Signs of Structural Damage in Kernersville, NC
In this Kernersville basement, severe foundation problems were visible before repairs began. Horizontal cracks ran along the block wall, a clear indicator of hydrostatic pressure from the surrounding soil pushing inward. Water stains and efflorescence showed long-term moisture issues, further weakening the structure. Without repair, these conditions could have led to more dangerous bowing and potential wall failure.
Preparing the Foundation for Reinforcement
After identifying the structural damage, our team began the repair process by drilling access points through the cracked basement wall. These openings allowed us to install the steel rods that connect interior wall plates to exterior earth anchors. Once positioned, the entry points were carefully sealed with ZYP foam to ensure an airtight, watertight barrier and to prevent any future air or moisture leakage. This preparation step is essential before tightening the anchors to stabilize the bowing wall.
Installing GeoLock Wall Anchors
With the rods in place, heavy-duty GeoLock wall anchor plates were secured along the damaged basement wall. These steel plates are designed to connect to earth anchors buried outside the home, creating a permanent brace against soil pressure. Once tightened, they immediately stabilize the wall, preventing further inward movement. Over time, these anchors can even be adjusted to help straighten the wall back toward its original position, restoring both safety and structural integrity.
Exterior Earth Anchors Secured
Outside the Kernersville home, trenches were dug to install the earth anchors that work in tandem with the interior wall plates. These anchors are embedded deep into stable soil, providing strong resistance against the pressure that was previously pushing the basement wall inward. Once connected to the steel rods inside, the anchors create a permanent structural tie, ensuring the wall remains stable and protected from further movement.
Finished Exterior Restoration
Once the anchors were installed and backfilled, the yard was carefully restored. Fresh soil was leveled, protective straw was laid, and the grass was reseeded to ensure the landscape returned to its original condition.
Installing Helical Piers for Foundation Support
In addition to wall anchors, this Kernersville home required extra stabilization due to foundation settlement. Helical piers were installed by drilling steel shafts with helical blades deep into stable load-bearing soil. Once in place, heavy-duty brackets were attached to the home's footing, transferring the weight of the structure onto the piers. This process permanently stabilizes the foundation and, in many cases, allows for lifting the structure back toward its original position.
Complete Interior Waterproofing & Encapsulation
After stabilizing the foundation with wall anchors and helical piers, we sealed the basement with a CleanSpace vapor barrier system. The wall panels not only cover and protect the anchor plates but also lock out moisture, creating a bright, clean, and dry basement environment. Along the perimeter, a WaterGuard interior drainage system was installed to capture any groundwater seepage and direct it to the sump pump. Together, these solutions ensure long-term protection against water intrusion, mold growth, and structural damage.
Sump Pump & Battery Backup Protection
To complete the waterproofing system, a TripleSafe sump pump was installed with a reliable battery backup. This system is designed to handle heavy water intrusion, automatically removing water collected by the WaterGuard drainage system. The backup battery ensures the pump continues running even during power outages, providing homeowners peace of mind that their basement will stay dry and protected year-round.
Moisture & Air Quality Control
To finish the project, a SaniDry Sedona dehumidifier was installed to regulate humidity and improve air quality throughout the basement. This high-performance system keeps relative humidity below mold growth levels, prevents musty odors, and helps protect the home's structural materials. By tying it into the encapsulation and sump pump system, the basement now remains dry, stable, and healthy year-round.