Shotcrete Foundation Repair

in Portland OR and Vancouver WA areas

Everyone knows their home’s foundation is important, but most people don’t think about it until there’s a problem. The foundation is crucial for the entire structure, so issues with it can be both costly and risky.

Luckily, there’s an easy way to reinforce your foundation and steady the structure – shotcrete. The Masonry Waterproofing, and Drainage Masters team uses shotcrete, a version of concrete that is sprayed on, in our wall restoration system. This lets us reinforce your home’s structure easily. 

Read on to learn more about our process!

What is shotcrete?

Shotcrete is made of the same materials as concrete – water and various minerals. The difference is in the application method. While concrete is poured and sets slowly, shotcrete is sprayed directly onto the surface. This speeds up the setting process and allows for a more flexible application.

Shotcrete can be used to quickly and easily reinforce concrete walls and foundations. It can actually be stronger than conventional concrete. This is because the application method helps it stick better to the base material.

What is shotcrete used for?

Since it’s such a versatile material, shotcrete can be used for a variety of applications, including:

• Reinforcing and repairing concrete walls and foundations
• Creating new structures, such as retaining walls or swimming pools
• Stabilizing slopes and preventing erosion
• Lining tunnels and mines
• Repairing and restoring historic buildings

Is shotcrete stronger than poured concrete?

Yes, shotcrete can be stronger than pouring concrete in many cases. The application method helps the material stick better, creating a stronger bond. The high-pressure spray compacts the shotcrete. This makes the material denser and more durable.

The strength of shotcrete ultimately depends on the mixing, application, and curing (among other factors).

Are there any disadvantages to shotcrete?

There are a few disadvantages, such as:

• Shotcrete requires specialized equipment and trained operators, which can make it more expensive than traditional concrete pouring methods.
• The application process can be messy, with overspray and rebound material that needs to be cleaned up.
• Shotcrete may not be suitable for all types of structures or applications, depending on the specific requirements and conditions.

How long does shotcrete last?

Shotcrete lasts about a few decades when properly applied and maintained. Using quality materials and applying it skillfully will make it last longer.

Benefits of Shotcrete Wall Reinforcement

Shotcrete wall reinforcement essentially builds a new wall in front of the existing one. This supports your current wall, preventing it from failing or making it easier to replace.

If your foundation is failing, shotcrete can help support your home. The Masonry Waterproofing, and Drainage Masters team will then excavate and demolish the old foundation. Then a new one can be built easily, with minimal disruption.

Why is my Portland home’s foundation deteriorating so fast?

Many of Portland’s homes were built around the turn of the 20th century. Not only are those homes’ foundations getting old, but they’re also made of less durable materials. Concrete is made of sand, aggregate, and cement. In the 1900s, builders used sand from local rivers for Portland home foundations. They didn’t clean it before mixing, so organic impurities remained in the materials.

This means that the foundation was weaker to begin with, and with the passage of time, these materials are breaking down. Plus, when you take the damp climate into account, any foundation is likely to age faster than usual. If you live in an older home, your foundation could probably use some help.

Signs You Need Wall Reinforcement Service

How can you tell when your foundation is failing? The signs usually show up in the rest of the structure, which makes them easier to spot. Here are just a few of these signs:

• Cracked or leaning walls. Your home’s walls support the walls, so if you notice cracks or sagging in your walls, it could be a foundation problem.
• Uneven floors. Similar to your walls, changes in your foundation are reflected in your floors. If you notice your floor sloping or dipping in a way that it wasn’t before, it’s probably a foundation problem; make sure to call for help promptly if you notice this.
• Leakage in the basement. If you notice increased dampness in your basement, there could be a crack in your foundation letting water inside.
• Misaligned windows and doors. If windows and doors aren’t opening or closing properly, it could be because of your foundation!

These signs could mean a serious problem with your foundation. If you notice any, call Masonry Waterproofing, and Drainage Masters for help. The sooner you catch these issues, the better you can minimize the damage.

Count on Masonry Waterproofing and Drainage Masters for All Your Foundation Needs

The Masonry Waterproofing, and Drainage Masters team has brought quality foundation work to Portland. If you own an older home and haven’t reinforced its foundation, now is the time. With the Masonry Waterproofing, and Drainage Masters satisfaction guarantee, you can trust your foundation will last for years.

We specialize in using shotcrete to reinforce and repair home foundations. Our skilled team can quickly apply shotcrete to your foundation, adding strength and stability to your home’s structure.

Give us a call to get started with a free estimate!

Learn more about shotcrete on our YouTube page.