Alpha Structural Inc. has been one of Southern California’s go-to companies for hillside and foundation repairs for the last three decades. They’ve also been a resource for funny yet unsettling images of physical deterioration in homes and buildings.
The Alpha Structural Imgur page is a gift that keeps on giving. So, we’ve compiled a new collection featuring cracked walls, foundation issues, and entire houses on the brink of toppling.
Scroll through this list and see how these photos compare to the previous ones we’ve published.
#21
This homeowner was wondering why their retaining wall was failing. Looks like we figured it out…
Instead of utilizing rebar for reinforcement, a chain link fence was used.
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#22
We're continuing to see numerous landslides stemming from the heavy rains earlier this year.
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#23
This retaining wall was built with the intention of supporting the hillside; however, it is visibly failing as it was not properly built to support the load.
The weight of the hill has caused the wall to split and lean, causing shifting in the sidewalk as well.
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#24
There is now moss covering a majority of the retaining wall and the ground. Moss grows in environments with excessive moisture and needs it to survive. Therefore, the poor drainage in this area is the perfect breeding ground for it to thrive.
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#25
The landslide left the house susceptible to collapse so the need for temporary shoring was imminent. This shoring was put in by another company to support the roof from total collapse.
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#26
This home is suffering from wood rot.
Removing and replacing wood rot with new framing is crucial as it can quickly spread and compromise the structural integrity of the building.
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#27
The failure of this wall can be attributed to improper drainage and the absence of weep holes to relieve the hydrostatic pressure.
Hydrostatic pressure refers to the force exerted by standing water against a surface. When soil surrounding an area becomes saturated with water, hydrostatic pressure builds up against the walls. This pressure can lead to cracks, bowing, and other forms of damage to structures over time.
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#28
The failure of this block wall is due to a combination of factors, including excessive moisture in the soil and an improper footing. Proper footings are essential as they distribute the weight of a structure evenly to prevent failure.
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#29
It's imperative to take proactive steps, such as building a retaining wall for example, to mitigate the risk of potential landslides before they occur.
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#30
Excessive moisture in the soil caused the failure of this pipe and board. Additionally, the pipes were not embedded deep enough into the ground to adequately support the weight of the hillside and withstand the moisture.
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