(214) 368-6852

csmithengineer@yahoo.com

My services are in three levels: each increasing in knowledge of the site conditions and quality of repairs. Each one builds on the information obtained in the previous one(s) but the charges stand alone.
I
There is a chance that the site is getting unforseen water from the plumbing! Waterline leaks will immediately show in the water bills. However decay and/or poor work in the unpressured sewer lines will add water over time and change the moisture content and activity of the soil at that place. A sewer leak test can be performed by almost any plumbing company. It should be a STATIC test where piping outside of the building is plugged off, a toilet removed and water added until it is standing in the hole of the toilet. If there is loss of water showing over time it indicates a leak in the system - where? Some companies have TV cameras which are inserted in the lines to show the location. Therefore a repair can be performed. It may be that your insurance policy will assist in the cost, and if that is performed drying out at the site will cause the moisture to stabilize in time. However if levels II and III are considered I suggest no repair work be performed at that time because with the lifting process there is a possiblity that the pipe is ruptured near that action. Call me with the results. STATIC TEST IS YOUR ONLY COST, $250.
II Most leveling contractors create maps of the structure and take level measurements showing relative movement to an interior benchmark which is ASSUMED not to have moved. This is obviously measured data. HOWEVER it is only as good as the further ASSUMPTION that the structure was dead level as constructed. I have seen several unfinished structures where there was initial difference in elevations. Houses are not watches. The contractor will then recommend types and numbers of piers according to these "scientific" measurements - and often a considerable number. Ask for prices of the two main different types of piers as described in the first section. This information is useful and should be considered. However my conclusions byond that is to inspect the structure for ITS signs of distress. With this information I will write a report giving my recommendationns about the locations and numbers of piers needed. I will explain the nature of the results when the operation is finished, what can be expected of the "guarantee", and a measurement procedure to demonstrate for the guarantee that indeed later movement has occirred. The study is for pressed piers only.This is a review only. I design drilled piers only as in LEVEL III. CHARGE IS $325 + STATIC TEST COST. This will be probably be saved by reduction of piers numbers.
III I engineer only drilled piers because I don't guess. Using the review of contractors' conclusions and my observations, I will perform one of or more borings to general depth of drilling; obtaining disturbed and undisturbed samples. Tests will determine soil particle characteristics and the undisturbed classifications, moisture content, deensity and strength properties. With these calculations can be prepared of the bearin capacity of piers with a given safety factor. The report will present this data and recommendations specifying locations, sizes, depth and reinforcing of the piers. It an be reviewed by any other qualified soil mechanics or geotechnical engineer. I will inspect the drilling operations to conform with my recommendations. Tihis will be the best possible analysis for use in either buying or selling the structure. CHARGE IS $650.00+STATIC TEST COST. .