Foundation Repair Equipment: Essential Tools for Contractors

Foundation repair is an involved process that requires heavy duty power output to execute. For example, a typical foundation repair job may include:

• • Excavating the area around the foundation to access damaged areas
  • Setting up hydraulic pumps and cylinders where the foundation needs a lift
  • Lifting the foundation with a set of hydraulic cylinders to restore stability
  • Installing piers under the foundation to provide needed support and long-term stability

Every step of the process requires extensive and precise power output to restore the foundation safely. In nearly every instance, this means utilizing proven hydraulic equipment to lift and support the foundation while a permanent fix (typically a pier system) can be installed.

To get the job done, foundation repair crews utilize the following hydraulic tools:

• • Hydraulic pumps – The hydraulic pump is responsible for driving fluid power to all hydraulic jacks onsite. This means your operational efficiency and capacity will be determined by your hydraulic pump’s performance. For foundation repair crews, it’s essential to identify a hydraulic pump that will deliver sufficient flow to one or more hydraulic cylinders.

    Durability is obviously important for hydraulic pumps, so foundation repair teams should pick a pump model that’s proven for applications where dirt and moisture are present. Some hydraulic pumps are available with valve designs that are well-suited for foundation repair applications. For example, a true relief valve design will ensure your hydraulic pump will deliver optimal flow even at maximum pressures.

  • Hydraulic cylinders (or jacks) – Hydraulic cylinders are responsible for doing the actual lifting – by converting fluid power into linear force. Hydraulic jacks are available in a large range of tonnage capacities, but 10-ton models are the standard. For a typical foundation repair project, crews will need several hydraulic cylinders to perform a safe, stable lift.

    The most important features to have in your hydraulic jacks are durability features. Corrosion-resistant jack components, oversized springs, solid steel body construction and bronze alloy bearings are all premium durability features that will extend the cylinder’s life and protect your workers from a catastrophic failure.

  • Hydraulic manifold systems – Hydraulic manifold systems expand the hydraulic pump’s capabilities by “splitting” hydraulic fluid flow to multiple cylinders in tandem. This ensures every hydraulic jack applies the same amount of force at the same time – preventing accidents or additional damage to the foundation due to an uneven lift.
  • Foundation piering systems – Lifting a damaged foundation temporarily restores its stability, but a permanent solution must be installed before the hydraulic jacks can be removed. Piering systems are one such solution and a standard technique for foundation repair contractors. Piering systems (beam and pier, helical piers) use a series of deeply anchored vertical columns that are driven into the ground under the foundation. Once the piers hit stable bedrock, they are attached to the foundation to provide permanent support for the building. At this point, the hydraulic jacks and pump can be removed from the worksite safely.
  • Heavy machinery for excavation – Foundation repair contractors also have access to heavy machinery for digging out access spots around the foundation. Excavators and skid steers are the most common pieces of heavy equipment you’ll see deployed for this purpose.