FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. What are the causes of settlement?

Earth and foundation settlement can be caused by many factors. Just a few of these are excessive soil moisture due to plumbing leaks, poor drainage or flooding, or poor soil quality such as unconsolidated fill.

The state licensed, certified and specially trained professionals at Asset Recovery Foundation Systems, Inc. can assess your individual situation and recommend and implement the proper and effective solution.

2. What are possible signs of settlement and foundation failure?

Depending on the individual case, indications of foundation failure and settlement can be varied. A few of the possible signs include:

- Leaking water around roof flashings.
- Spaces between the house, porch or other attachments.
- Water collecting around the foundation.
- Broken Tile.
- Cracked walls and/or ceilings.
- Uneven floors.

3. Do these signs mean that there is a serious sinkhole developing underneath my residence or building?

Not necessarily. The first step in the process is to determine the extent of the problem below the soil surface. Failure to understand and address the contributing agents to your specific situation can prove to be an expensive mistake.

After thorough testing of the ground beneath your structure, the ATLAS/CHANGE products that will be most effective for stabilization will be integrated with your building to provide essential, stable, long-lasting support to the foundation you already have.

4. Are sinkholes common throughout Florida, and how can I find out if my property is affected by one?

Unfortunately, sinkholes are common throughout our state, but they are more prevalent in certain areas. If you have concerns regarding settlement, please contact our office. Our professional staff of State Certified and Licensed General Contractors and one of our preferred engineering professionals will be pleased to help you.

5. Will I have to vacate my home or building when the Asset Recovery Foundation Systems crew arrives?

Absolutely not. The unique Atlas system allows us to confine work to the affected area, leaving the remainder of the property undisturbed. Installations utilize portable equipment in an area that measures approximately three square feet.

6. Have tests been performed on your products to ensure quality and dependability?

Quality assurance is an essential priority for both Asset Recovery Foundation Systems, Inc. and our suppliers, Atlas Systems and Chance®—our businesses depend on it! Atlas piers models have been evaluated for superior design and reliability by the National Evaluation Service, Inc.

To ensure conformance to the high standards of Atlas Systems, Inc., rigorous quality tests are performed using diverse methods of analysis. Specialized techniques are implemented to evaluate the coatings and solvents utilized on our products. Only the finest quality steel is used for structural/mechanical tubes, and High Grade Zinc for the helical and resistance piers. Case studies on load testing (available upon request) have been performed under the direction and supervision of Registered Professional Engineers.

7. When can cosmetic repairs begin after the completion of the grouting and/or underpinning (resistance or helical pier) installation?

Cosmetic work is typically scheduled 60 days after any stabilization techniques are used to ensure that all structure movement has subsided. An extensive network of suppliers and vendors allows repairs to be made quickly and efficiently, thereby minimizing any disruption to the occupants.

8. How long does it take for work to begin on a project once the contract is signed?

As a company goal, once a project is put into production (i.e., contract signed), we endeavor to start the on-site remediation work within two weeks. Mobilization is contingent upon obtaining necessary permitting as well as structural drawings to complete the repair. Before the on-site work begins, the project manager will order proper materials, prepare the job site, obtain the required permits, and mark the underground utilities.

9. What kind of warranties do you provide for your work?

For projects requiring the installation of piers/ micro piles, Asset Recovery Foundation Systems, Inc. provides a 10 year manufacturer’s warranty from Atlas Systems to cover any defect or failure and a 1 year workmanship warranty by Asset Recovery Foundation Systems. Along with the material/workmanship warranty, the installation is also certified in writing by the engineer of record as being installed per the specifications for the project.

1650 N. Hercules Ave, Unit N
Cleawater, FL 33765-1969