Blog

Foundation health, explained.

Practical articles from the Dalinghaus team, written for homeowners, not engineers.

More from the blog

Vertical crack running straight down through the courses of a cinder block wall
Foundation Repair

How to Repair Cracks in Cinder Block Walls, A Straightforward Guide

Cinder block walls are tough. They're strong, reliable, and built to last. But like anything in your home, they're not invincible.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Six panel graphic of signs a gap between wall and floor is structural, including sloping floors, sticking doors and gaps that widen
Concrete Repair

Gap Between Wall and Floor: Expert Insights and Fixes

That little gap between your wall and floor might look harmless, but it's not just a cosmetic issue. It's your house quietly telling you something's wrong.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Adjustable steel jack post installed under a wooden girder in a crawl space
Crawl Space Repair

Crawl Space Support Posts: What They Are & When You Need Them

Most homeowners never think about what's holding up their floors until they start sagging, bouncing, or cracking the upstairs drywall.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Crack running down through the bricks and mortar of a garden wall behind a flower bed
Foundation Repair

Soil Erosion Around Foundation: Causes, Risks & Prevention

If the ground under your home is eroding away, you have a problem bigger than muddy shoes. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Labeled cutaway diagram of a rim joist, with the sill plate, floor joists, subfloor and exterior sheathing marked
Framing Repair

What Is a Rim Joist and Why It Matters Structurally

You probably don't think much about your rim joist. Most folks don't. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Row of steel wall anchor plates bolted across a tall block retaining wall beside a slope
Foundation Repair

Bowed Walls: What Causes Them and How to Fix Them

This isn't just a cosmetic issue, it's a clear sign that your foundation is under serious pressure and starting to fail.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Interior door sitting out of square with a crack running up the wall beside its frame
Foundation Repair

Foundation Sinking: Causes, Signs & Repair Methods

Your home's foundation is supposed to stay put. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Technician guiding a push pier section into the drive head at the footing of a stucco home
Foundation Repair

House Shifting: What It Means and How to Stabilize It

If your floors are uneven, your doors will not close properly, or cracks are appearing in the walls, your home may be shifting.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Herringbone wood floor pulled away from the baseboard, with a bar stool standing in the corner
Foundation Repair

Uneven Floors in Old House: Expert Insights and Fixes

Noticing sloped, sagging, or bouncy floors in your older home? You're not alone, and you're not imagining things.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Cutaway render comparing the types of foundation pier that carry a house down to load bearing soil
Foundation Repair

Drilled Piers: Deep Foundation Support for Homes and Structures

What drilled concrete piers are, when an engineer specifies them, and why Dalinghaus installs helical and push piers instead. Schedule a free evaluation.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Cutaway render of wall plate anchors tied back through the soil to earth anchors set behind the wall
Foundation Repair

Wall Buckling: Structural Warning Signs & Repair Methods

Noticing a wall that's bowing or bulging in your Arizona home? Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Render of adjustable jack posts on concrete pads supporting a floor beam in a crawl space
Foundation Repair

Should I Buy a House with Sagging Floors? Tips Inside

You've found what seems like the perfect home, great location, a beautiful layout, and within your budget. But then, you notice it: sagging floors.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Crack running across a stone tiled floor through several tiles and their grout joints
Foundation Repair

Factors Behind Your Tile Cracking: Key Insights

Does your foundation need a closer look when you find cracked tile? Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Concrete slab split by a wide crack, with the soil beneath it pulled away and settled
Foundation Repair

House Settling Cracks: Normal or Foundation Problem?

Cracks in your walls, ceilings, or foundation can be alarming, but do they always mean trouble? The short answer: not necessarily.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Five panel graphic of common seawall problems including cracking, erosion behind the wall, leaning and corroded metal
Seawall Repair

DIY Seawall Repair vs. Professional Seawall Restoration

If you own a waterfront property, a seawall is the first defense against erosion, rising water levels, and structural damage.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Cracks spreading across a sunlit stucco wall under the shadows of a plant
Foundation Repair

When to Worry About Stucco Cracks: Common Causes Explained

Are stucco cracks driving you crazy? It also tells homeowners when to get foundation repair for stucco issues. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Polyurethane foam rising through a hole drilled in a concrete slab with the injection hose alongside
Foundation Repair

Slab Leak Repair | Causes and Effective Solutions

Imagine waking up to damp floors, an unexplained spike in your water bill, or the sound of running water when no taps are on.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Render of concrete steps lifted back into place with polyurethane foam injected beneath them
Concrete Repair

Concrete Step Repair | Fix Steps Pulling Away from House

If you've noticed a gap forming between your concrete steps and your house, you're not alone. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Concrete slab split by a wide crack, with the soil beneath it pulled away and settled
Foundation Repair

How to Raise a Sinking Concrete Slab: Best Lifting Methods

A sinking concrete slab is more than just an eyesore, it's a safety hazard. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Polyurethane foam injected under a concrete slab through a bracket set in the excavated soil
Foundation Repair

5 Most Common Structural Repairs for Homes & Buildings

Your home's structure is its foundation, literally and figuratively. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Five panel graphic on why homeowners choose polyurethane soil stabilization, from fast results to long term durability
Foundation Repair

Effective Sinking Foundation Repair with Polyurethane Injection

Noticing cracks in your walls? Uneven floors? Doors that won't close properly? These could all be signs that your foundation is sinking.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Cutaway render of foundation piers carrying a house down through the soil to bedrock
Concrete Repair

What Are Concrete Piers? Foundation Support Explained

What drilled concrete piers are, how they are installed, what they cost, and why Dalinghaus installs helical and push piers instead. Schedule a free evaluation.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Cutaway view of a living room floor carried on timber support posts set on concrete pier pads
Framing Repair

How To Support A Floor Joist In Crawl Space?

The floor joist in the crawl space is one often-overlooked yet essential element that supports your building's foundation.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Hands holding a tablet with a floor plan sketch and a laser distance meter inside a living room
Foundation Repair

How Much Foundation Movement Is Acceptable?

Learn what acceptable foundation movement is, signs of damage, and when to seek help to prevent serious structural issues in your home.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Tall graphic listing eleven warning signs of foundation failure, from wall cracks and uneven floors to water intrusion
Foundation Repair

What Happens If A Foundation Is Not Level?

Concerned about an unlevel foundation and its impact on your building's safety and value? Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Cutaway render of a house carried on steel piers driven down through the soil to firm ground
Foundation Repair

How To Fix A Shifting House Foundation?

