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Removing asbestos during a remodel

We bought our house knowing it needed a fair bit of work, but we could never have guessed how complicated the job would get in the end. It turns out not only do we have asbestos in the walls, but also, at some point, the previous owners had some asbestos insulation put in the roof. There are a lot more precautions that we need to make as result but, I'll feel a lot better knowing we aren't cooking and eating our meals near asbestos. Our remodeling contractor has been great and has stepped us through the whole process. Join us on our remodeling journey!

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Removing asbestos during a remodel

Three Reasons to Consider Underpinning for Your Foundation

by Joanne Sullivan

The foundation of your house carries the weight of the entire structure for the length of time it stays upright. When the foundation is properly laid, your house stays structurally sound and strong for decades and, at times, even centuries. On the other hand, when the foundation is poorly installed, the house will develop weaknesses such as cracks on the walls, windows that do not close or open properly and other similar complications. When you do not take measures to strengthen the already weakened house, you might end up losing it altogether. Here are three main reasons to consider underpinning as a way to strengthen your house foundation.

Preserving the Structural Integrity of the House

Underpinning is the recommended strategy to use to strengthen the house whose foundation is weakening. One of the easiest ways to tell when the foundation of your house is failing is the formation of cracks which are more than half an inch thick. It is advisable to have a competent underpinning contractor to assess your building for damages first. They will help you determine the extent of your foundation damage and if underpinning can help repair the damage.

Improving the Height of the Ceiling

One of the most attractive things about a house is high ceilings. When the foundation starts to settle, the house loses a few inches of its length. This can lower the height of the ceiling, which leaves the house looking more cramped and losing significant vertical space. Underpinning contractors will ensure you retain your house's vertical height and that the building retains its original height. Additionally, when the foundation is strengthened, the vertical space in the basement stops reducing, and you will have an easy time converting the area for any use that you fancy.

Improving the House Resale Value

One of the factors that buyers consider when choosing the perfect house to buy is its structural integrity. Property appraisers will value your property for less when it has foundation problems. Also, if a buyer is interested in your house, and they find out that it has a weak foundation, they might refrain from making an offer. The repairs may be costly, but the eventual benefit will surpass the investment by far.

These are three reasons to consider underpinning for your house foundation. It is advisable to look for competent and experienced underpinning contractors to handle the process for you. As long as you have an expert working with you, the repair process will be simple and effective and the durability of your house will be upheld. 

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