Walls and Ceilings - bowed walls
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morey
04-17-05, 07:34 AM
I have 2 bowed walls in my basement and have talked w/ several repair companies. Some suggest stabilizing w/ helical rods at an angle. Some have suggested pushing back and putting in 3" I beams to stabilize. Are the I beams a permanate fix or just a quick fix? Thanks in advance
XSleeper
04-17-05, 08:04 AM
The January 2003 Journal of Light Construction had an excellent article on page 75 discussing this very subject.
In a nutshell, the author's educated opinion was that helical screw anchors were not recommended, while a 4" I-beam which is grouted solidly to the wall, set into the floor with cement, and substantially braced at the top to the framing is a simple, fast, and permanent solution.
Addressing the problem that caused the bowed walls in the first place is also a priority. You likely have heavy clay soil, or drainage and runoff problems that are contributing to your foundation problems, and these also should be dealt with in a way that will prevent future problems.
In a nutshell, the author's educated opinion was that helical screw anchors were not recommended, while a 4" I-beam which is grouted solidly to the wall, set into the floor with cement, and substantially braced at the top to the framing is a simple, fast, and permanent solution.
Addressing the problem that caused the bowed walls in the first place is also a priority. You likely have heavy clay soil, or drainage and runoff problems that are contributing to your foundation problems, and these also should be dealt with in a way that will prevent future problems.