After Pyrrhotite Testing: Concrete Foundation Repair in New Haven

Interpreting Pyrrhotite Testing Results

Pyrrhotite is a form of iron sulfide (FeS) commonly found in certain types of clay or shale soils in Connecticut. Professional testing of pyrrhotite can be done using core samples, which are analyzed for the presence of pyrrhotite minerals and the amount present in foundation concrete. When the results show that there is a high enough level of pyrrhotite in the concrete to be considered hazardous, it means that the deterioration of the foundation will continue regardless of any preventative measures taken. As a result, we assist homeowners in interpreting their test results to allow us to assist them in developing an action plan to address the hazard posed by the pyrrhotite, based upon the classification system outlined by the State of Connecticut.

Classification System and Time Table

Pyrrhotite classification is determined by the degree of degradation caused by the pyrrhotite, as defined by the Connecticut Foundation Solutions Indemnity Company (CFSIC). CFSIC classifies pyrrhotite damage into three categories; Class 3 being the most severe. A property with a Class 3 rating indicates visible cracks in walls greater than 20% of the wall surface area, with a minimum crack width of 1.0 mm, requiring immediate attention. Additionally, properties located in areas of high humidity, such as near East Rock Park, tend to have faster deterioration because the increased moisture in the air causes the concrete to expand at a rate greater than normal.

Full Foundation Replacement Process

The only way to correct pyrrhotite-damaged foundations is to remove and replace all of the damaged concrete in the structure. To accomplish this task, we completely lift the house structure, remove the damaged foundation material, and install a new foundation made of concrete and pyrrhotite-free aggregates. We work directly with our customers to ensure that they are fully informed and involved in the process, as well as coordinating with the necessary equipment and personnel to ensure that the job is completed correctly.

Lifting the House Structure and Providing Temporary Structural Support

Temporary structural support systems are installed in order to keep the structure stable throughout the replacement process. These systems consist of steel beams and/or hydraulic jacks that will evenly distribute the load of the house while the damaged portion of the foundation is replaced. In addition to providing structural support, it is also important to consider the historic nature of the buildings in the Wooster Square Historic District when performing a house lift, so that we do not compromise the historic integrity of the district.

Demolition and Excavation

Careful demolition is required in removing the pyrrhotite-contaminated concrete to avoid damaging existing utilities or landscaping features. Once the contaminated concrete is removed, we follow all applicable Connecticut environmental regulations in disposing of the contaminated soil. Furthermore, we take great care to preserve all existing drain lines and other underground utilities that exist in the area where the demolition is taking place. Because of the high water table and soft soils common in the Long Island Sound area, specialized dewatering techniques are often used to allow safe access to the excavated area.

Foundation Construction Requirements

All new foundation construction must be performed in accordance with the current Connecticut Building Codes and must reflect the lessons learned from the pyrrhotite disaster. We obtain all concrete materials exclusively from suppliers who have been approved to produce concrete and have documented quality control procedures in place that include testing for sulfide minerals. Additionally, we source all of the aggregates from suppliers that adhere to stringent testing protocols set forth by the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection.

Material Documentation and Testing Requirements

As part of modern foundation construction, we document all of the materials used in the project, including the geologic origin of the aggregate, mineralogical testing certifications, etc. Additionally, we test each shipment of aggregate for total sulfur content to ensure that the total sulfur content does not exceed 0.1% by weight before using it for foundation concrete. Finally, we maintain detailed records of all material documentation, testing results, and warranties to provide long-term warranty protection to our customers.

Financial Assistance Programs and Insurance Options

In addition to offering professional services for repairing pyrrhotite-damaged foundations, we also assist our customers in obtaining financial assistance from the Connecticut Foundation Solutions Indemnity Company (CFSIC), as well as assistance from their insurance company for damages resulting from the pyrrhotite-damaged foundation. The CFSIC program provides eligible customers with up to $175,000 towards the cost of replacing the foundation, as well as reimbursement for the cost of engineering inspections and core sampling tests. Additionally, we assist our customers with all aspects of the application process and document all information required to maximize benefits.

Insurance Claims and Benefits

Homeowners’ insurance generally does not cover the cost of repairing foundations that have deteriorated over time, including damage caused by pyrrhotite. Some specialized insurance programs offered through companies such as Travelers Insurance, Liberty Mutual, and The Hartford may offer additional benefits to policyholders whose homes are damaged by pyrrhotite. We assist our customers in working with their insurance adjuster to explore all possible options for insurance benefits and manage the claim process efficiently.

Project Timelines and Management

A full foundation replacement typically takes 6 to 12 weeks, depending on the size of the house, weather conditions, and the timeliness of permitting. If we can schedule the replacement work during a period of good weather, the curing of the new concrete will occur under ideal conditions, and weather-related delays should be minimal. We manage all aspects of the project, including arranging temporary housing for families that need to vacate their homes during the replacement process.

Reconnecting Utilities and Final Inspection

Once the foundation replacement is completed, we must reconnect all of the electrical, plumbing, and heating systems to the house. This requires coordination with the various utility providers and the city of New Haven building inspector. Each connection must be inspected and approved by the building official prior to allowing the homeowner to occupy the house. We arranged the final inspection with the city of New Haven building official to verify that all of the work was completed in compliance with the current local building codes.

Warranty and Maintenance

Our concrete foundation repair services include comprehensive warranty coverage protecting against defects in materials and workmanship for extended periods. Regular inspections of the repaired foundation help identify potential problems early on, thus helping to protect the warranty. We provide our customers with detailed care and maintenance instructions, as well as ongoing technical support to ensure that the repaired foundation continues to perform optimally for the life of the house. At New Haven Concrete Company, we understand the frustration and difficulty associated with dealing with a pyrrhotite-damaged foundation. Our team has extensive experience with the pyrrhotite remediation requirements of the State of Connecticut and will work closely with you to navigate the repair process, insurance claims, and state assistance programs to make this difficult situation as easy as possible for you.