Foundations are one of the most important structural elements of a building. The stability of a building depends on the foundation. The foundation of a building protects it from settlement on the ground and also determines the durability of a building. The main function of the foundation is to transfer the load from the building to the greater area. As it bears the load of the entire structure, the inspection and maintenance of the foundation is very essential.
Signs of Foundation Issue
Internal and external wall cracks are the most common sign of a foundation issue. The cracks that indicate serious issues are zigzag in pattern. While vertical cracks can only be because of smaller settlements, horizontal cracks can be more serious. Besides that, crumbling walls, bowing, or sagging are also indicators of foundation issues.
Additionally, windows and cabinets separating from the wall can also be a sign of foundation problems. This causes floors to be uneven and cracks. As the ground level becomes unstable, you will start noticing problems with plumbing and drainage.
If you notice these signs, immediately check for foundation issues.
Foundation inspection
The foundation issue starts small and leads to the collapse of the whole structure, so it is important to understand the signs. This includes inspecting the exterior and interior walls, flooring, and plumbing systems of your home. Shower doors also give you a sign for foundation inspection. If shower doors have more gaps than usual, then it may be a problem of foundation damage.
You should hire a professional, specifically a structural engineer, to inspect your foundation once you start noticing the signs. You should reach out to a professional as soon as you start noticing the signs of foundation issues.
Potential Repairs for Foundation
There are various methods for permanent foundation repairs. Any professional will suggest the option that best suits you based on the soil condition and type of your foundation issue.
Effective methods for foundation repairs are:
- Steel Piers
Steel piers are made of high-carbon tubular steel. They are driven to different depths under the ground to provide support to the foundation. The steel piers may be straight or helical.
These piers are quite costly, but they can take a massive amount of load and provide a permanent solution to your foundation issue. Straight piers are driven to stable soil conditions, while helical piers are driven underneath the ground to stable bedrock to provide support.
- Poured Concrete Piers
While steel piers are a costly option, poured concrete piers are less expensive. They are usually bell-shaped or cylindrical. A hole is dug beneath the foundation, and the wet concrete is poured over it, allowing it to cure before letting it attach to the structure. Concrete piers also provide support to the foundation and stabilize it.
- Shimming
When the structure is built in the soil with insufficient compaction, the issue of settlement may arise. It causes the gap between the foundation and the structure. This gap can be filled with steel shims to set up the support for the foundation.
The professional will decide if this is an adequate solution. If the soil below stops settling, then shimming might be the permanent solution.
Shower Doors for Aesthetics
While structural stability is determined by foundation inspection, shower doors determine the aesthetics of your home. Shower doors are made of glass, which can make your shower experience more pleasing.
Shower doors are made of tempered glass. These glasses are tougher and more durable than normal glass because they undergo rapid heating and cooling. Tempered glasses are available in various styles, such as clear, ultra-clear, tinted, and cast.
Types of Shower Doors
You can choose from among various doors based on your home design and aesthetics. Different types of shower doors are mentioned below:
- Trackless Door
These doors do not require tracks and are of the sliding type. A trackless door saves you from obstructions in your doorway.
Trackless doors can be pivot or hinged doors. Pivot doors rest on a floor-mounted hinge and allow 180 degrees of rotation. This can also be allowed 360-degree rotation based on the space available.
While, hinged doors are anchored to the wall. This allows you to decide the height of your door based on your requirements. As it is hinged to the wall, it allows minimum swing like an actual door. This is suitable for the bathroom with less space.
- Neo-Angle Shower Door
Neo-angle shower doors are suitable for corner showers. It consists of two side panels and a flat front edge, creating a diamond-shaped shower edge. This opens outward to your shower space, creating more space for your shower area.
- Steam Shower Doors
As the name suggests, a steam shower door allows you to double your shower as a steam room. The door fits tightly in the frames and ceiling, allowing the steam to stay inside. They have movable doors that act as vents to let the steam out after use.
Shower Door Installation Considerations
The first thing you should consider while installing a shower door is hiring professionals to do the job. Although shower doors are made of toughened glass, the edges are prone to breaking, so proper handling is required. Professionals can handle the door with care and make sure that it is properly anchored.
Besides that, you should use the right tools for door installation to avoid breakage. If you are installing a rolling or sliding door, you should consider the position of your shower for maximum waterproofing.
You should also consider your budget and the design and aesthetics of your home. Shower doors are available in different styles, so you can consider the option that suits your home the best.
Maintenance and Long-term Care
To bring your home together, besides the foundation inspection, shower doors also require proper maintenance. Shower doors are vulnerable to stains, so regular maintenance is essential; you should wipe the doors after every use with a sponge or dry cloth.
You should also pick a proper cleaning solution. The solution should be mild and non-abrasive and not harm the glass. Do not use abrasive materials to avoid scratches.
For anchorage metals present on your door, you can use a soft-bristle door. You can also use a damp cloth to wipe off any dirt on the hardware.
Conclusion
By following the simple steps and contacting the professionals, foundation maintenance and shower doors will be a success at your home. You can start with a simple routine that you can stick to. Therefore, proper maintenance, as well as structure and aesthetics, can create a home that you would like.
