to Cure**: Give the waterproof membrane sufficient time to cure according to the manufacturer's recommendations. This ensures the adhesive and membrane reach full effectiveness.

9. **Backfilling**: If applicable, backfill the area around the wall with soil or gravel, ensuring not to damage the membrane. Compact the fill material to restore the area to its original state.

10. **Maintenance**: Regularly inspect the waterproof barrier for any signs of wear or damage. Address any issues promptly to maintain the effectiveness of the waterproof system.

By following these steps, you can effectively install an exterior waterproof barrier on your walls, providing lasting protection against water intrusion and preserving the structural integrity of your home.

Common mistakes to avoid during the installation process.


When embarking on the installation of exterior waterproof barriers for walls, there are several common mistakes that homeowners and even professionals sometimes overlook, which can lead to less-than-optimal results. Awareness of these pitfalls can ensure a successful and durable installation. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

Firstly, neglecting proper surface preparation is a significant error. The surface on which the waterproof barrier is to be installed must be clean, dry, and free of any loose debris or existing coatings that could prevent proper adhesion. Skipping this step can lead to poor adhesion of the waterproof barrier, compromising its effectiveness.

Another common mistake is underestimating the importance of following the manufacturer's instructions. Each product has specific guidelines regarding application methods, curing times, and compatibility with other materials. Deviating from these instructions can result in an ineffective barrier or even damage to the wall structure.

Improper overlap of the waterproof membrane is also a frequent oversight. When installing in sheets, ensuring sufficient overlap between sheets is crucial for maintaining a continuous waterproof layer. Inadequate overlap can create weak points where water can penetrate.

Not accounting for expansion and contraction is another critical mistake. Temperature fluctuations can cause materials to expand and contract. Failing to allow for this movement by not installing the barrier with adequate expansion joints can lead to cracking and failure of the waterproof system.

Overlooking the necessity of a proper drainage system behind the waterproof barrier is also a common error. Even with a waterproof barrier, water can still accumulate behind it if there is no proper drainage. Ensuring that water can drain away from the wall is essential for the longevity of the barrier and the wall itself.

Lastly, rushing the installation process can lead to numerous mistakes. Taking the time to carefully and methodically install the waterproof barrier, checking for any imperfections or gaps, and allowing sufficient curing time are all vital steps that should not be hurried.

In conclusion, avoiding these common mistakes during the installation of exterior waterproof barriers for walls is essential for ensuring a durable and effective waterproofing solution. Proper surface preparation, adherence to manufacturer's instructions, correct installation techniques, consideration for material movement, adequate drainage, and taking the necessary time for installation are all critical for success.

Benefits of installing waterproof barriers for long-term foundation protection.


Installing exterior waterproof barriers for walls is a crucial step in ensuring long-term protection for a building's foundation. These barriers serve as a shield against water infiltration, which can lead to a host of problems if left unaddressed. Here are some key benefits of installing waterproof barriers for long-term foundation protection.

First and foremost, waterproof barriers prevent water from seeping into the walls and foundation of a building. This is particularly important in areas with high rainfall or where the water table is close to the surface. By keeping water out, these barriers help to prevent cracks, deterioration, and structural damage to the foundation. This, in turn, can save homeowners and property managers a significant amount of money in repair costs down the line.

In addition to preventing water damage, waterproof barriers also help to control moisture levels within the building. Excessive moisture can lead to the growth of mold and mildew, which can cause health problems for occupants and damage to the building's interior. By keeping moisture levels in check, waterproof barriers help to create a healthier and more comfortable living or working environment.

Another benefit of installing waterproof barriers is that they can help to improve the energy efficiency of a building. When water seeps into the walls and foundation, it can cause insulation to become less effective, leading to higher energy bills. By preventing water infiltration, waterproof barriers help to maintain the integrity of the insulation, which can result in lower energy costs over time.

Finally, installing waterproof barriers can also increase the lifespan of a building. By protecting the foundation and walls from water damage, these barriers help to prevent the need for costly repairs and renovations in the future. This can be particularly important for older buildings, where the foundation may already be showing signs of wear and tear.

In conclusion, installing exterior waterproof barriers for walls is a smart investment for anyone looking to protect their building's foundation for the long term. By preventing water infiltration, controlling moisture levels, improving energy efficiency, and increasing the lifespan of the building, these barriers offer a range of benefits that can save money and improve the overall health and comfort of occupants.

Maintenance tips for ensuring the effectiveness of exterior waterproof barriers.


Sure, here's a short essay on maintenance tips for ensuring the effectiveness of exterior waterproof barriers:

Maintaining the effectiveness of exterior waterproof barriers is crucial for protecting your walls from water damage and ensuring the longevity of your building's structure. Here are some practical tips to keep your waterproof barriers in top condition.

Firstly, regular inspections are key. Schedule periodic checks of the waterproof barriers to identify any signs of wear, cracks, or damage. Look for areas where water might be seeping through and address these issues promptly to prevent further deterioration.

Secondly, keep the surface clean. Dirt, debris, and vegetation can accumulate on the waterproof barriers, compromising their effectiveness. Use a soft brush or cloth to gently clean the surface, ensuring that you remove any contaminants without damaging the barrier itself.

Thirdly, repair minor damages immediately. Small cracks or holes can quickly escalate into larger problems if left unattended. Use appropriate repair materials to patch up any imperfections, ensuring that the integrity of the waterproof barrier is maintained.

Additionally, pay attention to the surrounding landscape. Ensure that proper drainage is in place to redirect water away from the walls. This can involve adjusting the slope of the ground or installing gutters and downspouts to manage rainwater effectively.

Lastly, consider reapplying a waterproof coating if necessary. Over time, the effectiveness of the barrier may diminish. Consult with a professional to determine if a reapplication of the waterproof coating is needed to restore its protective properties.

By following these maintenance tips, you can ensure that your exterior waterproof barriers remain effective, safeguarding your walls and extending the life of your building.



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), a city-building game (2025)
  • 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
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

[edit]

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

[edit]

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

[edit]

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

[edit]

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

[edit]

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

[edit]
  • 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.
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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.

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