Wall Anchors & Waterproofing System Installed in Somerset, Kentucky
Challenge
The loose soil around the foundation walls of this home was collecting massive amounts of water. The weight of the hydrostatic pressure was putting this basement through the ringer by causing cracks, bowed walls, and pools of water. This square house was sitting on a downward sloping hill where the back foundation wall had a walkout basement. This homes grading was collecting rainwater like crazy, and was causing three sides of the basement walls to deteriorate. The only side of the basement that didn't have any problems was the side with the walkout basement.
Solution
To address both the waterproofing and foundation issues, we needed to design a comprehensive solution. We began by installing our WaterGuard drainage system. As part of this process, we drilled weeping holes at the base of the foundation walls to relieve built-up water pressure. This step is crucial, as reducing hydrostatic pressure helps ease stress on the foundation itself. We then installed a SuperSump sump pump, ensuring any collected water was efficiently redirected away from the home. By tackling waterproofing first, we not only created a dry basement but also provided structural relief to the foundation.
With the waterproofing system in place, we moved on to reinforcing the foundation. The two adjacent walls connected to the basement walkout wall were showing signs of bowing, so we installed PowerBraces to stabilize them. These braces were securely connected to the footers to help redistribute pressure away from the walls.
The front-facing wall was under the most strain, so we installed six helical tiebacks to provide extra support. Tiebacks are necessary when PowerBraces alone aren’t enough to guarantee a wall won’t continue shifting, and we like to use them on walls opposite of a walkout basement. Walkout basements don't provide a counteractive force to the opposite wall because they don't have any surrounding soil, and PowerBraces normally need this counteracting force to prevent floor joist damage. Installing them required excavating about 10 feet away from the foundation wall and securing them at a downward angle into the soil. This method ensures there will be no further lateral movement along the wall.
By combining PowerBraces and helical tiebacks—three on each side of the porch—we provided a long-term stabilization solution. Thanks to this approach, the homeowner can now rest easy knowing their basement is both dry and structurally sound.