Foundation issues can be the bane of any homeowner's existence. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Cutaway render of a post tension slab with its steel tendons running through the concrete
Foundation Repair

What Happens When A Post-Tension Slab Fails?

Post-tension slabs are a modern engineering marvel, offering strength, durability, and flexibility in building design.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Four panel graphic of where not to use self leveling concrete, including vertical surfaces, badly damaged slabs and heavy load areas
Concrete Repair

The Top 5 Problems With Self-Leveling Concrete

Self-leveling concrete has gained popularity for its ability to create a smooth, flat surface with minimal effort. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Tall graphic listing twelve signs a house is shifting, from cracks in walls and floors to a leaning chimney
Foundation Repair

What Does It Mean When Your House Is Shifting?

Homeownership comes with its fair share of challenges, including dealing with the shifting of your house. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Diagram of groundwater seepage, with a rising water table pushing water up through a slab foundation after heavy rain
Foundation Repair

Why Is Water Coming Up From The Floor On My Slab?

Imagine walking through your home only to find puddles of water seeping up from your floor. It's a situation that can cause immediate concern.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Technician working in an excavated pit against a concrete foundation wall
Foundation Repair

How Water Seepage Can Affect Your Home's Foundation

Are you wondering how water seepage can affect your home's foundation? Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Tall graphic listing eleven warning signs of foundation failure, from wall cracks and uneven floors to a leaning chimney
Foundation Repair

How To Identify And Remedy Foundation Failure

Owning a home is one of the most significant investments you'll make. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Cutaway render of wall plate anchors tied back through the soil to earth anchors set behind the wall
Foundation Repair

Reinforce Your Retaining Wall With Tieback Anchors

If you're a homeowner with a retaining wall, you're likely aware of its vital role in protecting your property. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Five panel graphic of floor joist warning signs including sagging floors, creaking, wall cracks and doors that stick
Framing Repair

Crawl Space Repair: Sistering Floor Joists

The crawl space under your home might seem like an insignificant area, but it plays a crucial role in maintaining the structural integrity of your house.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Freshly poured monolithic slab on a residential lot, with the ground prepared around it
Foundation Repair

Basics Of Monolithic Slab Foundations

Your foundation is one of the most critical parts of having a safe and happy home. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Six step graphic for repairing damaged concrete, from cleaning and preparing the area to curing and sealing the patch
Concrete Repair

How To Repair Damaged Concrete?

Concrete is everywhere. It's a fundamental part of our driveways, sidewalks, and even the foundations of our homes.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Tiered stone retaining walls holding a planted garden slope beside a set of steps
Foundation Repair

How To Stop Erosion On A Slope: Effective Strategies

Erosion on slopes can cause big headaches for homeowners, leading to soil loss, landscape damage, and even structural issues with your property.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Red laser level projecting guide lines across a herringbone wood floor
Foundation Repair

How Long Does It Take for a House to Settle? Your Essential Guide

Buying a home is a thrilling milestone, creating a place for your coziest dreams and future memories, and likely the most expensive purchase you'll ever make.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Stair step crack running through the mortar joints of an orange brick wall
Foundation Repair

Understanding Brick Cracks: Signs You Shouldn't Ignore

Seeing cracks in your bricks can raise alarm bells, and with good reason. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Five panel graphic of brick crack warning signs, from widening and multiple cracks to bulging walls
Foundation Repair

When To Worry About Cracks In Brick: A Comprehensive Guide

Maintaining your home's structural integrity is paramount to ensuring its longevity and safety. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Four retaining wall types illustrated side by side: poured concrete, natural stone, timber and masonry
Foundation Repair

How To Build A Retaining Wall On A Slope

Retaining walls are not just for show; they serve several important purposes, especially if you have a sloped yard.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Seven panel graphic of foundation prevention tips, from regrading and downspout extensions to fixing leaky pipes
Foundation Repair

5 Ways To Prevent Home Foundation Issues

The foundation is the backbone of your house and one of the most critical aspects of home maintenance that often gets overlooked.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Three panel graphic of what makes small foundation cracks: the house settling, temperature swings and changing soil moisture
Foundation Repair

Are Small Cracks In A Foundation Normal?

Panic sets in as you envision costly repairs and structural failure. But how concerned should you really be? Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Expanded polyurethane foam filling an excavated void behind a concrete wall
Foundation Repair

What Is The Difference Between Epoxy And Polyurethane In Concrete Crack Injections?

Imagine you've invested in a beautiful new home teeming with potential. Over time, you notice small cracks snaking through your pristine concrete.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Six panel graphic of chimney warning signs including cracks, crumbling mortar, rust and white efflorescence staining
Foundation Repair

When Is The Best Time For An Exterior Chimney Repair

Chimneys are crucial in our homes, particularly during the colder months. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Newly planted slope held by low stone edging and mulch above a concrete retaining wall
Foundation Repair

15 Ways to Prevent Erosion on a Slope

Erosion on a slope can be more than just an eyesore; it can seriously threaten your property, others' property, and even human life.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Polyurethane foam injected under a concrete slab, expanding to fill the void and lift it
Concrete Repair

How To Level A Driveway: Step By Step Guide

Driveway maintenance is crucial for homeowners aiming to preserve their property's curb appeal and functionality. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Long horizontal crack running through a concrete wall at ground level
Foundation Repair

What Is Worse, Vertical or Horizontal Foundation Cracks?

Foundation cracks are a big deal when it comes to building stability. They can be a sign of deeper problems that need attention.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Expanding foam filling a hollow in the soil beneath the edge of a concrete slab
Foundation Repair

What Happens If Water Gets Under the Foundation of a House?

Water under a house's foundation can cause significant damage by putting pressure on the foundation, resulting in cracks, leaks, and structural issues.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Cutaway view of a living room floor carried on timber support posts set on concrete pier pads
Foundation Repair

Can Sagging Floors Collapse?

Waiting for your floors to collapse is not a good idea! Sagging floors are not only unattractive but also pose a safety hazard to the stability of your home.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Tall graphic of early warning signs of slab foundation problems, from floor and wall cracks to water pooling near the foundation
Foundation Repair

When Should You Be Worried about Slab Foundation Problems?

