Foundation Settlement Repair in Central IL

At Force Basements, we have permanent solutions for foundation settlement in Pekin, Peoria, Bloomington, Normal, Champaign, Springfield, and the surrounding areas.

Foundation Settlement – What It Means and Why It Can’t Wait

A sinking or settling foundation is one of the most serious issues a home can face. Warning signs often include long horizontal cracks in your foundation, stair-step cracks in brickwork, diagonal cracks near doors or windows, and doors or windows that suddenly stick or won’t close properly.

Why Foundation Settlement Happens

Many homes in Central Illinois are built on clay-heavy soil that expands and contracts with changes in moisture. Over time, this movement causes foundations to shift, sink, or crack. The most common causes of settlement include:

Poorly compacted fill soil
Drying and shrinking soil during hot, dry weather
Soil softening from heavy rain, flooding, or plumbing leaks

As the soil beneath your home weakens, your foundation loses support and begins to settle unevenly. Left unchecked, this can create structural problems throughout your entire house.

Warning Signs of Foundation Settlement

Stair-step cracks in brick or block walls
Cracks extending from door or window corners
Drywall cracks on walls or ceilings
Uneven, sagging, or bouncy floors
Bowing basement walls
Chimneys pulling away from the home
Doors and windows that stick or won’t close

If you see any of these signs, it’s important to schedule an inspection before the problem worsens.

Why You Should Fix Settlement Quickly

Foundation settlement will not improve on its own. In fact, cracks expand, walls bow further, and water intrusion becomes more likely the longer you wait. Professional foundation repair can:

Restore the stability and safety of your home
Prevent costly water damage and basement flooding
Fix doors and windows that no longer open or close properly
Protect your home’s resale value and avoid disclosure issues during a sale

Investing in settlement repair now saves money, prevents future problems, and provides peace of mind.

How We Repair Sinking or Settling Foundations

At Force Basements, we install engineered pier systems that permanently stabilize your foundation. These systems transfer the weight of your home from unstable soil to stable strata far below the surface.

Push Piers

Hydraulically driven steel push piers are ideal for heavy structures and deep settlement. They are driven into stable soil or bedrock and then attached to the foundation with brackets. In many cases, push piers not only stop settlement but can also lift your home back toward level.

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Helical Piers

Helical piers, also known as screw piers, are twisted into the ground using helical plates welded to the shaft. They are perfect for lighter loads, new construction, and areas with limited access. Once installed, they provide immediate support and long-term protection against settlement.

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Other Foundatin and Waterproofing Services We Offer

In addition to settlement repair, we also offer:

Foundation Crack Repair – Permanent solutions for leaking or structural cracks.
Bowing Wall Repair – Wall anchors and carbon fiber systems to stabilize leaning walls.
Basement Waterproofing – Interior and exterior systems to keep your home dry.
Crawl Space Repair – Encapsulation and support systems to eliminate moisture and sagging floors.

Investing in settlement repair now saves money, prevents future problems, and provides peace of mind.

Schedule a Free Foundation Settlement Inspection

If you’ve noticed cracks, sticking doors, or uneven floors, don’t wait until the damage gets worse. Contact Force Basements today for a free inspection and estimate. We proudly serve homeowners throughout Pekin, Peoria, Bloomington, Normal, Champaign, and Springfield, IL.

Call us at 309-839-4801 or click the button below to schedule your free inspection.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common signs of foundation settlement?

Look for stair-step cracks in brick, diagonal cracks around windows and doors, uneven floors, and doors or windows that stick. These are all early warning signs that your foundation may be sinking.

What causes a foundation to settle in Central Illinois?

Our region’s clay-heavy soil expands when wet and contracts when dry, creating constant movement beneath your home. Poor drainage, plumbing leaks, or improperly compacted soil can also weaken support and lead to settlement.

How do push piers and helical piers fix a settling foundation?

Both systems transfer your home’s weight from unstable soil to stable layers deep underground. Push piers are ideal for heavy structures, while helical piers are best for lighter homes or where access is limited.

Is foundation settlement dangerous?

Yes. Settlement puts stress on your home’s structure, which can lead to wall cracks, water leaks, and safety hazards. The longer you wait, the more costly repairs may become.

Does fixing foundation settlement increase home value?

Absolutely. Repairing settlement protects your home’s structural integrity and gives buyers confidence. Many sellers recover the repair cost through higher resale value.