F.A.Q.

One word………. Water.  Water intrusion in houses may originate from point sources (roof leaks, plumbing leaks, etc…) or latent conditions, which may be difficult to diagnose.  With today’s sophisticated HVAC equipment installed in houses, it is important to have proper function and maintenance, as well as, compatibility of the HVAC equipment and the thermal envelope of the building.  Imbalance in these building features may lead to moisture development in the building with symptoms, such as musty odors, fungal growth, “cupping” of wooden floor surfaces, to name a few………..  Identifying the sources of water intrusion or development is key to solving this problem.

Possibly, but don’t be fooled by advertisements from foundation repair contractors. Cracks in walls and ceiling are typically due to stress in the framing components caused by structural defects, differential settlement of the foundation, a combination of both conditions, or no problem at all. Therefore, perceived repair of one condition may not resolve the underlying condition causing the cracks in your building. A professional assessment of the whole property is recommended to diagnose the problem.

Absolutely! We’d be more than happy to visit your property and assess the situation. Our seasoned engineers will thoroughly inspect your foundation and the surrounding structures to pinpoint any issues that might need attention. If we come across any concerns, we’ll provide you with practical solutions and the necessary steps for repair.

Of course! Our talented team of engineers is well-versed in designing foundations for both residential and commercial buildings. We’ll collaborate closely with you to craft a personalized design that caters to the unique requirements and site conditions of your project. By adhering to local building codes and industry standards, we’ll ensure your structure remains safe and stable for years to come.

Opting for a foundation design by a professional engineer guarantees that it’s specifically tailored to your building and site conditions. While your plan designer may provide a generic foundation design, an engineer delves deeper, analyzing soil conditions, potential settlement, and other factors that could impact your foundation’s performance. This attention to detail ultimately results in a more robust and enduring foundation.

Enlisting the expertise of an engineer for your commercial swimming pool project is vital to ensure safety and compliance with local regulations. Engineers possess the knowledge to design and evaluate the structural, mechanical, and electrical components of the pool, guaranteeing proper functionality and durability. Additionally, they can address potential issues related to drainage, water quality, and energy efficiency, ultimately creating a secure and enjoyable swimming experience for all.

Certainly! We’re here to help you assess the structural implications of removing a wall in your home. Our engineers will determine if the wall is load-bearing and guide you through the necessary steps to safely remove it without compromising your home’s integrity. This may include specifying temporary supports during construction and designing any required reinforcements or modifications to the existing structure.

Cracks in your house can be caused by a variety of factors. Some of the most common causes include:

1. Settling: Over time, all houses settle into their foundations, which can lead to small cracks. This is usually normal, especially in new houses.

2. Temperature Changes: Different materials expand and contract at different rates. In areas with significant temperature swings, this can cause cracking.

3. Moisture: High humidity, leaks, or poor drainage can lead to excess moisture, which can cause materials to warp and crack.

4. Structural Issues: If the cracks are large, it could indicate a problem with your home’s structure, such as issues with the foundation.

5. Poor Construction: If the house was not properly constructed, materials may fail and cracks can appear.

6. Tree Roots: In some cases, large tree roots can push up against the foundation and cause it to crack.

7. Earthquakes or Other Seismic Activity: If you live in an area prone to seismic activity, this could be causing the cracks.

You should monitor the cracks. If they are getting larger, or if you notice doors and windows becoming difficult to open or close, it would be a good idea to consult with a structural engineer or a professional home inspector to ensure there is no serious underlying issue causing the cracks.

Remember, the presence of cracks doesn’t necessarily mean there’s a major problem with your home. Many are simply the result of normal settling and changes in humidity. However, it’s always a good idea to monitor them and seek professional help if you’re concerned.