Foundation issues can be a homeowner's worst nightmare. Slab foundations, which are prevalent in many homes, are no exception.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Herringbone parquet floor pulled away from the skirting board, leaving a gap along the wall
Foundation Repair

Why the Floors in Your House Are Sinking and How to Fix Them

When your house's floors start to slope or sink, it's not just an eyesore, it's a sign that something bigger might be wrong.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Labeled diagram of a foundation jack showing its base plate, support column, lifting mechanism and adjustment handle
Crawl Space Repair

What Are Foundation Jacks and How Are They Used?

Foundation jacks are more than just tools; they are the guardians of your home's structural integrity. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Steel push piers with hydraulic lines set in an excavated trench along the stucco wall of a home
Foundation Repair

How Much Foundation Settlement is Normal?

Discover what's normal and what's not in foundation settlement. Learn about the types of settlement that could affect your home.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Icon graphic of what causes wall cracks, from differential settlement and hydrostatic pressure to poor construction
Foundation Repair

How to Tell if the Crack in Your Wall is a Problem

A crack in the wall can appear at any time. As you might guess, some wall cracks are far less harmless than others.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Four panel graphic of uneven floor signs: tripping, objects rolling, creaking underfoot and the floor separating from the wall
Foundation Repair

Uneven Floor Repair: Dos and Don'ts

If you're looking for repair solutions for uneven floors online, you'll find numerous sources offering DIY fixes and quick solutions.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Illustration of a low pony wall, sometimes called a garden wall, running along a planted bank
Retaining Wall Repair

Retaining Wall vs. Pony Wall

If you have considered adding walls to your landscape, there is an excellent chance that you have heard of retaining and pony walls.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Split and decaying timber post in a crawl space, with the cripple wall framing beside it
Crawl Space Repair

Crawl Space Repair: Everything You Need to Know

Crawl spaces might seem like just the underbelly of your home, where you never go, but they're essential for keeping your house in great shape.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Labeled retaining wall diagram showing the topsoil, drainage aggregate, filter fabric, drainpipe and leveling pad
Foundation Repair

Protect Your Home: Mudslide and Landslide Prevention

Preventing a landslide or a mudslide through slope stabilization can protect your family and property from immeasurable damage.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Cross section showing a steep hillside regraded to a gentler slope to cut its steepness
Foundation Repair

DIY Slope Stabilization: Why It Might Not Be Your Best Bet

Wondering what to do with a troublesome slope on your property? Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Six panel graphic of what damages a cinder block wall, from moisture and hydrostatic pressure to settlement
Foundation Repair

How to Repair a Cinder Block Wall

Cinder block walls are a common construction element, but like any other built feature, they can require repairs. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Labeled retaining wall diagram showing the topsoil, drainage aggregate, filter fabric, drainpipe and leveling pad
Foundation Repair

What Are the Techniques Used in Hillside Stabilization?

Understanding hillside stabilization is more than a mere interest for a homeowner with property that cascades with the contours of the land.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Eight step diagram of lifting a concrete slab with polyurethane, from marking and drilling through to patching the holes
Foundation Repair

How to Fill a Void Under a Concrete Slab

A void underneath a concrete slab such as a sidewalk or driveway can be caused by soil erosion, compaction issues, or the passage of time.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Diagram of a deadman tie back system, with a wall brace connected by all thread rod to a block plate set back in the soil
Foundation Repair

What Are Retaining Wall Tiebacks?

If you have ever eyed your sloping backyard and wondered how to protect your property from soil erosion, start with the role of tiebacks.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Render of a concrete block retaining wall held back by anchor plates with soil banked behind it
Retaining Wall Repair

Do Retaining Walls Need Anchors?

Although they are beneficial in most cases, anchors are not necessarily required for all retaining walls. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Icon graphic naming five common causes of differential foundation settlement, from expansive soil to poor construction
Framing Repair

How to Level a Pier and Beam Foundation

While pier and beam foundations have been around for decades and are very popular, over time they may shift or settle unevenly.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Stair step crack running through the mortar joints of a dark concrete block wall
Foundation Repair

What to Do About Stair-Step Cracks in a Foundation Wall

If you have a masonry foundation, you may notice a stair-step-shaped crack that forms in your foundation wall. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Gap opening where an interior wall pulls away from the ceiling in a room corner
Foundation Repair

Why is Your Wall Separating from Your Ceiling?

Is your wall separating from your ceiling? If so, you have likely wondered what the cause was and whether it was something that you should worry about.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Crack opening along the line where an interior wall meets the ceiling above a doorway
Foundation Repair

How do you fix cracks where a wall meets the ceiling?

Have you ever noticed cracks where your walls meet your ceilings? Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Five step illustration of patching a non structural drywall crack, from preparing the surface to sanding it smooth
Foundation Repair

What to Do About Cracks in the Corner of a Wall

No one looks forward to discovering a crack in one of their walls. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Six step graphic for repairing a foundation crack from outside, from locating and excavating the crack to backfilling the hole
Foundation Repair

How to Fix Cracks in Your Foundation from the Outside

If you find a crack in your foundation, the best approach you can take is to hire a professional foundation team to diagnose the cause.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Cutaway diagram of a slab on grade foundation showing the poured slab, wire mesh, reinforcing rods and compacted gravel
Foundation Repair

The Top 3 Problems with Homes Built on Slabs

In some regions, a simple concrete slab is one of the most common types of foundation. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Diagram of a deadman tie back system, with a wall brace connected by all thread rod to a block plate set back in the soil
Foundation Repair

The Basics of Deadman Anchors

Despite their vital importance in ensuring the structural integrity of retaining walls and other structures, deadman anchors remain unfamiliar to most.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Six step illustration of how a retaining wall is built, from soil testing and excavation through to the finished wall
Foundation Repair

Best Slope Stabilization Methods

If you own a property that features significant variations in topography, there is a good chance that you could benefit from slope stabilization.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Six panel graphic of foundation problem signs, from wall and ceiling cracks to porches pulling away from the house
Foundation Repair

When Is Foundation Replacement Really Necessary?

Foundation problems can be a nightmare. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Icon graphic naming five common causes of differential settlement, from expansive soil to poor construction
Concrete Repair

How to Repair a Crack in a Concrete Garage Floor

Are you dealing with a crack in your garage floor? Garage floor cracks aren't all the same. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Aerial view of a hillside property under slope stabilization work, with equipment set along the graded bank
Foundation Repair

Residential Slope Stabilization 101

Slope stabilization is essential to safe development when dealing with hilly properties. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Four panel graphic of foundation problem signs: wall and ceiling cracks, uneven floors, sticking doors and stair step cracks in masonry
Foundation Repair

How to Level Floors in Old House

Are you a homeowner dealing with an old house that has uneven floors? Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Illustrated tips for preventing foundation problems: regrade the yard, extend downspouts, clean the gutters and add a drain line
Foundation Repair

Are hairline cracks in walls normal?

