Top Foundation Repair Techniques for Older Homes in Pennsylvania

Older homes have charm, character—and sometimes, foundation problems. In Pennsylvania, where many homes date back 50, 75, or even 100+ years, foundation repair isn’t just about fixing cracks—it's about preserving history while strengthening structure.

At A Better Choice, we specialize in helping homeowners across Pennsylvania protect and restore the foundations of their aging homes with repair methods that are both effective and minimally invasive.

Here’s a breakdown of the top foundation repair techniques we recommend for older homes throughout the region.

1. Carbon Fiber Reinforcement for Bowing Walls

One of the most common issues we see in older basements is bowing or bulging foundation walls, typically caused by hydrostatic pressure from years of groundwater buildup. Instead of rebuilding entire walls, we often recommend carbon fiber straps.

Why it works:

• Stronger than steel and nearly invisible after installation

• Non-invasive and fast to apply

• Ideal for older block or stone foundations where excavation isn’t practical

Perfect for: Early 1900s homes with bowing block foundations

2. Wall Anchors or Helical Tiebacks

For more severely shifted or unstable walls, anchor systems are used to pull walls back into place and keep them secure long-term. These systems can be customized to your home’s age, wall material, and soil conditions.

Why it works:

• Stabilizes walls without full reconstruction

• Long-term solution with minimal disruption

• Suitable for old stone or concrete walls

Perfect for: Homes with leaning or sheared basement walls

3. Interior Drainage Systems & Sump Pump Installation

Many older homes were not built with proper drainage systems in mind. Installing an interior French drain system with a sump pump is often the best way to control water pressure and prevent ongoing damage to the foundation.

Why it works:

• Reduces hydrostatic pressure on aging foundations

• Prevents water intrusion and mold

• Helps preserve structural integrity

Perfect for: Basements that get damp after rain or snowmelt

4. Piering & Underpinning for Settling Foundations

If your old home is sinking or settling unevenly—causing sloping floors or cracks around doors/windows—we may recommend push piers or helical piers. These are driven deep into stable soil to support and lift your home’s foundation.

Why it works:

• Permanently stabilizes settled sections

• Can lift parts of the home back to their original position

• Ideal for structures with years of soil shifting

Perfect for: Homes with visible foundation settlement or sagging floors

5. Tuckpointing & Masonry Repair for Stone Foundations

Many older homes in Pennsylvania feature beautiful stone or brick foundations. These materials can last centuries, but the mortar between them often deteriorates. Tuckpointing involves removing old mortar and replacing it to restore strength and appearance.

Why it works:

• Improves both structural strength and aesthetics

• Prevents water penetration through gaps

• Preserves the home’s original character

Perfect for: Historic homes or farmhouses with stone basement walls

Why Older Homes in PA Need Specialized Attention

Pennsylvania’s older homes are built differently—often with stone, clay tiles, or unreinforced concrete. They’re also exposed to freeze-thaw cycles, clay-heavy soils, and decades of water exposure.

At A Better Choice, we bring experience, regional knowledge, and respect for the craftsmanship of the past. Our goal is always to stabilize and preserve, not replace when it’s not necessary.

Schedule a Foundation Inspection for Your Older Home

If your historic home shows signs of foundation damage—cracks, moisture, sagging, or shifting—don’t wait. The sooner we evaluate your structure, the more we can preserve.

Call A Better Choice today for a free inspection and expert guidance tailored to your home’s unique foundation needs.