Glossary

The process of putting back soil that was excavated when digging a foundation or trench. This soil is more porous than untouched or virgin soil, and because of this, it absorbs more water.

A foundation type that is either entirely or mostly below grade. It can be made of cement blocks or poured concrete.

The process of stopping and managing water from entering and damaging your basement through a series of repairs.

A DC power battery powered pump that kicks on in the event of a power outage or circuit breaker failure.

Soil or rock that bears the weight of a building without becoming compressed or shifting. The soil is inert and doesn’t experience expansion or contraction.

A construction term that describes the space below ground level. Foundation types include a basement or crawl space.

Benchmarking helps determine the severity of foundation settlement. Benchmarking is a measure that indicates the amount of settlement that has occurred. These reports track changes over time and help professionals determine the best solution for your home. In addition, benchmarking is also performed after piers are installed. The installation crew marks above each pier. A laser level is set up, and small rivets are installed into the foundation wall. This allows the contractor to perform future inspections to ensure your piers continue to work in stabilizing the home.

Black mold, or Stachybotrys chartarum, is a greenish-black mold that can grow when there is constant moisture present. Growth typically occurs when there is water damage, a water leak, condensation or flooding. It can produce toxic airborne spores. Those with allergies or asthma are at a higher risk of serious health outcomes.

A block wall uses masonry blocks that are stacked on top of each other and cemented into place using mortar.

Bowing walls is a term used to describe when your external foundation walls are bowing, leaning, bulging or showing signs of inward movement.