Senior Center Saved from Crumbling Foundation

Challenge

Roberta is the director at Ravenna Senior Center in Ravenna, NE. Roberta knows that the foundation of this senior center is deteriorating rapidly. It's so severe that a section of the poured foundation has crumbled and fallen on the floor. Other than wanting to keep the building safe and standing, Roberta needs the extra space that a functioning basement would provide. The center would use this extra space as a pantry and for extra storage. 

The biggest challenge facing this project is that the senior center doesn't have the money for such a large project since they run as a non-profit. Roberta applied the center for a Federal Grant in order to get this done. After the local chamber in Ravenna found out about the grant, they wanted the center to get multiple bids in order to find the best solution.

Service Design Specialist, Jeremey Scott came out to assess the situation. He explained to Roberta our EverBrace system that could save the foundation and provide space for the center. After receiving multiple bids, they decided Thrasher was the best company for the job. 

Solution

Due to the condition of the foundation walls, or lack thereof, Jeremey decided that our EverBrace wall restoration was the only solution for this project. EverBrace is assembled with steel corrugated panels installed between steel I-beams to strengthen the existing structure. Then a stiff foam is injected behind the steel panels to fill the void between them and the existing wall. This transfers the load from the failing wall to the new EverBrace support system. 

In addition to the EverBrace installation, the senior center was also in need of need flooring. Knowing this, we supported the subfloor using our SmartJack system. SmartJack permanently lifts and stabilizes existing beams and floor joists. Lastly, since this space will be used as a pantry, it was important to control the humidity down there. To do this, we installed our SaniDry Sedona basement dehumidifier. 

Now Ravenna Senior Center's foundation and basement problems are all solved. Roberta described her experience with Thrasher as "Unbelievable. We didn't realize how large the space was due to the prior poor lighting and the foundation being so bad." If you're experiencing similar problems with your home or business, schedule a free estimate here. 

Project Summary

Crumbling Foundation: EverBrace

Dehumidification: SaniDry Sedona