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Preventing Catastrophic Collapse Sinkholes

Effective Strategies for Seawall Erosion Control

Seawall erosion in Florida weakens coastal defenses, putting properties at risk. Understanding its causes, impacts, and preventive measures is crucial. This guide covers everything from identifying early signs to effective repair strategies for seawall erosion. Key...

Polyjacking: The Best Solution for Uneven Concrete

Polyjacking is a modern method to fix uneven concrete using high-density polyurethane foam. It offers a quick and long-lasting solution for driveways, sidewalks, and patios. Learn how polyjacking works and why it’s often preferred over traditional methods. Key...

Top 5 Ways to Repair Foundation Damage

Experiencing foundation problems like cracks or uneven floors? Learn how to repair foundation damage efficiently. This guide breaks down common issues, causes, and the 5 best repair methods to ensure your home stays safe and sound. Key Takeaways Foundation damage can...

Why Helical Piers Outperform Timber Piles for Builders

Building a solid foundation is the first critical step for any construction project. It sets the stage for the durability and integrity of the entire structure. For decades, timber pile pier and beam systems have been a common choice for builders, especially in areas...

The DIY Battle Against Seawall Soil Erosion

The encroaching waves and the relentless tides often leave Florida homeowners and communities along the coast grappling with a common adversary: seawall soil erosion. In an attempt to shield their land from being swallowed by the...

Why Is Soil Stabilization So Important in Foundation Repair?

Have you ever noticed a slight tilt in your driveway, or perhaps a crack along your concrete patio or sidewalk? Soil stabilization can solve these issues. These may not be random occurrences, but signs of a deeper issue: a compromised soil foundation. Soil stability...

Reinforcing Seawalls with Enduring Seawall Caps

The beauty of waterfront properties is unparalleled, but maintaining their integrity is just as crucial as admiring the view. Have you ever wondered how these properties withstand the constant barrage of waves and tides? The answer lies in the often-overlooked yet...

Residential Pool Deck Stabilization, Tampa, FL

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Is Concrete Leveling in Tampa Worth It?

If you're an owner or property manager in Tampa who has noticed their concrete sinking, you might be wondering if concrete leveling is going to be worth the money you put into it.  After all, you want your concrete to look the best it can, and if the surface...

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Preventing Catastrophic Collapse Sinkholes

sinkhole

One of the ways of preventing sinkholes, is to make sure you don’t pump huge volumes of water out of the ground in a short period of time. An independent geotechnical company recently confirmed that the work crew who was installing a sewer system and pump station near the Holiday Travel Park where several catastrophic collapse sinkholes formed, was likely responsible. The county has hired their own geotechnical company to make sure the findings are correct.

Some of the residents of the mobile home park have been told that it is safe to return. Even though the sinkholes have been stabilized, residents are afraid. One resident stated that his family was concerned for his safety after watching the news on TV; however, he has four months remaining on his lease and plans to return.

The county must do their due diligence to determine if work crews can continue work on the sewer and pump station without causing more sinkholes. Meantime, the residents of Holiday Travel Park must make difficult decisions. They can rely on the information given to them by the county and by geotechnical experts, or they can decide that the risk of returning is too high especially since the ground under their feet remains unstable. Sinkholes may continue to form and there is no telling where and when they will show up.

The bottom line is this – Florida is prone to sinkholes and a good number of catastrophic sinkholes are triggered by human activity and in particular, the pumping of underground water and construction-related activities. When work crews divert surface water they sometimes cause erosion of underground limestone structures. Drilling wells, mining, and simply driving heavy construction vehicles in sinkhole prone areas can cause the ground to collapse.

Water has a stabilizing effect on Florida’s underground limestone caves. Water pressure often keeps the walls of the caves from collapsing. Start pumping water out and the earth layer on top of the roof of an underground cave collapses, slowly, or all at once.

Do you suspect you may have sinkhole damage? Speak to the professionals at Helicon, 844-HELICON (844-435-4266).

 

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