Are you a homeowner who has noticed vertical cracks appearing in a poured concrete foundation wall? Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Illustrated tips for keeping a pier and post foundation healthy: regrade the yard, extend downspouts, clean the gutters and keep trees back
Foundation Repair

The Basics of Pier and Post Foundations

Pier and post foundations have been popular for decades because they are cost-efficient to build and provide easy access to plumbing and wiring.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Labeled diagram of a floor structure showing the girder, floor joists, a support pier and the pier block under it
Framing Repair

Sagging Floor Joist Repair: What Homeowners Need to Know

Are you noticing sagging floors, creaking floorboards, or gaps in your woodwork? Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Three panel graphic of what causes concrete shrinkage cracks: hot weather, windy conditions and too much water in the mix
Concrete Repair

What Are Concrete Shrinkage Cracks?

Are you noticing small hairline cracks in your sidewalks, driveways, or poured concrete foundation walls? Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Dalinghaus crew working on a steep coastal hillside during a slope stabilization job
Foundation Repair

A Homeowner's Guide to the Slope Stabilization Process

Searching for information about residential slope stabilization? If so, you've landed on the right page. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Concrete stem wall in a crawl space with its surface flaked away and the aggregate exposed
Concrete Repair

Chipping Concrete: Causes And Repair Solutions

Are you noticing that small chips or even large pieces of your concrete sidewalk, driveway, or patio are breaking off?

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Six step illustration of how a retaining wall is built, from soil testing and excavation through to the finished wall
Retaining Wall Repair

What Homeowners Need To Know About Retaining Walls

Whether you have a sloping landscape or want to create a garden space, retaining walls can help provide stability and prevent soil erosion.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Three panel graphic on preventing concrete honeycombing: mind the mix, compact properly and cure properly
Concrete Repair

What Is Honeycomb in Concrete and How Can It Be Prevented?

Looking for information about honeycomb in concrete? If so, don't hit that back button because you've landed on the right page.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Three step illustration of building a retaining wall: assessment, laying the foundation, then building the wall
Foundation Repair

Residential Slope Stabilization Using Retaining Walls

Looking for information about residential slope stabilization using retaining walls? Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Labeled diagram of six ways a floor is supported, from sister joists and beams to cross bridging and an adjustable jack post
Framing Repair

How Do You Strengthen Floor Joists From Beneath

Looking for information about how to strengthen floor joists from beneath? If so, don't hit that back button because you've landed on the right page.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Crack running along the ceiling line above a light fitting in an interior room
Foundation Repair

What Causes Cracks in Ceiling Drywall?

Have you noticed that your ceiling drywall has a crack? If so, don't hit that back button because that's what this article is about.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Diagram comparing polyjacking, injected through a dime sized hole, with mudjacking, which needs a much larger one
Foundation Repair

Why Concrete Leveling Foam Is Better Than Mudjacking

Looking for information about lifting concrete with foam? If so, don't hit that back button because you've landed on the right page.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Soaker hose coiled on a lawn, used to water soil evenly around a foundation
Foundation Repair

What to Do If Soil Pulls Away From Foundation

Searching for information about soil pulling away from a foundation? If so, you've landed on the right page because that's what this article is about.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Side by side cutaway diagram comparing a cinder block foundation with a poured concrete foundation
Foundation Repair

What Is the Strongest Foundation for a House?

Wondering what's the strongest foundation for a house? If so, don't go away because you've landed on the right page.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Icon graphic naming five common causes of differential settlement, from expansive soil to poor construction
Foundation Repair

What Happens if a Foundation Shifts?

Looking for information on what happens if a foundation shifts? Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Icon graphic naming five common causes of differential settlement, from expansive soil to poor construction
Foundation Repair

What Causes Cracks In Walls And How To Fix?

Looking for information about cracks in walls, what causes them, and how they're fixed? Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Icon graphic naming five common causes of differential settlement, from expansive soil to poor construction
Foundation Repair

Fixing Foundation Cracks From The Outside

Looking for information about fixing foundation cracks from the outside? Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Cutaway illustration of a concrete block foundation listing its strengths alongside its drawbacks
Foundation Repair

Difference Between Block Foundations and Poured Concrete Foundations

Looking for information about the difference between homes built using foundation blocks and those built using poured concrete?

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Cutaway diagram of a T shaped slab foundation showing the poured slab, the wire mesh cast in it and the footing below
Foundation Repair

Common Problems With Slab Homes

Looking for information about problems with slab homes? If so, don't go away because you're in the right place. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Stair step crack running through the mortar joints of a lichen stained brick veneer wall
Foundation Repair

Cracked Brick Wall Repair

Searching for information about brick wall repair? If so, you've landed on the right page because that's what this article is about.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Illustrated tips for preventing foundation problems: regrade the yard, extend downspouts, clean the gutters and keep trees back
Foundation Repair

How to Prevent Foundation Problems When There's Clay Soil

Searching for information on how clay soil around a foundation can cause problems? Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Crew member kneeling on a lawn and shoveling soil out of a trench dug along the side of a house
Foundation Repair

Tips for landscaping next to a house's foundation

Are you looking for information about landscaping next to a house's foundation? If so, don't hit that back button because you've landed on the right page.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Graphic comparing a house before it settles with one that has settled uniformly and one that has settled differentially
Foundation Repair

Does a Foundation Really Need to Be Watered or Is That a Myth?

Wondering if a foundation really needs to be watered or if that's just a myth? Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Diagram comparing a garage floor lifted with polyurethane foam injection against one supported by underpinning
Concrete Repair

Causes And Repair Solutions For A Sinking Garage Floor

Is your garage sinking? If so, don't hit that back button because you've landed on the right page. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Dalinghaus graphic comparing a structural foundation crack wider than 1/4 inch with non structural hairline cracks under 1/4 inch
Foundation Repair

When Is a Foundation Beyond Repair?

