TC Hafford Basement Systems Q&A

Yes, a caved-in foundation can often be repaired, but it depends on the extent of the damage. When foundations start to collapse or cave in, it's usually a sign that there are serious structural issues at play, such as soil erosion, water damage, or even inadequate construction materials. Our team at TC Hafford Basement Systems has experience with all types of foundation repairs, from reinforcing cracked walls to full-scale foundation rebuilding. By using advanced techniques and materials, we work to stabilize and restore the foundation, giving your home the support it needs. Each situation is unique, so it's always best to have a professional inspection to determine the exact cause and the most effective solution.

A French drain is a system designed to redirect water away from an area to prevent flooding or water damage. Essentially, it consists of a trench filled with gravel and a perforated pipe that carries excess water away from your home or yard. Think of it as a path of least resistance that water can follow to flow away from problem areas, like basements or low-lying spots in your yard. At TC Hafford, we install French drains in basements as a proactive measure to keep homes dry and safeguard against water issues before they become a serious problem.

Mud jacking, also known as slab jacking or concrete leveling, is a method used to lift and level sunken concrete surfaces. Over time, concrete slabs-like sidewalks, driveways, or even basement floors-can settle unevenly due to soil erosion or compaction underneath. In the mud jacking process, a slurry mixture (typically made from water, sand, and cement) is pumped beneath the sunken slab. This fills any gaps and raises the concrete back to its original level. While mud jacking has been a traditional approach, at TC Hafford, we also offer PolyLevel, a modern, longer-lasting alternative that uses a lightweight foam for even more precise and durable lifting.

When it comes to insulating the floor of a crawl space, thickness does matter. Generally, you'll want insulation that is at least 2 inches thick to provide adequate thermal resistance. However, the exact thickness can depend on your specific crawl space conditions and the climate. At TC Hafford, we offer insulation options like TerraBlock, which is ¾ inches thick and provides a tough vapor barrier, while CleanSpace Crawl Space Insulation, at 2 inches thick, offers both superior insulation and a vapor barrier. By combining different materials, we can achieve the optimal balance of insulation and moisture control, tailored to your home's needs.

Choosing the right insulation for your crawl space can make a big difference in terms of energy efficiency, moisture control, and air quality. For crawl spaces, we recommend rigid foam insulation rather than fiberglass, as it is resistant to mold and moisture. At TC Hafford, we prefer materials like TerraBlock and CleanSpace Crawl Space Insulation. These not only provide the insulation you need but also act as a vapor barrier to prevent moisture from getting into your crawl space. Rigid foam also stays in place better than other types of insulation, meaning it'll last longer without the need for frequent replacements.

It's not unusual to see cracks in a new basement floor, even within the first year. Concrete naturally expands and contracts with changes in temperature and moisture, which can cause minor cracks. However, if the cracks are large, this could point to a settling or moisture issue. For example, poor soil compaction or excess moisture under the slab may lead to more noticeable cracking. TC Hafford offers a range of solutions, including PolyLevel and vapor barriers, which can help stabilize the ground beneath the concrete and control moisture levels to minimize cracking. An inspection can help determine whether the cracks are simply cosmetic or if a more serious issue needs addressing.

Insulating your crawl space is essential for a few reasons. First, it helps regulate the temperature under your home, which can lead to lower heating and cooling costs. Insulation also prevents moisture from entering the crawl space, which can lead to mold growth, wood rot, and a whole host of other problems. By keeping the crawl space dry, you also protect your home's structural integrity and improve indoor air quality. At TC Hafford, we offer insulation systems designed specifically for crawl spaces to ensure your home is as energy-efficient and comfortable as possible.