Back before slab foundations became the norm, homes were lifted in place by pier and beam arrangements made from treated lumber and elevated atop blocks or piers. The beams, which run parallel the length of the house, can be spaced up to 12’ apart whil …
When your foundation is being compromised by drainage issues, a repair specialist will usually recommend using a French drain (also known as a rubble drain) or surface drain to correct the problem. The primary difference between the two systems is that …
As foundation repair contractors, we at Van Matre Construction, LLC spend a lot of time in basements. We’ve been in basements that were magnificently finished and we’ve been in basements that weren’t so magnificent. We know basements are an important …
Tiles are a decorative and durable floor covering. Although they look fragile, most types of tile can handle a lot of abuse like dropped objects and heavy loads, so cracks and other signs of damage are unusual, especially if the tiles are newer. If yo …
Trees deliver a lot of benefits to homeowners. They’re natural air purifiers: a single tree can remove 10lbs of pollutants like ozone, ammonia, and sulfur dioxide per year. When they surround the property, they can also: Reduce noise pollution Act as …
Bricks are sturdy enough to build the biggest homes, but they are also porous. This means that factors like temperature and moisture can cause them to expand and contract over time and eventually crack. Damage can also occur when uneven pressure is app …
If your home’s foundation was improperly designed or is starting to deteriorate, it can threaten the structural integrity of the property, diminish its value, and even pose a safety risk to your family. Fortunately, a thorough house foundation inspecti …
Basement crawl spaces are below grade, so you may assume that moisture is normal. Doesn’t the ground usually get wet during certain seasons and after a heavy rainfall, only to dry out eventually and with little harm done? Unfortunately, water that seep …
Are small cracks starting to appear over the doors and windows at your business location? Does the basement or crawl space beneath your home have a musty odor? If so, the foundation may have developed serious problems that need to be addressed before t …
If your doors begin to stick, the floor appears to be sloping, or you spot cracking in the basement drywall, it’s not always easy to determine whether it’s a minor problem with an easy fix or a serious issue with the building foundation that can lead t …
