Bowing walls can be a significant concern for homeowners. They not only affect the structural integrity of your home but also pose a potential safety hazard. When faced with bowing walls, many homeowners consider various solutions, and one common option that often comes up is wall anchors. While wall anchors can be effective in some situations, they are not always the best solution. Let’s take a look at why wall anchors may not be the ideal choice and why braces are often a better option for addressing bowing walls.
Understanding the Problem
Before taking a look into the reasons why wall anchors may not always be the best solution, it’s essential to understand the problem they aim to solve. Bowing walls typically occur due to pressure from the soil surrounding the foundation. This pressure can push the walls inward, causing them to bow or crack. To counteract this pressure and stabilize the walls, homeowners often consider two primary options: wall anchors and wall braces.
Why Wall Anchors Fall Short
Limited structural support: Wall anchors are designed to stabilize and prevent further bowing rather than providing structural support to straighten the wall. They use a system of plates and rods to anchor the wall to more stable soil or rock outside your home. While this can prevent further damage, it may not be sufficient to address severe bowing or to restore the wall to its original position.
Complex installation: Installing wall anchors is a complex and invasive process. It often involves excavating the soil around the foundation, which can be disruptive and expensive. The effectiveness of wall anchors depends on the quality of the soil outside your home, and in some cases, the anchor system may fail if the soil conditions are not ideal.
Cosmetic issues: Wall anchors can leave unsightly plates and protruding rods on the interior walls of your basement or crawl space. This can be a concern if you plan to finish these spaces for additional living or storage areas.
Why Wall Braces Are a Better Solution
Provides structural support: Wall braces, also known as wall reinforcement or wall stabilization systems, are specifically designed to address bowing walls by providing structural support. They consist of sturdy steel beams or braces that are installed horizontally against the interior surface of the bowing wall. These braces are then secured to the floor and ceiling joists, reinforcing the wall and over time can push the wall back to maximum recovery and in some cases back to the original position.
Non-invasive installation: Unlike wall anchors, wall braces do not require extensive excavation. Installation is typically done from the inside of the basement or crawl space, minimizing disruption to your landscaping and daily life.
Effective in various soil conditions: Wall braces do not rely on external soil conditions for stability, making them a reliable solution for a wide range of situations, including homes with poor soil quality.
Cosmetic advantages: Wall braces are installed on the interior surface of the bowing wall, leaving the exterior appearance of your home unaffected. This is particularly advantageous if you plan to finish your basement or crawl space.
Call the Professional Foundation specialists
While wall anchors can be a viable solution for some instances of bowing walls, they may not always be the best choice, especially when structural support and cosmetic considerations are important. Wall braces, on the other hand, offer a more effective and non-invasive solution for straightening and reinforcing bowing walls. When faced with the decision of how to address bowing walls, it’s essential to consult with a professional foundation repair specialist at BAM Basements and Masons who can assess your specific situation and recommend the most suitable solution.
Bam basements and Masons specialize in basement waterproofing, foundation repair, crawl space solutions, concrete leveling and lifting, sump pump installations, dehumidifiers, crack repairs, foundation wall rebuilds, stoop repairs and more. Bam is an A+ accreditation with the Better business bureau and has a long community history. Bam provides award winning workmanship with over 100 years of combined experience and limited lifetime warranties. Locally owned and Born in Des Moines, Bam will provide a cost-effective solution for your home. You chose us, Central Iowa, our awards and 5-star reviews tell it all! Bam customers are happy customers, your satisfaction is guaranteed.