A foundation needs to be in really bad condition before it's beyond repair. Most foundations can be repaired.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Three structural members side by side, an aluminum beam, a steel I beam and a wooden beam, each labeled with its properties
Framing Repair

Girders Vs. Beams: Understanding Structural Support

Are you curious about the difference between girders and beams? If so, don't hit that back button because you've landed on the right page.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Dalinghaus technician lifting a settled concrete walkway with polyurethane injection in a back garden
Concrete Repair

Uneven Concrete Driveway Repair Using Polyjacking

Searching for information about concrete driveway repair? If so, don't hit that back button because you've landed on the right page.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Render of wall plate anchors set through a wall and tied back into the soil behind it
Foundation Repair

What Causes Horizontal Cracks In A Foundation Wall?

Are you looking for information about horizontal cracks in a foundation wall? Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Crew member breaking up concrete with a jackhammer beside a sliding glass door, with hydraulic pier equipment standing against the wall
Foundation Repair

Is Polyurethane Foam a Viable Alternative to Helical or Push Pier?

It's crazy to think that there is a foam that can stabilize a building and is capable of lifting a home or business... quite literally.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Dalinghaus technician kneeling to inject polyurethane foam through a port drilled in a concrete floor
Foundation Repair

Understanding the Carrying Capacity of Polyurethane Foam

Would you believe there is a type of foam that can be as hard as concrete, yet far lighter? What if I told you it carries, or stabilizes, a building?

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Technician injecting polyurethane through a port in a concrete floor to lift the slab back to level
Foundation Repair

How Far Do You Go For Deep Injection With Polyurethane?

When you hear deep injection, foundation repair is not something you associate with that term. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Crew member working hydraulic equipment at the base of a stucco wall
Foundation Repair

Pros and Cons of Deep Injection with Polyurethane

Hearing the words 'deep injection' and 'polyurethane' sounds like a painful medical procedure you don't want to endure.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Helical pier being turned into the ground beside a house footing during underpinning
Foundation Repair

Underpinning: The Ultimate Foundation Settlement Solution

If you want to know what goes into underpinning a house, this is the article for you. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Technician marking out a long crack across a concrete floor in red before repair
Foundation Repair

Vertical Wall Cracks: Causes And Repair Options

Looking for information about vertical wall cracks? If so, don't hit that back button because you've landed on the right page.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Dalinghaus representative in a black polo reviewing notes on a laptop inside a home
Foundation Repair

What to Look For in a Foundation Repair Bid

Foundation repair is not cheap, so it is worth knowing what a bid should show you. Here is the evidence to ask for before you sign anything.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Single story ranch home with a green lawn, palm trees and mountains behind it
Foundation Repair

Can You Put a New Foundation Under an Existing Home?

As a homeowner, you would expect to replace parts of your home. Maybe you'll purchase a new roof or new windows. But a new foundation? That seems unheard of.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Freshly poured concrete footing inside wooden forms, with steel rods rising from the soil beside it
Foundation Repair

An Introduction to Grouting Piles

If you're considering a commercial construction project, knowing about grouting piles might be in your best interest.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Cutaway render of a helical pier turned through the soil and bracketed to a home's stem wall
Foundation Repair

Common Foundation Issues in Nevada

Soil conditions vary from region to region, especially in the United States. Understandable since it's a pretty significant portion of land.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Dalinghaus crew member shoveling soil out of a trench beside a block wall
Foundation Repair

How Does Soil Compaction Affect my Home's Foundation?

Soil compaction for construction is a relatively newer phenomenon than most people realize. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Crew member in a face covering working hydraulic pier driving equipment against the wall of a home
Foundation Repair

How Long Does it Take to Put Piers in a Foundation?

If you have a foundation repair project and want to know the timeframe, some projects won't tell you why they're lengthy.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Aerial view of a lakefront seawall rebuild, with timber shoring along the water, an excavator and a row of palm trees on the lot
Seawall Repair

6 Causes of Seawall Failure

You don't want your home or business to find it slowly goes into the ocean. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Crack running across a stucco wall from the corner of a window frame
Foundation Repair

Why Are There Cracks Around My Window Frame?

Are you noticing drywall cracks around your window frame(s)? Is the window frame itself cracked? Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Injection port set into a crack in a wall with a hose attached to fill it, and the Dalinghaus logo in the corner
Foundation Repair

How Does Foundation Repair Affect My Utilities?

We get it, the cost of foundation repair is already stressful enough. You're wondering if there are various costs you need to accommodate.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Crack spreading across the drywall from the top corner of an interior door frame
Foundation Repair

What Causes Door Frame Cracks?

Seeing cracks around your home doesn't bring you peace of mind. You might be thinking 'uh oh' as you see the cracks around your door frames.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Crew member in a straw hat setting a hydraulic push pier into an excavation at the base of a white building wall in Mesa, Arizona
Foundation Repair

Top Foundation Issues in Arizona

Your Arizona home is the largest investment; a refuge for you, your family, and anyone you welcome inside. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Concrete foundation corner crumbling away beneath a block wall, with the loose aggregate exposed
Concrete Repair

How To Repair Your Concrete Foundation That's Crumbling

If you want to know how to repair your concrete foundation that's crumbling, you've landed on the right page. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Crack spreading down a stucco wall from the corner of a window
Foundation Repair

Why Are There Large Gaps Between my Window Frames?

You might be noticing large gaps between your window frames. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Worker in a protective suit drilling into a concrete block stem wall in a dark crawl space
Crawl Space Repair

How to Fix Foundation Stem Wall Cracks (Carbon Fiber and Epoxy)

Noticing you have a crack in your stem wall can look scary. They can cause you to question the integrity of your foundation.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Wide crack running across a concrete slab and continuing under a raised step
Foundation Repair

How is Foundation Repair Done on a Historic Home?

When we think of history, we think of what's written in dry textbooks, ancient items preserved in museums, of magnificent structures constructed ages ago.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Wide cracks splitting the drywall around an interior corner just below the ceiling
Foundation Repair

Can My House Collapse From Foundation Issues?

Coming home from Lowe's to see a crack in your stucco isn't the most comfortable feeling in the world. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Crack running down a wall beside a doorway and below a light switch in an empty room
Foundation Repair

How long should I wait to fix my drywall after a lift?

You've already paid thousands of dollars to get your foundation repaired. The money and the repair have already brought enough stress into your life.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Wooden support post on a concrete pier block under a floor girder in a crawl space
Foundation Repair

What Is A Pier Foundation?

