HomeMy WebLinkAbout4130 SPRING CANYON CT - SPECIAL INSPECTIONS - 9/17/2012September 17, 2012
Rob Hoffman
4130 Spring Canyon Ct.
Fort Collins, CO
Re: 4130 Spring Canyon Court
Fort Collins, CO
WLLFiS
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STRUCTURAL ENGINEERS
B1703204
On September 13, 2012 1 visited the referenced site as requested. The
purpose of this visit was to comment on the apparent movement of the
addition at the east side of the house
BACKGROUND
The house is a two-story wood framed structure with a basement. An
approximate 16' by 15' addition with a crawl space was constructed at the east
side of the house. It is my understanding the addition is around 12 years old.
OBSERVATIONS
Separation of the cabinets from the common wall between the addition and
original house was observed. Some drywall cracking was noted at the ceiling
where the addition meets the house. Observations on the exterior reveal a
separation gap between the crawl space foundation and basement foundation
near the top of the wall. It is my understanding the gaps and drywall cracks
may close up some at certain times of the year, however the cracks and gaps
are presently as wide as they have ever been.
Downspouts empty adjacent to the northeast and southeast comer of the
addition
OPINIONS
Based on site observations it appears the east end of the addition has settled.
The variation of crack size Indicates the presence of shrink/swell soils.
Seasonal variation in moisture content of shrink/swell soils results in either
swelling or shrinking of the soil which results in either heave or settlement of the
foundation. The downspouts emptying adjacent to the foundation have likely
contributed to the movement over the years. The wider gaps presently noted
may be attributed to the lack of moisture due to the drought.
The most positive solution for stabilizing the addition Is to underpin the addition
foundation and void under the footings to eliminate contact with the shrink swell
4700 South College Ave, Suite 1, Fort Collins, CO 80525
Phone (970) 225 2422 - Fax (970) 225 2622
4130 Spring Canyon Ct.
Page 2
Weeks & Associates, Inc.
B1703204
soils. An underpinning plan is attached with to this report. The plan shows 7
piers to support the entire crawl space
Based on cost consideration some success may be seen by only underpinning
the east wall with 3 piers. The footings should not be voided with this option so
there is some risk that future movement could result due to the contact of the
soil with the footings. Additionally lifting or releveling of the addition is not
recommended with this option due to the potential for cracking the foundation.
GENERAL COMMENTS
This report has been prepared based on observations of the portions of the
structure visible and with generally accepted engineering practices in the area.
Should different information become available the opinions and
recommendations contained in this report should be reviewed and modified or
supplemented as necessary. No warranty or guarantee, express or implied, is
made or intended by this written or any oral report.
If I can be of further assistance please contact me.
Sincerely,
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