Jim Gardner Construction

If you're a homeowner in Alameda, Albany, Berkeley, Moraga, El Cerrito, Kensington, Oakland, Orinda, Piedmont, and San Leandro, CA looking for a foundation, structural repair, drainage, or retaining wall contractor, Jim Gardner Construction will help you get the job done right the first time. Jim Gardner Construction specializes in residential structural repair work, including foundation repair and replacement, basement digouts, drainage systems (French drains and downspout and site drainage), replacing and repairing entry stairs and porches, earthquake / seismic retrofitting repairs and upgrades, and retaining walls.

Most older driveways lack any rebar, and as a consequence shift and move over time due to soil movement below and drainage issues. For new driveways we remove some to the existing soil and install base material which we compact that will settle less and also drain better. Then we install " rebar at 12" spacing to provide a substantial reinforcing grid to prevent cracking and minimize settlement and movement. Experienced finishers are crucial, as the timing of the finishing has to factor in the temperature, concrete mixture etc.

Beams and other load bearing walls are installed prior to the removal of the shoring. The next step is installing the interior wall framing and windows. Our clients often continue to live upstairs throughout the project, so utilities are often maintained temporarily in their existing locations until they are relocated. Ceiling and wall insulation is installed, along with waterproof rigid insulation at the concrete since the foundations can get cold and damp. Some clients wish to dampen the sound transmission between the downstairs and upstairs.

Older site retaining walls often start leaning over time. They generally lack wide or deep footings and the proper drainage for the long term. Moisture in the soil is often the culprit, causing pressure behind the wall, especially when there is an adjacent slope, plants and irrigation. We refer to walls in the yard as site walls. When properly constructed with reinforced concrete, large footings or piers, and drainage behind them to eliminate potential water pressure, these new walls will stand the test of time.

Occasionally we work on homes that are significantly compromised to the point that a complete overhaul is warranted. Usual this occurs when the foundation issues are substantial, and often when there has been serious damage from leaky roofs or walls. Damaged roofing and roof framing lead to the replacement of the roof structure. A combination of batt insulation and rigid insulation are being installed here prior to new plywood sheathing and roofing. The old board sheathing is removed and structural plywood is installed at the outside walls, providing superior support and earthquake resistance.