Wondering what a pier foundation is? If so, don't hit that back button because you've landed on the right page. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Steel adjustable jacks on round footing pads holding up a wood floor beam in a crawl space
Foundation Repair

How to Check for a Load-bearing Wall for Foundation Repair

We get it, finding signs and symptoms of your home in need of foundation repair is scary. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Crew member breaking up a pool deck with a jackhammer on a hillside property
Concrete Repair

How are Settling Swimming Pools Repaired?

Your pool might look different from how you knew it in previous summers, appearing as though it's a little down and dehydrated, or at least losing water.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Crew member breaking up concrete with a jackhammer beside a sliding glass door, with hydraulic pier equipment standing against the wall
Foundation Repair

What Alternatives Are There to Caissons for Foundation Repair?

Finding the best fix for your foundation repair isn't easy. Caissons are very common and aren't what most people would call cheap.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Bundles of galvanized helical piers strapped on timber pallets, ready for installation
Foundation Repair

How Many Helical Piers Do I Need For My Foundation Repair?

When you receive project proposals with foundation repair, you'll usually encounter different types of piers used for the fix.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Rows of galvanized helical piers strapped together on timber pallets
Foundation Repair

Why Are Interior Piers Installed for Foundation Repair?

When you find signs of your home experiencing foundation settlement, it's usually the exterior that is affected. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Crew member in an orange shirt working beside a steel pier tube in an excavation next to a house
Foundation Repair

Push and Helical Pier Underpinning Vs Concrete Underpinning

When you have foundation issues, it's reasonable for you to want to find an affordable method of repair. However, more affordable doesn't equal effective.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Cutaway render of a helical pier turned through the soil and bracketed to a home's stem wall
Concrete Repair

Why Are There Cracks In My Concrete Footing? (Causes)

When your house has foundation issues, the common signs are easier to find. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Worker in a cowboy hat kneeling to finish a concrete surface beside a stucco house
Concrete Repair

Why Soak Concrete During The Curing Process?

You're looking to replace your driveway that has existed since before you bought your home. The concrete is cracked, unlevel, and doesn't look good. You also.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Crew member kneeling on a bare concrete floor to inject polyurethane through a port with a hose and gun
Foundation Repair

Is Polyurethane Dangerous? (Why You Don't Need To Worry)

Your house is showing common signs and symptoms of a damaged foundation. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Worker in a hard hat and safety vest guiding a steel pile into place on a commercial site
Foundation Repair

What the heck is a LARR?

You're looking to work in Los Angeles to expand your business and reach new prospects. Business is booming. You want to keep the high going.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Gap opening between a wood floor and the baseboard beneath a white column
Foundation Repair

Why are there gaps between door frames, windows, and/or walls?

They say the home is where the heart is, where we can be the most vulnerable behind closed doors. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Single story stucco home with a red tile roof, glass double doors and potted citrus trees on a tiled patio
Foundation Repair

Can Foundation Repair Cause More Damage To My Home?

It's already hard enough to know your home is showing signs of foundation settlement. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Crew member in a hard hat and safety vest walking past rows of new pile tops on a commercial site
Foundation Repair

Raised vs. Slab-On-Grade Foundations (What's the Difference?)

Are you considering remodeling your home? Are you figuring out the best foundation for your home? Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Crawl space with wood posts on concrete pier pads holding up the floor beams over a bare dirt floor
Framing Repair

How Are Deteriorated Sill Plates Fixed?

If you've ever lived in the mountains, it's easy to see there are plenty of slopes. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Rotted and broken wood at the base of painted siding where it meets the ground
Framing Repair

Why Is My Sill Plate Deteriorating?

Are you concerned about the wood at the bottom of your home? Sometimes it's hard to tell if your home's foundation is okay.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Inspector carrying a measuring wheel and clipboard across a driveway, with a Dalinghaus vehicle parked at the curb
Foundation Repair

Will my HOA Cover Foundation Repair?

Look, we get it. Things come up and emergencies happen that drain the bank account. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Hydraulic jack and lift bracket set against the concrete footing of a stucco house in an excavated pit
Foundation Repair

What Type of Foundation Do You Have?

Do you live in Southern California or Arizona and you're not quite sure what type of foundation your house has? Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Dalinghaus crew member cutting a timber on a commercial site during shoring work
Foundation Repair

What is Shoring Up a Commercial Building?

Do you live in LA, San Diego, or Phoenix with big, tall skyscrapers jutting up towards space or other large commercial buildings?

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Steel piles exposed beneath a mass of soil and rock where a slope has eroded away
Foundation Repair

What the Heck is Slope Creep?

Do you live on an Orange County hillside with a gorgeous vista, but your patio, deck, or pool is starting to slide downhill?

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Dry lawn split by deep cracks in the soil beside a paver path
Foundation Repair

What is Expansive Soil & How it Causes Foundation Settlement?

Is your foundation settling, sinking, or capsizing full-titanic into incompetent, non-load-bearing soil? Not sure why?

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Exterior door sitting out of square in its frame in a stucco wall
Foundation Repair

How NOT to Fix Your Sticking Doors

Does your home have doors that are difficult to open and close? Do you have doorframes that are noticeably crooked or out of square?

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Crack running across a stucco wall from the corner of a window frame
Foundation Repair

Why Do I Have Window Frame and Doorframe Cracks?

Do you have pesky drywall cracks around your window or doorframes? Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Newly poured concrete slab with plumbing stubs rising through it, on a residential lot
Foundation Repair

What is a Monolithic Slab? (Definition and Pros & Cons)

Not sure what a monolithic slab is or how exactly monolithic slab foundations work? Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Crawl space wood support posts standing on concrete pier pads over bare dirt
Foundation Repair

What Causes Sloping Floors?

Do you have sloping, slanted, or bowed floors and you're not certain why? Are your floors no longer even with the trim?

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Technician operating a hydraulic drive head to press a steel push pier in beneath a house footing
Foundation Repair

Concrete Pier Underpinning VS Push/Helical Pier Underpinning

Are you trying to decide between concrete pier underpinning or push pier underpinning? Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Settlement crack running across a textured ceiling and down into the wall junction
Foundation Repair

Ceiling Cracks You Should Worry About

Do you find it difficult to decipher if ceiling cracks pose a serious threat to the structural integrity of your foundation?

Brian Dalinghaus ·
White efflorescence staining spreading across a dark concrete stem wall
Concrete Repair

What is Efflorescence and Can it Damage Your Foundation?

