Foundation Repair in Chinatown, Manhattan

What Foundation Problems Show Up in Chinatown?

The older tenements here sit on stone or brick foundations that are well over a century old. Over time, the mortar in those walls washes out, cracks open and water enters the cellar. Settlement and movement can follow, especially where neighboring work or leaks have disturbed the soil.

Foundation work here usually begins in the cellar, since that is where owners notice trouble. A wall that was dry for years starts to weep, or a crack appears where none was before.

• Cracks in cellar walls that grow over time
• Crumbling mortar or loose stone in foundation walls
• Bowing or leaning below grade walls
• Uneven or sloping floors above the cellar
• Doors that drag on the floor or windows that jam
• Damp patches and mineral deposits on cellar walls

Many buildings in Chinatown have space beneath the sidewalk as well, such as vaults and cellars that extend toward the curb. A failing wall under the walk can show up as a sunken sidewalk above. That makes foundation checks relevant to sidewalk owners.

Chinatown has no particular flood exposure beyond heavy rain, but old drains and heavy use of wash water can still keep a wall wet.