Foundation remediation is one of the most critical services at OCD Plan & Build Inc., because the strength and stability of a home depends on the foundation beneath it. When a foundation is failing, the signs can appear throughout the home:
- Doors and windows that won’t close correctly
- Cracks in walls, ceilings, or floors
- Sloping or uneven floors
- Gaps between trim and flooring
- Moisture in crawlspaces or lower levels
While homeowners may notice only a few of these symptoms, they often point to deeper issues with soil, drainage, construction quality, or the age of the building. Our role is to investigate thoroughly, explain clearly, and design a repair or replacement plan that protects the property for the long term.
1. Comprehensive Investigation & Assessment
Every foundation remediation project begins with a detailed investigation, going well beyond a simple visual inspection. At OCD Plan & Build Inc., we:
- Examine exterior grading, downspouts, and drainage paths
- Inspect retaining walls, slopes, and hillside conditions
- Review interior finishes, door frames, and floor levels
- Crawl under the house to assess footings, beams, and posts
- This thorough process allows us to identify whether the issues are due to:
- Settlement or soil movement
- Water damage or drainage issues
- Original design or construction flaws
- Seismic concerns
2. Engineering-Based Solutions
Foundation work must be rooted in engineering, not guesswork. In many cases, we involve a licensed structural engineer early in the process. The engineer:
- Evaluates the site and existing conditions
- Performs measurements, calculations, and analysis
- Produces recommendations or full structural drawings
- Solutions may include:
- Targeted repairs (new piers, beams, or select footing replacements)
- Full foundation replacement with reinforced footings, stem walls, and anchorage systems
3. Clear Scope & Transparent Communication
Once engineering guidance is in place, we provide a detailed scope of work. Homeowners know exactly what to expect because we:
- Explain which areas of the foundation require replacement or reinforcement
- Outline the types of new concrete elements and drainage improvements
- Describe temporary house supports or lifting procedures
- Provide inspection milestones, timelines, and access requirements
Transparency is essential. At OCD Plan & Build Inc., we do not provide vague “fix foundation” estimates. You always understand what work is being done, why, and how it affects your home.
4. House Support & Safety During Construction
When a foundation is partially or fully replaced, temporarily supporting the structure is critical. We use:
- Cribbing and jacks to safely lift or stabilize the home
- Staged work areas to protect the structure above
- Daily updates to homeowners on progress and safety
We take the time to explain how the system works and reassure homeowners that safety is our top priority.
5. Demolition & Preparation
Removing an old foundation requires methodical planning to protect the home and landscape:
- Deteriorated or undersized footings are removed carefully
- Framing, finishes, and landscaping are protected whenever possible
- Subgrade is prepared, rebar is installed per engineer specifications, and forms are set up
- Inspections and photo documentation are conducted for every step
This ensures the new foundation has a complete record for safety, long-term performance, and future resale.
6. Hillside & Sloped Lot Considerations
- For homes on hillsides or uneven lots, remediation often includes:
- Retaining walls or grade beams
- Terraced walls or deepened footings
- Tiebacks and other site-specific structural elements
We collaborate with structural and geotechnical engineers to manage soil pressure, movement, and drainage. Our crews are trained to work safely on difficult terrain while delivering professional results.
7. Integrated Drainage Solutions
- Water management is essential. Many foundation issues are caused or worsened by water accumulation. At OCD Plan & Build Inc., we often incorporate:
- French drains or perforated piping
- Gravel beds and drainage swales
- Sump pump systems
- Gutter and downspout improvements
We design drainage solutions to redirect water safely away from the foundation, preventing future damage.
8. Staging & Restoration
We understand that foundation work can disrupt yards and landscaping. To minimize impact, we:
- Separate and protect topsoil for reuse
- Protect plantings and hardscape where possible
- Plan safe access routes for equipment and crews
After construction, we backfill carefully, compact soil as needed, and restore landscape and hardscape areas so the property looks intact, with the only change being a safer, more stable home.
9. Step-by-Step Process & Documentation
Our structured approach ensures predictability and peace of mind:
- Investigation & Assessment – Thorough inspection of interior, exterior, and subsurface conditions
- Engineering Consultation – Structural engineer provides analysis and recommendations
- Scope & Planning – Transparent work plan, timeline, and budget
- Temporary House Support – Jacks, cribbing, and safety measures installed
- Demolition & Subgrade Prep – Old foundation removed, soil prepared, rebar set
- Formwork & Concrete Installation – Forms built, concrete poured, inspections completed
- Drainage & Retaining Structures – Integrated solutions installed as needed
- Restoration & Cleanup – Landscaping, hardscape, and access restored
- Final Walkthrough & Documentation – Photos, permits, and maintenance guidance provided
10. Problem-Solving & Flexibility
No home is perfect. During construction, we often encounter:
- Uneven floors or walls
- Hidden rot, termite damage, or voids
- Mechanical paths that don’t match drawings
- Instead of creating unnecessary change orders, we focus on:
- Efficient, practical solutions
- Maintaining structural and functional integrity
- Keeping you informed about options and costs
You are always part of the decision-making process, and every adjustment is explained before moving forward.
11. Long-Term Thinking
At OCD Plan & Build Inc., we look beyond immediate repairs. We consider:
- How the home will behave over decades
- Locations of cleanouts, drains, and future access needs
- How the foundation will integrate with decks, additions, or ADUs
We help homeowners plan remediation work that supports future improvements rather than being undone or compromised later.
12. Ongoing Support & Peace of Mind
Foundation remediation is often the largest structural investment a homeowner makes. We make it predictable, transparent, and professional:
- Written schedule and inspection milestones before work begins
- Guidance for access, furniture relocation, and daily routines
- Thorough walkthrough and explanation of all completed work
- Copies of engineering reports, inspections, and permits
Whether the issue is minor settlement or full replacement, OCD Plan & Build Inc. guides homeowners every step of the way.
13. Initial Assessments & Flexible Planning
Not all homeowners are ready for full remediation immediately. Sometimes we start with:
- Initial assessments to understand foundation conditions
- Discussion of options from short-term stabilization to full replacement
- Approximate budget ranges for planning and decision-making
- Monitoring certain conditions if movement has stabilized
This early guidance reduces stress and helps homeowners make informed, logical decisions.
14. Long-Term Value & Continuity
Many clients return years later for:
- Additions or ADUs
- Major interior remodels
- Future structural upgrades
Having worked on the foundation, OCD Plan & Build Inc. brings knowledge of the structure and site to all future projects, resulting in fewer surprises, more accurate pricing, and smoother coordination.
Foundation remediation with OCD Plan & Build Inc. is more than concrete and steel—it’s about restoring peace of mind. With engineering-based solutions, skilled construction, and transparent communication, we protect both your home and the memories inside. From early signs of movement to major replacements, our team delivers a process that is clear, respectful, and professional every step of the way.