Can efflorescence comprise the structural integrity of your home? Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Concrete path to a front door lined with shrubs and flowering plants, with a palm trunk growing close to the house
Foundation Repair

Can Tree Roots Damage Your Foundation?

Is that big, beautiful tree in your backyard destroying your foundation, and are you worried that, ultimately, you'll have to cut down your summer shade?

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Newly poured concrete slab with plumbing stubs rising through it, on a residential lot
Foundation Repair

Differences Between Slab on Grade and Raised Foundations?

Not sure if you have a slab on grade foundation or a raised foundation? Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Concrete stem wall in a crawl space with white mineral deposits and flaking along its face
Crawl Space Repair

What is a Stem Wall Foundation?

And, maybe, your first thought was that sounds pretty bad, but what the heck is a stem wall and why should I be worried?

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Close view of fine cracking spreading across a pale stucco wall
Foundation Repair

5 Common Causes of Stucco Cracks (When to Worry)

Stucco cracks are not only an embarrassing eyesore, they might also be a red flag pointing to compromised structural integrity.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Wide crack running across a concrete garage floor beside a storage drum
Concrete Repair

How Foundation Settlement Causes Garage Floor Cracks

Whether your garage is a parking space, a tool station, or a catch-all for the stuff you cannot throw away, a cracked floor is worth reading about.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Cracked line running across a tiled floor through several tiles and their grout joints
Foundation Repair

Why is My Tile Cracked? (3 Benign Causes and Expansive Soil)

We get it. You're on a mission to determine the origin of your cracked bathroom, kitchen, or laundry room tile. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Two Dalinghaus technicians working a hydraulic drive head against a house wall to install a steel pier
Framing Repair

Grade Beams vs Steel Piers in Foundation Repair

The foundation repair business is a complicated venture fit with its own unique vernacular and industry-specific procedures.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Vertical crack opening through a concrete footing at the base of a stucco wall
Foundation Repair

Why is My Foundation Footing Cracked? (Top 7 Reasons)

Footing cracks are not the most obvious sign of foundation settlement. They are not as glaringly apparent as stucco cracks, ceiling cracks, or drywall cracks.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Crack running across a concrete patio slab beside a garden planter
Concrete Repair

Why is My Concrete Patio Cracking? (5 Primary Reasons)

Concrete patios are the summer heartbeat of the backyard, the perfect location for dinner parties, chalk-art, and a cold, stiff drink after your 9-to-5.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Settlement crack running across a textured ceiling and down into the wall junction
Foundation Repair

How to Fix Ceiling Cracks? (Patch-&-Paint & Foundation Repair)

Ceiling cracks are grotesque, there's no getting around it. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Helical pier being turned into the soil in an excavated pit beside a foundation
Foundation Repair

What are Problems with Underpinning by Helical Piers

Or you're conducting your own research and want to learn the pros and cons of helical piers before reaching out to a foundation repair contractor.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Technician operating a hydraulic drive head to press a steel push pier in beneath a house footing
Foundation Repair

What are Problems with Underpinning by Push Piers?

If you've been around the block once or twice, then you've no doubt heard the dopey adage every cloud has a silver lining. This is what I refer to as the.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Paver patio split and buckled along a crack beside a railing at the edge of a slope
Retaining Wall Repair

Should I Fix, Replace, or Tear Down My Retaining Wall?

The question should I fix, replace, or tear down my retaining wall is a million-dollar question. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Aerial view of a hillside ranch home with a pool, with a Dalinghaus box truck parked in the driveway
Foundation Repair

Does Foundation Repair Increase Home Value?

The American Dream is plain and simple: buy dirt. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Drywall crack spreading diagonally from the top corner of an interior door frame
Foundation Repair

Ceiling Cracks & Foundation Failure (A Brief Guide)

Ceiling cracks are a telltale sign of foundation failure, from foundation settlement or foundation heave, both caused by expansive soil.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Helical pier lead section with its steel helix, shown beside the framed wall it will support
Foundation Repair

How to Fix a Sinking Foundation: Underpinning

The ugly truth is that in a world full of expansive soil, fill soil , and gravity foundations sink. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Worker digging an excavation pit beside a concrete footing, with a power tool at the edge
Foundation Repair

What to Do When Your Contractor Abandons Your Project

Sometimes a foundation repair project is left unfinished because the contractor went out of business or the work did not meet the standard. Here is what to do.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Crack running along the base of a stucco wall where it meets the foundation, with weeds growing from the gap
Foundation Repair

3 Ways to Mitigate Foundation Heave

Heave potentially poses a plethora of major problemas for your foundation, sidewalk, and pool patio. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Cracks spreading across an interior wall beside a door frame in a settling home
Foundation Repair

Home Inspectors' Guide to Foundation Failure: 3 Areas to Check

Home inspections are a tough gig, you get paid to find problems to reassure clients real estate is a healthy and viable investment.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Homes along the top of a steep hillside, with bare, eroded soil breaking through the plants on the slope below them
Foundation Repair

Hillside Home Foundation Problems (From Erosion to Drainage)

There are some forces of nature we just can't escape, gravity, aging, weight gain (okay, maybe not that last one). Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Polyurethane foam filling an excavated cavity beside a bracket at a house footing
Foundation Repair

5 Steps to Polyurethane Foam Injection (From Drill Holes to Cure)

Maybe you're in the Russian Mafia or just a cool guy still kickin it in a bitchin' tracksuit and gold chain like it's the 90's, polyester is sexy.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Dalinghaus crew member cutting a timber on site during a foundation repair
Foundation Repair

Foundation Repair Timeline (From Inspection to Completion)

The second most prevalent question subsequent to cost in the foundation repair industry is how long does the process take from start to finish?

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Close view of a threaded wedge anchor resting on a concrete surface
Foundation Repair

The 5 Steps to Helical Pier Installation

Helical piers are so effective at impeding foundation settlement and foundation heave, both of which can be directly attributed to expansive soil.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Crawl space under a raised home, with short timber cripple walls on the foundation and wiring along the framing
Crawl Space Repair

What is a Cripple Wall? (Components, Problems, Solutions)

Cripple walls are a dying breed when it comes to foundations because of the inherent insecurity and danger posed by seismic activity.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Close view of a concrete surface where the face has flaked and broken away, exposing the stone aggregate inside
Concrete Repair

What is Concrete Spalling? (Causes, Prevention, Treatment)

Concrete has tremendous versatility and is utilized for a variety of different projects from superstructures to pool patios.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Crack running down interior drywall beside an air vent
Foundation Repair

Top 5 Primary Reasons for Sheetrock Cracks

Drywall cracks naturally elicit a nasty gut-wrenching response that makes you want to upchuck mimosas. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Exterior door in a white stucco wall under a flat roof
Foundation Repair

Why Do I Have Sticking Doors and Windows?

