3 Methods For Effectively Fixing Bowed Walls

3 Methods For Effectively Fixing Bowed Walls
November 15, 2022

Homeownership can be challenging and stressful – especially when it comes to basement repairs. If you have notices that your basement walls are bowing or cracking, do not delay in seeking a solution – no matter how overwhelming it might feel in the moment.

Bowed walls are a symptom of a potential bigger problem that could it threaten the structural integrity of your home.  Your entire house is relying on the strength of your foundation. If a bowing wall is not repaired, it will eventually collapse.  When a foundation wall collapses, your home suffers severe structural damage.  But a fix does not need to be overwhelming. Let’s take a look at the best methods for repairing a bowed wall to prevent further and worse structural damage to your home.

There are three main types of repair for a bowing wall:

  1. Carbon fiber straps
  2. Wall anchors
  3. Helical tiebacks.  

 

WHAT ARE CARBON FIBER STRAPS, AND HOW DO THEY WORK?

If your wall is bowing 2 inches or less, carbon fiber straps could be a good option since carbon fiber straps are the least invasive and least expensive option.  Carbon straps have a special anchor at the top and bottom of the wall, to prevent shearing or sliding. Once the installation is complete, the straps and wall can be painted to minimize the repair’s appearance. At American Eagle, we use SafeBase™ CarbonFiber straps. SafeBasements has developed the strongest bowed wall repair system in the industry.

 

WHAT ARE WALL ANCHORS, AND HOW DO THEY WORK?

If your wall is bowing more than 2 inches, you should consider steel wall anchors.  When properly installed, anchors should restore your home’s stability and last for an extended period of time.  Wall anchors require access to the interior and exterior of your home and are a little more invasive that carbon fiber straps. Installers will need at least 10 feet of usable and accessible ground outside the basement, and will require a certain amount of excavation. At American Eagle, we use SafeBasements™ Wall Anchors which are designed to repair bowed basement walls. The system consists of an anchor and a wall plate designed to pull your basement walls back to where they are supposed to be and provide the needed strength to keep the walls in place. When the wall anchor is installed the lateral strength of your wall is restored and will resist the forces exerted by expanding soils. 

 

WHAT ARE HELICAL TIEBACKS, AND HOW DO THEY WORK?

The last resort solution are Helical Tiebacks. If your wall is bowing more than 2”, but your property arrangement doesn’t allow for anchors, helical tiebacks are the best option.  A steel shaft with helical (screw-like) plates on the end is drilled at an angle through the earth outside of your foundation.  This shaft is secured to the inside of the basement wall.  This is done with a large steel channel that is anchored into the floor and extends up to (or near) the top of the wall.  

 

In the end it is important to remember that repairing a bowed wall does not necessarily straighten it back to its original position.  The purpose of these repairs is to stabilize and secure the wall. 

 

Trust Our Team Bowed Wall Repair Services

If you see cracks and leaks, consider the possibility that you might be having a bowing wall. At American Eagle Professional Service, our experts provides bowed basement wall repair services. Contact us today by filling out our online contact form or by calling (410) 263-9682 to schedule an inspection and appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

If your wall is bowing, consult a foundation repair specialist immediately to assess the damage and discuss repair options. Ignoring bowing walls can lead to structural issues over time, so it’s essential to address the problem as soon as possible.

To prevent walls from bowing, ensure proper drainage around your foundation to reduce soil pressure, avoid planting trees too close to the walls, and have your foundation inspected regularly. Installing structural reinforcements, like wall anchors or carbon fiber straps, can also help maintain wall stability.

Yes. Bowing or leaning retaining walls can be repaired. However, you need help from a professional who can implement the right repair solutions after assessing the wall’s condition. If you opt for DIY measures, the walls may crumble if you do not use appropriate techniques.

To prevent walls from bowing, ensure proper drainage around your foundation to reduce soil pressure, avoid planting trees too close to the walls, and have your foundation inspected regularly. Installing structural reinforcements, like wall anchors or carbon fiber straps, can also help maintain wall stability. The safest option is to secure your walls with expert help. Contact American Eagle Professional Services Inc. to implement correct repair solutions.

Multiple factors can cause your retaining wall to bow, such as water damage, poor construction, a weak foundation, low-quality materials, root intrusion, and poor maintenance.

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