The Problem

A homeowner contacted Zavza Seal after noticing signs of structural movement in their basement. During our inspection, we found two major issues affecting the home’s stability.

The center steel beam that supported the floor system spanned too far between the foundation wall and existing support columns. Over time, the beam began sinking into the concrete foundation walls on both ends, creating visible voids and reducing structural support.

We also identified multiple structural foundation cracks measuring approximately 16 linear feet. These cracks created potential pathways for water intrusion and could continue to worsen if left untreated.

Our Inspection Findings

Our team discovered:

• The center steel beam lacked adequate support near both foundation walls.
• The beam ends were settling into the concrete foundation.
• Noticeable voids had formed around the beam bearing areas.
• Three structural foundation cracks required reinforcement and waterproofing.
• The cracks showed signs of long-term foundation movement and moisture exposure.

Without repairs, the structural issues could continue to affect the home’s stability and increase the risk of future damage.

The Solution

To restore structural support, our team carefully phase-jacked both ends of the center steel beam by approximately 1/16 inch. This process allowed us to safely relieve stress on the beam and prepare the area for additional support.

We then installed two custom-sized permanent steel and concrete support columns, each designed to provide up to 16,000 pounds of load capacity. The new columns were placed as close to the foundation walls as possible to properly support the beam ends and prevent further settlement.

For the foundation cracks, we first isolated the work area using floor-to-ceiling containment barriers to keep dust and debris contained.

The cracks were then opened to expose sound concrete and allow for proper repair. We injected specialized urethane and epoxy formulations deep into the cracks to seal and strengthen the foundation wall.

After the injections cured, we applied Basecrete waterproofing cement, embedded reinforced fiberglass mesh, and finished the repair with a second layer of Basecrete to create a durable, reinforced waterproof barrier.

The Result

After completing the repairs, the basement structure received the additional support it needed to safely carry floor loads.

The newly installed steel columns helped stabilize the center beam and prevent further settlement near the foundation walls. The structural cracks were sealed, reinforced, and waterproofed to help protect the foundation from future moisture intrusion.

The homeowner now has greater confidence in the long-term stability of their home and a foundation system that is better protected against structural and water-related issues.

Why Proper Structural Support Matters?

When steel beams are not adequately supported near foundation walls, excessive loads can cause settlement, cracking, and structural movement over time. Installing properly sized support columns and addressing foundation cracks early can help prevent larger and more expensive repairs in the future.

If you notice sagging floors, foundation cracks, or signs of structural movement in your home, a professional inspection can help identify the underlying cause before the problem worsens.