Imagine it's a beautiful day outside and you want to open the window to let a breeze in. The window moves quickly at first but then gets stuck.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Level laid across a wood floor beside a doorway to check it for slope
Foundation Repair

What is Floor Slope? (Definition, Signs, Causes, and Repair)

You notice your wife's favorite cherry-stained wood floor is bowing so that it's like a miniature X-games ramp. You do nothing about it.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Steel piles exposed beneath a mass of soil and rock where a slope has eroded away
Foundation Repair

What is Slope Stabilization? (Retaining Walls & Proper Drainage)

Living on a hill has many advantages: often you have a view, you are safe from flood damage, and you feel superior looking down on the valley.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Crew member installing a pier bracket in an excavation at the base of a brick chimney
Foundation Repair

Why is my Chimney Leaning? (Signs, Causes, & Solutions)

Chimneys are prevalent throughout Southern California and Central Arizona (what we here at Dalinghaus Foundation Repair are proud to consider our backyard).

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Long crack running across a bare concrete slab floor indoors
Foundation Repair

Why Do I have Cracks in My Home (Top 6 Residential Cracks)

Cracks, fissures, and gaps are a major eyesore, which makes them the numero uno cosmetic issue our Dalinghaus clients notice first.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Herringbone parquet floor pulled away from the skirting board, leaving a gap along the wall
Foundation Repair

What is Foundation Heave (Signs, Causes, & How to Fix)

Foundation heave can prove a remarkably traumatic experience, with unsightly cracks riddled into walls and doors that take brute strength to budge.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Dalinghaus technician working at a row of steel pier tubes laid out beside an excavated footing
Foundation Repair

What are Push Piers? (Nicknames, Depth, and Size)

I have a soft spot in my heart for Push Piers and you should too. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Five crew members breaking up a pool deck with jackhammers on a hillside
Foundation Repair

What is Underpinning (Definition, History, and Types)

If you've been around the construction/engineering block a time or two, then you're definitely familiar with the technical term underpinning.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Brick paved deck running alongside a long swimming pool behind a hillside home
Foundation Repair

Concrete Piles vs Push Piers (Depth, Active Zones, and Loads)

At first glance (and I really do mean a cross-eyed-peek-in-pitch-black), it appears that Concrete Piles and Push Piers are remarkably similar.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Two crew members fitting a hydraulic drive head onto a pier, with a hillside neighborhood behind them
Foundation Repair

25 Questions to Ask When Hiring a Foundation Repair Contractor

Alright, so we've been around the block a time or two or three. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Cracks spreading across a yellow interior wall beside a white door
Foundation Repair

5 Signs and Symptoms of Foundation Issues

Do you have sloped floors, drywall cracks, and doorframes that are out of alignment? Are you embarrassed that your cabinets are pulling away from the wall?

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Smiling crew member in a wide brim straw hat holding a helical pier drive head in a garden
Foundation Repair

How Do Helical Piers Work?

If you find yourself reading this article and have absolutely no clue how helical piers work, don't sweat it. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Dalinghaus technician working under a house by lamplight during a foundation repair
Foundation Repair

3 Common Problems with Foundation Repair

Whenever you set off on the Hero's Journey of a home improvement project, it is always the intention of the contractor (and an unspoken expectation) that the.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Steel bracket with two threaded rods and nuts bolted to a pier in an excavation
House Lifting

When is it best to NOT lift your home?

When most people look at any of our videos about foundation repair, they notice that we usually showcase the lifting and leveling of the home's foundation.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Interior door out of square in its frame with a crack running up the wall beside it
Foundation Repair

What to Expect When Lifting a Home?

Take it from us, not everything about lifting homes is all IPA's, Texas Hold'em, and a nice mild stogie. It's hard work.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Warning stamped into a concrete slab: post tension slab and footing, do not cut or core
Foundation Repair

What are Post Tension Slabs?

Understanding how post tension slabs are constructed, why they are constructed, and what they do answers a lot of questions about your home.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Pool shell dug out to its steel reinforcing, with plumbing lines exposed in the excavation
Concrete Repair

Sinking Pool Repair Recommendations

When you come to the sinking realization that your pool is settling, it can bring waves of chlorinated stress:.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Floor elevation survey plan of a home, with the measured height at points across the slab and red dots marking helical pier locations around the outside
Foundation Repair

4 Things You Need to Know About Floor Elevations

If your home has fractured drywall, a bent chimney, and stupid sloped floors, then odds are high you have foundation issues.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Exterior door in a white stucco wall under a flat roof
Foundation Repair

Why is My Door Hard to Open and Close (Top 3 Reasons)

Doors that prove difficult to open and close are one of the top signs and symptoms of foundation settlement and foundation heave.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Diagram comparing polyjacking, injected through a dime sized hole, with mudjacking, which needs a much larger one
Foundation Repair

How Does Polyurethane Concrete Lifting Work?

Concrete is one of the most popular building materials in use. We find it in our homes, driveways, sidewalks, patios, and even on the highway.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Crew driving a helical pier into the ground beside a concrete foundation wall, with an excavator working alongside
Foundation Repair

What Is Bedrock?

If you are a foundation repair enthusiast or Push Pier aficionado, you might have noticed we often mention that we install to bedrock.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Crew member with a headlamp checking a steel support jack under a floor beam in a crawl space, titled What Is A Raised Foundation
Foundation Repair

What Is A Raised Foundation (Types and Problems)

If your home was built pre 1979 it's more than likely on a raised foundation, whether it be a stemwall, pier and beam, or cripple wall foundation.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
Technician pouring coating from a bucket onto a garage floor, with a finished flake coated section behind him
Foundation Repair

CONCRETE COATINGS: EPOXY VS. POLYUREA

Here at Dalinghaus, our primary focus is foundation repair via push pier and helical pier systems to combat expansive soil.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
The Dalinghaus team gathered in front of a company box truck
Foundation Repair

FOUNDATION REPAIR PROCESS

If your home is in need of foundation repair, you may wonder what the process consists of. Schedule a free evaluation with Dalinghaus.

Brian Dalinghaus ·
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