Foundations (Installation & Repair)
Overview
A sound foundation is the basis of every reliable building. Cornerstone Construction designs, installs, and repairs foundations for residential and light commercial buildings in Hudson Valley and surrounding areas. Our foundation services include poured concrete foundations, cement block work, monolithic slabs, concrete slab repair, underpinning, foundation crack repair, drainage solutions, and waterproofing.
Why Foundations Matter
Stability:
The foundation carries all structural loads and prevents settlement and shifting.
Moisture Control:
Proper foundation systems and drainage prevent water intrusion, mold, and rot.
Long-Term Performance
Correct design and execution of foundations reduces long-term maintenance and repair costs.
Common Foundation Problems
Cracks in walls or slab indicative of settlement or lateral pressures.
Uneven or settling floors caused by soil compaction or changes in moisture content.
Moisture or basement seepage due to poor drainage or inadequate waterproofing.
Block failure or mortar deterioration leading to instability.
Foundation Services We Provide
New Foundations & Monolithic Slabs
- Poured concrete walls with footings for basements and crawlspaces.
- Monolithic slab pours suitable for certain home types and flat sites.
- Reinforcement with rebar and control joints to manage cracking and load transfer.
Foundation Repair & Underpinning
- Underpinning to extend and stabilize footings in settling conditions.
- Pier installation (steel or concrete) to support and elevate load-bearing elements.
- Crack repair using epoxy injections or hydraulic concrete where appropriate.
- Installation of interior drainage systems and sump pumps.
Cement Block Work & Masonry Foundations
- Cement block (CMU) foundation construction and repair.
- Parge coat and waterproofing to shed moisture.
- Brick and stone pointing for aesthetic and structural restoration.
Waterproofing and Drainage
- Exterior waterproof membrane and proper backfill for long-term protection.
- Interior drainage systems (French drains) and sump pumps to manage water intrusion.
- Downspout and grading corrections to keep surface water away from the foundation.
Slab Repair and Leveling
- Concrete slab crack repair, mudjacking, or slab leveling depending on condition.
- Concrete replacement for areas beyond repair with proper subbase compaction.
Diagnostic Assessment and Soil Consideration
We evaluate soil type, water table conditions, and site grading to recommend appropriate foundation strategies. Soil bearing capacity and drainage characteristics guide design choices for footings and waterproofing.
Permitting and Engineering
Foundation work typically requires engineering designs and municipal permits. Cornerstone Construction coordinates with structural engineers and handles permit submission and inspections.
Why Proper Foundation Repair is a Wise Invesment
Prevents progressive damage to framing and finishes.
Restores safety and livability in basements and main floors.
Preserves property value and reduces future repair costs.
FAQs
How can I tell if my foundation needs repair?
Common signs include foundation cracks (especially if widening), doors and windows that stick, sloping floors, and water intrusion in basements. Visible exterior cracks and gaps at the sill can also indicate problems.
What is underpinning?
Underpinning is a method of stabilizing or strengthening an existing foundation by extending the depth or breadth of the foundation footing to more stable soil or by installing piers to carry the load.
Can you waterproof an existing basement from the interior?
Yes. Interior drainage systems combined with sump pumps are often effective at managing water intrusion when exterior excavation is not feasible.
Contact & Evaluation
To schedule a foundation inspection or to request a repair or new foundation estimate, call (845) 853-4940 or email mikkrom@aol.com. We’ll coordinate an on-site assessment, recommend solutions, and provide a written plan for permitting and repair.