Foundation Repair Photo Album: Fixing a Bowing Wall in Traverse City, MI

Our customers called with concerns about a bowing wall. The home was in a trust and they planned to sell it eventually, but knew that a problem like the bowing wall would be a major roadblock. Foundation problems only get worse with time so waiting to make repairs doesn't help. We're glad they called Ayers! A couple of the walls were severely bowed, but we were able to stabilize them with PowerBraces and a few joist reinforcements. Using the PowerBrace tightening kit, the walls may eventually be straightened. But either way, they're now safe from further bowing and the foundation is structurally secure.

Stair Step Cracks are a Common Sign of Bowed Walls

In a block wall, bowing will often present as a stair step crack along the blocks. There are multiple cracks here, and the shadows surrounding them point to water entry.

PowerBraces Stabilize and Straighten Bowed Wall

As time goes by, the PowerBraces can be tightened, with the end goal of straightening the wall.

Close-Up of Stair Step Crack

As opposed to regular wall cracks in a poured wall, stair step cracks form around the perimeter of the blocks in a block wall.

Water Leaking from Bowed Wall Crack

Here, water can be seen leaking from one of the cracked blocks.

Bowed Wall Pulls Away from Porch

The gap between the steps and wall show that the wall has tilted away, an indication of a bowed wall.

Bowed Wall in Traverse City Basement

The cracks in this wall show how severe the bowing is. Pressure from the soil is great enough that it has split the seam between blocks.

Cracked Blocks on Exterior Show Wall Issues

Cracks in the blocks show that the interior cracks aren't superficial and this is a problem with the inherent structure of the wall.

PowerBrace System Stabilizes Bowing Basement Wall

The degree to which the wall was leaning is even clearer once the PowerBraces are installed - note the gap between the brace and the wall as you approach the ceiling. The PowerBraces can be tightened over time, leading to straighter walls.